2. analog
  3. 153404-82546

Starting research for turntable

I'm beginning my research for a turntable, first of all there's a $4,000 ceiling second hand is okay. What I would like is a belt drive with a tonearm and maybe cartridge to begin with, I do want the ability to try different tonearm and cartridge combinations. I've looked at many manufacturers and some I'm looking at are the Dr. Feikert Volare, Sota Sapphire, Music Hall mmf 9.1, VPI Prime and Scout. If you recommend others to look for that will be appreciated. I will probably have only one table and want some versatility. My music interests are primarily Jazz, Folk, Classical, Blues and vintage rock. I'm listing my components below. 


McIntosh mc75 mono amps vintage

PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier new

PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube DAC new

Bluesound node 2i streamer new

Dayton sa1000 subwoofer amplifier new

EMERALD PHYSICS KCII PRO speakers new

Duke 24 subwoofer x 4 new

Bluejean cables through out new


Listening room size 20' long x 14' wide x 9' in height


Bass traps and absorbers throughout the room.


Thanks 

Mike 




zardozmike

Showing 9 responses by zardozmike

zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
I'm so happy with my analog setup, possibly considering selling my dac! 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
True that, if I sold the dac and node 2i there would be a empty spot in my rack needing to be filled.  
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
I'm have some wiggle as far as price is concerned, $4,000 was a figure to go from and was only for the turntable.  As far as experimenting with different setups, I'm retired and enjoy the challenge of getting the best sound quality I can.  I do all the mechanics on my motorcycle. 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
I want to thank everyone who has commented about my search. 
First of all I want to try to clear up any discrepancy with the original post.  I am and have been an audio enthusiast most of my life.  Now  retired I'm choosing to spend my time pursuing my hobby.

I realize that a phono preamp is required. what I'm looking for from your expertise is advice on pairings of table, preamp, arm and cartridge mc and mm. I put an amount of $4,000 for table alone pure and simple, the other items are expected as extra costs.

You have given me good suggestions particularly about George Merrill, I tend to really like crafts people like him.

I hope this gives you more information of what I'm after. 

Thanks 
Mike 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
I bought a Merrill Williams R.E.A.L 101 turntable demo, with new Nottingham tonearm.  Planning to purchase soundsmith Othello cartridge.  Recommendations for cable would be welcome.  Sooner than I expected but I'm happy.  
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
Thanks for everyone's support? 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
What would be the point? 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
Soundsmith Carmen? 
zardozmike OP
193 posts
 
Bought Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC ✳️ ES. 
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