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$2000 turntable system

Been putting it off long enough, but decided it’s time to bite the bullet and take the vinyl plunge. (mixed metaphor alert)
Don’t want to take my usual multiple expensive false steps. The learning curve here looks pretty steep, so I figured to ask you all for some advice. Thinking to spend $2K - 2.5K. Likely to pair it with my PrimaLuna Dialogue HP Integrated and Revel F206s. Might possibly set it up with my Classe SSP-800/ Classe CA5200/ Martin Logan Montis.
What I came up with after a couple of hours of research were:

Rega PL3 turntable $945
Rega TT PSU power supply $395
Rega Exact 2 MM cartridge $595
Parasound Zphono phono stage $199

Total: $2134

Was considering Vincent PHO 8 phono stage $299 and Dynavector 10x5 MC cartridge $650 as alternatives.

Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Leo


leotis
williewonka
3,075 posts
 
Leo - if you can spring for it - look at the VPI Scout

It's probably the last TT you'll buy and no tweaks are necessary and it's probably VPI's  "best bang for the buck" product 

There is a Scout Junior, but I do not know anything about them

That's about it
leotis OP
182 posts
 
You read my mind.
Been looking at the Scout Jr. since I got your previous recommendation.

sbrownnw
688 posts
 
What I have and love to listen to:

- RP6 with TTPSU
- Audio Technica 33-PTG/II
- Jasmine LP2 mkII (way better than previous Vincent phono, I tried)
- Herbie way excellent mat 2mm

Needs no spacers for setup and sounds great with factory black belt and easy 33 / 45 switching. I also upgraded to a GT ref subplatter but that can be done later. Can find most of the above used. 
bpoletti
1,548 posts
 
Get a used VPI HGW-19 Mk III or IV if you're lucky (remove the springs and use hard rubber pucks instead), a Jelco SA-750D, AT OC9/II and a used Herron Audio VTPH-1mc.  It will use up every penny of your budget and maybe a little more, but you won't find anything better for the price. 

My personal suggestion is to stay away from Rega anything, but too many have differing opinions, so I won't say it.
terry9
2,326 posts
 
Leo, there is another thing to consider: set-up. A good TT in your price range, if properly set up, will sound better than a premium table which is badly set up.

Take-away - make sure that the TT you buy is easy to set up, and spend some time and money in getting it done right. A local dealer can be your friend here.

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