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The best TT system for under 30K

Hi agoners! 

I have been floored by Kuzma Stabi XL DC with 4 points TA on a recent audition. It was extremely analog sounding, insane details with speed, beat and clarity that made me wonder if I am listening to a live concert, just can’t help my toe tapping. Was comparing the sound to the top of the line Accuphase CD player with the same rest of system and it was no contest. 

Switching from Accuphase CD player to Kuzma XL DC was sounding like adding a pair of subwoofer and going up 2-3 levels on the rest of the system. Mind you the rest of the system was Accuphase E-650 class A integrated that should favor the Accuphase same brand CD player but that wasn’t the case. The speaker was Kerr Acoustics K300 under 10K entry level bookshelf and the sound of the entire entry level system armed with Kuzma XL DC beat the hell out of the entire super high end system the dealer has on the other listening room with Avalon PM3 speakers, Accuphase A-250 monos, Audionet Stern Preamp with Accuphase CD player. 

However obviously I cannot afford the whole set of Kuzma XL DC considering I am also in the process of upgrading my existing system. What will be the closest contender in the US$30.000 retail price range that has the same sonic signature as Kuzma XL DC? 

Thanks in advance for any advices!!
uwiikz
terry9
2,353 posts
 
@uwiikz, looks like you did it all yourself.

You found the dealer, you found the bargain, you identified the cartridges. And made good decisions.

All you needed to know was, "In the light of experience, does this make sense?" The answer was overwhelmingly, "Yes." Well done you.

I would listen carefully to the Kansui at the dealer's and ask him to mount the Mandake while you watch him, make notes, and ask questions. Then choose the one you prefer - but err on the side of smooth - don't go for sizzle. Sizzle gets wearing, as you are doubtless aware.
terry9
2,353 posts
 
The Linn is one heck of a learning cartridge. Also, gives you an idea of the variety to expect.
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,575 posts
 
“I am leaning towards the demo Kansui or the used once Madake for the keeper and Linn Krystal for me to learn with.”

@uwiikz,

Go for it and enjoy your journey into Analog. 
dhcod
710 posts
 
I am convinced now that I've upgraded to a Fatboy Arm on my VPI Aries that the two most important parts of a vinyl audio system are the arm and the phono preamp. All the 4Point suggestions are really spot on. One of the best arms available. Then I'd suggest a Lamm LP2.1. Those two elements will give you a foundation to enjoy a huge range of turntables and cartridges at different price levels to completely you setup. Those two components will allow for anything you surround it with to sound awesome. Have fun with this purchase!
audite84
110 posts
 
OP,

Given the aesthetics of your components, I suggest you look at Oracle turntables, good-looking and great-sounding. Made in Canada.
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