thomtap
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since December 2007
Posts: 237
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Post by thomtap on Apr 18, 2012 16:44:59 GMT -5
I gave my Vibratory tumbler to my sister a couple of years ago, and now want to get back into the fray. I remember the Raytech was very loud. I am looking at a Mini Sonic (4 lb model) and wondering if it is any quieter, and if it is reliable. Have any of you used one? I would appreciate any reviews...
Thom Tapp
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Minnesota Daniel
freely admits to licking rocks
A COUPLE LAKERS
Member since August 2011
Posts: 891
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Post by Minnesota Daniel on Apr 18, 2012 16:56:03 GMT -5
Almost all the discussion of vibratory tumblers on this forum is about the Thumler's Ultra-Vibe 10 (UV-10) Industrial, or the Lot-O-Tumbler. Owners of both models swear by them, including me (the UV-10). I have not seen the Mini-Sonic much discussed, but I'm sure somebody here has experience with them.
Addendum: It occurred to me that my favorite supplier, and I am not alone in that, is The Rock Shed. Google it. The owner, Shawn, is extremely helpful, and he sells both the models I mentioned, and also the Mini-Sonic. Give him a call and I'm sure he can answer all your questions.
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shermlock
has rocks in the head
Member since August 2011
Posts: 612
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Post by shermlock on Apr 18, 2012 17:06:31 GMT -5
I've got the mini sonic and the UV-10. I can't hear the mini sonic over the UV-10 when they are both running. The sonic is less loud than most tumblers but it is still noticeable. I've found it to be reliable. Scott
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Post by johnjsgems on Apr 19, 2012 12:21:39 GMT -5
The mini sonic is very reliable as it has no motor or belts. It isn't quiet unless you place it on a piece of carpet or something. The barrels are very thick also. I have one of the discontinued KG-1 2.5 lb units that works great except it has no speed control like the 4 lb and larger models. I have a used 4 lb. unit I picked up last Summer in a trade but have not used yet. I think they should be a contender when considering heavy duty vibe tumblers. I like the Gy-Roc a lot too (enough that I recently became a distributor as well as a dealer). I get terrific end user reports back from commercial users. As with any equipment you plan on using full time, anything rated for commercial use will likely serve you better than light duty, hobbyist or entry level equipment and cost less in the long run.
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Minnesota Daniel
freely admits to licking rocks
A COUPLE LAKERS
Member since August 2011
Posts: 891
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Post by Minnesota Daniel on Apr 19, 2012 15:46:18 GMT -5
Just to add to John's comments, with the exception of one (maybe), I believe all the brands discussed here are made by companies that manufacture other lapidary specific machines and equipment. Calway I think only makes the Lot-O-Tumbler. You already asked about a reputable brand, but for the benefit of others looking to get a vibe, the less well regarded vibes I think are typically not made by lapidary companies. Also, the other vendor that is highly regarded in this forum, for his knowledge and service, (not to mention participation here) is John.
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Post by johnjsgems on Apr 19, 2012 15:56:50 GMT -5
Thanks for the kind words Daniel.
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thomtap
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since December 2007
Posts: 237
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Post by thomtap on Apr 20, 2012 12:49:26 GMT -5
OK fellow tumblers... I sprung for a new Lot-O-Tumbler from Rock Shed! Just ordered it, and can't wait for it to get here! It was the recommendation of forum members here that made me decide on the Lot-o. And the glowing recommendation of Rock Shed that sent me there! Thanks everyone! I think it will be a better tumbler than my old Raytech. I hope it comes quickly, I have a craft show to finish some preforms for coming up soon!
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