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Recommendation needed for Turntable

I'm not sure that I'm a real audiophile and am on a budget of about $1000, and would like to keep it there, for a new/used turntable. My Rega P2, bought in 1996, broke in a move last year. I'm ready to replace it.

I have about 300 CDS and about 500 lp records. I listen to the following music:

Jazz: 20%
Pop/Rock: 50%;
Folk/Acoustic Blues: 20%; and
Classical: 10%.

My system is as follows:

Integrated amp: Creek 5350se, with se MM phono board; Loudspeakers: Totem Arros; and
CD player: Rotel RCD-1072.

I would greatly appreciate some recommendations for a turntable. I honestly was probably ready for a slight upgrade on my Rega P2 when it broke. I have no preference for new or used, as long as it is well built.

I haven't auditioned any equipment in so long and I don't keep up on what's new anymore, so I kind of feel lost. I thought about picking up a 70s Thorens TT and starting there. Then I thought about buying a P3. Now I'm truly lost! Please help. Thanks much to community. I appreciate your time and sharing your thoughts and experiences.

Jamey
128x128jbhiller
emorrisiv
313 posts
 
There are and have been several VPI HMW 19s on Audiogon that even come with a nice cartridge for less than your budget.If you are looking at these,I would try to find one that is at least a Mk.III. Not as easy, but I have seen them (and Mk.IV as well).
If you can get any of them with a Super Platter,get it no matter what the level is.
The other thing is a SAMA motor if possible.

I will say that I bought a HMW19 jr. and am quite happy with it.Definitely a step up from the Rega (IMHO).
vandermeulen
191 posts
 
Kevin at KABUSA is a wonderful guy. He won't BS you either. He will try to win you over with technicalities. Which is ok. But, keep in mind that there is more to what reaches your ear than specifications. Look at used VPI's in your dollar range. Also, higher model Rega's. Let us know what you end up choosing.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,437 posts
 
Thanks for the advice on the VPI, and the comments on the KAB. I think the VPI is a must to look at in my price range.

One person with KAB exchanged emails with me. He/she felt that the KAB was a nice upgrade and the Technics was built like a tank, with great features and stability. However, he/she felt that the Rega line was more musical.

Because the modded KAB gets me over $1,000, I feel it might be better to consider a Rega P3-24, P5, VPI, and some other well built tables (Clearaudio?).

Thanks to all. I will definitely update with my decision.
sufentanil's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
sufentanil
782 posts
 
Jbhiller, how does the KAB-Technics necessarily be over $1000?

You can get the SL-1210MK5SE with the tonearm fluid damper system for $753 from kabusa.com. A Denon DL-103 cartridge (for example) is around $200. That's under your $1000 limit, and should provide great sound for years.

It's not the only one, but it sounds mighty good for the price.

Michael
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,437 posts
 
Good point Michael.

I was arriving at the number by purchasing the 1210M5G because it had better stock wiring and I liked it's looks a bit better. I was adding in the tonearm re-wire, strobe disabler, and at least $125 for a cartridge. That gets me >$1000.

So it's not necessary and I could do some upgrades on my own. I am still "on the fence" but I'm concerned about the following:

Not being able to audition the KAB;
KAB modded table's resale;

I like the following:

Technics tables are built like tanks;
Easy to find parts and service;
Nice looking and with good features.
More to discover