2. analog
  3. 166247-150221

Upgrade entry level or start over?

I have a stock Fluance RT-82 turntable with an Ortofon OM10. Preamp is a Schiit Mani. I would like to upgrade my analog setup. I listened to vinyl as a youth, and then just recently got back into it about 6 months ago.

Would my money be better spent upgrading my existing setup or buying a different turntable altogether? Upgrades might include a new cartridge, new platter, new preamp, etc. Or should I buy something like a Rega Planar 3?

Budget either way would be about $1000. Would love to hear suggestions from those with more experience than me. 

In case it matters, the rest of the gear is a Schiit Freya preamp, Rotel RC-1070 amp, and KEF LS50 speakers with SVS SB2000 sub.

Thanks in advance for your help.
funkbass4
solypsa's avatar
solypsa
462 posts
 
I would say start over. Imo at this price point the best turntable path is to buy high quality vintage. Vintage has gotten expensive but there are still good buys. Read some threads on lenco and idler drive turntables as well as vintage direct drive. Learn what models are just below the radar.
Oh and after a quick look at some audio sites, it will open up your options quite a bit if you were able to raise the budget to $1600 but with patience I think it can be done for $1k.
russ69's avatar
russ69
3,579 posts
 
What amp are you using? The RC1070 is a preamp I think? RB1070 maybe?
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
Just buy brand new Technics mk7 for $900-1000 and look for a proper MM or MI cartridge
funkbass4 OP
18 posts
 
Thanks to everyone for your advice. Looks like I have some research to do!

Yes I meant RB-1070. Sorry for the typo.

What about upgrading both the cartridge and phono preamp for $1000? Like $300 on a new cartridge and $700 on a new preamp.

Does it make sense to spend that much on a $300 turntable?
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
You can upgrade your cartridge first if you want to hear immediate improvement without spending much (if you don’t want to upgrade your turntable). When you drop numbers here it’s really nothing. Even if you will spend over $1000 on a phono stage you will hear only your cartridge limitations. Not every cartridge for $300 is good or better. 


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