2. analog
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Upgrade From Systemdek IVe

I currently have this table which includes the external power supply/speed control unit and want to know which tables (brand/model) represent a clear improvement as far as an upgrade. I currently have the stock profile arm but was thinking of upgrading to a Graham 2.2 or similar arm so the arm is not my concern/question.
I want to know what the next step up is in my audio evolution with regards to my front end/TT if I want to hear a clear improvement in sound reproduction. I realize this is subjective but I still want to hear your opinion. I also realize I can spend $20,000 and get a better table but this is not what I want to know. Basically, what I want to know is the next step up the ladder regarding TT choice for me to hear a clear improvement?
Thank you for any and all opinions you can provide.
ruben1
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
Turntables found to be the most complicated components to make decision since everyone of us hears and prefers his/her own way of sound. At level of Systemdeck and above many would prefer it even over much more priced units and many would think that analogue playback can get way better.

For example to me Mochell Orbe upgrade to Gyro SE I have didn't seem to deliver much of improvement for over $2k worth, so I stay with the same table and lately upgraded to Michell Techno Arm(Michell's moded RB300 with silver wire). I'm still looking to upgrade power supply that DOES improve the performance significantly.

I'd think of what improvement areas vs. mine would deliver me different tables I'd like to consider and years ago started looking at Oracle Delphi and still lookin... In my case when I think of upgrade, I always think of another suspension table. The sound of suspension tables IS specific and extreamly comfortable

Share your habbits and needs of analogue...
manitunc
795 posts
 
Your next step is probably to get a better cartridge than the x3 you are using now. that will probably make the most noticeable difference in your sound for the least expenditure.
ruben1 OP
5 posts
 
Thank you for the replies.
I still have some confusion as to which way to go given all the nuances behind turntable performance and selection so I want to simplify the question and greatly appreciate your opinion.
If I did install a Graham 2.0 or 2.2 arm on the Systemdek (the ones I can afford) or a Micro Seiki 505 (which I also think very highly of) how would the Systemdek with either of these 2 arms compare to either the VPI Scoutmaster with 10 inch arm or the older VPI Aries 1 with a 10 inch arm? I am very fond of VPI for several reasons (built quality, service, performance, etc.) so I am simplifying my question by asking for a comparison against 2 specific tables I like.
Against these 2 VPI tables how favorably, or not so favorably would the Systemdek with either a Graham or Micro Seiki arm compare? Please be as specific as you can with the reply.
Thank you very much.
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