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Help for my return to vinyl -- $2K rig.

I'm thinking of buying my first TT, cartridge and phono preamp. I grew up listening to records and have perhaps 100 saved up from my youth.

As part of a move, I decided to upgrade my system, and my dealer is a devout vinyl guy-- I listened to a bunch of vinyl while auditioning amplifiers and really loved the sound. The setup I listened to most was a Rega RP-6 through either a bellari or rega phono stage (I'll just try to forget what I heard through the Shindo/Garrard rig in the big room). I believe that rig gets close to $3K including a cartridge, which is just a bit higher than I want to go at this point. I'm thinking $1,500-$2,000 for a new TT/Cartridge and used phono stage. I don't generally like to buy used components with lots of moving parts, but electronics are generally fine.

System:

Line Magnetic 518IA (22 Watt Integrated 845 SET)
Merlin TSM-MME
Cary 306/200

Here's the thing-- my budget will be high enough next year to get the Rega Rig mentioned above, maybe even something nicer, so if I'm going to be disappointed by the offerings in my current price range, maybe I should just wait a year rather than buying some typical entry-level rig and losing the money the minute I drive them off the lot and realize I want more. OTOH, I'd like to enjoy some vinyl now. I'll appreciate suggestions.

D
dkidknow
kiko65
279 posts
 
Your dealer is offering you a great gig for $3,000.00. However, you can do MUCH BETTER! There is an Rega RP40 selling for $995.00 in Agon which is basically an RP6 for $600.00 less. Go for a used P-75 I or II for about $500.00 and buy a new Lyra Delos.

The RP40 comes fitted with a special edition Elys you may be able to sell for $200.00.

I have owned 15+ tables in 25+ years in this hobby and I currently own a heavily modified RP3 that comes closer to RP8 standards with a P-75/Delos combo. To my ears, best combination ever owned.
sbrownnw
700 posts
 
@kiko65, basically a RP6? Same plinth?

I would recommend getting a RP6, Audio-Technica AT33PTG/II from 2juki on ebay, a Groovetracer reference RP6 subplatter and either the dyna or a Jasmine LP 2 mkII phono preamp. And get the clearaudio LP that does the 1K tone and check your belt. I had a white belt but sold it after the black was more on par for speed. Have a red belt to try. I should do that tonight...
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Get a VPI Scout with the Dynavector 20X and get a VPI P75 phono, but I must tell you that the Graham Slee Gram Amp 2 SE Phono or get the MC version of the Graham Slee make a killer set. You may have some money left over to buy a few LPs. If you are buying used (except the Cartridge) You should have plenty left to buy music.
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
Due to upgrading I have a used RP-6 in red soon to be up for sale in like new condition. If you were interested.
kiko65
279 posts
 
Yes Sbrownnw,
Exactly the same plinth, double brace tech, tonearm, 24v motor, sub-platter, belt, and bearing assembly. A "metal cap" snaps on top of the sub-platter to fit the glued, two parts glass platter. The only main difference is the addition of the TT-PSU which comes standard with both the RP6 and RP40. Actually, the RP40 has better feet and a better belt plus comes with a cart.

I'm a big fan of Rega. That said, Rega TTs up to the RP6 are considered a great value albeit their limitations. This is why so many Rega owners love to tweak their TTs. Groovetracer's (to name just one company) reference sub-platter (zirconium ball/sapphire thrust plate), delrin platter, and counterweight are superior to Rega's entry level equals, but no longer necessary when you move up to the RP8/RP10 line.

Not to take anything away from the AT cart but the Delos is in another league.
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