2. analog
  3. 169684-164950

New to Turntables

My Father sent me a box of 45s and I no longer have a record player. Albeit, I do have some old LPs stored away.  So I thought it was time to get at least a serviceable record player.

I opted for the Denon DP-450USB. All the reviews say that the cartridge on this player is sub-par, so I have ordered the Ortofon 2m Red to replace it.

The question I have is on the best setup, based on what I have.  The Denon player has a built in pre-amp and my Yamaha TSR-7810 has a Phono stage connection.

Would it be better to use the player's built in pre-amp? Or switch the pre-amp off and use the Yamaha's pre-amp? I suppose it is a matter whether Yamaha's pre-amp is better than the built in Denon player's pre-amp.

Any thoughts?
guakus

Showing 2 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,790 posts
 
simply try both, pick your preference.

my phono eq experiences:

main system:

had AT120 TT with switchable built in 'dinky' phono eq.

had McIntosh C28 SS Preamp, with phono stage, presumable better, right?

I preferred the dinky AT phono, sold the C28.

bought a vintage McIntosh Tube Tuner/Preamp, much prefer it's phono eq. Changed TT, arms. cartridges, love the mx110z's phono eq, thus use a SUT for MC so I can still use the mx110z's MM Phono EQ.
.................................

Office System:

added a TT with MM. Needed Phono EQ.

bought Cambridge Duo. did NOT like it.

bought a Pyle $14. phono eq, to use while looking for something better. Sounded darn good, sent the Cambridge back.

Changed to a Luxman with both MM and MC built-in. Prefer it, gave the Pyle to a friend.
elliottbnewcombjr
5,790 posts
 
who will mount the alternate cartridge?

I suggest a 2nd headshell so you can compare/use different cartridges.

it takes some inexpensive tools, and acquired skill to mount a cartridge, I suggest you practice with the stock cartridge first, then align the new one.

note in mm the distance, from the center of the center spindle, to the stylus tip of the factory mounted cartridge. that is called ’overhang’. you want the same distance, the same overhang spindle center to stylus tip for ANY cartridge you mount (on that particular TT).

then all the other parameters to get the best sound, stylus life, and avoid damaging your LPs.

https://audio-technica.com.au/latest-news/how-to/align-turntable-cartridge/

I like this headshell because it has adjustable azimuth if needed, for this and any future TT

https://www.ebay.com/itm/293416434592?hash=item4450fb7ba0:g:fWQAAOSwq4VeXaps
More to discover