2. analog
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Which part of my turntable system should I upgrade

Hi! I'm looking to upgrade my system. I have a budget of 400$ including shipping and cables and everything else. I'd prefer new to used and/or vintage. I do have a couple ideas in my mind, but I'm not quite sure and I was wondering if anyone here had suggestions/ideas!

I still haven't figured out what "bright" and "warm" sound like so I can't comment in that respect, but I listen to a lot of pop punk/indie punk (Broadway Calls, The Menzingers, Sundials, Junior Battles, etc. -- I think their stuff's on YouTube) and also a few acoustic bands. All of my music is from the past 10-15 years.

Turntable: Denon DP 300F (built in phono)
Cartridge: Shure M97XE
Integrated Amp: NAD C315BEE
Speakers: Wharfedale Evo 2-8

The Denon has been weird ever since I got it (I bought it used online, and it plays noticeably faster than it's supposed to, I checked with a strobe light but don't know what the problem is --- I even replaced the belt) so I'm thinking about replacing it. On the other hand, I love the automatic feature, and I can't think of another budget turntable on the market that has it. I like to fall asleep to records, and the auto-stop feature is great. I'm also not very adept at placing the needle on the record, and that's where the auto-start comes in.

When I originally bought my system, I had a Denon DL-110 but a friend bought it off me and I put the Shure in instead. I was also thinking of upgrading the cartridge (to a Denon) and then I'd have $260 left over to spend.

I"m not sure how much the built in phono is impacting my system. I live in an apartment with my parents so adding an extra piece to my system will be a hassle, but if it'll make the biggest difference, I'd definitely consider it.

I was also wondering (since I'm not much of an audiophile) if there are any parts of my system that's out of balance quality-wise? i.e. the speakers are too good for the turntable, or the cartridge is subpar compared to the rest of the system, etc.

On a final note, minimal manual installation/effort is a huge priority for me.

Thank you so much! I appreciate any and all feedback :)
toxicwaterfront
toxicwaterfront OP
41 posts
 
I collect records for fun, which is why I'd like to keep the analog system. At the moment, I think I'm gonna get a new turntable and cartridge, and wait a few months to buy a phono stage.

I've been unable to find the Sony PS-X60 online. However, there's a fully automatic turntable up on NeedleDoctor for 500$. It's the Thorens TD-158 that comes mounted with a Dual DMS 251S cartridge. How significant of a difference in sound would it make? Am I better off just getting a vintage DD table?

Again, thank you so much for your answers. I appreciate the help.
manitunc
795 posts
 
I have an extra Sony PS-x60 that you could have. However, I only ship in the CONUS
zenblaster
504 posts
 
Dear Toxicwaterfront: If I was you I put the Denon and Shure on sale and with the money and maybe alittle over those 400.00 budget you willadd I will buy a decent universal digital player latest DAC technology ( 32/192 ) as this one:

Raul,
Shame on you, you would deny this budding audiophile the joy of analog, putting the needle on the record, all the great artwork and liner notes for subjectively "better sound". And then sell all his records and buy digital?

A ProJect Carbon Debut (with a tube phono, per Stringereen) will keep him close to budget and a real analog front end that would compete with any digital source, IMHO.
zenblaster
504 posts
 
Dear Toxicwaterfront,

After reading your post, the Project wouldn't be good as it offers no automatic features (just great music). The PS-x60 from Manitunc would be a great solution if you live in US.
toxicwaterfront OP
41 posts
 
@Manitunc I do live in the continental US! (I live in Southern California). How much would the Sony be? Thank you for offering!
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