TT Suggestions


Ok, here comes another one of those "please recommend" threads. Like alot of others the vinyl bug may be biting. The last TT I had was a B&O (not the straight arm track) and a very inexpensive Yamaha phono amp. I have about 500 to 600 albums collecting dust for like the last 10 years and I'm thinking i'd like to hear them again. I don't want to start off really cheap because I at least want to hear them properly but I don't want to get really deep because I just might not like the whole idea. The current electronics are an Anthem AV30, Emotiva XPA1's, Mag 3.7's and Sunfire TSEQ12. I listen to a very wide range of music. Lots of old rock. Current female Jazz vocals. I'd like to be in the $2 to $3,000 range for table, cartridge and amp. Rega seems to offer some good bang for the money. Any suggestions?
mrschret
Spend less and get great sound and value. Find a used Denon 47F that can be picked up locally. Equip it with a new Denon 160 cartridge. This TT is the equal of anything that is in the $2-3K class. Is it the equal of new VPI? No, but comes close and is less a hassle. I know, since I have VPI tables. A 47F in top condition comes very close.
Set aside something also to clean your records. Maybe a VPI that will set you back 600-700 or so. Rega, Project, Funk, MUsicHall all have good as in decent starting just plug and play combos. Since you are not sure your ready to jump off into the deep end why not start with less knowing you can always sell it on Audiogon and move on up the chain?
In that price range you should really consider the Well Tempered Labs Amadeus. You'll not likely find anything better.

Shakey
Sota Star Sapphhire III for about $700 used, Sumiko ft3 or 4 arm for $400 or less. Dynavector Karat 23r for $400 and McCormack Micro Phono for $350. There, you have a great system for just under $2000 grand. Spend another %50 or so for a tonearm cable.