my experience: my budget was 50% of my TT. I tried 4 different ones, based on reviews and synergy and there was a huge spread, in the same price range and also tried a step up Phono stage. A higher end and phono stage IMHO is a waste for a midfi TT. A $600 phono stage proved to be the best match for my new Rega 3.
Vintage turntable with a modern phono stage, is it worth it?
Hello all. I am considering swapping out my 12 year old Rega RP3 for a new turntable. I am looking at a beautifully restored Thorens 125 MII with a Sorane TA-1 tone arm and I would be putting my Hana SL cart onto it. My question is, would it be worth it to upgrade my phono stage as well? Or is going vintage not really an "upgrade" in the usual sense? I currently have a Schiit Mani and feeling perhaps I should consider upgrading alongside the turntable. The rest of my system is a Leben 300xs Integrated Amp / Zu Soul 6 loudspeakers.
Thoughts?