seeking turntable recommendations

Aisip - I am using the Dynavector XX2 MKII unbalanced (Auditorium 23 ICs) into the ARC PH7 and then into an ARC Ref 3. This has proven to be a very special combination. I find it more than a little amusing and very gratifying that the Amadeus/XX2 is the least expensive of my four TT setups, but musically (which is all that matters!) it is clearly the 2nd best setup. I have yet to see a used Amadeus offered for sale; I think that also says a lot for how the Amadeus has been received so far. Happy Holidays!

Dear Aisip, I am glad you like your Amadeus, but this nonsense about no bearings in the Firebaugh products gets me down a bit. I know it's not your fault or your idea. But, a pivoted tonearm cannot not have a bearing. A platter cannot not spin on a bearing. Not in a Newtonian universe, at least.

Hi Lewn,

The tonearm has no bearings, it uses a suspended "golf ball" that floats in a cup of silicon gel! Check out their website if you have some spare time. Some pretty interesting reading.

4musica - Wow... great system! I've heard and read some great things about the PH7. You have 4 TT setups?! You're a lucky man! May we know what the best sounding setup is? Peace on earth!

Turntable for hard-earned dollars? Something really good that you wouldn't want to upgrade soon?
Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm. That would be about $1500 in excellent condition. But they are not easy to find, few sell them. As for the cartridge for about $500... It could be MM Goldring 1042 or MC Dynavector 10X5 new, or used Shelter 501 or Dynavector 20X. Or, there is a guy from Hong Kong on ebay and here who sells Shelter 301 new for $500.
What is your phono stage going to be and what kind of music do you mostly listen to?

Aisip - My reference system (with the best turntable) consists of the following sources: Ayre-DPS with Mr. Bauer's tonearm and the EMT JSD5, ARC CD7 CDP, Mac/Wavelength Cosecant Version I music server, and Kenwood L-01T FM tuner. The pre is a Shindo Masseto and I use an Auditorium 23 SUT for the JSD5. Amps are the Luxman MQ-88 (best amp I have ever heard except the better Shindos) and the Nagra PSA depending on my mood. Speakers are the DeVore Fidelity Reference Silverbacks. ICs are all Auditorium 23. Speaker cable is by Basis, not a common one but very musical. All go through a Shunyata Hydra V-Ray Version 1 via Shunyata power cords except the Masseto which must use its own power cord.