2. analog
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My jazz collection told me to get a *real* system

So I’m determined to put together my first serious analog system, having subsisted on entry-level NAD TT, integrated and phono amp for over 10 years. My tastes are very eclectic, but I’ve put together a nice jazz collection and that’s what’s really crying out. I’m looking at a budget of about $8K over the next 12-18 months. Yeah, that’s the trick: This ain’t gonna happen over night. But I’m willing to be patient with imbalances in my system as long as I’m headed in the right direction. And I’d rather go the route of buying the gear I really want for the long term rather than stop gaps and labor intensive upgrade paths etc. My life just doesn’t have room for that.

N.B.: Looking to stay SS, likely integrated+phono preamp configuration. Really just talking about the table, cart, and amplification ... speakers and ICs are OK for now.

Questions:
1) How would you divvy up the dough?
2) In what order would you buy the components?
3) Top 3 recommendations within each component category?
4) Other crucial considerations?

Appreciate the wisdom!
jazztherapist

Showing 1 response by everstar

everstar's avatar
everstar
6 posts
 
fellow jazz lover but not exclusively a jazz person, like you I have very eclectic tastes. 

Never heard Epos but they are always mentioned as a very good match with Exposure electronics. The 2010s model got pretty great reviews and user feedback from most everyone. Probably could grab one for less than 1000 bucks. 

I have a VPI Prime/ Musical Surrounding Phenomena Phono/Soundsmith Aida. I love my system. 

I would go reasonable on Electronics like the exposure knowing that later a speaker upgrade might necessitate a amplification upgrade.

I would buy a really good TT/Phono and Cart that can grow with the system in the future. That is what I would do with the money. Plus living in SF you should be able to hear some pretty amazing gear before choosing. Take your time and listen before you leap.

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