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What Budget turntable should I buy?

I'm just getting back into analog and would like to add a turntable. I have a NAD C350/540 combo running through Paradigm Mini-Monitors. I also hope to add a sub soon. I have $500-$600 budget. I also need to pick up a phono preamp. According to all the press - I am considering the following. NAD 533, Music Hall MMF-5 or even the MMF 2.1. For preamps the NAD PP-1, Creek OBH-8 or Parasound PPH-100. I listen mainly to Jazz with some classical. Any recommendations??
jpstereo5b35
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
lucishow is Rek-O-Kut still around? I have an antique RekOKut TT that needs arm bearing repair or I'd be running it right now... This thing has been around since Christ was a kid though.
ponnie
233 posts
 
I actually disagree with the comment that Jeffloistarca made on 2/18/02. I only wish I had read this thread then.
Some people hate suspensions and love non suspension. I personally like suspensions. This is why. At the monent I have a MMF-5 Music Hall tt. It sounds very good, but I have tried in every way go get rid of the rumble when you touch your stand. I have owned 1 MMF-5, 1 Systemdek IV, 3 Systemdek II's and 1 Systemdek IIe. In addition to this I have owned 3 Sotas all non vaccum, 3 AR EB101's and 2 ES1 tables. Regardless of sound the Sota was the most detailed and semi reliable to date. Finally, the speed control on a couple of the Sotas gave me trouble. Next,Systemdek electronic circurity gave me trouble. I never had any trouble from the AR's or Systemdek without the speed control. The Music Halls are fantastic buys. However, I would buy the Music Hall before the Systemdek. Simply because Systemdek is not in business anymore. Parts are nonexistant.
rosypup
8 posts
 
i have a rotel rp955 turntable, which i think listed for $800, and i got a great closeout deal on it. although the cue does not work which is a bummer, it sounds far better than anything else i've heard in it's class.

the bad news is that since i've had mine for about 8 months now, i have not seen another one new or used on the market.

pair it with a reasonably priced mc cartridge like the sumiko blue point, and say the rotel 995 preamp (400 used) which has a great phono section, and you basically can't beat it.

you will have the set-up to realize why vinyl is far better than cd.
jonjacques
10 posts
 
Well I just put a SME 3009 arm on a thorens 160 and with a parasound preamp it sounds as good if not better than my rega 25, I am surprised to say after some side by side testing. Not only is the sound good, but it looks cool and with a ortofon super 10 you are within budget. Jazz and classical sound great.
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