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Turntable in $155-2500 range

I'm looking to upgrade (add a new?) turntable. I currently have a KAB modded Technics 1210 that I will likely keep for a second system. I've had a Rega Planar2 with Elys cartridge I've liked in the past.

As many have noted, it's hard to hear many 'tables these days. Dealers are few and far between. Here is my short list of candidates:

-Rega P3-24 with the TTU PS
-JA Michell TecnoDec (a late candidate that I am interested in hearing about)
-VPI Scout
-Project RM 9.1
-Music Hall MMF 9.1
-Clearaudio Emotion CMB (I do have young kids an am a bit concerned about the Maestro surviving)

I'm also interested in hearing about other options. Other key equipment: PrimaLuna Prologue 3 Pre, Wyred4Sound monoblocks, Gallo 3.1 Ref speakers.

Thanks,

Tim
tjnindc
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Clearaudio Solution (before the Emotion) comes with the CMB standard.

I have a VPI Classic that is Stellar.
sufentanil's avatar
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sufentanil
782 posts
 
I hate to be the contrarian in the group, but what is it that you don't like about your KAB Technics? Your table is an excellent value turntable that will accommodate a reasonable range of cartridges and is built to last. Perhaps you could get more improvement with a different cartridge, phono preamp, or record cleaning machine.

Just something to think about.

Michael
baranyi's avatar
baranyi
719 posts
 
Would those people who mention the VPI TNT prefer that table over the new Classic which is very close in price?
jnk
19 posts
 
How about a Nottingham Analogue? The Horizon or Interspace or maybe even a Spacedeck should fit your price range. Rock solid built, sweet sound (personally always preferred them to any of the Michells)flexibility and future upgrade ability. You could start of with a Rega variant for now and then even upgrade to one of their own arms later. Truly outstanding stuff IMHO.
Alternatively, how about the baby Kuzma? (no idea how much it costs in the US though).
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
With kids, best to go for a used Denon 47F with a Denon 160 cartridge. Great sound, great value, fully automatic, which the kids will love since they never have to touch the arm. I have one, and also a VPI high-end table with a Clearaudio $2K cartridge. The Denon gives it a run for the money. Save for when the kids don't have issues with touching the arm. A must is buying where you can pick it up. Cost? About $250.
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