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Help for a vinyl novice

Hello,

I've swam about in hi-end audio for over a decade now, but only in the digital world. I've had plenty of experience with tubes, ss, planars, drivers, etc. However, i'm making the plunge into the deeper waters of vinyl. Whenever I see a good, "entry-level" tt for sale, I immediately start researching it here and elsewhere online. And, of course, there are as many good reviews as there are detractors and I end up with cold feet.

Could someone point me to a solid tt under $1K, including arm and cartridge? I'm not averse to upgrading either at a later date and feel comfortable enough to undertake such an upgrade as needed, though not immediately.

I have a pair of Reference 3A de Capo i's being powered by an LSA Statement integrated with an MM phono input. My listening room is small - 10'W x 12'L x 7'H - and I have an 8" Velodyne sub lurking in the corner.

Maybe take a look at what's being offered now and advise? or advise what to look for in future listings?

Thank you much,

Simao
128x128simao
dgarretson
2,599 posts
 
The LP-12 is a continuum of product bifurcations dating back a mid-70's design. I wouldn't recommend it to any self-professed novice, and certainly not at the $1K price level.

http://www.high-endaudio.com/RC-Linn.html

Arthur's site can be controversial, but so is an LP-12.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Agree with Dgarretson. The LP-12 is a fussy, sensitive thing that requires either deep knowledge or deep pockets to perform well. $1K won't get you far with a Linn dealer, and a newbie's inexperience would be sorely tested by the LP-12's fickleness. If you love your Linn that's great, but that doesn't make it a suitable recommendation for everyone.
rodrigaj
32 posts
 
As a Linn LP-12 /Ittok owner since 1982, I would never recommend that to a novice. The suspension and power supply problems are enough to steer clear of any used Linn's.

I personally don't mind fussing with turntables, but it is not for the faint hearted or folks that just want to enjoy vinyl.

Project, rega, and vpi traveler for a little more would be my recommendation.
simao's avatar
simao OP
1,831 posts
 
So - I went on an impulsive hunch and ordered a Pro-Ject 5.1SE yesterday. Came with the Blue Point 2 and the carbon fiber arm.

I mean, I researched the heck out of it before I ordered it, so it wasn't just a "oooh - that looks pretty and audiophile-esque)" decision. But I wanted something I could be happy with and build on as needed.

About ten years ago in another life and with a lot more money than now, I had a Meridian/ARC/Maggie system and though I don't know whether I'll get into vinyl enough to warrant laying out that kind of cash again, I did want something beyond a nouveau-hipster tt.

Anyhow, thank you again for all the advice - especially the warnings about the Linn. I actually look forward to learning how to tweak and adjust and fuss with my vinyl components, so in a few years maybe I'll move up to something like that.

Question, though - since the stylus feeds into the cartridge which feeds into wires - doesn't the quality of those thin wires leading back to the IC's really determine the sound quality?
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Congrats... and enjoy! It sounds like you made a sound decision for sound reasons. :-)

Yes, the quality of tonearm wire has a significant impact on sound quality (more so with a LOMC than MM). Upgrading those wires is one of many tweaks that vinylphiles love to get into.
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