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new turntable/setup advice.....garrot Optim FGS

Im looking for My first TT in years. I dont have any local dealers so I will probably be ordering the gear. I have been reading everything here for several months and now I am ready to pull the trigger. I am weighing several decisions.

1) Do I start off with some sort of starter table? Rega P-3 or the like. Or do I jump in "Whole Hog" and get a Scoutmaster or something similar that can be upgraded.

I'm leaning toward the VPI line because I understand the setup is pretty painless. So a couple of questions about the VPIs.

2)Is the JWM-9 "signature " A really good upgrade over the standard JWM-9. Other than the wire upgrade are there other features such as more versatile settings.

2) Ive had a recommendation of the Garrot Optim F.G.S. MM cart. I would like some info from someone using this cart.

Sorry if Im rehashing old posts but I have read everything that I could find.
catfishbob
photon46
1,085 posts
 
I've been using Garrott Optim FGS with a VPI Scout/JMW9 turntable for quite a while. The Optim FGS is about as good as a MM design gets IMO. It tracks very well, much better than Grado wood bodies I've used. Only problem is, I don't know of anyone that imports that cartridge anymore. It's not available from any US importers I'm aware of at this time. An Australian business, www.decibelhifi.com.au lists it on their website for $1000 Aussie dollars. The Stereotimes review of the Optim FGS (available on the web) concurs with my impressions of the cartridge. I'd also be interested in the new top of the line Nagaoka cartridge, sold by the needledoctor.com, among others.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the garrotts are great...i would check out the new threns 160 hd for a killer turnable
kennyt's avatar
kennyt
1,226 posts
 
Catfishbob,

I was just thinking of posting an almost identical question...

I can't decide if I should buy something inexpensive to get my feet wet and go up or dive in full force to start. I also haven't had a TT in over 20 years, so set up and the like are real concerns. Should I risk me screwing up an expensive table or start low and work up??

What do you analog guys think?
photon46
1,085 posts
 
Kennyt & Cfbob, you ask a very subjective question....so it's hard for someone who doesn't know you well to give meaningful advice. One person's beaucoup bucks is another's chump change. That aside, I'd ask; how dextrous and patient are you? Tonearms like VPI that implement azimuth and tracking force adjustments by moving the same weight in different directions/rotations can be a test of patience and coordination. If you are a bit of a klutz, I'd consider a tonearm that implements each adjustment with a discrete adjustment. I've got good hand eye coordination, close up vision, and patience and I don't consider VPI set up (done well) painless at all. The advice to consult with a longtime expert dealer like Hollywood Sound or Audiofeil is wise, don't hesitate to benefit from their experience.
catfishbob OP
44 posts
 
Kennyt....you mirror my feelings exactly. I wonder how much I will enjoy vinyl. Ive been going through some of my old vinyl and am excited by the prospects. I only wish I could be close enough to one of these dealers so I could meet face to face and hear the product.

Photon46.....Klutz?.....Moi?...probably. What arms do you consider user Friendly?
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