Grand Prix Monaco review in new Stereophile- OUCH

Though it did seem like a nice unit,the asking price was/is absurdly high!I am sorry it did not seem to live up to it's performance potential,according to MF,but I simply don't see "20 large" anywhere in that product.I am sure research was costly,but it still does not equate into such rediculous pricing!...

I too was pretty disappointed with the outcome of the review.... Even though I can't afford the table now, it's design was very interesting.

I have a Garrard 301 that I restored and love (no I didn't do it for love of vintage audio, or because of price... I was just curious). The table sounds better (to me) than anything else I have heard, but does have some trade-offs. Given my priorities I was really hoping the new DD technology would solve all..... Oh well, anyone compared the GPA to the new Teres?

Chris

My read on the review is that Fremer thought it was a very fine sounding and well engineered/built product that only paled in comparison to his reference turntable which cost 4x as much as the Monaco. Also, carefully read his comments on the sonic failings of the Monaco. Much of it reads like audiophile audiophile bullshit talk.

Not to change the subject to another product..BUT, MF just did a review of the Merrill-Scillia Research MS21 turntable and also seemed to 'damn it with faint praise". It likewise does not seem worth "24 large". It's interesting to see how many manufacturers are aiming for the above 20K price bracket - the price of a reasonable but not luxurious car.

Ouch is really approptiate. Did anyone read the Merrill-Scillia MS21 Reference Turntable review in the same issue - also by Fremer. Lots of direct comparisons with the Gran Prix. Here is a turntable at about the same price that it seems like Fremer would reccomend.

I have heard the Gran Prix, and really liked it.

Best of luck with your product choices,

Mark