Turntable recommendation
My wife and I are looking into getting a turntable. It would get light use as we mostly stream music via Qobuz. Current system is Bluesound Node, Yamaha CD-S303, Schiit Saga+, Schiit Vidar, NSMT Chorus 25 speakers and NSMT EXP15 sub. We do not have a record collection as of yet. Based on current gear and the fact that it will get light use. What makes sense? The $379 Yamaha CD player gets light use as well. Seems like a reasonable place to start budget-wise unless its all junk at this price point.
I never knew much about Ortofon’s. You are right, that is a nice and easy upgrade path, AND you do not need to realign the cartridge!!! https://www.ortofon.com/om-series-p-550 Interesting that the channel separation gets wider as you upgrade; channel balance tightens. It's a nice light tracking force as well!!!
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Rega RP-1 and Schitt Mani. Plenty good for a serious start, upgrade later if you get the bug (listen to all your records first and enjoy the great sound, then upgrade with the RP-1 Performance Pack ($250) and listen to them again). |
very good question. I kept most of my records from the 60's and have about 1000 now. And agree with others, you will need a RCM at some point. I used to clean mine by hand - total PITA, even for an old retired guy. Even new records must be cleaned - part of the process. As others have stated, this can get addicting. But its fun, and its great listening to lots of new music from all over the world - I just discovered Discogs and there are a TON of great classical records for next to nothing - just got a copy of Glenn Gould Goldberg Variations for $30 incl shipping. In any case, you will need to figure in TT, cartridge, pre-amp + RCM. If your current setup includes a pre-amp then you will need to check that the pre-amp matches the cartridge. Most MM have an output of around 2-5mV vs .2mV or so for a MC cartridge. In your case, MM would be a great entry point, or MI. In any case, matching the cart with the pre-amp is essential. As others have stated, used is a good option also. Anyway, good luck with your decision, whichever way you go. I much prefer vinyl for the listening experience. I rarely listen to music as background. I do have a couple of new friends who are <30 years who have just started vinyl - I need to ask them how they listen ie background or actually sitting and listening, which is what I do. |
