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Best way to spend $2k on a used Turntable & Arm?

I have a limited budget to spend on a used table and arm combo. I have a new Grado $120 cart. but could consider a complete outfit incl. cart. for $2k. I have liked the sound of the Sotas and perhaps Linn but think that I like the sound of the Sota better. I am curious about maybe VPI, Rega or Clearaudio, or anything that will maximize performance in this limited price range. I used to own a Music Hall MMF 5 but was not knocked out with it. Of course I like tubes and will get a phono pre separately. Thanks for the help.
cine100
cine100 OP
31 posts
 
The Origin Live does look nice but they are asking retail for it. (899.00 pounds) The Acoustic Signature Manfred also looks very nice. Couple those with the Clearaudio Emotion Red pkg I'm looking at and it starts to get a little confusing. I like the idea of little to no maintenance. The bearing material on the Acoustic Signature seems good. Meanwhile there is a nice looking Rega P25 and a VPI Scout. Help!
porto
20 posts
 
Buy a Lenco L70, L75, L78 and modify the plint and then put a Rega RB 300 OL modified with an Audio Technica AT33 cartridge. If you want something better you need many thousands of dollars.
transnova's avatar
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transnova
350 posts
 
I have owned many tables,and for me,The Manfred is a keeper! I currently use a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge fed through a Perreaux phono preamp and am very happy with the set-up.I also have several vintage Dual CS-5000 tables with various Ortofon cartridges in other systems.They sound very good,but are not in the same league as the Manfred.The Duals are semi-automatic and do pick-up and turn off at the end of an album side.

If you are interested in a Manfred(with RB-250) let me know and I'll put you in touch with my dealer.
sibelius
256 posts
 
Unless you are a DIY type, I would avoid a NOS turntable - just in case anything needs to be adjusted/repaired. A new production table and arm with a warranty that comes from a local dealer may be the best bet for you. Many local dealers cary Rega and VPI and you can sit and audition them. Trust your own ears.
cine100 OP
31 posts
 
I really have to thank everyone for the incredible suggestions. Even as a 26 year home electronics industry professional, I have a lot to learn. I was not even aware of the Lenco tables. I would have a hard time going to a local dealer. They are almost nonexistent in N.M. anyway. I don't mind dealer closeouts or specials, but I don't think that I need to take up their time to make a good choice. I do now feel like I could include the phono stage into my $2k budget and still get good performance with the right selection & set up. I don't guess anyone would know how the new Clearaudio Concept w/ arm & cart. compares @ 1500 list?
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