2. amps-preamps
  3. 182501-119931

Where to spend my money...

Over the years I've mostly purchased great used gear that works within my budget....and with much success.

I'd like some input on where to next invest my money for the most sonic improvement...a new turntable and stylus upgrade vs a new power amp.

I'm interested in pre-owned VPI tables and Pass Labs amps....particularly VPI Primes over the last say ten years....and something close to the current  Pass Labs X-150.8.

I currently enjoy Wilson Sophia speakers (version one)...a VPI Scout Junior TT with a Dynavector cartridge....Audio Research solid state 100.1 power amp and LS-16 Pre-amp.

I listened mostly to vinyl  (jazz and classical)...but also have the Cambridge CXN V2 streamer with Qobux as my source.  I realize any Pass Labs amp will stretch my budget but I'd like to get some input. I could see spending $2200.-$2700 on a new TT...and for the amp maybe $4000.00 to $5000.00 eventually...Just can't do both at the same time...

Any thoughts are appreciated.

 

Greg

gsieg
tablejockey
3,919 posts
 

If you're looking to improve turntable magic, I'd first determine if the existing setup is optimized.

No mention of an outboard phonostage, so assuimng the LS16 has one? If so, arguably your table setup may not be fully exploited.

Since you like the tube sound-tube phono stage and maybe a cart upgrade.

Used Primes for a good deal are an easy find. You might also consider a nice tube integrated.

Tube usage/cost is not that big of a deal as you may think.

 

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

I'd go for the VPI Prime and add a Dynavector arm with a Dynavector lomc cartridge into an SUT (Denon, Entre, FR ...). Does the LS-16 have a phono stage? I'd consider something like a Herron or Counterpoint tube phono stage.

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

Regarding amps - get a First Watt F4 and drive it with the LS-16. That will give you 50wpc@ 4ohms of Class A power! For jazz and classical that's enough power. BTW I have an F4 that I can drive with my ARC SP6!

dinov's avatar
dinov
845 posts
 

Don’t over look the VPI Scouts, especially with the heavy metal platter and nordost JmW 9 tonearm. These are the precursor to the Prime and with a few upgrades like feet and motor you can get equal to or surpass the performance of a Prime for less money. 

snoidslap75
17 posts
 

My recommendation to anyone is used is good, but be careful about price. I have a rule of thumb. If it lists for more than 60 percent of new. Buy new or offer, or move on. Any blurry pictures, ask for better. reasearch at least 3 items in you catagory and price. Low, medium, high. Good and bad buys out there. Reasearch!!!!!!!!!!!!! Its easy to make a good $10k turntable, but not as easy on a good $1000.00 Turntable. My holy grail is sound returns.For instance, my Schitt Mani sounds great. Does it sound better than my Lehmann Black Box with power conditioner? NO, but it gets 90% there. Same with any thing pretty much. I go for the middle of the road in cost returns. But sometimes you have to treat yourself. And a warranty aint bad. Good luck.

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