2. analog
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New to vinyl, where to start?

Hello all,

 

I was recently gifted an Audio-Technica turntable, and I would like to get started with a vinyl system. Previously, my “audiophile” set up consisted of an iFi DAC that I found on Audiogon and a Sennheiser HD569. Maybe not quite audiophile sound, but very effective for my student-sized budget. 

 

My question is this: given a budget of $500, how can I get the best sound out of this new turntable? My initial thought was to find a used HD 650 for ~$300 and a good tube amp for ~$200. Is this a good place to start or should I consider other elements such as updating the cartridge? I’m new to the world of analog sound so I would appreciate any advice you all might have. 

128x128saintsaens_op61
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,897 posts
 

What model is the Audio Technica?

saintsaens_op61's avatar
saintsaens_op61 OP
59 posts
 

@noromance it is a AT-LP120XUSB. 

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,523 posts
 

Yes, get some good headphones and an amp and have fun. 

photomax
169 posts
 

Do you currently own albums? Have you been to a record store and priced new records? 
 

I would think about this and how far down this rabbit hole you want to go? Vinyl can be fun and sound excellent but it is an arena that requires a certain level of commitment and budgeting… 

saintsaens_op61's avatar
saintsaens_op61 OP
59 posts
 

@photomax, yes I own a few records. Currently I have a complete set of Beethoven symphonies and some other individual symphonies and concertos. New albums aren’t cheap but I’m willing to spend time finding bargains. There’s one local store that has a few shelves of used vinyl for $2 an album. 
 

That’s also why I’m leaning towards upgrading my headphones, as I can use a good pair of headphones with either analog or digital. 

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