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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
rmdmoore
180 posts
 

I agree with adding brinkmann. I looked a a lot of turntables this past year and ended up with a Brinkmann Bardo. It's direct drive but with a magnetic system that is incredibly smooth. The bearing is amazing. The platter which is definitely massive spins for more than a full minute after turning it off. As the other user said, I have it on an HRS platform. It's an incredible piece of engineering but more than that, it sounds stupendous 

fredlobo's avatar
fredlobo
19 posts
 

I have the AMG Viella Forte with a Lyra Atlas Lambda Mono and am in love with it

astolfor's avatar
astolfor
317 posts
 

I had SME and have AMG and love it, I could not live without being able to adjust Azimuth...

jrw1971
62 posts
 

To each his own, YMMV, etc etc.  But if you’re asking for ideas:  strongly recommend looking at the TechDAS Air Force 5.  With a Graham Phantom tonearm.  And a very good tonearm cable.  
 

When you get that Yip phono — and you should — you’ll need to find an SUT+cartridge match.  Not to insult anyone’s intelligence, but that’s a rabbit hole unto itself and worth budgeting for.  

smandlej
75 posts
 

If you are looking at SME, I would suggest either the 20/12 or the 30/12 with the 12" tonearm. SME no longer supply tonearms to other turntable manufacturers and the only way to acquire the arms (other than secondhand) is to buy a SME turntable. Since the change in ownership prices have increased markedly. Have a look at Techdas with a Graham tonearm.

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