So, I’m curious to get some opinions about what modern (or for that matter, vintage) TT’s might be a significant upgrade. Hoping not to exceed $1500 for this, but can stretch a little in the right circumstancesVintage is fine if your technically inclined!
And while many were built to great quality standards, most of these TT’s are now pushing 40 years old. If you go this route, expect to have to open it up and do some extensive repair or at the very least, intensive cleaning. No matter what the seller says!
Now if you don’t want the fuss that comes with vintage, go new. $1500 and bit higher can buy a lot of great sounding TT’s...
The GEM Dandy Polytable yogiboy recommended is a good one.
So is the VPI Scout Jr.
And finally if you want a vintage look but in a brand new unit built to the same extremely quality standards, then look at the new Technics SL1200GR. It’s 2 grand but will last a lifetime.
http://www.analogplanet.com/content/technics-introduces-appx-2-priced-sl-1200-gr-turntable#8q6cQ0lti...
So here you have three radically different TT’s in design and drive implementation.. Two are built in the USA and the third in Japan so you can be assured quality.
Remember that a great TT is as much a precision machine as it is an electronic component.