2. analog
  3. 1239221341

step up transformer, tonearm and cartridge combos?

Hello all, I'm very new to audiogon and the audiophile world. I decided to jump straight in, and purchased a Technics sp10 ii that will arrive in a couple weeks. I want to play 78s as well as 33s, and would prefer to simply change out cartridges/shells, relatively simply. I have an sme arm board. Everything I've read points to rega or sme tonearms for unquestionable results. Usually a Denon, ortofon or Audioteca cartridge to top it off. Should I simply double up for each playing speed?

Next, the sp10 is 240v and I'm in California. Are there particular transformers I should go with or stay away from?

I'm getting a bit burned out, and I just want to get to spinning. I would say my budget is in the 1500 range for everything. All help is very much appreciated!
braindeadly
braindeadly OP
2 posts
 
Thanks T bone! I will get the specs for the arm length. I want to run through a Scott 340 as a preamp and phono stage, and I have not decided on using an mm or mc. Any concerns about noise using a transformer, converting my 120 to 240 for the TT?
t_bone
1,182 posts
 
Braindeadly, I have no experience with a Scott 340 (assuming it's a 340B?) nor with using a transformer for that large a voltage jump.

If you have no preconceptions on MM or MC, I would try to find an MM cart which matches the older SME arms (first find out which arm will fit) as the Scott apparently has a phono stage as it will save you a bit on the front side of things.
braindeadly OP
2 posts
 
Thanks again, T Bone. The armboard is set at 215mm, so I believe I'm looking at a 9" tonearm. I am going to find out more on the Scott, and go from there. Your suggestions are quite helpful. I'll post more as I learn more and hopefully get feedback.
More to discover