2. analog
  3. 1107362987

Trying Analog Again - Sugg for $2K-$4K Budget?

After reading all the comments from everyone about how Vinyl has such a superior sound vs CD, I am interested in giving Vinyl a try again. My only memories are from 20+ years ago with an inexpensive TT.

I enjoy all types of music and especially instrumental piano, guitar, and quality female vocals.

My current system consists of McIntosh MC2102/C2200, Naim CD5, and Alon (Nola) II speakers. The C2200 has a phono stage that Stereophile rated as "good, but not stellar" and Absolute Sound rated as excellent. Phono stage specs are MM only, 4.4mV for 2.5V output (not sure what 4.4mV sensitivity means). I would prefer not to have a separate phono stage if possible, but would entertain the possiblity if current equipment is holding me back. The new table/arm/cartridge will be sitting on the top of a Salamander Synergy S30 rack.

After lots of research and considering the wife approval factor, the VPI line looks to be the direction I'm heading. The Scout has gotten great reviews, however, there are so many other turntables (Scout Master, Super Scout Master, Aries)in that line it makes me wonder. I would prefer to purchase a high-quality table/arm/cartridge the first time vs. entry level. This strategy may not be possible on my budget - not sure.

I have no problem buying used, but have never set up or aligned a cartridge or arm. I really appreciate your help and suggestions so I can begin enjoying the "Vinyl Sound"!
encyclopediabsh

Showing 1 response by rauliruegas

rauliruegas
13,125 posts
 
Dear friend: According your priorities my advise is that you go for the Acoustic Signature Final Tool TT ( www.acoustic-signature.com ) and Moerch DP-6 or UP-4 tonearm ( any of these tonearms have the advantage that you can mate any cartridge with it because you can choose arm wands with different effective mass. Btw, these are very good tonearms. )

For the cartridge, there are many options: high output MC cartridges or MM cartridges ( this options are for you can work with what you already have ). For the MC you can look to: Dynavector, Sumiko and Ortofon cartridges. For the MM type, you can look to: Clearaudio, Ortofon, Linn, Dynavector, Audiotechnica.

All these companies are a very trusty cartridge manufacturers.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
More to discover