Personally I think it cost a lot more to to achieve same digital sound quality with viynl. So buying used is about the only way to go. If it was me I would put good amount of my budget in a phono stage and cartridge. It's really not hard to set up a table if you have the right protractor( down load for free) and don't mind spending a little time learning.In $500 range for phono, maybe black cube, Sim Audio or PS Audio GCPH. Stay away from low output moving coil cartridge, nothing more agrivating not having enough gain you will never be satisfied. I guess I would worry more about cartridge and phono stage than table. Music Hall and Rega were recommended are nice choices, but there are others take your time.
Turntables
I am kicking the idea of trying out vinyl. It’s been a long time since I had a turntable and it took a lot of thought whether I can deal with what always seemed like the snap, crackle & pops of an album. Anyway, I’ve decided to take a plunge after all the buzz how awesome it is. Of course before I make any final decisions, I always turn to the Audiogon community for their expert thoughts, opinions and education. I’m also looking for suggestions for a nice affordable table with tone arm and cartridge. Being the fact this is new to me and I may hate it, I’m looking for suggestions on the best affordable set up I can do for a new or used in the price range of $1000/$1500. I’m sure I can get a better bang for the buck going used. I just don’t know anything about these animals. My system is older but I still enjoy it which consist of a Mark Levinson 23.5 amp, Proceed AVP 2+6 used for 2 channel audio, Audio Acoustics model 9 speakers, Ayre DAC for digital with Transparent Audio Ultra mm2 cables. Any input is greatly appreciated!
- ...
- 147 posts total
I used a Technics SL-1600 MKII for 35 years until I purchased a
Technics SL-1200G. Now the 1600 is part of a second system. The 1200G build quality is excellent, and SQ is everything I could want. Several folks have recommended the Technics SL-1200GR. While I've never owned or heard one, if its anything like the 1200G you cannot go wrong. |
I think you should look into... Thorens TD203 turntable Ortofon 2m Blue cartridge Schiit Audio Mani phono preamp or... Rega Planar1 Plus (with built-in phono preamp) to test the waters https://www.whathifi.com/rega/planar-1-plus/review |
Pro-ject Carbon DC Esprit / upgrade to Ortofon 2M Blue https://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Debut-Carbon-Esprit-DC-Black Lounge Audio Phono Pre https://www.loungeaudio.com/lcr-mr-iii My good friend has this setup, and for 1K all-in, this thing plays music! |
@jmolsberg I was able to get that same setup, turntable, Lounge w/silver, Ortofon Blue and Audio Sensibilities AE Impact cable for under $800 used by shopping around. It did sound good but I ended up with a deal on a Denon DP-60L and Ortofon Bronze so I made the move to vintage. I still have the Pro-Ject and Ortofon Blue that I’m trying to sell locally. |
- 147 posts total