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On the Fence with Analog Vs. Digital. Need Help

Out of the blue I've been considering switching to vinyl. Most likely the reason for this is that my digital source is only an NAD T532 DVD player (ran into 2 NAD C 272 amps, NAD C162 Preamp or Adcom GFP-750 Preamp, Paradigm Studio 60 v3). The sound to me has been relatively harsh and just does not sound natural. My friend also let me borrow his Cambridge Audio Acur D540 player; it has its strengths against the T532, but can still sound bright and edgy. Granted neither of these players are ones to base a good overall analysis of digital sound reproduction on, the prospect of smooth fully analog sound is interesting to me. I've heard LPs before, but only on sub-par playback systems where the albums sounded grainy. So now the question is: do I spend $500 on a new Music Hall MMF-5 turntable and start investing in an entirely new music collection (I own about 3 LPs) to get this smooth sound that I am seeking, or is there a modestly priced CD player or external DAC out there that can achieve a smooth, lifelike sound with my current set up?

I've considered going with an external DAC and a computer-based album storage solution, but from what I've been reading and from what I've noticed listening to more expensive CD players ($3000+), it seems as though you really need to get up around that price range before digital begins to sound smoother and more analog. Right now I don't have $3000 to drop on a DAC/CD Player; it's a little easier to come up with the $500 for the Music Hall and gradually build the LP collection. So that's my dilema. I'm so close to saying "screw digital" and just taking the plunge. I might like, I might hate. Who knows.
jwglista

Showing 3 responses by restock

restock
831 posts
 
In your case, I would try to get into tube gear before getting into vinyl - getting into vinyl at this stage without any collection is difficult. I took the jump 15 years ago when everyone was getting out and records were easily available on my student salary at the time. Unless you are willing to invest into record cleaners, used records are off-limits. New records can run from $10 to $50/piece which will get you excellent quality but are you willing to spent that much?

For me the natural sound came mostly with the move to tubes rather than the move to vinyl. Vinyl takes it a step further, but I could be happy listening to music on either system now.
restock
831 posts
 
Jwglista, what city are you in or close by? What music are you listening to?

Depending on where you are, I am sure there is someone in your are that will let you listen and could mentor you with vinyl. Finally, hit the local used record shops, browse and see what you find and whether it fits your taste.

For a basic estimate I would assume $500 for a good table, about $300-500 for a better phono preamp, another $200 to get started with cleaning supplies and accessoires. That will at least double as you dig in deeper.

Last but not least; Do you have the space for LPs? We are moving every 1-2 years and like to live in the city - moving 600-800 LPs is no joke and takes a large part of our small downtown loft.
restock
831 posts
 
I’ve considered going with possibly a tube DAC, or a tube preamp, but since I don’t have the money to spend on both a tube preamp and a new DAC at once, it’s hard to decide which is more important.

There are a couple of good tube preamps in the $500 range used that would give you a good start. Take a look at the Bottlehead Foreplay kit and the Quicksilver preamp. Audible Illusions has some good preamps as well.

As for DACs, I have heard many good things about the MHDT Paradisea+ from some very reliable people. Worth considering as a $400 tube DAC.
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