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Should I upgrade my Merrill turntable?

I have a Merrill turntable purchased about 20 years ago. It has a Well Tempered Arm. There is nothing wrong with the Merrill, but I feel after 20 years, with improvements in materials, technology, and general wear & tear, most things usually need an upgrade.

I am trying to decide if I should upgrade the Merrill by replacing the springs, tuning weight, clamping ring and a new spacer for the WTA. The upgrades would cost around $1400. Or is it time for a new turntable, like the VPI Scoutmaster. I like the idea of keeping the Merrill, as I have enjoyed using it for many years, but what I don’t know is if the upgraded table will sound as good as or better than something new. Would the upgrades be cost effective? Does anyone have any experience with upgrading an original Merrill. Any help would really be appreciated.
lloydk

Showing 1 response by ddarch44

ddarch44's avatar
ddarch44
40 posts
 
Hi,

Never heard or owned a Scoutmaster, but the Merrill easily bested a Music Hall MMF-7. Easily.

Not sure what upgrading the tuning weight or clamp would do, unless they are damaged. The springs could use replacing, yes.

I would talk to Anthony at Merrill/Scillia and ask what he recommends for an upgrade path. Perhaps the new speed control/motor unit is the way to go???

Dave

In case you didn't know, lots of merrill info here:

http://www.vinylnirvana.com/ar_merrill.shtml

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