Table,cartridge,phono...where to put most of my money?


  Let me start by saying im a digital guy,to be specific a CD/SACD guy.Years ago I ventured back into vinyl only to be totally disappointed in my efforts.I wanted to hear the records I had been hauling around the country every time i relocated.I  bought a Linn LP12 and had  all the upgrades done.I never could get it sounding good,even paid to have it setup by a so called expert...Fast forward ,I tried again maybe 6 years ago.Bought a VPI super scout with a couple different phono stages(dont recall what they were)..About the same outcome,was ok but for all the fuss,time,cost I felt another unsuccessful attempt..A few weeks ago i bought at an auction a direct drive Pioneer table from the 70s for a couple hundred.It was paired with a decent cartridge.I bought a used phone amp off ebay and off and rolling i went.Its no where near my digital side across the board and i didnt expect it to be but its got me wanting more....Long story short,I have a budget of 5k/6k for everything..table,cartridge and phone amp..Yes i understand everything is important but where would you put the bulk of the budget...and what would you buy with the limited info given,,Thanks

missioncoonery

Showing 2 responses by theflattire

If I had to start over:

Rega P3 (upgradeable) $1300

Audio Technica OC9 or ART9 $700-1500

Darlington Labs MP-7/SU-7 (or favorite SUT) $1000+

This is actually pretty close to what I used to have.

I always thought 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 was a good starting point.

That way, there should be no bottlenecks or weak links and hopefully each component should be bringing out the best of the other.

A $1500 TT, cart, and phono stage, I think is a great start!  Of course it helps to do your homework and spend wisely.