Best turntable for the buck

@rvpiano i was in similar situation, as I have been attempting to assemble an ‘end game’ system for retirement. I had upgraded digital side (Bluesound Vault 2i and Marantz SA-KI Ruby), and turned to analog side. I have about 3000 LPs (though could trim in half without losing much I value).

I actually have about your $4k in the rig itself … had a NOS VPI Classic 1 I’d not yet unboxed (long story), and added a SoundSmith Zephyr MIMC Star. Came from a Denon DP1200 and Grado F3+ w/8MZ stylus, and I’m very happy with the upgrade. Phono stage (Lehmann Black Cube SE) more than competent but the weak link, and may add SoundSmith’s phono pre before calling it done.

Sounds like you’re doing great as it is. Rega definitely has great products. I have a VPI that I’ve also been thru the upgrade /modified process, and I’ve found it to be all that I want. Rock solid too..  

My dealer is telling me he likes the sound of the VPI Scout over the Prime.

Anyone have an opinion on that?  It’s certainly more affordable.

Ask your dealer for a list of the albums he used for the Evaluation. if you like the genre of music and recordings you probably have similar taste. If you don’t like the choices he makes I would be More independent and look for your own evaluation based on several albums you like the sound of. Your dealer should know about everything in your system and what your long-term goal is in terms of sound satisfaction. The prime has a 20 pound platter and does require some yearly maintenance. If this would be a problem for you or a technician then perhaps the simpler table is a better choice.  😀😀😀