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Help for a vinyl novice

Hello,

I've swam about in hi-end audio for over a decade now, but only in the digital world. I've had plenty of experience with tubes, ss, planars, drivers, etc. However, i'm making the plunge into the deeper waters of vinyl. Whenever I see a good, "entry-level" tt for sale, I immediately start researching it here and elsewhere online. And, of course, there are as many good reviews as there are detractors and I end up with cold feet.

Could someone point me to a solid tt under $1K, including arm and cartridge? I'm not averse to upgrading either at a later date and feel comfortable enough to undertake such an upgrade as needed, though not immediately.

I have a pair of Reference 3A de Capo i's being powered by an LSA Statement integrated with an MM phono input. My listening room is small - 10'W x 12'L x 7'H - and I have an 8" Velodyne sub lurking in the corner.

Maybe take a look at what's being offered now and advise? or advise what to look for in future listings?

Thank you much,

Simao
128x128simao
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Congrats... and enjoy! It sounds like you made a sound decision for sound reasons. :-)

Yes, the quality of tonearm wire has a significant impact on sound quality (more so with a LOMC than MM). Upgrading those wires is one of many tweaks that vinylphiles love to get into.
martinman's avatar
martinman
93 posts
 
Technics vs. Linn:

Used Technics $500 w/ cart
Used Linn LP12 Sondek $1k - $1.5k w/ cart (or more)

For me, the difference in price was why I went with the technics. I couldn't justify the expense right out of the gate of the LP12. I wanted a good platform that I can tweak, upgrade and mess around with. The 1200 is just that. There is just a *ton* of support out there for the technics. Many time tested (and proven) advise and upgrades.

Also, at these price points, I don't think the LP12 offers 2-3x the performance the technics does. For my money, the better value is the 1200. I mean really, you can't go wrong with either one..
simao's avatar
simao OP
1,831 posts
 
Question: the Pro-ject came with its separate IC's and grounding wire. If I want to use my own ICs, can I just separate the ground wire from the existing Project IC's and use it with my own IC?
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
No problem Simao. Just separate the ground and use it with the interconnects of your choice. That what I did. Enjoy the music!
simao's avatar
simao OP
1,831 posts
 
Awesome. Thanks for the advice, all. Look for an amateur review upcoming when time and kids allow.
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