Technics SL1200G, I compared with the RP10 and preferred the 1200. Have recently replaced magnesium stock tonearm with Supatrac blackbird arm.Sounds better than my previously owned Kuzma XL DC with 4pt arm. Superb tracking, solidity, clarity, tone and imaging.
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!
- ...
- 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. |
I'm happy with the VPI Scoutmaster that I have with a couple of exceptions: The setup of the tonearm is a nightmare due to the dual pivot tonearm (I'd prefer the Gimbal arm for ease of use). The sound once setup is great though. The arm lifter is a bit clunky but it may need service. One nice thing is VPI will restore the table and give a 1 year warranty if service is needed and the recommended services are followed. Just a few extra thoughts. |
- 52 posts total