2. analog
  3. 1155734990

Dipping my toe into analog

All guidance will be appreciated. Now that I am happy with my redbook based system, I am thinking of trying analog. I just want to start simple and then if it grabs me I will invest over time.
I have hundreds of old albums most in great shape. I have a not-working Thorens TD 180 Turntable with a Stanton 500MkIII cartridge. My questions: Is the Thorens worth repairing - I think I paid about $800-$1,000 for it many years ago? Can anyone recommend a cheap used or new phono amp for my test run - perhaps one available now on Audiogon? Any other suggestions to help enter the inner sanctum sucessfully?
Thanks
Joe
128x128gammajo
elinor's avatar
elinor
275 posts
 
If you can find a store with a TT or TT's set-up and actually running, I would do some listening before investing any money in what you have. In spite of what one of the answers would have you believe, TT's are quite complex when it comes to real enjoyment. I'm not talking $$ spent as much as I am correct set-up. This includes cartridge type, correct cartridge set-up, cartridge matching for gain with a phono preamp, the quality of the Phono-Preamp, and what the TT sits on - the proper isolation. Oh, did I mention a record cleaning machine? I guess I just did. I would also say that any modestly priced TT built in the last 3 or 4 years is vastly superior to your old Thorens. TT design has taken a huge leap forward in inexpensive to moderately priced units. Try to find a shop carrying Music Hall TT's. Something like a Music Hall 5 which has an integrated arm and already includes a cartridge chosen by the Company for optimum sound really simplifies things. The dealer should be able to offer advice on what Phono-Preamp is a good match for the cartridge. If you think I'm being picky, well I am, but getting it right from soup to nuts will open a whole new world of music reproduction to you and may even keep you from spinning aluminum discs.
gammajo's avatar
gammajo OP
844 posts
 
I thank each of you for your responses. They will help me along my way. Right now the Thorens is in the shop to see what it needs.
Joe
gammajo's avatar
gammajo OP
844 posts
 
Only took $35 to fix the Thorens - loose diode. Can anyone tell me what has improved in turntable design in recent years. Is it less wow and flutter, improved dynamic range or what? Interested in what I might expect to hear.
Thanks
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
Can anyone tell me what has improved in turntable design in recent years.

Nothing.
wwwrecords
172 posts
 
I would suggest getting your Thorens hooked up,learn how to properly setup the cartridge and play some vinyl. Give it a month or 2 and see what you like and dislike about it. Then you will be able to ask more precise questions on what you like (want more of) and dislike about what you currently have. It will also give you a reference point.

At this point I suggest you just focus on proper setup and vinyl hygiene. Analog has a HUGE learning curve and after several years, I consider myself knowing just enough to be armed and dangerous.

Welcome to the fold!
More to discover