2. analog
  3. 1078657648

Turntable Advice

Now that I have a few good Beatles LPs on the way, I need to buy a turntable. My old Sony just isn't going to work. I have narrowed things down to a few models and would like some input from you all. All of these are on A-gon now, although I haven't been in contact with all of the sellers yet. Anyway, the choices are:

VPI Scout- the advantage I see here is that they are fairly new and seem to have a good rep. Not the most pleasing to the eye.

VPI Mk3- Several variations available, good rep, I would upgrade them to MKIV. One has an ET-2 arm. They are all at least 10-15 years old and quite used. I do like how they look the best (wood base).

Linn Sondek LP12- Lots of these around. At least 15 years old, good reputation, tried and true. Nearing the end of their useful life?

When all is said and done, I will probably be into these for about $1500-2000. Since I have no way of looking at or auditioning them before I buy, I feel like I'm just taking a shot in the dark. I appreciate any thoughts you all have.

Thanks,
Rick
rcj1231

Showing 2 responses by dirtyragamuffin

dirtyragamuffin
213 posts
 
Don't forget about Michell, though they seem to be a bit more expensive to upgrade than the VPIs, they're just simply stunning! Other than wanting the Orbe platter upgrade (vibration is a problem in my room), I can't honestly say there's even much I want to do to my Gyro right now. If I'd bought a VPI MkIII, I'd have probably torn it half apart by now ;)

I've not any experience with the Scout other than seeing one sitting at my dealer's shop one day, but I've heard wonderful things from some opinions I trust. The VPI HWs are wonderful, solid 'tables and you would not be disappointed with one.

The venerable LP12 is always a good 'table with about a zillion tweaks you can do, but I personally find both VPI and Michell to be much more interesting. To each his own, I guess!

The Nottingham Interspace/Interspace I heard was very nice and rhythmic but a bit dry sounding and not as warm compared to these spring suspended designs.

Good luck :)
dirtyragamuffin
213 posts
 
Congrats! You're gonna love it =)
More to discover