+1 on both the DL-160 and AT150MLX. Although the DL-160 is nice for the price, the extra spent on the AT150MLX will reward you handsomely--similar tonal balance, but faster, deeper, tighter, better tracker, more detail, but not in a hyper-detailed way. Just more music and better connection with the artists.
Need Advice: Setting up a basic analog system
Hello, newbie here, I just inherited a Technics SL1200mk2 w an Orsonic headshell w an AT31E cartridge; and a Mark Levinson LNP-2 Preamp. I am now planning on setting up a basic system to listen to my old vinyl. I've been going thru the forums and websites and I'm planning on getting an Adcom 535 power amp, Polk Audio RTi 1A speakers and maybe a TCC TC-760LC phono preamp. Was also toying with the idea of getting a new phono cart like the Audio Technica AT95e or the Shure M97, or maybe even a budget tube amp.
I am after a decent analog setup, something like a basic audiophile system (budget). My listening room is probably 10' x 12'. I would appreciate your inputs, comments, suggestions. Cheers!
I am after a decent analog setup, something like a basic audiophile system (budget). My listening room is probably 10' x 12'. I would appreciate your inputs, comments, suggestions. Cheers!
Showing 3 responses by johnnyb53
08-28-09: MonakoYes, now that you ask. Hdm's advice was very good. For a little over $300, I'd go for the new stylus for the AT31E and a good entry level phono preamp that has the gain for a low output moving coil pickup. My first choice for a phono stage in your price range is the Cambridge 640P. The stylus and 640p add up to about $340. For a review, download issue 21 of Tone Audio magazine here and read the review on page 45. |
08-28-09: MonakoAccording to the specs at LPGear, the AT31E has an output of 0.4mV. The Tone Audio review in Issue 21 mates the Zu 103 MC with the Cambridge 640P with no complaints about gain. The Zu 103 has a lower output at 0.3mV than the AT31E, so I would say it wouldn't be a problem. The 640P has a very low noise floor, so you can turn it up without it getting noisy. Audio Advisor also sells the Music Hall, which has 60dB gain in the MC setting. You could call Audio Advisor to see which they'd recommend. I don't think the .4mV is going to be a problem with the Cambridge. If it is, Audio Advisor has a 30-day return period and return shipping on such a small unit wouldn't cost very much. |