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
ZD - That is an interesting point. When does it cross the line from "better to me" to "clearly better" where most would agree that one is better than the other, and it is no longer a matter of individual preference.

The "clearly better" can be difficult to determine between individual components that are very close in performance.
Better is simply better, no personal tastes involved. Also why it has to ? As an audiophile, we should not look for our personal tastes in music reproduction, we should have to look for best possible life like music reproduction, and at his point of view, classic 3 is better then extension, in any system and for any hearing capable human being.
12-28-13: Altanpsx
Better is simply better, no personal tastes involved.

If there were any truth to that statement at all, it would make this hobby a whole lot easier. ;)
+ 1 on that JMCgrogan2. You just can't throw money at this hobby and expect good sound. Let me just leave it at that!
Jmcgrogan2 there were some truth in your statement like mine. If you need a two person and a blind test to understand extension vs classic 3 i consider this is a lack of experience. If you cannot decide a continuum caliburn or airforce one is better, thats the time when your statement has truth. Some components are not in the same league for lots of reasons, some components are in the same league and yes better is very subjective.

Also this hobby is very dependent on money. Yes you may not get the best result throwing money around, but you cannot get best result with 500 usd.

Many things can be spoken about this hobby, many statements and counter arguments can be made, but the result is same, classic3 is better then extension.