SP10R new or SP10mK3 used (and dialed by JP Jones)
End Game Turntable suggestions
Hello all, looking for insights to help me narrow down to some core choices; I am open to new or preowned. My system details can be seen under my profile.
In summary I have significantly expanded my vinyl collection and as of now I am looking to purchase an end game turntable appropriate for my setup. As you can see I use Mola Mola Kaluga Monos, and I really like the Zesto Pre and Phonostages. I find the class D/tube pre combination very pleasing.
I would appreciate suggestions for around $5-8K (table + arm), new or used. I will have separate budget for cartridge. One preferred option (but not must-have) is universal voltage, as I may move the unit to Europe later. My current vintage turntable (Project Perspective) is 22 years old, and while I don't know how to compare to something really amazing, I can say that my setup is lacking detail and bass. The tonearm is terrible to keep aligned. Based on visits to Axpona and Cap Audio Fest and other research, I am thinking of a few in my budget, but will really value your suggestions of other brands:
- Origin Live Sovereign
- VPI Signature
- SAM Sinner
- Thorens TD 1601 (semi automatic)
Visual appeal is important to me (which is why Technics 1200 is not on my list despite great reviews everywhere). I love the idea of set it and forget it DD tables, but unfortunately mostly out of my budget (eg VPI HW-40 going for abt 11K used)....
Sorry for the long post but my hope is this background and help solicit good suggestions. Thanks
Showing 6 responses by au_lait
+1 @lewm regarding SP10 MK3. Mine was in 99% new condition, chip upgraded and serviced by JP, resides in a panzerholz plinth, and I can’t say I’ve hear it bettered. |
@pindac Very happy to read all this info! I agree the Panzerholz is fantastic and I’m actually sitting in a nice amount of scraps I’m will find useful soon. Not so interested in tonearm wand but have seen some interesting bodies for DL103 etc
@rauliruegas The Palette is lovely, but needed to recap and fix a few DC issues so it’s in shop. I was trying to fix myself, recap no problem, but there were some issues with 2 potentiometers and typical situation with Levinson the parts are proprietary and the manufacturer wouldn’t sell to me. So it’s become more complicated. At the moment there is a small Pass B1 Nutube pre in its place, which is surprisingly wonderful! But oops this has gone off topic, sorry OP!! |
Yes the Nutube was quite a fun build, only a few hours! I’ve also done a few ACA monos. So, you’re doing an alternate version of B1 that’s balanced? Assuming the larger component you mean an upgraded power supply that’s internal? One thing to look out for with Nutube is microphonics, there are some crafty methods of damping that but I’m sure your friend knows. Feel free to send me pics when you’re done, very interested! |
Beautiful! Also if you’re in the market for an idler, check out Matt from Audio Grail. He he specializes in Garrard 301 and 401 and works a lot with Cusworth plinths which are hand shaped and jointed. |
@lewm Yes it’s too niche, hard to work with, expensive and HEAVY… I agree probably never going to be mainstream. Closest thing to that are the Artisan Fidelity plinths. |