2. analog
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VPI table, cart and phonostage? - Novice.

I am strongly considering getting back into vinyl. I've got 200+ lps in boxes, many relatively new.

My current digital setup is Bel Canto PL-1 Universal player, Krell HTS 7.1 prteamp, Bel Canto 6 channel amp, B & W N 805 speakers. I play mainly Classical and Jazz.

Houston has almost no high end TT dealers. The one store I went into had a Nottingham Spacedeck and I heard a 45 rpm Belafonte disc, and got the vinyl concept in my brain. Wow!

I probably will get a VPI, based mainly on reviews and reputation...also made in USA!

Scout or Scoutmaster? Is there that big a difference? Both are Stereophile Class B,I believe. Are there carts that are "wasted" by putting them on a scout, whereas on a scoutmaster you get that extra value you paid for? Basically, to what level of cart would you go on a scout or scoutmaster?

Should I get a aolid state or tube phono stage for these TTs? Any suggestions. I am somewhat open minded about budget, but I want to get components that are about in the same league. I mean, a $1.5K TT with a $5K cart and a $7K phono stage seems crazy, or does it?

Is the SDS worth getting for either of these?

Also, does anybody out there think I, a novice, can install a cart and set it up myself without an analog saavy compadre around? I've read the beginners guide to cart setup and its not rocket science, so I think I can.

Thanks for the input.
dolifant

Showing 1 response by ije

ije
29 posts
 
I am new to Vinyl as well and I am very happy that I settled on the Scoutmaster. Solidly built like a tank and quite revealing to my ears. The upgrade options are equally great.

I am using the Acoustech PH1P phono stage, a benz ace (m) and the SDS and it sounds great. Will be stepping up to the JMW 9 Signature arm as well with the ring clamps and weight, and the new motor/flywheel combo to get to the SuperScoutMaster sound.

I am also considering also a Shelter 901 or the Zyx Airy 3 cartridge to mate with the signature arm to complete the package. Will need to seek comments from fellow audiogoners if these carts will mate well with the JMW 9 arm tho.

Whatever you decide on, its good to have flexibility and upgrade options within the family rather than starting all over when you want to upgrade. The ScoutMaster offers that.

I am very happy with mine .
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