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Is the Merill "Gem Dandy" turntable far superior in sound than the Project RPM-3 TT??

I am thinking of selling my Thorens TD 145 which was upgraded, but has overstayed its welcome on my audio rack. Therefore,   I have initially looked at the Project RPM-3 turntable which has been improved and is also packaged with a Sumiko Blue Point 2 moving coil. The official retail is $ 999.00 on Audio Adviser and the Needle Doctor


However, I read a recent review in Stereophile about  George Merrill's "Gem Dandy" turntable which retails for $1695 with A Jelco SA-750 (9 inch tonearm), or $1495 with the Jelco SA-250 ( 9 inch  tonearm)  Both  DON'T COME WITH A CARTRIDGE.  I have seen a few already on sale used on Audiogon.

Would like some feedback from any member about either the Project table cited above or the two Merrill tables with different tonearms.   Will either of the Merrill tables be far superior to the Project in sound quality?? And is it worth the extra money, plus a quality cartridge would have to be added.with the Merrill's TT. which ups the bottom line in price 

Thank you

    

sunnyjim
boofer
86 posts
 
I think if you change cartridges infrequently, the Project package would be the best bet; if, however, you like  to change cartidges around a lot the Jelco allows you to do so in 5 minutes or  so because of its detachable headshell.
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,280 posts
 
At around your price point, you could get into a used VPI Scout.  I have had mine for 7 years and have no desire to change.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
Merrill Gem Dandy is a quality deck
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

Thanks to all who have responded so far.  i appreciate your suggestions

To boofer,  I really don't change cartridges that often. My only concern with the Project RPM-3 is its overall performance;. and, I wished it was packaged with the Sumiko Blue Point Evo III which is supposedly a better sounding cartridge than the BP-2 and only retails for $50.00 more.

 The more "traditional" looking. Project's 2Xperience SB is packaged with either one but  the package retails for $1599 through several internet buyers. That is a $600 jump.  I am sure  latter table may sound better and comes with a dustcover, but is worth $600. more

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