2. analog
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Project Xtension 12 or VPI Classic 3

Hello,
I am looking to get into vinyl and am a bit of a novice.
I have demo'd vinyl and loved the sound compared to digital.
I am considering 2 turntable / cartridge options at this time.
A Project 12 xtension with a Sumiko Celebration 2 Cartridge and a VPI Classic 3 with an Ortofon Cadenza Black Cartridge.
Is the VPI / Ortofon that much better?
I don't have the opportunity to demo that combination but have read great reviews.
Is it worth the addional cost?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I currently have Cremona M's, Conrad Johnson ET3 SE with Phono and Cary 500 MB Mono Blocks and my current source is a an Oppo 95
Thanks
pkelly1504

Showing 4 responses by zd542

zd542
5,339 posts
 
I've never had any problems with the unipivot design in my VPI TT's as well.

More importantly, though, the components that you are looking at are very expensive for someone who's just getting started with analog. Its pretty risky. What if you don't like what you buy?
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Analogue is not like digital when it comes to upgrades. With digital, you get something new and it sounds better than what you had, and you are happy for a while. After the newness wears off, you feel compelled to upgrade again. Analogue isn't like that. You may find areas that you would like to improve but you can still be happy with what you have in the mean time. (My theory, of course. Others may feel differently.)

"I am aware that I am looking at expensive components however I feel that in the long run I will save money because I will not have the need to upgrade as I am possibly doing with my current speakers."

Spoken like a true audiophile. Spend $8500 on a record player to save money.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"When someone says one is better than the other they need to also be able to say they have heard both in the same system."

I agree. That's an excellent point. Also, one other thing you really need to do is try the new TT setup (or at least the cart), with your preamp. Especially if you are considering a low output MC. You'll be asking a lot of the phono stage in your CJ.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"While I do agree with this, personal tastes are also critical as to what is "better"."

Another good point. I think I can put this into "better" context.

"When someone says one is better than the other they need to also be able to say they have heard both in the same system."

To me, that statement implies "better" will be a subjective judgement by one person listening to both TT setups in the same system. So if 2 or more people listen to the same setup listed above, each person gets to say what is "better"; for them. And having the 2 TT's in one system allows you to eliminate many variables in the sound that is not related to the gear you are trying to evaluate. Its a better "better".
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