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Speakers and TT for NAD 3020 Micro-Budget System?

I am a complete stereo newbie and I was looking for some guidance on building my first micro-budget system. I recently picked up a NAD 3020 off CL for $40 in mint condition. I am looking to match speakers and a TT to this system. I have very little money but was looking for something that sounds musical and is tolerable - I'm not interested in a perfect sound experience, just to enjoy listening to records.

My budget is about $400 for the TT and Speakers. I could push it up to $500 if there is a real upgrade in performance. The room is a very small NYC basement apartment. Approx 10' x 10' with low ceilings. I primarily listen to rock with some jazz and no classical. This system will be used almost exclusively for listening to vinyl and that is the primary focus at this time.

I am very happy to purchase used. I know many of these threads conclude with "here are some good ones, you should listen to them" but this is simply not going to happen. There are no used hi-fi stores that I am aware of in my area and anything I buy will more than likely be shipped from far away. I would most like to hear something that you would personally be pleased with in this price range with these specifications.

For speakers there seems to be a consensus that Paradigm Atoms and Mordaunt-Short MS 10s are legends in this category. For TTs, I am thinking of a used Music Hall or Rega entry-level or a vintage Thorens (one of the less coveted older models like a 115) or Marantz that has been cleaned up.

Thanks in advance for reading this and for your help! This is a very intimidating new world and I appreciate all of your expert advice.
powersofi
powersofi OP
3 posts
 
Thanks to everyone's very thoughtful responses so far. I really appreciate the time and consideration you have taken for your suggestions. I have decided to go with Cmalak's suggested M-S Avant 902i. The discount was extremely good and it included free shipping and no tax in my state. I couldn't resist!

I understand these speakers are bi-wireable. I have been reading up online and I don't fully appreciate this concept yet, but I will read more. However, my more immediate concern is how to correctly wire this to the 3020. I have seen some diagrams but haven't fully grasped the concept. If anyone has suggestions on the most cost effective speaker wire to get for this setup and exactly how to wire to the 3020, or links explaining, I would be extremely grateful.

The speakers ended up being a late holiday gift so my TT budget is between $300 - $400 now. My main concern is trying to find something locally or from an extremely reputable eBay or Audiogon seller. I am very worried about having a used table shipped a long distance. I live in the New York City area, are there any decent hi-fi shops for used items? I know there is Stereo Exchange, but I believe they do only new. Any closeout deals for good value new items online would also be great.

Again, thanks to everyone for their speedy and very detailed response here. I really appreciate the time everyone took to voice their opinions and experience. I will keep this updated as the pieces fall into place and I inevitably have more questions. Please keep the feedback coming and thanks again!
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,375 posts
 
NAD 3020 for 40 bucks nice!!! As for a table a Systemdek would be a good choice. I've seen them for under 300 here on Audiogon. I have one and it's a really well made and sounds great, even compared to my megabuck table it's not terrible. Though I think you should just keep hunting around on CL and maybe you find a steal on something like you did the NAD.
powersofi OP
3 posts
 
I'm considering a Linn Axis that has popped up on CL locally. Asking is $300, it sounds like the table is in decent shape but will need a replacement belt and the cartridge replaced. Any recommendations as to a cost-effective replacement cartridge for this table? Does this sound like a good deal? I of course have to verify the condition in person but this sounds like a good shot.
adam18
670 posts
 
Now that your speakers have become a "gift," and your turntable budget has expanded, I would seriously consider the Rega P1/Ortofon package. Easy, great sound, and a wonderful way to enjoy your records with your NAD's phono stage. It's a good idea to start out in our hobby with analog that's as "stress-free" as possible, and a new pre-packaged TT is a good way to go. Good Luck, and Happy Listening !!
powersofi OP
3 posts
 
Just a follow up...I ended up with a Dual 505-2, recently serviced and refurbished in very good condition. This combined with the NAD and the speakers has resulted in a massive improvement and a great sounding turntable setup. Obviously the first upgrade would be the TT, but I am very happy with the Dual so far. A very big thank you to everyone who offered advice and guidance.
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