Get a better turntable or better phono preamp?


Guess I'll start a new thread as the older one got side tracked.

My main question is if I had to spend $400 on improving my vinyl rig, would my money go further by buying a new $400 Technics SL-1200MK2? Or keep my vintage Technics SL-D3 and use the $400 to buy a(new or used)better phono preamp (replacing the DJ phono preamp I am using now). Since my vintage table is a direct drive table also and built in the same era as the SL-1200MK2, would changing my table be a noticeable improvement? Specs for both tables are very similar, differences are build and weight favoring the SL-1200MK2, and that my table is an automatic vs. manual, but all else like wow and flutter, rumble noise, etc are very close.

Since my DJ phono preamp(Gemini)is built for mixing, I don't know how good it is for using it as an audiophile phono preamp. Can I do better in this area, like going with a Creek OBH15, Cambridge Azur 640P, Bellari Tube Phono Preamp VP129, Project Phono Box SE-2, Project Tube Box 2, Graham SLEE Gram Amp2 SE for MM/ Gram Amp 3 for MC, Clearaudio Nano, Simaudio Moon LP3, MF X-LPSv3, Rega Fono, or CIAudio VPP-2 with VAC1 power supply? Looking to improve in these areas: resolution, imaging, soundstaging, blacker backgrounds,quietness,stronger bass output, and smoother more natural playback.

So should I get a better turntable or better phono preamp?

Thanks.
studio68

Showing 1 response by pedrillo

Highly recommend ear 834p for phono stage.
Would like to comment that turntable plays a huge role, that's why the best sell for big bucks. In my experience improving the table got me into the big league. Not sure if this is your long term quest, but if you get hooked it just may become one. And also before upgrading the pre or power amps or speakers try to get the source right, then move onto improving the rest of the system.