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$300 Budget - help

I've spent time reading this forum, so I've gotten some good ideas already, but hoping for some feedback nonetheless.

I listen to classic jazz (instrumental and vocals) only. I love CDs, it's all I have ever known. I was in an audio store a year or so ago demoing an Arcam cdplayer, and the salesman put on a favorite cannonball adderley album of mine, but on vinyl. I forget what player he was using, but he said it was entry level. I was taken back by the warmth of the sound -- not as clear as the CD, but there was something amazing about the sound of the record that I just can't put my finger on.

Anyway, I want to try vinyl. My current system is as follows: Exposure Super XV integrated amp (apparently it has a good phono stage); Arcam CD73 cdplayer; Wharfedale Pacific Evo 8 bookshelf speakers; psaudio duet power center; audio art cabling throughout.

I only have about $300 to spend (just bought a home). If I like vinyl, in a few years I'll spend hundreds or thousands on a high-quality record player, but for now I just want to see if it's something I will like.

The Rega P1 seems like the recommended choice. Would you agree? What cabling do I need?

Thank you,
David
dmloring
dfhaleycko
178 posts
 
Another good used choice is the Tandberg TD-150 turntable. Fantastic platter bearing, so-so tonearm. Problem is finding someone who will let go of his! But definitely a table that has the "breath of life"

Get one that already has a decent moving magnet cartridge (Ortofon Red, Shure V15, etc) and enjoy!
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
until you have lots of money to blow, don't do it. you've got a nice system, and i'm sure a collection of music software you enjoy (cd's sound better then ever). you can spend 300 bucks on a front end only to find out you've pissed away 300 bucks..... its like paying to get into a topless bar only to find out you need to spend a lot more (once inside) to really have fun... sorry, but thats the best comparison i can make.
kmulkey
173 posts
 
What Jaybo said...
glory's avatar
glory
1,616 posts
 
Jaybo,

You mean paying to get in to find out they are all flat chested? Extra $$$ to get into the silicone section?
queg
55 posts
 
Sitting at the back table of a topless bar nursing a beer is still more of a visceral experience then watching a porn flick online (er, that's my attempt at an analogy for vinyl vs cd).

Frankly, playing records puts the fun back into music.. and jazz in particular feels more lively and engaging on vinyl.. Considering you already paid for the decent phono stage in your integrated, pick up a Technics SL1200 with a decent cart and enjoy playing dj with your favorite jazz tracks.
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