2. analog
  3. 148326-103591

Forever turntable under $2000

In search of: forever turntable.

I'm currently looking to upgrade from my existing Pro-Ject RPM 1.3 to a table that I will (hopefully) never grow out of. I'm looking for something that is *technically* competent, something where I know the engineering is extremely solid and "timeless," and provides a good analog platform to swap carts with. My budget for this is $1600 with cart (but up to $2000 if there's a good case for it). The rest of my system is as follows:

* LSA 2.1 Statement speakers

* Schiit Gumby DAC

* Schiit Freya preamp

* Adcom GFA555 power amp

* Schiit Mani phono stage

So far, I have looked into the Rega P6 (or a used RP6), a Clearaudio Concept, a variety of Pro-Ject offerings, and a Michell Technodec... but at this level there are so many choices, its hard to know where to start. Any ideas? Thanks!
primarist

Showing 3 responses by millercarbon

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Interesting thread. Forever turntable. Under $2k. And surprisingly, a whole bunch of people seriously think there is such a thing. Even more interesting, they're right! My Technics is from 1975. My Teres is from 2003 http://www.teresaudio.com/fame/40.html There are of course plenty of turntables from Linn, Garrard, and others that may be even older yet still running strong, and still getting good money in the used market. Clearly there is such a thing as a forever turntable.

But everyone knows that. What's interesting is, could you imagine a thread like this only looking for a forever CD player?

I know. Hilarious. Nuff said.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
My Technics SL-1700 was bought new in 1973. I still have it. It still runs. I prefer my Teres. But forever turntable? The Technics certainly qualifies.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Hunt around for a Teres, something like this
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649452242-teres-255-baltic-birch-turntable-with-signature-motor-...
The downside, they aren't made any more. But they are so well made mine has been zero problems in 15 years, their modular design means you can replace upgrade or fix a lot yourself, and Chris Brady is still around if you need him. Unlike most others the lion's share of the budget went into parts not profits so you will find it difficult if not impossible to get this kind of performance without spending a whole lot more. Mine is definitely a forever turntable. Definitely involves a lot more due diligence than what anyone else is likely to suggest, but you get out of it what you put into it, and then some. https://www.theanalogdept.com/c_miller.htm
More to discover