I would just listen to it.
You will either like it and maybe upgrade in a few years, like it just how it is, or chuck it or sell it.
So I would not even modify anything. Just brush the LPs, and spin em up.
Aftermarket Upgrade Question
I'll start by saying: total newbie here. So I'll take any due critique that comes with this territory.
Simple question, on a starter TT such as my Akai BT500, are there aftermarket upgrades to areas such as tonearm and platter than a semi-handy person like me would be able to perform?
Yeah, I know. Just buy a better table. But I really like the look and if some simple changes to the above mentioned parts could give me an added improvement to my vinyl, I'd look into it. It's also not being powered by a "high end" system.
Thank you in advance!
Honestly, sound advice (no pun intended). While I have taken care of the first three, the tracking force and alignment points I need to address...thank you!
I am hardwired (AudioQuest Goldengate) into my Denon PMA-600NE, which has a dedicated analog phono channel. I use the Denon pre-amp, not the Akai one. I have put in a Sumiko Olympia cartridge, which I like better than the AT one that came standard. I few ideas I didn't think of in there...thank you. Namely the isolation platform and tonearm suggestions. Again, I'm not trying to make my Akai a Rega P9, but just tinkering with the available "upgrades" on my otherwise sentimental TT. I will look into it. And I agree...I'm not hoping to turn my Chevy into a Rolls Royce, but sticking with the automobile analogy, Chevy and Cadillac share platforms, powerplants, etc. sometimes. But there are certain components within them that distinguish the performance. That's the angle I am coming from...and keeping it into perspective.
Thanks again, all. Some good ideas I should consider!
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The most dramatic sound differences typically come from a stylus or cartridge upgrade, but there are some tweaks you can do to help optimize what’s there.
No guarantees any of this will lead to audible improvements, but are a step in the right direction and shouldn’t hurt anything. The rest of your system will be a factor in how much you can hear.
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First, what are your system components? Are you using the wireless feature or do you hardwire the TT to your system? And are you using the built-in phono preamp? A different tonearm or platter wouldn't be the first upgrades to make on a table at this level. Upgrading the cartridge can provide a noticeable improvement in SQ. And using a dedicated phono preamp (phonostage) would also be a worthwhile upgrade.
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@mucker maybe:
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