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Suggestions for building system

Hello all, Im a new member to this forum and new to vinyl as well. I've long contemplated jumping into vinyl and, after having been handed down about a hundred records, have decided to really clamp down and seriously research equipment. I'm hoping you all would be kind as to give suggestions/input on all aspects of a system (turntable,amp,speakers) as I am starting from scratch. For the record, I just want a simple system that I can enjoy in the confines of my bedroom.

As far as my budget, I'm dedicating at least $1K and up to $1,500. I also have a $200 gift card for Amazon, which might be integral later on in this post.

I have done some homework and have noticed many trends...

For turntables, I have consistently heard to go the used route, but also to avoid ebay and preferably avoid shipping and purchase something that can be picked up. I don't mind this at all, and a Thorens TD-160 looks very appealing, however I've searched my local craigslist as well as newspaper ads to no avail. There is a record store in the town next over(bout 20 min drive) which occasional gets some tables in, though rarely. I'm in no rush to buy a TT, but my patience with the local market is waning. As far as new, I must admit that the Rega RP1 is appealing, though I've heard polarizing reviews. It retails for $450, though with said gift card for Amazon, I could theoretically get it for $250 out of pocket. Thoughts?

After tables, my knowledge dwindles a bit. For amps, the school of thought seems to be that separates(Pre+amp) are best. First, can I afford to take this route? On the other hand, I've found a good amount of Marantz, which are pretty positively reviewed,in the 22XX range reasonably priced at about $200 and below on ebay. Would this be a good fit for me/my needs?

Lastly, speakers. I don't know much as to what to look for. Based on reading various forums I've heard good things of the PSB Alpha B1 and Image B6, but not much else beyond that.

Sorry for such a long post, guys. Any help at all would be greatly appreciated.

Best,

Daniel
dannyj7
manitunc
795 posts
 
There is nothing wrong with buying a turntable on ebay, just make sure the seller knows how to pack and ship it. I have sold and shipped a number of tables without any damage whatsoever. I have received a few tables that were wrecked, and it is all in the packing, rarely the shipping company.
So, make sure the seller removes the platter and tonearm at a miniumum and pack them seperately. Of course, any cartridge should be removed and packed. Dont let them use peanuts, because they get everywhere you dont want them to.
For the price you are looking at, you can get any number of Oracle Delphi Mk II, VPI MK IV, Sota Sapphire, Townshend Rock III, all of which attempted the state of the art at some point. They will probably come with Rega RB300 or Sumiko/Jelco arms which are acceptable. Any of those will get you a huge part of the vinyl experience. Then get a record vacuum machine and some set up tools and you are all set to go.
pmburnett
58 posts
 
As for integrateds, the Cambridge 340A is stellar for the money. I have one, and can vouch for it. Stephen Mejias also just wrote about it in his new column. the 350A just replaced it. The entry-level Marantz is also supposed to be excellent. One of the Stereophile guys reviewed the Pro-jet Debut III with it and was impressed.

As for speakers, the Cambridge S30 monitors arew shockingly good for $220 a pair. Parts-express has a very good Usher kit for $600 which you can also buy assembled.

PMB
sufentanil's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
sufentanil
782 posts
 
I like some of the suggestions above. I had Project and Music Hall turntables, and I'm much happier with a KAB-modified Technics. It's a very stable platform that is compatible with a wide range of cartridges and is a great bang for the buck.

Here is what I would do:

Turntable and accessories:

Technics SL1200 turntable
Denon 103 cartridge
Parasound zPhono or NAD phono stage

Amp:

Music Hall Mambo, Jolida 302b (tube integrated), Onkyo A9555, or Audio Refinement Complete

Speakers:

Usher S520, PSB Stratus Mini, Von Schweikert VR-1, or Totem Rainmaker

You'll have a killer system for the price.

Michael
dannyj7 OP
1 posts
 
I really want to thank you all for your suggestions! I definitely feel like I have a sense of direction now :)

For amps I have so far short-listed the Music Hall Mambo, Jolida, Cambridge 340A,and the Onkyo A9555. I've actually located a Music Hall and Onkyo on sale here at Audiogon for a very reasonable price. NAD, Arcam, and something like the Marantz 5003 might also be considered. The Rega Brio, while a bit steeper in price, has not been ruled out either. (not much of a short list I guess, heh)

As for speakers, I plan on auditioning the Totem Dreamcatchers as many of you have mentioned these. The Cambridge S30, and Usher S-520 will also be taken into consideration.

I have been able to find a dealer in Fresno, which is about a 45-50 min drive for me, which carries Arcam, Onkyo and Totem, so I will make the drive and kill three birds with one stone. I'm also planing a trip to the bay area at the end of the month and am planning on searching for a dealer where I can check out the remaining equipment.

Well I'll make sure to keep you guys posted with any new progress/decisions. Again, thank you all for taking the time to help me out!
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