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The AR turntable

I have a mint AR turntable that I bought new in about 1985. It has a Rega RB300 arm, Blue Point from the mid-90's, and a machined armboard I think I bought at Audio Advisor.

It's been in storage for several years. I pulled it out yesterday, dusted it off and hooked it up to my Rogue Magnum 99/McCormack DNA 1-A+++/ Martin Logan Ascent/Depth system, and was blown away by how good it sounded for such an old piece of gear.

It has me considering either selling it and replacing it with something newer (and presumably better), or spending a few bucks to upgrade it.

What's the received wisdom on these ideas? I'd like to spend no more than $1000-$1200 net (i.e. after selling it if I go that route).

Your insights would be appreciated.

Happy New Year to all Audiogoners!
bbopman
bbopman OP
53 posts
 
Thanks for the replys.

Springsteen: What I meant was that I had forgotten how engaging vinyl can be after several years of listening only to CD's/SACD;s through my Wadia 830/ Sony 333ES. My real question was this: If 25 year old gear is this good, is the newer stuff THAT much better? In other words, for $1500 to $2k, what is the best way to listen to vinyl?

I have maybe 500 LP's, mostly unduplicated by my 2000 or so CD's, so it would be great to to get reacquainted with all the music I "left behind" when we bought a new house several year ago and I packed up the T.

I still have a hard timing writing a check for four figures for an arm or cartridge, but can if that's the best way to go.

thanks again to all who took time to reply.
narrod
1,064 posts
 
Keep it for awhile. It's more than good. You might find it is all you need. The only thing I would consider is a new cartridge. The Bluepoint is OK but you can do better for not much money. The table is fine and the arm is good.
piedpiper
753 posts
 
Although there are certainly better tables than the AR, you may have to pay more than your budget allows. I would second A'feil's arm recommendation or similar and then think about the cartridge. If you want to go for the throat then be prepared to spend more.
rccc
216 posts
 
I disagree about replacing the Rega. The Rega is a great match for this TT and an SME (Im asuming a 309 IV or V) or a graham would be overkill. I have set up and restored many of these and they are a fine table. To get noticably better performance you will have to spend serious money. Check the AR forum on vinyl engine and as mentioned above Dave, also Sound of the wood Eric Whitacre. The most beneficial upgrade is an improved motor and power supply. If you want you can go nuts with upgrades and teaks on this table which is one of the things that makes it so much fun to own.
Rick
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>I still have a hard timing writing a check for four figures for an arm or cartridge, but can if that's the best way to go.<<

If you're unsure, always stand pat. You'll enjoy any purchase much more it you are committed to it.

If you make only a single move, replace the arm. It's a loser.
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