2. analog
  3. 151666-80920

Best Analog for $10K

I’ve spent considerable money and time assembling a great all-digital two-channel audio system. I want to experience vinyl reproduction. My budget is $10-12K for turntable, arm, cartridge, phono cable, and phono stage.
Two things I do not want. One is to get on a spiraling upgrade path. The second is to avoid too much fiddling and tweaking and adjusting.
I am open to used or refurbished equipment, as well as new gear.
I primarily listen to Jazz and Rock music. Very little classical.
Thoughts?
imgoodwithtools

Showing 3 responses by jperry

jperry
2,468 posts
 
You did say you wanted to minimize tweaking. ;-)

Every time you change cartridges you need to re-balance the tonearm and set VTA, unless you have a non detachable headshell, then it is more work. You may also need to reset the cartridge loading for a MC cartridge.

I like fiddling with turntable related stuff, but I know that is not true for everyone.

Whatever you decide have fun and enjoy the music.

Best Regards,

Jim Perry
jperry
2,468 posts
 
My recommendation for a no fuss analog system is the one below. A few hundred under your price at list.

The turntable and arm are very easy to set up together. The cartridge is an outstanding performer matched to a dedicated phono preamp. Worth auditioning if you have not heard a DS Audio cartridge.

Dr Feickert Analogue Woodpecker turntable $6,995 with Jelco TK 850L tonearm

DS Audio DS E1 Optical Phono Cartridge System $2,750


I have heard this and it sounds great.


jperry
2,468 posts
 
That is why my simple recommendation especially with regard to new equipment will be a good solution for you. You can find my recommendations in Denver. Have it set up, drive it home, put it on a stand, listen to music without having to worry.
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