I agree with the previous posters. Upgrade the TT/arm/cartridge. Lugnut makes some very worthwhile suggestions. Before you do any purchasing of new stuff, I would take his/her suggestions to heart and embark on a tuneup of your current TT setup. Check oil in the bearing. Cartridge alignment and VTA is critical. Also experiment with mats. If, after you have cleaned and aligned everything and you still are not happy with the sound, I would next experiment with different cartridges. Dougdeacon and Lugnut suggest MCs. You might also try a Grado MM. They are inexpensive and do not require a step-up device. Grados are a standard recommendation I make to friends who are looking for an inexpensive cartridge.
Rewire and new power cord or Upgrade TT
I have a Thorens 160 BC with a Linn Basik Plus arm and Goldring 1012 Cartridge. I have upgraded the rest of my system which consists of a McCormack DNA-1, Tube Audio Design 150 Pre and Eastern electric Minimax CD. Speakers are Vandersteen 2CE sigs which I have had since 2002. I am wondering if it would be worth it to have my TT rewired with good interconnects and power cord or just go for an upgrade. I went from an Adcom GCD 600 CD to the Eastern Electric and I am hearing music on the CD that seems to surpasse the quality of my TT from an image and soundstage perspective. I am thinking that the standard interconnects and PC that came with the Thorens are holding back the image and soundstage. Looking for some advise...
Eagleman
Eagleman