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Turntables

I am kicking the idea of trying out vinyl. It’s been a long time since I had a turntable and it took a lot of thought whether I can deal with what always seemed like the snap, crackle & pops of an album. Anyway, I’ve decided to take a plunge after all the buzz how awesome it is. Of course before I make any final decisions, I always turn to the Audiogon community for their expert thoughts, opinions and education. I’m also looking for suggestions for a nice affordable table with tone arm and cartridge. Being the fact this is new to me and I may hate it, I’m looking for suggestions on the best affordable set up I can do for a new or used in the price range of $1000/$1500. I’m sure I can get a better bang for the buck going used. I just don’t know anything about these animals. My system is older but I still enjoy it which consist of a Mark Levinson 23.5 amp, Proceed AVP 2+6 used for 2 channel audio, Audio Acoustics model 9 speakers, Ayre DAC for digital with Transparent Audio Ultra mm2 cables. Any input is greatly appreciated!
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oldschool1948's avatar
oldschool1948
497 posts
 
I used a Technics SL-1600 MKII for 35 years until I purchased a Technics SL-1200G.  Now the 1600 is part of a second system.  The 1200G build quality is excellent, and SQ is everything I could want.

Several folks have recommended the Technics SL-1200GR.  While I've never owned or heard one, if its anything like the 1200G you cannot go wrong.
mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt
710 posts
 
I think you should look into...
Thorens TD203 turntable
Ortofon 2m Blue cartridge
Schiit Audio Mani phono preamp

or...
Rega Planar1 Plus (with built-in phono preamp) to test the waters
https://www.whathifi.com/rega/planar-1-plus/review
jmolsberg's avatar
jmolsberg
467 posts
 
Pro-ject Carbon DC Esprit / upgrade to Ortofon 2M Blue
https://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Debut-Carbon-Esprit-DC-Black

Lounge Audio Phono Pre
https://www.loungeaudio.com/lcr-mr-iii

My good friend has this setup, and for 1K all-in, this thing plays music!
asahitoro
244 posts
 
@jmolsberg

I was able to get that same setup, turntable, Lounge w/silver, Ortofon Blue and Audio Sensibilities AE Impact cable for under $800 used by shopping around. It did sound good but I ended up with a deal on a Denon DP-60L and Ortofon Bronze so I made the move to vintage. I still have the Pro-Ject and Ortofon Blue that I’m trying to sell locally.
davebethke65's avatar
davebethke65
2 posts
 
@loverockinobvoiuly you will get many opinions, and none are wrong as it is all personal preference.

i used to run a modest pro-next debut with a Sumiko blue point EVO3.  That unit sounded amazing, absolutely loved it.  In total I think it is about $800 these days by purchasing them together up front.  I used that for almost 10years, as 90% of the quality comes from needle setup and quality of that stylist. Last year I broke the tip off and needed to get it sent in.  While waiting I was drawn to another table. And due to lead time I went for it, $5k later I’m very happy (Xtension Evolution with blackbird) but the difference between $800 and $5k was not worth it. To be honest if you set the $1200 stylist next to the $450 they look identical, my dealer stated the specs are nearly identical. For reference the rest of my system is McIntosh preamp/amp (600watt/channel) with B&W 802D2’s.  The reason I state this is that the system sounds amazing, and the difference was minimal between the 2 tables.

again I highly recommend the Sumiko blue point EVO3 and a modest table such as the pro-ject debut.  
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