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Help for a vinyl novice

Hello,

I've swam about in hi-end audio for over a decade now, but only in the digital world. I've had plenty of experience with tubes, ss, planars, drivers, etc. However, i'm making the plunge into the deeper waters of vinyl. Whenever I see a good, "entry-level" tt for sale, I immediately start researching it here and elsewhere online. And, of course, there are as many good reviews as there are detractors and I end up with cold feet.

Could someone point me to a solid tt under $1K, including arm and cartridge? I'm not averse to upgrading either at a later date and feel comfortable enough to undertake such an upgrade as needed, though not immediately.

I have a pair of Reference 3A de Capo i's being powered by an LSA Statement integrated with an MM phono input. My listening room is small - 10'W x 12'L x 7'H - and I have an 8" Velodyne sub lurking in the corner.

Maybe take a look at what's being offered now and advise? or advise what to look for in future listings?

Thank you much,

Simao
simao

Showing 2 responses by martinman

martinman's avatar
martinman
96 posts
 
Hi Simao,

I was in your position only a few months ago. Here's the thread I started:
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?eanlg&1388455928&&&/Turntable-suggestion-budget-or-not-

My suggestion:
Linn LP12
Technics 1200Mk2
VPI Traveler

For Pre (you don't need one, but for reference):
Cambridge 651p
Musical Fidelity V-LPS
Jolida JD9
Musical Surrounds Phonomena II

I ended up (much to my surprise) with a Technics. For about $500 used you can get a very good TT provided it's not DJ'ed. I'll eventually upgrade, but for right now, entry level, I don't think you can go wrong.
martinman's avatar
martinman
96 posts
 
Technics vs. Linn:

Used Technics $500 w/ cart
Used Linn LP12 Sondek $1k - $1.5k w/ cart (or more)

For me, the difference in price was why I went with the technics. I couldn't justify the expense right out of the gate of the LP12. I wanted a good platform that I can tweak, upgrade and mess around with. The 1200 is just that. There is just a *ton* of support out there for the technics. Many time tested (and proven) advise and upgrades.

Also, at these price points, I don't think the LP12 offers 2-3x the performance the technics does. For my money, the better value is the 1200. I mean really, you can't go wrong with either one..
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