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Recommend a TT/Tonearm combo under $2000?

I've decided it's time for a hi end analog playback system. I'm starting off with the turntable/tonearm combo. Right now I'm using a typical receive with phono stage built in, so I plan to use my Sure V15xMR. I'm looking for a turntable/tonearm combo under $2000. I'll also entertain cartridge reommendations as well. My current vinyl playback device is a Yamaha PX-2 linear track, which works well and sounds nice, but i realize that most linear tracking turntables do not reproduce sound as accurately as it should due to the tone arm having to constantly compensate for tracking errors. I've looked at some offerings from Rega, VPI, Sumiko, Goldring, Sota, Linn, and Thorens; but the number of turntables in my price range is overwhelming.

My main musical interest is rock and classic rock. Most of my vinyl is either original 60's-80's and some 180gram reissues.

Steve Bennett
arnold_layne
arnold_layne OP
141 posts
 
A VPI scout with a RB300 modified with VTA adjustment might be the way to go then? I like the fact the Scout is modifiable to tweak the sound in the direction you want to go with it.
martykl
3,578 posts
 
If the economics work out that might be a good way to go, but VPI probably prices the JMW package to make it compelling. A fully re-wired modded RB 300 is app. $600 (from Expressimo (sic?), Origin Live, Moth, etc.), so it all comes down to the price of an armless Scout.

BTW, my reluctance to fit a JMW as per concerns listed above is largely due to the fact that these tables will sit out in the family room and living room where they are subject to more handling/abuse than my main system. Don't interpret my decision not to use a unipivot under these circumstances to mean that the JMW is not a good choice for other applications.

Good luck,

Marty
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
Speed stability is not an issue with the P5/P7 Regas. The power supply corrects any speed issues

Should I laugh--or cry?

***
seandtaylor99
1,262 posts
 
Nottingham analog spacedeck with whatever arm you can afford (either rega or nott's own) depending on whether you buy used or new.

Either that or a VPI.
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,162 posts
 
I agree with the Spacedeck recommendation. There are several on Agon now, with and w/o arms. The new Ace-Space arm is a decided improvement over the old arm. This combination just plain makes music.

Oz
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