2. analog
  3. 126824-33947

Where is the significant point of diminishing returns on hi-end turntable?

For those that don’t know me I am newish to this game. Yes, I believe this chase for perfection in sound reproduction is a game. There are endless variables affecting the sound of every system and 100x that in opinions on each of these variables. I love cool $hit as much as the next guy but I am looking for an analog rig and I keep getting drawn into the seemingly endless "what about this option that costs tons more?". I started with a $6 to $10K budget and now I am considering a $25K setup (Table, cart and phono stage) after talking to a local retailer. I will be blunt, I want to be that guy in the Memorex ad from the 80’s that is getting blown away by his system (my impression is he is overwhelmed by the amazing sound coming from that speaker not the volume). Now that I have acquired some pretty descent stuff I am spending 15 plus hours each week listening and really enjoying this hobby. I don’t want to have any regrets and just be marginally satisfied with my setup but where do I draw the line? Back to my initial question; what is a reasonable amount to spend on an analog setup to achieve the best bang for the buck? I may be somewhat unique in that I don’t want to constantly be upgrading my equipment, I just want to buy great products the first time that are very satisfying and spend hours listening to great music. I don’t want to be the guy always chasing the next great thing.
mmporsche
ct0517's avatar
ct0517
2,041 posts
 
mmporsche - I am seeking out the local experts and will have them setup my table.  If I need to adjust something than I will certainly have the knowledge and tools.

Local experts – implying someone that will get you to about 8-9 out of 10 on the first setup. Local experts have familiarity with certain brands.
based on the info you have provided on this thread, one of your objectives is "set and forget"

If this was me, I would be looking to get real life experience, opinions, from actual owners here, on those table setups/ brands that the local experts represent and are promoting. I would be listing out the brands.
Otherwise, you will continue to get new TT candidates here from members.

Good luck in your hunt. 
ebm
9,311 posts
 
You only have to spend from 20 to 50K.

onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,351 posts
 
It would help if the OP would identify his current TT and also describe why he is not satisfied with the Parasound phono preamp.
mmporsche's avatar
mmporsche OP
144 posts
 
My current TT is a Pro-ject Xpression Carbon. It sounds okay but ever since I replaced my front-end with more revealing amp and speakers (Voxativ) it definitely shows its weaknesses. I have heard how good something can sound with these speakers at RMAF and other places. The sound is not as deep, rich and involving. I just used my new KL audio last night and put on a newly arrived Quality Records pressing of the Cowboy Junkies Trinity Sessions. I definitely could appreciate the better quality vinyl and the KL audio unit definitely does a good job of removing the clicks and pops. The thing I notice most about my current setup is it can get a little shrill in the upper octaves and it is if I am missing information, like the needle is riding in the grooves, just not deep enough. Just an analogy of course.

@ct0517 the local expert I am speaking with currently is Thom Mackris of Galibier. I like the idea of someone willing to come to my home and set up the table and work with me on the adjustments, at least initially. I have not heard his table yet, hopefully soon.

The two local shops that are considered experts in analog have no interest in loaning me a table to hear it with my system and I believe that is really key to finding something you like. I assumed that based on my budget I could have this service, apparently not.
oleschool's avatar
oleschool
722 posts
 
Keep up what your doing , I'm watching from the sidelines. This is above my level ,but very interesting. I find the comments busting on your budget ridiculous. It's your money buddy and the range your in seems fitting to me .. people spend 20k on a rug . I can't doesnt mean they shouldn't. Enjoy the adventure . Although I suspect you will continue your quest for audio nirvana at any level .. 
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