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Affordable Turntable Options

Hey all. First, I know the term affordable is relative. I'm considering getting back into vinyl and rather than resurrect my dusty Marantz 6270 I thought about starting anew. I'd like to keep the cost under $500.00 w/cartridge. The U-Turn models interest me and they have added some new models with solid wood plinths that look awesome. Any suggestions based on the above? I see some prices for "vintage" tables are through the roof and always of dubious history...

128x128beernut
donvito101
278 posts
 
That Orbit looks like a winner. The reviews are positive. You are better off getting something new , getting an older table might turn into a money pit!
rotarius
431 posts
 
At your price point, vintage is still the best bet.  You can get a very good Technics or JVC DD for around $300.  I just sold a Technics SL1401, it will outperform a Pro-ject Debut, U-turn, Rega p1 or the like in every way possible.  Speed stability, build quality, isolation, features, bearing tolerances and yes sonics.
infection's avatar
infection
808 posts
 
 ...a Technics SL1401, it will outperform a Pro-ject Debut, U-turn, Rega p1 or the like in every way possible. 


Have you made direct comparisons? 
jperry
2,450 posts
 
Have you seen a U-Turn, or just on line photos. I saw one and they don't appear to be very well made IMO. If your Marantz does not work I would look look at a new pro-ject or Rega with cartridge in your price range
analogluvr
859 posts
 
I don't understand people's aversion to buying vintage turntables. Turn tables are so simple that they rarely break. If they do usually it's easy and inexpensive to fix. Unless obviously you're talking about a very complex direct drive. But an old vintage belt drive is almost bullet proof. And even the old complex belt drives are very reliable. Worst case you may have to recap them and you will get years of trouble free service.
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