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Most beautiful turntable under $5k

Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but thought this might be a fun topic. Obviously the most important thing about audio gear is how it sounds, but I find some of it truly beautiful to look at too, particularly turntables, which almost by necessity are best placed somewhere on display. Some days I love the simplicity of something like the Clearaudio Concept Wood (particularly the dark wood)….other days the “audio jewelry” appearance of EAT or VPI. My personal vote, however, would go to the Gold Note Pianosa. For me it has a timeless beauty and elegance that’s never over the top. I can’t imagine ever tiring of looking at in and think it would look great with a wide array of decor.


What would be your personal choice for most beautiful turntable under $5k? What about cost-no-object options?

ethos123
yyman23
148 posts
 

Another vote for Technics SL-1200G.

The etched logo on the 10mm solid aluminum top does it for me every time.

toolsystems
9 posts
 

I've got a Thorens TD 145 with a new acrylic dust cover. There's not a blemish anywhere to be found. I think it's a work of art. And with Nagoaka MP-200 cartridge, it sounds even better.

spiritofradio's avatar
spiritofradio
3,449 posts
 

I love my ProJect Evolution Xtension 10.  Photos from mfg. web pps below:

And here:

 

 

photos really don’t do it justice, it needs to be lit from above. 

Also really like the more expensive Palmer:


 

 

 

 

 

jessica_severin's avatar
jessica_severin
35 posts
 

I love the elegant rosewood looks of the Denon and Victor/JVC direct drive decks of the 70s and 80s

wyoboy
264 posts
 

I realize you're probably excluding custom tables, but someone above mentioned Lenco in custom plinths so a shoutout to Jean Nantais of TJN analog who does beautiful woodwork for his custom rebuilt Lencos.  Most are under $5K--i bought one of his "Steampunk" rebuilds on A'gon a couple years back and it's pretty cool--never fails to get comments from everyone who sees it.  Here's his picture Gallery: 

 

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