I don't know anything about the Townsend, does this one have a trough for vibration control? Can it be used with any headshell? Is there an arm length that fits this table? What about an armboard, do you have one or will you be making your own so you can drill it for the correct mounting distance? Keep in mind also, TT setup is a whole nother science altogether.
I ask these questions because I started with a Technics table and Dynavector 10x5 cartridge. This is the type of table setup that is ready to go and not be overwhelming to someone starting out. I have since put together a VPI Aries 3 table and SME arm which was not a big deal since VPI sells ammboards for the Aries 3. Another thing to consider is the tonearm cable and phono preamp. I have a Sim Audio LP 5.3 phono pre that can be adjusted for just about any cartridge. I also found out soon that a record cleaner is a must.
I live in the Cleveland area, good luck trying to find and audition a turntable at a dealer.
I bring these points up because vinyl is not easy or convenient. I sold my digital front end for my first two years of getting back into vinyl, now if I had to choose between the two, the vinyl would stay, although I like both. Starting with a (almost) ready to run rig gave me a chance to learn while I listened.
Good luck, sorry I can't help with an arm choice,
Mike
I ask these questions because I started with a Technics table and Dynavector 10x5 cartridge. This is the type of table setup that is ready to go and not be overwhelming to someone starting out. I have since put together a VPI Aries 3 table and SME arm which was not a big deal since VPI sells ammboards for the Aries 3. Another thing to consider is the tonearm cable and phono preamp. I have a Sim Audio LP 5.3 phono pre that can be adjusted for just about any cartridge. I also found out soon that a record cleaner is a must.
I live in the Cleveland area, good luck trying to find and audition a turntable at a dealer.
I bring these points up because vinyl is not easy or convenient. I sold my digital front end for my first two years of getting back into vinyl, now if I had to choose between the two, the vinyl would stay, although I like both. Starting with a (almost) ready to run rig gave me a chance to learn while I listened.
Good luck, sorry I can't help with an arm choice,
Mike