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What is a good entry level turntable?

I am starting to get into vinyl. I got an Technics turntable from my father that he bought in the 80s, but it has seen better days. I don't have a lot of money to spend. Should I invest to upgrade the old one or buy a new entry level? If I should buy a new one, which is a good entry level I will be able to upgrade once I can afford it?
jay01
7 responses Add your response
azaud
156 posts
 
Buy a used VPI with arm. They seem to disappear off "the shelves" pretty quickly, and that's what you're going to want. Gateway drug stuff, to be sure. Save and buy the SDS before you upgrade, though. It's a keeper, no matter which direction you take. Good luck, and have fun!
Terrence in Az
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
What Technics table do you have? Some from that era were killer and if properly working with a new cartridge can rival modern table costing $1000's. Until we know this, along with budget, we really can't help you at all.
kiko65
279 posts
 
TT only? Tonearm included? Cart included? Phono pre included? Budget?

Probably the best bang for the buck is the Music Hall USB-1 if you need phono pre included. Just upgrade the cart to an AT-95e. Otherwise, take a look at the Pro-ject Carbon.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Some older Japanese direct drive tables are actually considered upgradable to SOTA standards. What model is it?
banerjba
82 posts
 
I got a $350 Pro-Ject Essentail2 in March. It is fabulous sounding and does not embarrass itself in from of tpmy Rega P5 or Clearaudio Concept.

It comes with a competent Ortofon OM5 cartridge which is the 900 lb gorilla of the budget cartridge market.

Basically it is plug and play. I got the white one which also looks cool.
uberdine
100 posts
 
Get a second hand Rega Planar (make sure it has a Rega tonearm) and slap a brand new Ortofon 2m Blue on it. $600 all up and you're in business.
bpoletti
1,553 posts
 
Budget?
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