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Recommendation needed for Turntable

I'm not sure that I'm a real audiophile and am on a budget of about $1000, and would like to keep it there, for a new/used turntable. My Rega P2, bought in 1996, broke in a move last year. I'm ready to replace it.

I have about 300 CDS and about 500 lp records. I listen to the following music:

Jazz: 20%
Pop/Rock: 50%;
Folk/Acoustic Blues: 20%; and
Classical: 10%.

My system is as follows:

Integrated amp: Creek 5350se, with se MM phono board; Loudspeakers: Totem Arros; and
CD player: Rotel RCD-1072.

I would greatly appreciate some recommendations for a turntable. I honestly was probably ready for a slight upgrade on my Rega P2 when it broke. I have no preference for new or used, as long as it is well built.

I haven't auditioned any equipment in so long and I don't keep up on what's new anymore, so I kind of feel lost. I thought about picking up a 70s Thorens TT and starting there. Then I thought about buying a P3. Now I'm truly lost! Please help. Thanks much to community. I appreciate your time and sharing your thoughts and experiences.

Jamey
jbhiller

Showing 11 responses by jbhiller

jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
I'm definitely curious now about KABUSA and their modifications. Thanks for this!
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
I tried to get in touch with the fellow at vinylnirvana and can't get a response. I will keep trying. Thanks.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
I heard a VPI about 15 years ago, in college, and really enjoyed it. At the time, it was just a dream. Funny to think I could be shopping for one. I will keep this on my shortlist. Thank you.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Is moving coil, I believe. I could go there, but that means starting with a phono preamp and, while not against it because it is ultimately a good idea, I was keen on using the MM se board in the Creek. Still open to this.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Rega Response:

I loved my Rega P2, but I was experimenting with cartridges near the end there, trying to coax out more overall "presence" or something. My P2 was tuneful and well behaved. I definitely would like more wow factor.

I hate to admit this, because it is what initially attracted me to the P2, but I wish Regas had a bit more curb appeal.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
1. Ok, I could go to $1500 MAX, total with cartridge.

2. Thank you all so much! I have hours of research, which is fun, to do now.

Any additional suggestions due to my answer in 1 above will be super appreciated.

Thanks all!
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Thanks for the advice on the VPI, and the comments on the KAB. I think the VPI is a must to look at in my price range.

One person with KAB exchanged emails with me. He/she felt that the KAB was a nice upgrade and the Technics was built like a tank, with great features and stability. However, he/she felt that the Rega line was more musical.

Because the modded KAB gets me over $1,000, I feel it might be better to consider a Rega P3-24, P5, VPI, and some other well built tables (Clearaudio?).

Thanks to all. I will definitely update with my decision.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Good point Michael.

I was arriving at the number by purchasing the 1210M5G because it had better stock wiring and I liked it's looks a bit better. I was adding in the tonearm re-wire, strobe disabler, and at least $125 for a cartridge. That gets me >$1000.

So it's not necessary and I could do some upgrades on my own. I am still "on the fence" but I'm concerned about the following:

Not being able to audition the KAB;
KAB modded table's resale;

I like the following:

Technics tables are built like tanks;
Easy to find parts and service;
Nice looking and with good features.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Michael,

Do you have a KAB? If so, how does your KAB compare with your Musichall listed on your system profile? I am very interested!
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
Thanks, Michael.

I emailed Kevin and he has been helpful. I'm thinking of a table, arm rewire and cartridge at around $1000. Nice thing is, it should last forever.

My Rega was great but a touch ginerly in its make and sound. I am, however, nervous about how good the tonearm will sound--or make the whole unit sound. I may bite the bullet and go with a KAB.

I will say, the attack of a Technics is nice and aggressive and--quite frankly--I haven't heard one that was shrill or anything and those I've listened to have had inexpensive cartridges.

Thanks again.
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,446 posts
 
I'm going with a used Roksan Radius V. I think the KAB is a great idea but I'm concerned it's not going to be musical enough and the cost of the two is equal assuming I do upgrades to the KAB and buy the Radius used.
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