2. analog
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Recommend an Entry Level Turntable (And maybe an integrated Amp)

I've been wanting to upgrade my system for a long time now.

My system currently consists of a pair of B&W 630's, an old Denon 50 watt reciever (DRA-550) from the mid 80's,  and a Marantz 5004 cd player.  I'm pretty happy with all three.

I'm looking to get into vinyl and The Project Debut Carbon turntable was recommended.  I listened to it but wasn't amazed by it. So I sent it back.

I then called my local audio store and the salesman said that if the system sounds good with cds but not with the turntable then the weak link is probably the phono pre amp.

So, he recommended the NAD C388 integrated amp which has the added benefit of more power (150 watts per channel) and bluetooth as well (something I definitely want).  He did qualify it by saying that reciever/amp technology hasn't changed much over the years.

He also recommended an upgrade of the turntable cartridge to the Sumiko Rainier.

Just thinking out loud.  I'd be open to adding a bluetooth and a new phono preamp to the Denon, but I'm not sure if that would be better.

TIA

klimt

Showing 1 response by deadhead1000

deadhead1000's avatar
deadhead1000
711 posts
 

I get you're still happy with the Denon, but I'd also suggest you upgrade that receiver first. You will hear a big difference with the NAD (NAD always sounded better then Denon in my opinion), or any of the others mentioned -  for CD's and streaming even, much less a new turntable. The phono pre-amp in the Denon is a weak link, not just the power, or age of the whole thing. The Project is a decent table for the money, but I doubt you'd be happy spending more money on a table right now as it probably won't make much difference with that receiver - good in its day, but that was a long time ago. 

As for turntables, I own a REGA, but the other ones mentioned are fine also. Just one opinion, but I hope it helps.

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