The Allure of Vintage Audio Gear
Vintage audio gear holds a unique charm, offering rich sound and timeless design that many modern components can't quite replicate. Brands like Marantz, McIntosh, and JBL are still revered for their warm, detailed sound, especially in tube amps and classic speakers. While modern technology offers improved reliability and lower distortion, vintage gear brings a sense of nostalgia and character that many audiophiles crave.
Do you prefer the warmth of vintage, or do you lean toward modern hi-fi innovations? How would you mix vintage with modern in your setup?
I have a "vintage" Sonic Frontiers SFP1 PHONO PREAMP that I bought here on the 'gon in 2007. I bought it as a relatively "newbie" that I paired with a Benz Micro Glider MC cartridge, 1.1mv. it sounded great for years. I upgraded several components around it since then. 2 years ago I had it modified at Parts Connexion by Glenn and Chris. The unit sounded even better. Very smooth, clear, focused and dynamic, with plenty of slam. My point? Good luck adjusting it for resistance or capacitance (mm) if you want to swap carts. It involves soldering resisters on the circuit board, that's after you remove the screws and the top cover. Big PITA(SS). Modern gear lets you adjust everything on dials on the faceplate. Vintage great sound? Yes! Huge inconvenience? Yes! |
@jasonbourne71, wow! I had the original 3 highboys I believe they were called and traded them for the 3A, then bought the 7 which was a more modern 3A. I worked in an audio store, and got 50% off retail. I think the 7 went for $800 retail price. I don’t remember why I sold them but I was going through a lot of gear back then, Kenwood integrated amps, then went on to Accuphase which was made by Kensonic back then. I kick myself for not keeping some of the equipment. I eventually stuck with GAS Ampzilla, Thedra preamp and a sleeping beauty moving coil cartridge on a uber expensive JVC direct drive turntable. |
Most of my gear is "vintage" -- the newest additions include a set of KLH 5's (which I love) and a 2018 Dennis Had Inspire "Fire Bottle" 45 amp and matching LP3.1 preamp. My main setup is a MC-225 built in 1963 with an ARC SP17 preamp pushing Klipsch Forte II's. I have my original Nakamichi Stasis system from 1987 hooked up to Polk Audio Monitor 10 speakers, and a Kenwood KA-9100 from 1977 with Electrovoice speakers.
Various other systems utilizing Dynaco, Reisong, Scott, etc., so I see no need to spend thousands on "new" gear now that I'm in my 60's. The exception is upgrading turntables, cartridges, or adding an extra streamer. More power to those dropping $90,000 on a new ARC amp -- but I'll spend that on my fishing trips, boat, and 150 year old cabin overlooking the river at my 100 acre farm. Join me! |
