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Thoughts About Turntable Upgrades

I hope everyone is having a good Saturday. I'm sitting here listening to CDs because at the moment my digital playback is simply better than my turntable. The Audio Mirror Tubadour DAC that I purchased a few months ago is simply outstanding when paired with my old Cary 308. This leads to my questions/musings about turntable upgrades. 

I got back into vinyl a few years ago and purchased the Rega P3 with a Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 preamp as a starter kit. I upgraded the cart to a Denon 301 II, which was big improvement for me. Looking forward, I'm leaning heavily towards a Sota Sapphire. I want a US made table only because I'm interested in having a US based system. The Sota seems like a good fit because I value sound that is more laid-back and I'm looking for a table that will emphasize warmth, soundstage, presence, solidity. That's the best I can offer in verbally describing my goal. I'm frankly looking for something that will top the Tubadour experience! The Rega is good, but after a few albums my ears are a bit exhausted.

Here are my questions:

Do y'all have any thoughts on my leaning towards Sota? Any other recommendations? Is there any reason to start with a new preamp rather than a new turntable? If so, what are your recommendations? 

I'm interested in your responses to these questions, but also any other suggestions as well. Let me have it! 

 

rblondeau

Showing 1 response by brskie

brskie
67 posts
 

I listen to both Vinyl and CD pressing from producers that specialise in the production of the better than the usual recordings.

I have also been able to hear these select recordings on some occasions as Same Album Samples on either of the mediums.

I have also been able to hear certain Albums that are select recordings compared to mainstream releases.

I will 'state categorically' that these pressing do make a difference, there is a price difference, and it is this that is seen to be a sticking point for some. There is even prejudices seen occasionally toward select recordings, as a result of the retail price.

@pindac +1 ^^

Quality of the source makes ALL the difference with revealing systems. I have been cashing in with some of my "collectable" vinyl, trading them for high quality pressings of the music I listen to these days. My vinyl collection has been morphing into a smaller collection of mostly audiophile vinyl.

As @vonhelmholtz said, my vinyl listening is deliberate and focused. Everything else I stream.

Bruce

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