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Old Newbie has questions on turntables.

I have not used a turntable since I was 20. Im now 45 . I have a credit at a local hi end shop which I am going to use for a turntable. They stock two models. One is a Thorens TD190 List price 559.95, the other a NAD 533 list price 499.95. The dealer , whom I have no reason to distrust swears the NAD is a better turntable...Any thoughts on that..............

Number 2 is I can either place the turntable convienently 12 feet away from my preamp, however of course I would have to use extension cables , {and extra grounding wire ? } or I can build a shelf much closer to my preamp. The question on this one is that running an extended grounding wire would pass through my interconnects that I use for my redbook Cd, DVD. etc. and I dont want any sort of electrical interference compromising my other components. Any thoughts on this. ? Thanks guys.
darrylhifi
jc2000
92 posts
 
I have heard some grumblings that the new Thorens TD 190 is not as good as older Thorens. So I, too, would suggest the NAD 533.

The NAD 533 is more or less the Rega P2, with a different name.

One other advantage of the NAD is that it has a Rega arm, which can take a wide range of cartridges. I don't know about the Thorens, but I'd suspect that it wouldn't be as flexible.

As for setup, I've heard that it is a no-no putting a turntable further from the phono stage than the arm cable allows. This is a particular concern with a moving magnet cartridge, since a mm is affected by capacitance.

Good luck!
twl
3,251 posts
 
Darryl, I like the NAD too. When you get it, try a Goldring cartridge, like a 1012gx, or 1022. They are around $200 and make a nice match for the NAD, without spending a fortune. Don't let the salesman put a Grado on that TT! That combination very commonly results in a hum when the arm is on the record, especially near the inner grooves. A Goldring is nice, and has no such synergy problems with the NAD. If you want to spend more on the cartridge, try a Goldring 1042, or a Dynavector 10x4.
rockinroni's avatar
rockinroni
287 posts
 
Darrly,you should build a wallshelf close to your preamp for you new NAD table and the cartridges Twl suggested
sound very good.

Let us know if your preamp has a moving magnet only or does it have a moving coil input also. If you have been reading the recent threads you will see I suggest for the best low budget cartridges Audio Technica -440ml if you need a moving magnet(MM) cartridge. If your pre amp will accept moving coils (MC) then the Audio Technica atc OC9 or the Dennon 103R. These 2 models are low output moving coils and you need to have a phono section with a lot of gain to drive them.(but worth it)
darrylhifi OP
498 posts
 
Hi Thanks for all the advice so far. It should be fun to jump back in to analog. My Pre says its designed for use with moving magnet cartriges........not necessarily related but someone pointed out the NAD has no ground wire. In general is that good, bad, or indifferent. Also feel free to make recomendations on must have {excellent sonic} albums. Im primarily a rock and roll fan, but I also can get into jazz , blues even big bands. The more instuments the better ! Thanks.
wwwrecords
172 posts
 
Darryl, there are lots of pressing that seem to be consistently better than others. As for domestic pressing, Mobile Fidelity and DCC pressing are usually top notch. Japanese, Uk, German, and Holland pressing seem to usually be better than standard U.S. pressings on most titles. The Japanese seem to be at the top of the list.

I have been a analog music lover for several years, but am just now finding out that there are many things a person can do to get a better sound out of Lp's.

I have just ordered a new Goldring 1042, thanks to the suggestions of TWL. I should get it next week and can't wait to hear the difference it makes. I am already researching for a better TT, but on my budget that might be a while. Anyway, enjoy the music.
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