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Get a better turntable or better phono preamp?

Guess I'll start a new thread as the older one got side tracked.

My main question is if I had to spend $400 on improving my vinyl rig, would my money go further by buying a new $400 Technics SL-1200MK2? Or keep my vintage Technics SL-D3 and use the $400 to buy a(new or used)better phono preamp (replacing the DJ phono preamp I am using now). Since my vintage table is a direct drive table also and built in the same era as the SL-1200MK2, would changing my table be a noticeable improvement? Specs for both tables are very similar, differences are build and weight favoring the SL-1200MK2, and that my table is an automatic vs. manual, but all else like wow and flutter, rumble noise, etc are very close.

Since my DJ phono preamp(Gemini)is built for mixing, I don't know how good it is for using it as an audiophile phono preamp. Can I do better in this area, like going with a Creek OBH15, Cambridge Azur 640P, Bellari Tube Phono Preamp VP129, Project Phono Box SE-2, Project Tube Box 2, Graham SLEE Gram Amp2 SE for MM/ Gram Amp 3 for MC, Clearaudio Nano, Simaudio Moon LP3, MF X-LPSv3, Rega Fono, or CIAudio VPP-2 with VAC1 power supply? Looking to improve in these areas: resolution, imaging, soundstaging, blacker backgrounds,quietness,stronger bass output, and smoother more natural playback.

So should I get a better turntable or better phono preamp?

Thanks.
studio68
mdconnelly
133 posts
 
I'd agree on the phono pre as well, but you don't mention what cartridge you're using. Can the Technics take different cartridges? If so, depending upon what you're using and the age of it, a new cartridge may also be worth considering.
headsnappin's avatar
headsnappin
295 posts
 
Definitely the phono pre but certainly not because the specs are similar, they do sound different.
ptmconsulting
1,000 posts
 
Unanimous. No question about it - get a better phono stage.
Post removed 
studio68 OP
17 posts
 
Thanks guys for the responses. I am using a Shure M97Xe cartridge on my Technics SL-D3 now. The turntable was purchased in late 1970's but the cartridge was bought new in 2006 and has about 100 hours of playing time. I also changed the headshell leads to Audioquest.

Looks like most people suggest that I ditch my DJ phono preamp. So from my phono preamp list above, which phono preamp deserves to be looked at, any other strong recommendations under $400 budget (new or used) that I didn't list? The audio qualities I am seeking are listed in my thread above.

Thanks.
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