Your choice - TT, Arm, Stage, Cartridge - $5000 budget

Ok, my bad.....I thought he was including the cartridge for a total of 1600, not adding 1600 to the cost. I think this cartridge is just over 2000 new. I would not lay that down unless I heard it personally, which I haven't. 

I'm running an zyx r100h on a tweaked out hw19 mkiii and it is killing me on how good it sounds.

I'm not sure how a Denon 103 sounds on a VPI arm but you might try a hot rod 103 out during the time you are looking for a higher end cartridge. You never know, you may find that the Denon delivers what you are looking for. Don't let the low price fool you. Magic happened when Denon made this cartridge and none of their others meet the same level of sonic satisfaction imo. Although, I've never heard the S1.

Go new with the whole thing set up including MC cartridge. If you have not set up a table before, you will have to buy additional gear for that. This way you got a plug and play guarantee.


                https://hifibuys.com/store/rega-rp8-turntable/dp/6701

This leaves a few dollars, but not enough for phono pre; you will have to add a few for that, but this is no hassle.
                 

Yeah I think I am probably going to pass on the Bronze for the time being.

The dealer also also offers other Ortofon, SoundSmith, and Grado carts and already assured me that he will offer me a solid discount on a new cart considering I’m buying a table from him.

Gonna see what the best cart he will offer me for ~1000. Maybe start from there.


Also, been looking into the Art Audio Vinyl Reference stage considering there is one on USAM now. Fits the price range. Been recommended earlier.

Anyone got first hand experience with this model?? Almost settled for a Whest 30rdt based on the price. But didn’t happen.

Otherwise I’m on the prowl for a good deal for an excellent stage. What price have people been seeing the Herron stage go for used?

Also, just got offered a Tom Evans The Groove stage for $1500. Havent heard much about this stage at all. Trying to do a little research on it presently.

Anyone have any insight into this?