I guess I was misunderstood. What I meant is that if you think that Red Book CDs or even most SACDs that are re-issues of conventional digital recordings can be equal to or superior to (high quality, low noise) vinyl copies of the same music, I don’t agree. (I think it’s because of the "brick wall" filtering, but that is another discussion entirely.) Yes, conventional measurements of "distortion" might support such a contention, but listening never does, in my opinion. On the other hand, I do agree that the best modern digital sources like hi-rez streaming or perhaps hard drive with high resolution can exceed or certainly equal vinyl in measurable or listenable distortion. It still doesn’t "float my boat", but fine for those who love it. And at least it doesn't offend me when I do hear such sources.
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!