2. analog
  3. 152461-111702

Not too knowledgeable and a cartridge/ phono amp recommendation is desired

I’m looking to improve my simple system in stages and need some ideas. Currently my 2 channel system is an Outlaw RR2160 receiver, Klipsch Heresy w/Crites crossovers/tweeters. The current turntable in the system is Thorens TD 160 Super with a Jelco SA-750 tone arm and a Dynavector 10x5 cartridge. My other turntable is a VPI Scout with JMW Memorial Tonearm and a 2m Bronze cartridge and connected to a surround system that does it no justice. The front speakers in the surround system are PSB Imagine Ts. I find the Klipsch while a little brighter they are definitely more detailed. I actually prefer them. I’ve tried both with the Outlaw.
I’m going to incorporate the VPI into my 2 channel sytem and think a pre amp and cartridge is in order. I honestly do not know how to incorporate a pre amp into my receiver or setup the turntable properly with a new cartridge. I listem mostly to Blues and roots type music. Currently Eilen Jewell on the Thorens. My max budget is $2000 dollars for pre amp and cartridge but would like to spend  less. Speakers(Cornscala are on my radar) and then amp will be next. Sound advice is desired. Thanks in advance for any response.
14point1
johnto
1,047 posts
 
There’s a Parasound Z Phono on sale at Safe and Sound I think it would be a step up from the Mani. 
You may want to wait and decide where you are headed system wise before investing in a phono pre. If you step up in integrated it may we'll have a satisfactory phono section. It's no fun to upgrade one piece and then notice other equipment is holding it back.
The VPI is a very nice to and watched with the right equipment can deliver killer sound.
14point1 OP
42 posts
 
johnto: That's a good point about future upgrades and something to consider. My budget dictates that the receiver will be replaced no sooner than 2 years and more like 3. It's why I'd like to buy more in the $500-$1000 range. If I find the sound respectable after I get the VPI in order and get new speakers I may leave the system as is.

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Honestly looking at the whole situation I think johnto has the best idea. If your budget was higher or if your time frame was shorter it might make more sense to go with the best phono stage you can, knowing it would only be with the receiver a short time. But three years is an awful long time to be suffering along with what passes for music coming out of a receiver. There really is no such thing as a good receiver. 

You should on the other hand have no trouble finding an integrated with a phono stage built in. For sure it will be better than what you have now. For sure the phono stage will be better. For sure the amp will be better. No possible way you can do worse. Very unlikely you will be able to find any phono stage that when run through the receiver will sound as good. Certainly not on your budget. Even more so when you consider the phono stage will require an interconnect.

There's just no way. Integrated with built-in phono stage. Totally the way to go. Worth the stretch to get as good a one as you can, then in 2-3 years upgrade either the whole thing or to a better phono stage.
Post removed 
14point1 OP
42 posts
 
millercarbon: If I understand correctly a phono stage will be held back by my receiver and money wasted. What do you mean by interconnect? Cables from phono stage to receiver? I do use a ortofon tonearm cable with the VPI. If I were to buy an integrated what should i be looking at?
Thanks
More to discover