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Best sounding turntable and cartridge for $1100

I have seen a lot of turntable and cartridges packages in  $1000- $1100, such as the Project RPM3 with the Sumiko BP-2 MC.   Project Xperience 1 with a Sumiko Pearl MM;  Rega Planar 3 with a Elys II cartridge. 

 I have formerly owned a Rega 3-24 with Elys II  and a Project Carbon DC with Ortofon 2M Red (which I did not like at all) . Would like to try something different, but can live with the above brands depending on their overall performance 

Need recommendations for turntable/cartridge new or used combo that punches far above its price of  $1100.  Thank you

   

sunnyjim
slaw's avatar
slaw
21,321 posts
 
Ahhh!!!

The Denon DL-110.

This was my first cartridge when I realized I was hooked!

Back then... in the late 80's, I bought mine from Japanese Stereo for $55.00.

Memories!!!
schism
12 posts
 
I happen to be listening to a SG 3 as I read this. It was given to me by a friend who has numerous tables ( VPI, Rega, Thorens)...it was collecting dust in a closet. I have an Ortofon 2M blue cart and a Bellari VP130 with upgraded tube and power cable. To me it sounds fantastic. When I considered buying a new table in the $750-$1000 range my vinyl junkie friend, who's older and wiser, said "you're gonna have spend more than that to sound better"...
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

To Slaw, How does the DL-110 match up with light to medium tonearms. How might it compare to  other cartridges like Rega Elys II;  Ortofon  Bronze, or Clearaudio Performer V-2  which are high output MM's

To schism:. You friend is right; I wish I had kept mine which I bought new in 1988  for half price on a salesman's accommodation. I also owned VPI Rega, Thorens.  However, I had no complaints about the VPI or Rega,  but the "refurbished" Thorens TD-145 was a turkey and junk.  Thanks.    

mesch
3,476 posts
 
Thanks for your post schism. I intend to pass my SG-3 on to one of my kids. 

Sunny, I had a dealer friend sell me mine highly discounted. One of the best audio buys I have made, especially given cost and 'time in grade'.
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rikintpa
20 posts
 
My suggestion is get a Thorens TD-125, 145 or 160 or an old AR Table have them modified and or restored.  Then go with an Ortofon Blue or Bronze or maybe a Denon 103R if you can have a Moving Coil Cart in your set-up.  To replace those tables today (if set up right) would cost you 4Xs the amount you would spend on an "old Table"! 
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