Upgraded turntable - is my current setup sufficient?


After some research on table upgrades from my denon dp300 with the sumiko rainier I pulled the trigger on the Marantz TT15-S1 with included clearaudio virtuoso. Based on some threads on this forum and some others it seems that any table under $1000 wouldn't yield the kind of audible jump I wanted.

Currently I have an adcom gtp500 for the phono stage running into a rotel 1066 pre-pro and the rotel 1080 amp. Those are driving a set of cambridge soundworks tower 1 speakers.

I am hoping to hear an appreciable difference with the new marantz and virtuoso running through my current setup.

Does anyone think otherwise?

If so let me know any suggested changes and what order they should be made. I've checked the specs - the adcom amp should have no problems with the virtuoso cart. Having said that, is there a better phono stage upgrade I can make for under $500 that would be noticeable difference?

I picked up the tower 1 speakers last year for $150 bucks and I've been super happy with them. Im hoping the marantz won't underperform due to the speakers or anything else, and will provide me with the appreciable difference I am hoping for.

Thanks!
jsnath

Showing 11 responses by elliottbnewcombjr

just to confirm, your denon is vintage dp 3000? or a typo, is it the current dp300?

either one, you are changing from direct drive to belt drive, I prefer DD, quartz locked (on, instant and maintained speed); but if you didn't/don't hear any problem, don't have power variations, after motor warm up, speed of belt drive should be stable.

IOW, I don't think the table itself will make a difference, and I think other things done correctly, more expensive tables will also not be as important as the arm, cartridge, phono stage. 

If vintage dp 3000, you didn't mention current arm. 

cartridge, the new clearaudio will definitely sound different, and should also be an obvious improvement.

However, it is an elliptical stylus shape, so even if better, a future upgrade to advanced stylus shape, Microlinear, Fineline, SAS will be a definitely audible further step up.

It has much tighter channel balance .4db existing is 1.5db. that will definitely tighten the center resulting in improved imaging. channel separation specs are very similar 25/26 db.

Signal strength: new clearaudio is lower 3.6mV signal; existing is 5.0 mv. You will definitely need more juice out of your preamp/amp for same volume as existing cartridge. If it remains quiet, no concern. If tubes, you will be driving them harder. Great results, who cares. 

Cartridge change n the future, I would consider higher signal strength, lighter tracking force, wider separation, keep tight channel balance.


Trying a phono preamp, it is best if you can try/return.

I believe in versatility. Therefore, I suggest getting a Phono Stage for current MM and future MC.

Many with MM/MC (often a switch in the back) exist, however, they only have one predetermined/fixed internal load for an unknown MC signal strength/impedance. Not very versatile.

This one offers MM and 3 optional MC settings: MC High; MC Low; MC Very Low. Front indicator lights remind you of the rear switch setting.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Ifi-ZEN-Phono-MM-MC-Phono-Pre-amplifier/293825584950?hash=item44695e9f36%3A...

Ask seller if they take returns.

Anyone know this company? This unit?


that ifi unit is available from Amazon, $150. delivered, easy returns

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Preamp-Turntables-Record-Players/dp/B08H2GPD7F

I’m tempted to try it in my office, be set for future MC cartridge there.

If you try it, let us know!!!!

youtube review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBAdLY3Upbo

in his video he mentions their iPhono3, extremely versatile, but $1,000.

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Phonostage-Preamplifier-Compatible-Cartridges/dp/B088SSSTPD

Like I said, it's fun learning about stuff, evidently they have been around, check out their product line:

https://ifi-audio.com/products/zen-phono/




After that video review, I just ordered the iFi with MM/MC 3 load options, due here this Friday.

https://www.amazon.com/iFi-Preamp-Turntables-Record-Players/dp/B08H2GPD7F/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1E0DU...=

I'll try it in the main system, both MM and MC, then up in my office, MM now, future MC.

Easy return


I sent the iFi back.

It was good, and flexible, did it's job, but not involving, I think that video was too enthusiastic. 

OP, I think you are correct to try tubes, again, try something you can return.

Tube caveat: discuss with seller what exact tubes it comes with, or options, then, before buying do some research about the generally agreed sound quality. They definitely sound different. 

You don't want to need to do 'tube rolling' to start, it needs to be great out of the box (AFTER BURN IN)

Burn In: no input needed, just leave tubes on for around 60 hours, then listen.

Brent is a good source of tube info

https://www.audiotubes.com/