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Turntable upgrade recommendations: SME vs AMG vs Technics vs other

I've recently upgraded most of my system, but I still have a Rega P8, with Linn Krystal cartridge, which I like, but I've heard that there may be better options.

I have Sound Lab electrostatic speakers, Ypsilon Hyperior amplifiers, an Ypsilon PST-100 Mk2 pre-amplifier, and am thinking about an Ypsilon phono stage to match with my system, and a turntable/cartridge.  I listen to almost entirely classical, acoustic music. 

Based on my very limited knowledge, and simple research, I've been looking at three brands, each of which is a different type of turntable: SME (suspension), AMG (mass), and Technics (direct drive).  
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of turntables, and of those in particular?

Thanks.   

drbond
jperry
2,483 posts
 

I would see if a few of the closer shops would consider taking care of the installation, which I think they should in your price range.

I have heard the AMG and Technics with the same cartridge (DS Audio optical cartridge) and I prefer the AMG. The background is blacker and it sounds more dynamic.

I have not heard the SME

 

alucard19
372 posts
 

At your price point you might want to look into Galibier Design turntables, with an Ikeda tonearm.

pani
1,236 posts
 

@drbond Among the 3 top TT you have selected, SME is the best and that too by a considerable margin. The most neutral, the quietest and the most dynamic among the three. 

mrklas
441 posts
 

You have some compelling options - VPI and Linn may be appropriate to add to the list. 
 

What are you looking for in regards to sound versus your P8?  And is P10 a consideration?

terry9
2,354 posts
 

You are in a very good space. I suggest that for $2500 more you can avoid making a costly mistake and find audio Nirvana.

Take a listening holiday to NY and hear some turntables. Find what YOU like, not what someone else likes.

Also, suggest being clear about your needs as well as your likes. Do you need a suspended table? I don't; I live on bedrock, far from a highway. So I didn't pay for a suspension which I do not need.

What are your tastes? Do you like CD-like crystal brilliance (I hate it), or do you prefer a smooth, sweet, mellifluous journey? When tuning my air bearing turntable and tonearm, I found that most real improvements enhanced the latter.

How much hassle are you prepared for? How much quirkiness? If you are ready for even a modest amount of these, you can save a bunch of money AND improve a bunch on the sound.

Three basic technologies, each of which has adherents. Belt drive (technologically easiest, and IMO quietest), idler drive, and direct drive (every electronic twitch delivered faithfully to your ESL's). Get an air bearing if you can afford it - once exposed, there is no going back. Air in all 3 dimensions is friction-free and noise free, but costly.

Make sure that your choice of tonearm is compatible with your choice of cartridge. 

As for brands, consider some which do not advertise heavily, like Nottingham Analogue. Bit quirky but a wonderful sound - almost as good as my air bearing.

My system is all analogue, mostly DIY, with heavily modified Quad ESL's. Cartridge is Koetsu with diamond cantilever, tonearm is based on a Trans-Fi Terminator air bearing, heavily modified to accommodate the Koetsu.

Good luck!

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