Best budget turntable?


Looking to buy my son a new turntable.  He has an entry level audiophile system, consisting of an NAD 316 integrated amp with PSB 2 way stand mount speakers. His current TT is an old Technics DD with P-mount Grado Black cartridge.

I'm looking to spend about $1000 - $1200 ish, any more and next thing I know his whole system will need an upgrade.

Options I've considered: Technics 1500C or  Pioneer PLX 1000 with a decent MM cartridge for DD options; and a Rega P3 for a belt "audiophile" option.  A Clearaudio Concept (base model) at $1800 is just beyond where I'm looking.

Honestly, it kinda bugs me that the Rega weighs 12 pounds while the other less prestigious DD models weigh 21 and 30 lbs, respectively (Concept weighs 17).  I've never been convinced of Rega's light weight philosophy, I guess.

Any thoughts?

 

Thanks!

bobbydd

Showing 1 response by pesky_wabbit

pretty much a pointless exercise because you are going to get a million and one answers based on what people own and be no wiser than when you started. Also depends entirely on whether you are willing to go second hand.

As always the only way to decide is to ask yourself what you want out of a tt, shortlist those that will fulfil your requirements then go out there and listen for yourself. Getting people to decide for you is a one way trip to dissatisfaction..