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Questions - returning to analog

I have some basic questions and am seeking some recommendations:

I am steadily upgrading my old college system (Yamaha receiver, Von Schweikert monitors, Sony CD changer), and have now running purchased Maggie 3.5's driven by Plinius 8200 integrated w/ internal MM phono stage, HHB pro recording CD for digital.

I have not yet upgraded my analog gear. I have an old Technics SL-BD20, and as an interim step before buying a better 'table have purchased a new cartridge on the cheap (due to Technics P-mount arm).

Question 1: New cart has much better high end than old Shure M94P, but also a lot of sibilance especially with cymbals. Hi-hats sound like spitting, breaking glass. What causes this? When I increase tracking, sibilance seems to reduce...but sound is less animated, seems muted and strained. It is currently unlistenable and am not ready to use it as a frisbee yet.

Question 2: I'm on a budget. When I upgrade, what's a good 'table / tonearm / cartridge that won't set me back too much, but will provide enduring listening benefits?

Have seen MMF-1's and other entry-level models used on Audiogon at reasonable prices. But I am also curious if biting the bullet for MMF-5, Rega, VPI or similar tier would be a better long-term purchase.

I also love the look of the Basis 1400 and have heard some good things about them, but am more interested in realistic sonic matching with my other components...despite that really cool acrylic plinth.

Thanks in advance for all your responses, Audiogon has never failed to provide me real-world, meaningful suggestions. But I'm really afraid this is starting to turn into an obsession...LOL

Tim
timwat

Showing 1 response by basement

basement
245 posts
 
Tim,
You say this may be turning into an obsession, but obviously you are enjoying it.
all of the above recomendations are good, but as you say you want something that will endure, I would definitely get something that is upgradeable, and is interchangable.
The VPI hw19jr is only a little more money than a rega with the same arm, is upgradable, can be found used as well as new, and parts are all over and easily replaceable, and will be for many years, I'm sure. Same with any Sota, from the jewel up. Both can use virtually any arm. I think the Basis you mention also falls into this catagory.
Another suggestion; check on a benz-micro mc20e2 I think they may still be only $150. It may leave enough in your budget to get a better table, and good enough to get the sonic benifits of the money you spent on a better table.
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