best turntable under $5k

My vote is for the VPI Aries Black Knight with arm (2800). Add in a used Acoustic Research PH-3 phono stage (800). We have 3600. Use the rest on the best ZYX cart Merhan can sell you (www.sorasound.com).

Marty Nickison

WHY OH WHY is vpi mentioned only once???? I thought it is a good turntable.

VPI's ARE good turntables. But they are distributed by less efficient (ie, more costly) means than some other brands.

VPI (the manufacturer) sells your turntable to a dealer, who marks it up before selling it to you. Galibier or Teres (also the manufacturer) sell your turntable directly to you. No middleman so no additional markup. You are effectively buying at wholesale.

Wholesale costs are typically about 40% below retail, so a VPI table that retails for $5K probably costs the dealer about $3K.

Conclusion: if you want the economic equivalent of a $5K VPI, buy a $3K Teres (or Galibier, if they made one at that price point.)

Pedrillo

I guess VPI has been mentioned too many times in the past that is why it was only mention once here. I own a VPI Super Scout Master and I'm very happy with it. For $5200 or $5500 you can have a complete VPI SuperScout Master less cart. Pheripery ring-In my opinion is a big plus on this TT plus the clamp and the SDS motor. Furthermore; VPI's upgrade path is endless.

It's interesting that just about all the tables mentioned have been beaten by a modded Lenco idler drive, at least according their original owners. Sorry, I couldn't resist.;)-~