turntable choice


I'm finally entering turntable land so I can finally hear the several hundred records i have owned for years.

My choices are Project carbon around 400. or the new NAD tables starting at 450. I'm leaning towards the project because i have seen some open box specials for about 350.

I know this is the low end of the audiophile spectrum but I appreciate any opinions you might have. Do NOT want to spend more than 400.00

thank you!
brianwillson
Also  never got rid of my vinyl I’ve hauling it around through several moves. I was a record fanatic when younger and worked in stores and a huge one stop in Chicago where I built a lot of my collection so after many years I get to gear it again. 
Any recommendations for rca cables for my soon to be complete vinyl system ? I gave totem sttafs with a NAD 356 amp with the added on NAD 375 phone stage. 
Research more research with plenty of patience especially if buying used
gear.

Vintage prices for TT's are not what they used to be with allot of gear being bought up and shipped overseas, the demand is exceeding the supply but keep looking you might get lucky.

https://www.hifido.co.jp/?G=0301(the English translation is in upper right corner), Audiogon, and ebay are excellent options for online searching for a vintage TT.  If you have quality audio repair shop within driving distance this would be a positive if you go this route.


I would take a vintage Stanton 681 cartridge any day over any cartridge mentioned thus far.

A Spin Clean Record Washer MKII would be a excellent choice for bringing your original issue records back to life.

Well good luck to you and keep us posted...


The MMF 2.3le is comparable to the Debut Carbon.  The tonearm on the MMF 2.3le has VTA adjustment which the Debut Carbon does not.  While the adjustment is a bit rudimentary, it allows for more options if you change your mat or cartridge.  I have never used their Spirit cartridge, but I can’t imagine it isn’t on par or better than the 2M Red.  The suggestion of a record cleaner is a good one.  I did not suggest it earlier because I didn’t want to take you too far into the weeds.  Hopefully your vinyl collection has been well cared for and is not too dirty.  On another note, the interconnects that come with Pro-Ject and Music Hall turntables are OK at best, even the ones they supply with their high end tables.  Blue Jeans Cables make great cables for the money.  They have different quality levels and will build to order.  Beyond what they make, to get a noticeable quality increase, the price goes north quickly.  While this buying process may seem a little overwhelming at times with all of the options etc., remember to have fun with it.  This is buying hifi, not getting a tattoo.   There is no reason you can’t change your mind to other products in the future.  Keep it spinning!