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Complete vinyl system, TT to speakers, for $1500?

We just returned from a 2-week visit to our son who lives in Tokyo.  While there, we met a nice young woman who told me she would like to acquire an audio system with the express intent of playing LPs in her apartment.  Her budget is $1500 or less, as noted.  It's been years since I ever had to think in such budget terms, and when I did think about a $1500 system, it was back in the 70s when you could really buy something decent for that total amount.  (You could also buy a car for only a little bit more.) So, I am here for advice; she needs TT, tonearm, cartridge, phono stage, amplifier, and speakers. Thanks.

lewm
lewm OP
12,483 posts
 

Elliot, To me, an output of 300mV is not "line level", which is why I ask my question.  It is possible, if not probable, that the built in amplifiers in these small self-powered speakers are very sensitive so as to be driven by a signal at 300mV.  That's likely the answer to my own question.

In a Youtube search, I found this video, which looks good for my "client". I am fairly sure I saw Fluance products for sale in Tokyo, and I am certain that iFi Zen is available there.  Maybe this is my solution.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r7IlJygAIY

lewm OP
12,483 posts
 

Elliot, I did check that Yamaha integrated you cited. It does have a built in MM phono stage and might be a reasonable option if she wants more than just phono capability. It would also obviate the need for self powered speakers. Thx.

paradisecom
271 posts
 

Of the $1500 budget, I'd spend about $500 - $600 on a nice, basic turntable, pick up a set of Klipsch The Fives powered speakers and with the funds remaining, some vinyl to play.

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,411 posts
 

One more stab at being helpful.

All Items seen, will be New and I assume very easily acquired and available in Tokyo. 

https://www.alibaba.com/trade/search?fsb=y&IndexArea=product_en&keywords=Active+HiFi+Speakers&tab=all&viewtype=G&&pricef=200&pricet=800

 

mahler123
3,041 posts
 

Now your question seems to be : will the built in phono stage on a budget turntable drive the amps in powered speakers?. Yes, it would have been helpful to frame it that way originally. My answer is…I don’t know. However, one can get a reasonable mm phono stage for under $200 here. I would try without first, and if the results are found wanting then add one

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