2. analog
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Ideas for a complete analog set up 2500- 3500

Stayed away from vynl because I didn’t want to complicate my already complicated audio life. Well things have settled down and I am considering the addition of analog.

My preference in sound: laid back, detailed (not in an analytical way), warm, musical (probably most important, spacious, with accurate bass.

I like visual style too, some examples of things I consider classy: Sonus Faber, Art Audio (a little flashy), Hovland (pre and amp), Mephisto, RixRax, Zotheticus, and so. TTs can be works of art as well as the ultimate playback. However I would choose substance over looks but would like to get alittle of both if possible.

I know very little about the analog side of things. I want a low maintenance set-up for as easy care as possible.

I don’t plan to change things after it is set up (yea right).

I would like to stay blissfully ignorant about all the details.

Around $2500-$3500 (used where possible) for everything – this includes table, arm, cart, wire, isolation, cleaning, and whatever else you think I should have.

Lets say you could only spend $2500-$3500 and it was going to be what you used from now on (regardless of your current set-up), what would you buy?

Thank you in advance for your insights

PS give complete systems when you can
bbtuna
gumbydammit
186 posts
 
Zero set up issues brings one table to mind... A wall mounted Planar 3!
Pretty too. I know where there is a rare wall mount for one of these (made by rega) my buddy might be willing to part with.
But LP-12 horror stories are a bit "puffed" from what I have read. Once set up, they dont have to see the tech for years at a time.....carts need attention in between, but you cant get away from that regardless.
My Linn has not seen the wizard in 5+years and still is fine. Based on the listening time I have had since the last session with David, I would call it a bargain.

Pardon the sarcasm about the looks, but I am of the op. that sound is all that matters.
(But, you know.......I hear true canvas brings out vocals better than a print hehehe ;>)

Where are you? as in State?
bbtuna OP
96 posts
 
Gumb...no thats Gumbydammit, not just Gumb,

Kansas city. Thanks for the ideas. Yes you represent one of the folk on one end of the specturm, or near the end, and I am definately left of center when it comes to looks but again, I won't compromise sound for looks, but I don't think a person needs to.

How far right are you anyway? I dealt with Mappleshade and bought some of the Omega Micro cable. Now there is someone committed to sound only. His cables build quality is appalling but I would stack them up against anything I have heard so far. I understand in his place he has all his cables suspended by string from the ceiling to try and ensure totally 0 dialectric. By the way, I would own them again. They aren't pretty but they sure are interesting.

Oh well, that is what makes this hobby fun, there is something for everyone and there is such a diversity in taste.

I am really leaning toward the Nottingham since I think I can get looks, simplicity, and performance.

I am very excited but need to keep control because it will be awhile before I can do anything. I am in the middle of buying some other gear so the waiting begins. But, my day will come and analog will be in my life! :)

Thanks again to everyone for your input it has been helpful.

cd
gumbydammit
186 posts
 
Let me know how it sounds.
Wires on the cieling?
Not fer me tanks.
But I do have a 4X4 sticking out of my living room floor for my table to sit on....I dont know how far to the end that puts me.

You are very right, diversity is what makes this hobby fun.

Enjoy
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