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Used turntable for

This is probably a well tread topic but with so innovations in analog playback and new offerings from Rega et al i thought i would ask again;
The short of it is I'm in the market for a gently used turntable to replace a Pro-ject RPM 3. I purchased this turntable as a stop gap and its served me well . I particular like the set and forget aspect; eons ago i had an LP 12... well enough said .
So whats the recommendations for a used deck and arm sub $2k. I've heard Rega maybe RP 8, ClearAudio concept or perhaps a Kuzma Stabi S?

Current set up is Bel Canto eOne for the pre and amp section and Gallo Strada paired with REL for moving Air.

Thanks
extra_action
8 responses Add your response
kyluckyman
14 posts
 
Several years ago  bought a Dual 1219 and last Fall had it completely restored by the master Klaus Adlhoch (Dualcan on VinylEngine). It runs perfectly....as if it was 1970.

Last Summer I got a 1229 and went through it myself. It is an excellent turntable and gives me many hours pleasure each week.

My investment in these is much less than a thousand dollars and I think I would have to have some seriously deep pockets to beat them.

I run a AT120e cart with a ATN140lc stylus on the 1229 and a Shure V15 Type II with a JICO stylus on the 1219.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
Are VPI's still good?
Have they ever been bad?

Number one high end TT still made in the USA.
extra_action OP
52 posts
 
Thanks for the great feedback. 
Ive been selling and buying used on agon for over a decade and never had a bad experience... so i thought the same would apply for TT. I agree that with the precision mechanics involved especially with arms its more risky... and there is also ways a first time to get bitten
A local pickup display model would be perfect otherwise new it is.

I was reading greta things about the rega rp8... although as new its way out of my price range.

Are VPI's still good?
wspohn's avatar
wspohn
603 posts
 
I disagree about buying used.  Sure, there is a chance of defects unless you carefully check out the product before buying, but given the option of spending $2K for a new table or the same $2K for a $4-5,000 new price used table, the latter is pretty tempting.

I've bought used on high end tables several times and never ended up with a dog.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
I agree with yogi.

Of all the components one can buy used, a TT is the most risky.  And I would never buy a used cartridge.

2K is the sweet spot for modern TT's and can choose from a lot of new turntables at this price that would be a big upgrade from your Pro-ject.

The Merrill PolyTable is a good one.

So is the VPI Scout, Oracle Origine and of course the new Technics SL-1200GR if you want direct drive.

I wouldn't even be thinking used, with these 4 at or around your 2K budget.
photodusty
100 posts
 
I stepped up to a VPI Scout 1.1 with an Ortofon Bronze 2M and love what it does.

db
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,661 posts
 
Why buy used?
http://www.hifigem.com/polytable.html
sbm604
32 posts
 
I'm extremely happy with my Traveler v2 with ortofon blue cart. Added bonus my wife thinks it looks cool. I guess the Scout Jr would be the choice now as the Traveler is discontinued.
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