I second the suggestion of not topping out your budget for a part of your system that you’re not sure you’re going to continue; keep your purchases fairly modest initially so you don’t take a large bath when either trying to resell it or just letting it sit around. The VPI Player has a preamp built in and comes with a cartridge, so not a bad way to start, and setup is minimal so you don’t have to spend time worrying about having it right. That will get you involved in vinyl so you can decide if that’s a path you want to follow.
Help me decide on first turntable purchase
This is my first turntable purchase. Last time I had a TT was when I was teenager in the 80's. I don't have much vinyl at all so I have to buy records as well. Budget is $3000, really don't want to go over that. I need a phono stage as well. My system is Sonus Faber Sonetto VIII, PrimaLuna EVO 400 integrated. My digital is a Innuos Zenith mkIII into a Chord Qutest. My initial thoughts on a couple tables were the Mofi Ultradeck, Music Hall 7.3 and Rega Planar 6. I am sorry but I just don't like the look of the Technics stuff. I am not a big fan of the Rega looks either but I know it gets great reviews. I was considering a Clear Audio Concept until I joined the Facebook owners group and hear about all the motor speed problems. Initial phone Pre I was looking at were the Mofi and KC Vibe. The Ultradeck seems very solid and seems to get great reviews.
Thank you for your thoughts.
Thank you for your thoughts.