2. analog
  3. 176110-172731

The best way to start adding A=analog to my system

When I started this hobby, I never thought I would need a turntable, so I didn’t think about phono stages etc. That changed with a recent listening session. Vinyl just sounds better to me so now I am trying to figure out where I need to spend, where I can go cheap for the moment. Should I balance all parts at the same level or begin with one great piece and gradually upgrade around it?

For context, my current system has:

Blumenhofer Genuin FS2 speakers, Art Audio PX-25 power, Audio Research SP16L pre-amp. I have a Ayre Cx5 CD player/DAC and an MD-90 tuner.

For turntables, I have auditioned Pro-Jects Xtension 9, Rega P3 and the Clearaudio Concept. I am planning to listen to the Clearaudio Performance next and based on what I have read and heard, I think that may be the answer. but that is a $2k step up in price. Part of me is thinking just get the better table and maybe the Tracer arm and start with cheaper cartridge/stage for now, vs matching things that are more within budget and then having to change everything later.

What makes the most sense?

saulh

Showing 1 response by sandstone

sandstone
358 posts
 

Saul,

The Clearaudios offer a substantial discount for cartridges with a new purchase, so it is likely a good idea to take advantage of that, say with either the Concept MC or one of the Hana's, or other.  Your dealer will likely give you the same discount option with another cartridge. But with an inferior cartridge, you'll never hear what you're paying up to attain.

 If you must make compromises for now on the excellent Clearaudio Performance setup, the Satisfy Carbon tonearm is a reasonable substitute for the Tracer and can be easily swapped out later.

 

More to discover