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Recomendation on turntable for less than $1500

Well, after 44 years I'm ready to replace my Thorens TD 150. I haven't paid too much attention to equipment lately, but the new Thorens seem to be a different beast.

TTs that caught my eye are:
- VPI Traveler with the Grado cart.
- Clear Audio with the MM option
- One of the Regas, perhaps P3 for a bit less money

I'd appreciate any info from folks who have owned these models or other options in my price range. Thanks

Ric
ricardo
raymonda
855 posts
 
I would suggest that you upgrade your present Thorens with a Rega rb202 or 301 arm and new plinth and arm board, many of which can be had of ebay. I would also add a music hall cruise control 2. By doing this you will match or surpass any table listed above.
raymonda
855 posts
 
If you really feel you need a new table jmsound is selling a well tempered classic for 1200. There is not much out there that compares to this table at or near the asking price.
knownothing
1,683 posts
 
I tend to agree with the upgrade route as a viable option. I have a 150 mkII. I went out to listen to tables recently for possible replacement and decided that I would have to spend at least double what your budget is to see significant differences across the board. The used VPI and the new RP6 sounds intriguing, but the $1500 suggested upgrades would probably get you the most bang for your dollar. My 2 cents.

kn
ricardo OP
11 posts
 
Wow, so many options.

WRT upgrading, a number of years ago I upgraded to a Rega RB250 arm, added a heavier plinth, and spent a lot of time tweaking the suspension. Results were very good indeed.

However, I have recently developed a loud hum in the right channel, for no apparent reason. The arm and motor circuit do not share a ground, which I think they did in the original setup. But why the sudden change, I wonder.

In any case, I figure I have so many miles on that motor that it wasn't worth finding someone who could do a full recon for me. I was just going to fool with it myself and see if I could get rid of the hum. Plus, I managed to break the lift tab off the tone arm while I fiddled with the internal wiring.

I guess I'll keep look and keep fiddling. Thanks for all the suggestions.
raymonda
855 posts
 
Go with the well tempered classic if your not into maintaining your current set up. You will not be disappointed.
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