What's next after Clearaudio Concept ?


I have enjoyed my time with this TT. It was my foray into analog.

I am now ready for an upgrade and wanted your kind opinions on what I should look at next that would be significant upgrade.

I am hoping to get a new combination of transparency and richness of sound.

My budget is $3000 for the whole analog frontend. I would prefer an MC cartridge.

Rest of my system:
EAR 843P
Triode TRX-1 Pre-amp
Coincident Dragon Mk II
Vienna Acoustics Haydn

Thank you.
essrand
try the VPI classic 2 with a dynavector 20X2 L. The combination is around the 3K mark.
I suggest Lyra Delos and Sim Audio lp310, and keep the TT. This should, with suitable discount, come in very close to your budget. Better still the lp 5.3 comes up second hand fairly frequently, and is the "exact" same circuit as the 310. I really think you will get more benefit by directing your funds at the cartridge and phono, and next would be arm, and then finally a new TT.
prcinka, Speaking of Garrard 301, there is a Lenco L75 I can get my hands on. Any idea if a stock Lenco will beat the Clearaudio Concept (CC)?

Vinylmad, I was thinking maybe Rega RP8, but from the responses, think VPI seems to be recommended brand to go for next. How would you compare Rp8 to a classic 2.

Dinster, you have a good point, will be upgrading from EAR 834P to Coincident Statment Phono stage soon. But do you think the CC is good enough to hold its own with a Lyra Delos ($1650, more expensive than the CC at $1400).
hmm i am not overly familiar with the RP8 other than that it seems to have gotten some favourable reviews. I think it will definately challenge the classic 2 and perhaps surpass ti performance wise. I just read a review from the vinyl engine mentioning a guy who had a Classic 1 (which is almost the same other no VTA on the fly) who sold and purchased a Well tempered lab Amadeaus. He goes on describing it as an organic and rich sounding TT but had a few issues with quirkiness of the unit. If there is critism with the WTL is the unorthidox cueing method and its belt system. He sells it and purchases an RB8 and seems that it compares quite well. Describes it as no worse with the functionality to his liking and comes to a conclusion it is better than the Classic 1.Hmmm might be worth checking out. Love to find out what your thoughts are if you happen to audition 1 because I am also thinking about upgrading my rig.
I heard the RP6 yesterday, and absolutely loved it. So engaging and lively and dynamic.

Enjoyed it better than the Nottingham Interspace Jr. Though it had more details and more open soundstage, and sounded less compressed.

Looking forward to hearing the RP8 next week. Will report back.