2. analog
  3. 176110-172731

The best way to start adding A=analog to my system

When I started this hobby, I never thought I would need a turntable, so I didn’t think about phono stages etc. That changed with a recent listening session. Vinyl just sounds better to me so now I am trying to figure out where I need to spend, where I can go cheap for the moment. Should I balance all parts at the same level or begin with one great piece and gradually upgrade around it?

For context, my current system has:

Blumenhofer Genuin FS2 speakers, Art Audio PX-25 power, Audio Research SP16L pre-amp. I have a Ayre Cx5 CD player/DAC and an MD-90 tuner.

For turntables, I have auditioned Pro-Jects Xtension 9, Rega P3 and the Clearaudio Concept. I am planning to listen to the Clearaudio Performance next and based on what I have read and heard, I think that may be the answer. but that is a $2k step up in price. Part of me is thinking just get the better table and maybe the Tracer arm and start with cheaper cartridge/stage for now, vs matching things that are more within budget and then having to change everything later.

What makes the most sense?

saulh

Showing 1 response by bkeske

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bkeske
5,597 posts
 

@saulh

I have the Hagerman Trumpet as well. I have a feeling you read the Mikey Fremer review. To be honest, I think Mikey botched that review. Seems he really didn’t take it too seriously.

Is it too ‘tubey’? Perhaps, with the stock Mullards installed. But still sounds good. I first replaced the 12ax7 Mullards with new Genalex Gold Lion gold pins, and that leaned things out and provided better detail overall…..then found some NOS Dynaco branded Telefunken smooth plates, and they improved the Gold Lions by a fair degree with more smoothness and refinement.

Nice thing about a tube pre, you can change the sonics per your desire.

The Hagerman Trumpet MC is a steal IMO.

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