Turntable advice


Hello everyone, I’m looking to buy my first turntable and want to get some advice about two specific turntables that I’m looking at. I can get both of these for a similar cost, so I’m looking for opinions on which way I should go. First, my current system consists of Rockport Cygnus, McIntosh mc1.25kw’s, McIntosh c2700 (will be used as phono stage at the start), dcs Bartok apex for digital, Cardas clear reflection cables (not power), rel no 31 pair of subs and torus power units. 

The tables that I’m down to (unless I choose to not spend as much out the gate) are a VPI Avenger Plus, most likely with a Hana ML cartridge and a Pure Fidelity Harmony with the illustrious se Tonearm and either the same cart or potentially the stratos cartridge. 
 

If I go this route, I’d like something that could eventually get more out of upgrades cartridges or tonearms down the road. Any advice or thoughts would be helpful, especially if you have experience with both. Thanks in advance!

128x128dan_springer

If you have a nearby dealer, get a Linn. You can start simple and upgrade to your hearts content with no need to change tables. There is a lot of anti-Linn sentiment on this forum, but many devotees elsewhere. 

VPI, they are well make, upgrade able, and sound fantastic. Also made in America. Great turntables.

Rega Planner 10 Alpha 3 MC cartridge you buy it in a package deal you get a better price and no bullshit with setting it up. You don’t need 20 hours to get everything in a precise position. Honestly, I don’t think there’s a better turntable out there for the price you could deal with tone, arms, and cartridges and all that stuff you want, but you’re not gonna get a better sound other than this. It’s one of the better turntables out there for the price you won’t be disappointed.