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
Do yourself a favor: Buy the Scout or Scoutmaster w/ Dynavector 20x cart. and use the phono stage in the C2200 preamp. I had that same amp/pre combo and really enjoyed the phono stage. In fact, I thought it was much better than Stereophile said. I also found the Ginkho Cloud to be a tremendous improvement under the Scout.
Tables such as the Teres and Scheu are in another league from any British sprung table including a Linn LP12. They were pretty good 20 to 30 years back.
im a first time buyer and got a vpi scoutmaster with dyna 10x5 and an ear834p.

ive researched a lot and went with this combo blind .
hope i get satisfied . ill set it up next week wednesday.
Hey Screwdriver,

You did well. Your table and the EAR will serve you well. For the money, the Dyna 10x5 is a fine cartridge. You should listen for a while and establish a good sense of what your system can do; when and if you decide to upgade, you can go for a bigger investment in the cartridge and the table and EAR should easily hold their own. You have a good system now and a clearly upgradeable path if you choose to put more $ into the cartridge. Happy listening.
Thanks to all for your suggestions. I have listened to several modestly priced tables the past few days (Rega & Project), and was very pleased with what I heard vs CD. I'm looking forward to hearing a few of the higher quality tables/cartridges! I am moving forward slowly but surely...