Putting together turntable rig


Hi,

reaching out to the community in hope of some help regarding putting together a analog rig. Since now I exclusively listen digital. I‘am very happy with my Setup, but was thinking of maybe updating my Audio Analogue AADAC since it is the weakest link.

But about three months ago I have the urge to get a turntable. Had then a loaner from a friend of me, a Dr. Feickert Volare with a Jelco arm and Hana cartridge, Phono Preamp was from Audio Analogue. I was really impressed and enjoyed it a lot.

My chain at the moment:
- Viva Audio Solistino with 845 Elrog’s and vintage tubes
- Cube Audio Nenuphar
- 432evo Aeon Server/Roon Core
- the mentioned AADAC
- Good copper cable’s 
- SOTM Switch 
- Townshends Pucks under all components 
- Audioplan Power-Filter/Star and Plant‘s

I do have already something in mind:
- Dr. Feickert Woodpecker 
- Arms something like Viv Lab Rigid Float, Reed 3P, Origin Live Conqueror 
- No idea for a cartridge yet 
- Preamp Rike Natalija 

It‘s not written in stone, it‘s just the direction I was thinking.

The problem is I do have not the funds right now to get everything at once. There are now two ways that come to my mind. Save long enough and by everything at once. Or, get some “good” parts, mix them for the beginning with some “cheaper“ used ones, and replace them afterwards with the desired ones.
But if going that mixed way, how to start, what would be first priority’s to get the most out of it?

Please excuse my humble english.

Your opinions would be greatly appreciated!

greenhorn20
I have had Russian hooch smuggled out thru the diplomatic pouch. It tasted vaguely of solder used in a truck radiator- it was of no help in selecting a cartridge. It did have an impact on the volume of music that night and the intense desire for pain killers the next day.

lets get back to helping the OP

Buy more records !
There is a VPI Aries 1/Eminent Technology 2.5 on Audiogon right now, at a great price.
Nice system!
To echo a few others:

Turntable - invest here first

Tonearm and cart should be considered together. ( the Viv Lab does seem to work with most all carts so that is interesting...)


Can you listen /  demo any other tables to develop your personal tastes at all? Like a direct drive option and an idler drive option? The more you learn about your preferences the better.



$10k is a great budget for table arm carts and maybe phono too if you buy second hand etc...
Thanks to everyone for sharing their thoughts and experience!

I‘m on the go now, will answering later that day with more time.
@chakster 
There is no such thing as new/old stock in cartridges.  All the materials used for suspensions harden over time by drying out or oxidation.

The suspension on an unused cart that is 20-30 years old will have hardened to the point where it is pretty well solid.

Such a cartridge requires a new replacement suspension and possibly other parts according to model. With some manufacturers now out of business this may be impossible without specialist fabrication of a like for like replacement.

Frankly it is a much better deal to buy a cart of recent manufacture.