2. analog
  3. 172820-41852

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
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
74 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.

senza
80 posts
 

SME is a very good choice. Products are well conceived and reliable. But their arms like model IV and V, as good as they are, have no way to adjust azimuth and this is a pity for such expensive products.
If you want to adjust that you have to use Wally shims, but it is not normal that such a top manufacturer can’t adapt itself to what analog audiophiles are looking for :  best way to finely adjust all the parameters that help you to realize the full potential of your big investment. But that’s my own way of seeing things.

More to discover