What turntable, $500 or less

Is the 1.3 s better turntable though? The carbon at $399 + $130 for the different platter brings the total to $530, which is $30 more than the 1.3. I like the looks of the carbon more and I like the idea of being able to upgrade as funds become available. I think I will want to use that denon catridge. I've heard good things about it. Also, which pro ject phono stage? The tube one or not? I like the idea of having a warmer sound, would the tubes be the way to go? Thanks again for everyones help on this. I feel totally lost about the whole turntable thing.

Ortofon offers a good upgrade path for its MM cartridges. I started with an affordable OM 10 Super, and later replaced the stylus with the OM 30 Super. A very big jump in sound quality was the result. IIRC, the 2M series offers similar upgrade paths. Start with the $100 2M Red, and I think you can upgrade styli up to the Black. IOW, the cartidge bodies on these models are the same, only the styli are different.

B_limo, I sent you an email about my system that I am selling.

On the Carbon you cant adjust the VTA. You can on the 1.3.

This would come in handy if you decided to flirt with different cartridges. When I put the Denon on it was almost the same size as the Sumiko Pearl that came with the 1.3 so I left the VTA alone. But its there if I need it :-)

I use tubes for listening. Once you get the right system tubes are the only way to go. {In my opinion}

For background listening I have a solid state Music Hall. Works great. But my Jolida really brings the music alive.

Good Luck!!

db

If you are serious - No unit!
go into the 1000 region. you will enjoy it!