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Help for my return to vinyl -- $2K rig.

I'm thinking of buying my first TT, cartridge and phono preamp. I grew up listening to records and have perhaps 100 saved up from my youth.

As part of a move, I decided to upgrade my system, and my dealer is a devout vinyl guy-- I listened to a bunch of vinyl while auditioning amplifiers and really loved the sound. The setup I listened to most was a Rega RP-6 through either a bellari or rega phono stage (I'll just try to forget what I heard through the Shindo/Garrard rig in the big room). I believe that rig gets close to $3K including a cartridge, which is just a bit higher than I want to go at this point. I'm thinking $1,500-$2,000 for a new TT/Cartridge and used phono stage. I don't generally like to buy used components with lots of moving parts, but electronics are generally fine.

System:

Line Magnetic 518IA (22 Watt Integrated 845 SET)
Merlin TSM-MME
Cary 306/200

Here's the thing-- my budget will be high enough next year to get the Rega Rig mentioned above, maybe even something nicer, so if I'm going to be disappointed by the offerings in my current price range, maybe I should just wait a year rather than buying some typical entry-level rig and losing the money the minute I drive them off the lot and realize I want more. OTOH, I'd like to enjoy some vinyl now. I'll appreciate suggestions.

D
dkidknow

Showing 1 response by jperry

jperry
2,477 posts
 
I agree with Rhljazz, purchase the Basis 2001 with modified RB250 currently listed for $1,600

Then buy these two items below and you should be at about $2,000 including shipping.

Yaqin Audio MS-22b Mullard tubes RIAA phono stage $150
Sumiko Blue Point Special mc less than 200hrs $150

I think starting with a Basis TT, which is a bargain in the used market, is much better than buying an entry level TT.

If you get upgrade fever, you can get a Basis Vector tonearm, add a MC transformer in front of the Yaquin and buy a MC cartridge. All of which will make a big difference. If you deceide to upgrade later I would upgrade the arm first.

No relation to any of the sellers.
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