2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a more solid-feeling turntable (and maybe a new preamp)

Hey all,

This has been my system for years:

  • Line Magnetic LM-218IA

  • Davone Ray speakers

  • Shindo Aurieges preamp

  • Rega RP10 with a Dynavector XX-2 cart
     

The Rega’s been good to me, but I’ve never fully loved it. It just feels a bit light and fragile—both in physical build and in the way it presents music. I’m looking for something that feels more grounded, stable, and confident. Obviously I’m also looking for something that would complement the LM and the Rays.

The Shindo I do like a lot, but if there’s something out there that keeps the musicality and adds a bit more clarity or grip or that works in conjunction with any turntable recommends, I’d be open to hearing about it.

I listen mostly to rock, electronic, ambient, experimental, some jazz.

Budget is around $10k all-in.

Appreciate any recommendations!

hiscores

Showing 2 responses by retiredaudioguy

retiredaudioguy
41 posts
 

I have had my VPI Scout Master, with the JMW Memorial arm for about 20 years - zero issues & great performance.

The Scoutmaster is massive enough but can still be lifted, an increasingly important factor to me as a pre-boomer!  

Sutherland duo phono stage & Benchmark LA4 preamp for about 8 years.

The Sutherland + Benchmark combination beats the CAT SL that I'd used since the 90's, in every way. The Sutherland reveals the grooves' contents to an astonishing degree.

The duo might just break the 10K limit but there are a couple of Sutherland pieces that meet the limit.

retiredaudioguy
41 posts
 

@bbilings

Agreed about the arm lifter.  I slowly lower the arm with the lever, the built in damper does not work.

My JMW arm is unipivot and was a pain to get level.  I also use a Koetsu black, and THAT was a pain to install, separate nuts and screws, but the sound per $ is lovely.

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