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Phono Pre-amp for Analog Newbie

OK, I am going to take the plunge and go "Back to the Future". I am buying a turntable. After much research, and a lot of listening, I am leaning heavily towards a VPI Scoutmaster. I am looking for advice on:

1) Cartridge (type and make)

2) Phono pre-amp (it will be going into an Anthem AVM30, or I may upgrade to the D1 Statement). I would like to get one with XLR output if possible, or does that really matter?

3) Reasonbly priced cleaning machine.

4) Other "extras" I will need.

Thanks!!
macdadtexas
robm321
932 posts
 
I'll let others recommend the equipment. For record cleaning machines, you can't go wrong with the Record Doctor II cheap and effective.

I've used mine for 2 years now and it works like a champ.
slipknot1
1,423 posts
 
You will not be disappointed with the choice of the Scoutmaster.
Cartridge : Dynavector 20X or 17D MKII
RCM : VPI 16.5 The Record Doctor is a great value at 200.00 (I used one for several years), but the 16.5 is much better.
Record cleaning fluids : Audio Intelligent two step, by AudiogoNer Paul Frumkin.
Brushes : Record Doctor, or the Music Direct clones.
Phono stage : depending on your budget, Aesthetix Rhea, Graham Slee, Lehmann Black Cube
slipknot1
1,423 posts
 
I left out the very good Whest 20 from my recommendation above on a phono pre. That should be on your "short list" as well...
cmo
471 posts
 
What is your budget on a phono pre? The Scoutmaster TT would be a good choice IMO. You could mate a nice ZYX R100 from Mehran (Sorosound) and have a great rig (assuming you are going with the package and doing the JMW 9 tonearm). A Grado Sonata would be another good cart too for that TT/Tonearm.

Now the part you may not want to hear; I would strongly recommend a two chennel preamp and a phono pre to bypass your HT. Again, depending on your budget maybe an ARC LS16 and PH3 (around $2500 for the pair). I think the LS16 has an HT "passthrough" so you could have dedicated two chennel and still play with surround all in the same system. Just my opinion but, I don't think you can realize the full potential of a good analog rig running it through an HT pre-amp.

Look for a VPI 16.5 to clean your records. I wouldn't worry about balanced connections, but don't forget phono cables (I have heard very good things about the new Cardas for around $300).

Chris
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