2. analog
  3. 1199712882

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 2 responses by studio68

studio68 OP
17 posts
 
Thanks guys for the responses. I am using a Shure M97Xe cartridge on my Technics SL-D3 now. The turntable was purchased in late 1970's but the cartridge was bought new in 2006 and has about 100 hours of playing time. I also changed the headshell leads to Audioquest.

Looks like most people suggest that I ditch my DJ phono preamp. So from my phono preamp list above, which phono preamp deserves to be looked at, any other strong recommendations under $400 budget (new or used) that I didn't list? The audio qualities I am seeking are listed in my thread above.

Thanks.
studio68 OP
17 posts
 
Ok, I think I will upgrade the phono preamp first as a start. Narrowed it down to these: Cambridge Audio 640P, Pro-ject TubeBox SE II, Clearaudio Nano, and Simaudio Moon LP3. Which will be best for what I am seeking and best value?

Thanks.
More to discover