Analog vs. CDP: A fair comparison?


Ok, in summary, I'm planning on selling my Cary 303/300 and taking the funds and buying a TT rig including Table, Arm & Cartridge. I'll worry about the phono stage, record cleaning machine, etc. later.

Assuming I get $2,500 from the CDP, will I be able to get a used rig that will at least match the sound quality? Assume also that I will have a phono stage budget of $1,000.

Rest of the system if Cary 300SEI.

Is this a fair comparison? Or, will the sound just be different (i.e. tubes vs ss).

thanx much
pawlowski6132

Showing 1 response by undertow

Run both worlds.... You gotta keep a CDP no doubt, sometimes you just want to kick back and play DJ with a remote.. so Don't go 100% vinyl.. Also, it is true about the hassle and cost, you look at it up front and think its not that bad, but then after you get some experience under your belt you will find absolute need and no turning back with RCM, Digital Stylus gauge, Hi-cost Hi-end cartridge, Tons of tweaking Knowledge and Device cost to do it etc..

Not to mention the actual cost of Vinyl and the cost to clean and store each album correctly and most effectivly for best sound and performance. I would easily estimate for my basic collection it has cost me nearly 30 bucks each title for the good stuff with mobile fidelity sleeves, cleaning fluids, time, tuning etc(this includeds the cost of a new LP or reissue).... So add that up for 100 good albums and you see the cost now, minus the fact its almost a guarantee to get a turntable, cartridge, tools, and cleaning machine for something in the 90% top performance range will run you into the 2500.00 region very easily. Do it but beware of the hidden costs, and the serious loss eliminating Good digital all together which I do not recommend.