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Phono Stage, Cables, etc for VPI Scoutmaster II?

I have a VPI Scoutmaster II on the way with Ortofon 2M Black cartridge, and wanted to get some input on matching up some components:

1. Phono cables? (under $500)
2. Power cord? (under $500)
3. (Cheap) Dustcover (but not a plastic bag!)
4. Phono stage? ($1200 or less)

I like detailed, clean, fast, and musical sound. Right now my system is teetering on the edge of too much warmth (downstream from the VPI I have a tubed BAT preamp and either a pair of tubed mono blocks or a Pass Labs x150 solid state amp.)

thanks!
Gary
1graber2
1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
Schubert
What do you like about the Morrows?

Can I ask what TT you use them with? Is the shielding adequate?
thx, Gary
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Congrats on the new table & cartridge. I won't comment on the cable, cord & phono stage. You'll get plenty of opinions. But I will on the dustcover since you want a cheap one.

Consider having a custom one made by these guys...

http://jmkdisplays.homestead.com/turntablecovers.html

I had them build one for me for my Project RM5.1 SE to my specs, complete with cable cut-outs in back and I think it cost about $100, shipping included. It took about 2 weeks to get to me from time of order. Highly recommended for a great cover at a reasonable price. And you dictate the dimensions that work best for you.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Igraber, The shielding is very adequate , I live 3 miles from a powerful FM tower and no problem.
I used them on a Project Xpersssion and a Sony PS-X7 modded with RCA outs which is quite a decent table .
They just play music better than any stock cord I ever heard
and have no flaw I hear. Imagine they would work on anything.
1graber2's avatar
1graber2 OP
303 posts
 
Well, I found a good deal on a Demo Lehmann black Cube SE II, so I picked it up. Out of the box, it sounds more naturally smooth than the Nano II, but that's on 1970s Marantz 6300 TT, I haven't received the Scoutmaster II yet. Now just need some to phono cables (considering the Morrows)....
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