2. analog
  3. 1343661449

Turntable recommendation

I am getting back t analog after being out of it for 20 years. What would be a good turntable recommendation if I want to buy used and spend $1800 to $2500? The default choice seems like the VPI Classic but reviews of that table indicate its midrange may be "dry" compared to other units. My system right now with Magico V3s is nicely balanced but leans toward the transparent side, and I would not want to exacerbate that--but neither do I want overly warm. Would like to spend $1000 or less on a cartridge, and thinking initially a Denon DLS1 if it mates well with the table. Phono preamp will be Sim LP5.3. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
teeshot
bpoletti
1,555 posts
 
There are so many good tables available in that price range. And just as many opinions on what to get. My preference is for an original Aries (1). Its a beautiful table in both appearance and performance. An extended version of the Aries with a JMW-12 is a great performer. IMO, the later Aries don't measure up.

So may really good carts in that price range. My preference is the OC9ml but that might come off a bit thread-bare for you. I haven't heard it but the SoundSmith VPI Zephyr has a strong following and good reviews.
manitunc
795 posts
 
Used tables in that range include
Oracle Delphi V
Townshend Rock 3
VPI Scout and Classic
Basis 2001
Sota Star Vacuum
Kuama Stabi
Avid
Any of those will provide you with superior sound. You could also get on the idler drive bandwagon and pick up an Garrard 301 or 401, Lenco L75 or 78, thorens 124. Lots of people like those and they are not your usual fare.
teeshot OP
123 posts
 
I like the recommendation of the Basis 2100. I will check it out along with the Classic. Has anyone here had experience with the Pro-ject RM10.1? A dealer in my area has one...
geoch's avatar
geoch
354 posts
 
Try to find the: Simon Yorke's "Zarathustra S4" or the "Denon DP80" and you will never look for an upgrade. Do not overpay for an arm. It is the most fetish material in this hobby and in my case I've routinely substituting for the better till I've met my holly grail (Pluto 9A Prestige). The e-bay findings for SAEC WE-308SX are not for the inexperienced user and prepare your shelf for headshell and wiring modifications and customised protractors if you lust about them. The DLS-1 is a no-no with your budget. It is very demanding on the matching Phonostage do not think about it. Worth finding at the used market is the Kuzma Stogi Ref. & the Dynavector Karat DV 17 D2mkII. Both are builded to last forever. I've had many used arms & carts and allways was a big risk that usually ends in tears. (especially tonearms!). My advice is to take the best machine you can afford and smoothly upgrade for an arm/cart combination as you will growing your appetite into vinyl.
cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
agree on the clearaudio for $2k with cartridge (new, easy to setup, sounds great). you can get it with the cartridge installed.
More to discover