What Turntable to Buy

Thanks for all the information. I am going to be using a Benz Ebony H cartridge. I need a high output MC because I am still using my trusty CJ PV-7 preamp. As for dealers, VPI is the only brand that has a dealer that is close. All others are several hours away if I wanted to audition even though most auditions are very different than what I normally hear at home. I have about $6k to spend on tt and arm so I will try to get some info on the ones listed so I can make more of an educated purchase to get the best for the $. The rest of the system is made up of Infinity RS-1B, IRS Series 3 amps for bass columns and Krell KAV-250A for mid/tweeter panels and AZ wires throughout.

Thanks

Chad

Totally agree with Doug,Raul. I'll go out a step further to say that, if you have ears, either VPI is something you will eventually replace once you realize what you bought vs. what else better is out there for similar money. A table designed and made like the Galibier you could actually keep.
How many of each have you seen for sale used? This says alot...

Doug, While I will certainly second the recommendation of the Galibier Gavia (being a satisfied owner myself), your pricing is a bit off the mark. The basic Gavia with a PVC platter is $4500. The standard Gavia with a Gavia platter is $7000, and the price with a Stelvio platter is $8000. See Thom's site for the details.

http://www.galibierdesign.com/prd_gavia.html

Perhaps you were thinking of the new Galibier Serac which, as far as I know, has not yet been released.

Dave

I forgot to mention that my current tt/arm is a VPI MK III with a Rega RB-300 and a Benz Glider cartridge.

I have been in contact with Thom and am awaiting the release of the Serac. I intend to use mine with a Micro Seiki MA-505 tonearm, which Thom also has and occasionally uses in his set-up. I'm actually in search of a cartridge and have been focusing on Shelter and Dynavector. However, based on my recent table search in which I have looked at Acoustic Signature, Acoustic Solid, and some vintage tables, the Serac to me is shaping up to be an excellent long term value.