2. analog
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Need advice on new TT, arm and cartridge.

I think, I'm done with the rest of my system for now, so I can move onto the analog.
Just briefly, my system is Avantgarde Duo Omega G2 speakers,
Lamm ML2 power amps and VAC Signature IIa full function preamp with built-in MM/MC phono stage.
I have a few requirements for the analog set-up, aside from the sound quality:
I want it to be as "not tweaky", as possible. I don't want to spent my time making 17 adjustments every time I want to listen to a record. "Set and forget" is the way, I'd prefer it.
I'm really open to other suggestions. Thank you.
Budget- wise, I would prefer to stay under $10K for the TT, arm and cart.
The big question for me is the sound signature of the different tables, arms and cartridges. I heard multiple analog setups in unfamiliar systems, but none in my own (aside from the KAB Technics Sl 1200+ Shelter 501 MkII, that I used to own.
I've read so much of a debate b/w various drive types- DD, Idler, Belt, but still, I don't have a clear understanding of their respective signature sound.
So far, I have a few candidates:
Belt Drive; TW Raven One,or maybe AC; Basis 2500/2800
DD; Technics SP 10 MkII in various plinths (Dobbins, Porter, etc.) As a matter of fact I have Technics SP10 MkII table sitting in a box, awaiting it's destiny)
Idler: Garrard (again in one of the above mentioned custom plinths).
Even less clear to me are the differences b/w various arms.
I have a following list:
Reed, SME-V, Graham Phantom B-44 MkII, Basis Vector 3/4; Kuzma 4Point,
I want the arm to be compatible with as wide variety of carts, as possible.
And now is the list of possible cartridges:
Lyra Delos /Kleos, Dynavector XV-1S/T, Koetsu?, Benz?
I listen to all kinds of music, and my general preferences of the reproduced sound is toward little more relaxed and natural, but dynamic, vs. hyper detailed and analytical.
maril555
manitunc
795 posts
 
One of my best turntables is a Sota Cosmos IV, SME309 and Lyra Delos. You can find this within your budget. It is a set and forget system once you have it leveled and the arm and cartridge adjusted. It also has a vacuum platter. Multi speed so you dont have to move the belt on the pulley.
My Oracle Delphi V, SME345 and Ortofon Kontrapunkt B is also pretty much set and forget once it is set up. Set up is a little more involved, but it stays set once done.

My Transrotor Fatbob,Audiomods IV arm and Clearaudio Sigma cartridge, a non suspended table, is simple to put together, requires moving the belt to adjust speed, but needs no other adjustments once level.
Each of these is within your budget, and will provide as good sound as you can get without spending considerably more. At this level, the differences are a matter of preferences rather than actual improvement. Overall, I would pick the Cosmos, which is also built in USA and can be upgraded by the factory at any time.
vicdamone
850 posts
 
The SP10 can be great. Do you know its history, how many hours on it? I've heard second hand (check for yourself to be sure) that the motor bearing can wear depending on the service they provided, like DJ, radio station work.

If it's a go and your OK with the platter design then you can blow your money on a Graham or the 4 point and a super cartridge.

While there are many designs out now, magnetic bearings usually don't chatter depending on design. Right now most are very pricey. Call Musical Surroundings for accurate information on the Clearaudio as well as their selection of cartridges.

Have fun shopping.
shakeydeal
979 posts
 
Even though your budget is well above it's retail price, you would do well to consider the Well Tempered Amadeus.

Shakey
maril555 OP
619 posts
 
Vic,
How would you describe SP 10 sound signature?, and how it's different from say TW Raven One?
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,722 posts
 
Check out the SME model 10 with arm.
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