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Nottingham vs. Wilson Benesch turntables?

I have assembled a great 2 channel system (Verity Parsifal Ovations, Luxman 509u integrated & D-06 cdp), and it is time to add analogue for vinyl 50's & 60's jazz, chamber music, solo piano etc. The 509u has a good phono stage, and so I need a TT, arm, and cart.

A couple of options available locally are the Nottingham Analogue Ace Spacedeck (or the similar Space 294)and their respective NA arms, the Wilson Benesch Full Circle (complete with arm and cart), the Avid Diva II (and Volvere), and Thorens.

The Nottingham and WB turntables have a certain appeal at a similar price, and I was wondering what you would advise for someone getting back into analogue?
toronto416
sibelius
256 posts
 
For what it is worth, I live a few miles away from the North American Distributor (The Analog Room in San Jose)and hang out there quite a bit. The owner (Brian) thinks the "sweet spot" in the Nottingham line-up is definately the 294. Great bang for the $. You can then add the Heavy Kit and Wave Mechanic power supply down the road and you should be all set for a long time.

I had a 294 (with heavy kit) and traded up for a Ana-log. While I believe the Ana-log is a better table the 294 is IMO the better value and is the table I have recommended the most.
inna
7,296 posts
 
One more thing. If you decide to get Nottingham you should definitely try Boston Audio Mat-1 or Mat-2 record mat instead of that stock foam mat. They have a return policy so no risk. Many Nott owners use it, me included.
As you can see, even in this short thread there is a community spirit among Nottingham owners.
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
Another recommendation for the Mat-1. I have had one for years and it is far superior to the stock foam cell mat. Thanks for reminding me of that Inna.

Shakey
toronto416 OP
210 posts
 
Many thanks again! The Mat-2 sounds like the perfect addition to a NA Space 294 TT.

NA owners seem to be a very collegial group indeed - it must be the soul soothing effect of good music played well at 33 1/3 rpm :-)
toronto416 OP
210 posts
 
In terms of carts, my dealer carries Benz Micro, Ortofon, Sumiko, and Van den Hul (plus I think Clearaudio). This will be the next learning curve...
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