advice for an old newbie

I've seen the package you describe for a bit less than $1,000 while researching tables, as I am in a similar situation (sold my SOTA three years ago and the LP's are stashed away). My impression is that the Basis 1400 ($400 more than the Perspective with an RB250, $600 more with an RB300)is more substantial, has better parts (i.e. exact same motor as their higher end models) and better build quality. I think the Perspective is very nice for $1,000 but I think I'd feel better in the long run spending a little more, so I don't get that "buying fever" as soon.

The Basis also has an upgrade path while the Perspective has nowhere to go. I saw an ad (somewhere...) for a 1400, RB300 and Glider for $1700. I'm also going to check out the Gyro Deck and look at used tables <$2,000. I've got to noodle with this a while longer...

i tink ewe should strongly consider a used 'table, especially at this price-point - it puts ya on the cusp of the entry to some of the best 'tables out there: linn lp-12, vpi hw-19, sota wacuum 'tables, pink triangle, kuzma, well-tempered, oracle delphi, yust to mention a few.

i'm partial to the oracle - i picked one up in *excellent* condition - w/arm, cartridge & shipping, it was *still* only $850. of course, i got the upgrade-bug, & have more money into it now, but that's the beauty of it (besides its innate beauty!): it can be updated to current spec. even outta the box, the oracle killed my prewious cj walker cj-5, which was heavily-modded, & the sonic equivalent to what's awailable for ~$1k gnu, imho. vpi's, well-tempered's & linn's can also be updated, not sure about the others.

anyway, i believe any of these 'tables will be a significant yump in sound-quality over anyting awailable for a similar price that's purchased brand-gnu.

ymmv, doug s.

I have enjoyed upgrading my VPI turntable over the years. I started with the Jr. and have worked my way up to the mk4 with JMW Memorial arm and Benz Glider catridge. I would suggest a table that you can upgrade.

some excellent suggestions. i side , tho, with sedond and jim. the best of both worlds is to find a used basis 1400. shouldn't be too hard given aj's (conti) upgrade path. -kelly

Are you a record collector? If so, there is only one undisputable choice available nowadays...

I looked at the Perspective, Rega Planars, Music Hall MMF5, Sota Comet and the Technics SL-1200MK2.

Choices came down to Sota Comet w/Rega 300 arm vs Technics SL-1200MK2(modified: Sumiko headshell w/silver litz wires, Cardas tonearm wire, Phoenix Gold interconnect, silver solder throughout and later, a tonearm fluid damper assembly from www.kabusa.com).

I chose the Technics. Most reliable TT around. When completely modified, it will be able to use low output MC cartridges, as well as those for 78s. Try that with any of the above turntables. Try cleaning your records on the platter...try getting a service manual...try getting parts ten years from now.

Hope this serves you well.