Second the Rega RP 3 a nice table and easy to set and maintain.
Which Mid Level Turntables Ship Well and Are Foolproof?
I'm looking for recommendations for mid-level turntables (e.g. $500-$1000 used) that are solidly built, are unlikely to be damaged from prior misuse, and that can be shipped relatively safely (assuming original packing materials). I am helping my cousin put together a system, and so far it's pretty nice: (Vandersteen 2CEsigs + 2WQ sub, McCormack DNA 0.5 Rev. A amplifier, modded Eastern Electric minimax preamp, Schiit Bifrost DAC). He is wanting to get back into vinyl, and has an analog audio store nearby that can either sell him something new (Rega) or help him set up something used. Given the relative delicacy of turntables and all the mechanical parts, we are debating whether to go used and if so, which models would present the least risk for used condition and shipping. Much appreciation in advance for your thoughts! Peter_S
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In addition to the Pro-ject Classic, I have a Stanton ST 150 (mk1). Pretty much everything I say about the Stanton, will apply to the Pioneer as they are very similar. These turntables are a lot of fun, are easy to maintain, and allow swapping out of cartridges. They sound pretty decent and are built like tanks and to take some rough use. Keep in mind that it is a DJ oriented turntable, so there are a number of features you may never use. In addition, since the TT is aimed for DJ use, what might bother an audiophile might not bother a DJ and vice versa. So the tonearm bearings have some play in them and there is some hum from the built in phono pre-amp (whether you use it or not) which is not audible when LPs are playing. Google Super OEM to read more. Rich |
If you are looking for something build like a tank and properly working (Direct Drive) my advice would be used Technics SP-20 (1976), if the budged is under $700, the rest is for tonearm etc. https://scontent-amt2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/19149053_1742832902401536_7460015033588105669_n.jpg?oh... This turntable is the same in size and shape to the more expensive SP-10mk2 |
Thanks Rich and chakster. I think that the SP – 20 might be to Tweaky and involve too much technical skill for set up. We definitely need something easy to set up and maintain. It also sounds like the Stanton, and by inference the pioneer, is not at the same level as the other turntables we are discussing? |
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