2. analog
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?TT upgrade from most basic to next step-up / tube

It’s time to try something else or should I say the upgrade bug is start moving around again. After my first try on the most basic plug and play turntable Music Hall 2.1, I have fallen in love with the analog sound. Classical and opera is my favorite type of music.

Currently running Music Hall 2.1 (stock) to Bellari VP 129 phono stage (Telefunken 12AX7) and connect to Minimax preamp (Telefunken 12AU7).

What will be your suggestion on my next step-up on turntable package (I don’t think I can assemble cartridge to arm and to turntable yet)? What will be the sonic benefit for the change? Should I keep the phono stage or should I change my preamp to build-in phono stage with or without tube (so far, have YBA in mind but I like tube over SS)?
Your suggestion is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance ^_^
cibr
ibog1
54 posts
 
I had stunning results with a Michell tecnodec as my first table. VERY well built and easy to set up. Sounded sweet. I used and still use a Benz glider H.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
The Scout is a good next step up. If you can still get the VPI on sale tables brand new, Music Direct or Audio Advisor has the official lower priced TTs amongst others I assume. You must try it. not a big risk with reslling it if you don't like it. They sell well on the used market. The question is how much will you spend . These were something like $1300 if I recall. No cartridge with that TT. However with a Dynavector cartridge factory installed a few hundred more.The MC cartridge sounds nothing like a MM and you might find it too detailed.Other sonic changes will be very obvious greater dynamics and very little treble roll off.
I know because I own both a MMF-5 Goldring cart and the Scout Dynevector 20X. I think they use a less expensive cartridge now but Dynavector as a rule make good ones.
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
If you don't want to spend too much more money, I would recommend the Rega line. Even a P2 would be a step up from your Music Hall 2.1 (and yes, I have directly compared both). Better soundstaging and imaging, which if you like classical music and opera, you will definitely appreciate. I have heard great things about the new P3-24, it was not out yet when I bought my P5, which I like very much. I use the Bellari with it, it's a nice match.
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