VPI...American made, a full line up of tables & full spectrum of pricepoints. They back their products, have great customer service, and built to last. Already mentioned on this thread - the VPI Forever Model one...at your pricepoint could also get the upgraded fatboy arm (my preference gimbal setup), the analog drive system... and a ring clamp. I have their signature with the same upgrades = it is built like a tank and will passed down to my kids.
Looking for a more solid-feeling turntable (and maybe a new preamp)
Hey all,
This has been my system for years:
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Line Magnetic LM-218IA
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Davone Ray speakers
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Shindo Aurieges preamp
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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!
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- 52 posts total
If you're not familiar with Micro Seiki, they made incredibly solid turntables—more utilitarian than elegant in appearance, but built like tanks. Personally, I think mine has a kind of industrial beauty to it. I own the RX-1500 with the separate motor base and string drive. It's a beautiful machine—function-first, but still a pleasure to look at. A good example of this model typically runs around $3,000–$4,000, and it can support up to four tonearms if you really want to go all out. I have two mounted: a Morch DP-8 and an SME 3012 II 12". It's one of the few parts of my system that I never think about upgrading—it just works, sounds great, and feels like it’ll outlive me, actually it will. Its an heirloom. |
@retiredaudioguy @bbillings was back at the Boston store with the VPI and got the full history of its previous owner. Guess he was a real hi-end guy with some amazing pieces including an ARC Reference, Levinson & Von Schweikert etc most that already sold. Anyway, it's a crazy great table with an elaborate accessories package but hey, taxes are not being kind to me this year and I have a Micro Seiki DD-40 w/505 arm & Koetsu Black. It's not the greatest table setup but it doesn't suck either, lol. I chased this one for 2yrs before finding it so... lot's to think about. |
- 52 posts total