Best table in $1500 range

At about the time of the Scout introduction, I chose to go with the comparatively priced Kuzma Stabi S/Stogi S. I was looking for a high quality, plinthless, suspensionless and extremely compact unit, which is the exact description of this table.

I didn't know at the time, but the VPI would have an upgrade path which may be important to you. I wanted my entry table to be in its final form so that it would be easier to resist messing with. I'm satisfied with it and believe it represents the best I'll need. Just a suggestion. Good luck.

Actually this would be my first table. I know it might be a stretch for my first however I like that it can be upgraded, and it seems to have good reviews.

Kurt_tank to answer your questions, yes I will need a cartridge and phono stage. I would like to stay under the $2500 mark for the whole package if that's possible.

You can do a new Teres with arm, phono stage, and cartridge for 2500 easy. You could probably even afford a K&K transformer (if you select a low output moving coil cartridge) in this budget.

Whoops; just checked the Teres site and the 135 is no longer there. The least expensive is the 150 at 1890. You could still get it in your budget with a Rega RB250 and a nice cartridge like a Shure V15. A used rb250 is inexpensive and can always be upgraded (better wiring/interconnect, improved counterweight) down the road.

The scout is a great table and a "destination" for begining Vinyl. If you need a phonostage You'll need to reserve at the very least $500 (there are some mini boxes in the 3-$400 range). I just bought a Music Hall MMF-5 which does have suspension which includes the cartridge and lists for around $600 but the street price is less. Add $500 for the phono and a couple of hundred for good interconnects and your at your budget. However if you have the accessories nothing beats the Scout. If you don't try the MMF-5 the MMF-7 sounds even better and then get an inexpensive phono stage. I think my MMF-5 sounds with a Redgum Phono stage is great and is an absolute steal. I would try that first. If that doesn't do it you can always sell it because they are in demand and get the VPI which is definitely better but only if you know vinyl.

Toddwj,
I like Teres as much as anyone (I own one) but they are clearly above your present budget.

The biggest problem with the Scout is that the motor is known for poor speed stability. Many owners have either added VPI's SDS unit ($500ish) or replaced the VPI motor with one from Teres ($525) or Origin Live ($550). All who've done so report dramatically improved musical results.

I'd look at a Nottingham Horizon with the RB250 arm. That combo is usually sold for about $1200. I've never heard anyone report a speed control issue with a Nott'. In fact, one Scout owner reported that both his buddy's Nott' motor and a Teres motor improved his Scout, while the Teres motor made no improvement on his friend's Nott'.

A used Nott' Spacedeck with Spacearm would stomp any of the above BTW. If you're willing to consider used that would be a hugely satisfying first (and maybe last) vinyl rig, and buying used is an excellent way to avoid the depreciation hit.

Good luck and enjoy the tunes whatever you choose.