SOS! Suddenly have a high-end turntable, need to upgrade Amp + Speakers


Hey everyone!

Ran into some luck recently and was able to score the following for MUCH lower than it would have gone for usually:

  • Turntable: Luxman PD-151 Mark II

  • Cartridge: Hana ML (MC-LO) Cartridge

  • Phono Pre-Amp: Cambridge Alva Duo

I need help figuring out which Passive Bookshelf Speakers and Amplifier would work best with the rest of my system! My budget is maximum $1000-$1500 give or take. What Amplifier + Speaker combo works best with my system without undermining the rest of the components?

The room the setup is in is a rectangular sitting area however it's open to the rest of the house. I wish I could go to a dealer and do listening tests but unfortunately, we don't have any in my country.

P.S: I saw the reviews on the Topping Amps over at ASR and they seemed extraordinary at first only to check reddit and find that people are kind of conflicted by those amps. What do you guys think?

rainizzm

I'll third the Schiit stuff. Very good quality at reasonable prices and since they sell direct, you get something that would cost $900-$1200 through a dealer for $500.

your budget, something enjoyable until you save more money and get lucky with a great speaker find. IOW, you will upgrade, so get listening pronto, the speakers the most important, let features help you choose electronics.

USED yes, and LOCAL. you need to find something you can drive to pick up, either go there, listen 1st, or meet seller half-way.

where do you live?

One thought is to search for ’stereo system’, find one with speakers you want to use for a while, the electronics more than likely pretty good, easy to sell/trade/change separately later,

suppose you lived in Canada, I’d be borrowing a truck in case those Polk speakers sound good, get the R2R ......

 

Complete System, Canada, $1,300 USD.

Of course look for only speakers, only integrated separates, vintage receiver: it’s just that sometimes people selling complete systems are in a hurry, don’t know what they have, need money ...... you might get lucky

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Near these KEFs in the UK?

KEFs with Pioneer Receiver in UK, $950. USD

Take a look at CSS Kit speakers. I have the Criton 1TDX and they are incredible. 
find a nice used integrated amp and you’ll have an incredible system 

 

Handy? Near Rhode Island?

3 Way, Horns, 12" Woofer, extremely efficient

These would be a great sounding pair in the right space 

Electrovoice Aristocrat III Speakers, asking $499. Rhode Island

With beloved level controls for the mid and tweet horns!

If you are in Switzerland I have a great, warm sounding Rega Brio for sale. Made for vinyl.