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Project Xtension 12 or VPI Classic 3

Hello,
I am looking to get into vinyl and am a bit of a novice.
I have demo'd vinyl and loved the sound compared to digital.
I am considering 2 turntable / cartridge options at this time.
A Project 12 xtension with a Sumiko Celebration 2 Cartridge and a VPI Classic 3 with an Ortofon Cadenza Black Cartridge.
Is the VPI / Ortofon that much better?
I don't have the opportunity to demo that combination but have read great reviews.
Is it worth the addional cost?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I currently have Cremona M's, Conrad Johnson ET3 SE with Phono and Cary 500 MB Mono Blocks and my current source is a an Oppo 95
Thanks
pkelly1504
pkelly1504 OP
62 posts
 
Thanks for the responses.
I am aware that I am looking at expensive components however I feel that in the long run I will save money because I will not have the need to upgrade as I am possibly doing with my current speakers.
Regarding the cartridges I demo'd The Sumiko that came with The Project Table. A dealer highly recommended the Ortofon Cadenza Black and was offering a great price in a package deal.
Any other suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
dweller's avatar
dweller
3,781 posts
 
Be aware: Some cartridges don't work well in a unipivot setup.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Analogue is not like digital when it comes to upgrades. With digital, you get something new and it sounds better than what you had, and you are happy for a while. After the newness wears off, you feel compelled to upgrade again. Analogue isn't like that. You may find areas that you would like to improve but you can still be happy with what you have in the mean time. (My theory, of course. Others may feel differently.)

"I am aware that I am looking at expensive components however I feel that in the long run I will save money because I will not have the need to upgrade as I am possibly doing with my current speakers."

Spoken like a true audiophile. Spend $8500 on a record player to save money.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Your spending much too much for a first TT. To maximize the experience best to find an experienced brick/mortar turntable dealer that can help you with your purchase including setting it up in your home. That way all the headaches will quickly resolve themselves and you can get right into the music. As Zd542 mentioned, an expensive DIY first TT is risky. Consider buying a demo or used TT from a dealer with set up included.
jperry
2,448 posts
 
I have heard the Sumiko you are looking at, and IMO it is a very good table. It was in a Shindo/Devore system I have heard many times. I also think it is underpriced and should be selling for more. A very good deal packaged with the Pearwood Celebration cartridge. The fit and finish is great. The VPI table has received good reviews, I have not heard the VPI model you are considering so I can't comment.

When someone says one is better than the other they need to also be able to say they have heard both in the same system.

If you have not you should try and get a home trial of each table. It sounds like you are working with local dealers.
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