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Upgraded turntable - is my current setup sufficient?

After some research on table upgrades from my denon dp300 with the sumiko rainier I pulled the trigger on the Marantz TT15-S1 with included clearaudio virtuoso. Based on some threads on this forum and some others it seems that any table under $1000 wouldn't yield the kind of audible jump I wanted.

Currently I have an adcom gtp500 for the phono stage running into a rotel 1066 pre-pro and the rotel 1080 amp. Those are driving a set of cambridge soundworks tower 1 speakers.

I am hoping to hear an appreciable difference with the new marantz and virtuoso running through my current setup.

Does anyone think otherwise?

If so let me know any suggested changes and what order they should be made. I've checked the specs - the adcom amp should have no problems with the virtuoso cart. Having said that, is there a better phono stage upgrade I can make for under $500 that would be noticeable difference?

I picked up the tower 1 speakers last year for $150 bucks and I've been super happy with them. Im hoping the marantz won't underperform due to the speakers or anything else, and will provide me with the appreciable difference I am hoping for.

Thanks!
jsnath
elliottbnewcombjr
5,562 posts
 
that ifi unit is available from Amazon, $150. delivered, easy returns

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Preamp-Turntables-Record-Players/dp/B08H2GPD7F

I’m tempted to try it in my office, be set for future MC cartridge there.

If you try it, let us know!!!!

youtube review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBAdLY3Upbo

in his video he mentions their iPhono3, extremely versatile, but $1,000.

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Phonostage-Preamplifier-Compatible-Cartridges/dp/B088SSSTPD

Like I said, it's fun learning about stuff, evidently they have been around, check out their product line:

https://ifi-audio.com/products/zen-phono/




lewm
13,228 posts
 
In this price stratum, the OP is better off with a good moving magnet cartridge, in my opinion. Moving coil cartridges, in this price range, tend to be the high output type, which in my experience are generally inferior to moving magnets at a similar price point or at any price point.
elliottbnewcombjr
5,562 posts
 
After that video review, I just ordered the iFi with MM/MC 3 load options, due here this Friday.

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Preamp-Turntables-Record-Players/dp/B08H2GPD7F/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1E0DU...=

I'll try it in the main system, both MM and MC, then up in my office, MM now, future MC.

Easy return


jsnath OP
4 posts
 
Update: I tried the iFi, monoprice pure tube (just to get a sense for a tube pre), the clearaudio nano, and the simaudio moon lp110. 

The ifi was actually pretty decent for $150 bucks.
The pure tube from monoprice wasnt bad on sale for $300 - definitely a warmer sound but not nearly as dynamic as the moon or nano (both around $400). Also has no ground wire screw and the hum really annoyed me.

Settled on the moon LP110 for now. Its super detailed and theres an openness and depth to it that the others did not compete with. 

Having said all that... I'd really like try a better quality tube pre-amp. Do i have options (used or new) in the $800-1000 ballpark that would be an improvement over the moon? 


elliottbnewcombjr
5,562 posts
 
I sent the iFi back.

It was good, and flexible, did it's job, but not involving, I think that video was too enthusiastic. 

OP, I think you are correct to try tubes, again, try something you can return.

Tube caveat: discuss with seller what exact tubes it comes with, or options, then, before buying do some research about the generally agreed sound quality. They definitely sound different. 

You don't want to need to do 'tube rolling' to start, it needs to be great out of the box (AFTER BURN IN)

Burn In: no input needed, just leave tubes on for around 60 hours, then listen.

Brent is a good source of tube info

https://www.audiotubes.com/
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