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Time to upgrade my turntable?

I'm thinking about getting a new turntable to replace my 4 year old Pro-ject Debut Carbon with an acrylic platter and 2M Blue cartridge (with about 600 hours on it). My budget right now is about $1000 but would consider spending a bit more for right turntable. Currently my system consists of a Sansui B-2101 2 amp (200 wpc) powering ADS L1290 speakers (the speakers will be upgraded shortly to ADS L1590's when I find and replace a couple drivers). I am using a Yamaha DSP A1 as the preamp (I like the DSP sound fields that imitate jazz clubs and concert halls). I do have the matching Sansui C-2101 preamp but it is not currently in line.  I also use a DBX 3BX DS impact restorer and expander/compressor. 

I listen to classical music and jazz.

What would you suggest? I might prefer to stay within the Pro-ject line as I could reuse the acrylic platter (if one is not provided with the recommended turntable). Perhaps the debut pro or X1?
cspiegs

Showing 2 responses by socalml528

socalml528's avatar
socalml528
150 posts
 
One other note; you may want to consider the Audiogon vendors (TMR, etc.) that will take your Pro-Ject in trade.  Some offer consignment as an alternative to trade-in price.  I've found consignment almost doubles the trade-in value and only takes 4-6 weeks to complete a sale.

There's also on-line vendors with robust trade in programs on most equipment like Hi-Fi Heaven and Overture.
socalml528's avatar
socalml528
150 posts
 
Many different angles given here all valid given certain circumstances.  I'll offer another alternative.  Why not just go with an MC?

There are better turntables than the Pro-Ject Debut, but its not bad by any means and I think your tone are may handle MC; just verify that you can adjust VTA and Azimuth.

I'd recommend the Hana SH (High output MC).  With 2mV output you can plug right into your MM port.  Sound quality improvement will be significantly noticeable for $750 and will buy you time to research all the options.

I enjoyed the Ortofon 2M Blue, was more impressed with the 2M Black's detail and deep bass capability, but found the nude elliptical on the Black to be very unforgiving and best used only on pristine vinyl.  My vinyl collection varies. The Hana SH is even more detailed, natural then the Ortofon 2M Black and unlike the 2M Black, more forgiving on worn vinyl.

When you get ready to move on a new turntable you can transfer the Hana over as it will pair well with much higher level tone arms and turntables.
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