What's next after Clearaudio Concept ?


I have enjoyed my time with this TT. It was my foray into analog.

I am now ready for an upgrade and wanted your kind opinions on what I should look at next that would be significant upgrade.

I am hoping to get a new combination of transparency and richness of sound.

My budget is $3000 for the whole analog frontend. I would prefer an MC cartridge.

Rest of my system:
EAR 843P
Triode TRX-1 Pre-amp
Coincident Dragon Mk II
Vienna Acoustics Haydn

Thank you.
essrand

Showing 4 responses by vinylmad814

try the VPI classic 2 with a dynavector 20X2 L. The combination is around the 3K mark.
VPI classic 2, Well Tempered Labs Amadeus GTA or an upgraded model of Clear Audio like the Champion Series or perfromance series.I think Rega has a few within and around your price range also.
hmm i am not overly familiar with the RP8 other than that it seems to have gotten some favourable reviews. I think it will definately challenge the classic 2 and perhaps surpass ti performance wise. I just read a review from the vinyl engine mentioning a guy who had a Classic 1 (which is almost the same other no VTA on the fly) who sold and purchased a Well tempered lab Amadeaus. He goes on describing it as an organic and rich sounding TT but had a few issues with quirkiness of the unit. If there is critism with the WTL is the unorthidox cueing method and its belt system. He sells it and purchases an RB8 and seems that it compares quite well. Describes it as no worse with the functionality to his liking and comes to a conclusion it is better than the Classic 1.Hmmm might be worth checking out. Love to find out what your thoughts are if you happen to audition 1 because I am also thinking about upgrading my rig.
Hey I just saw an RP8 at a dealer but unfortunately did not have time to stick around and audition it. I will say i was mildly surprised with the construction and materials used for it. The plinth is made of some black foam substance sanwiched between a layer of some sort of composite plastic. I would say engineered for some type of space age vibration dampening.Very lightweight as opposed to the more solid and robust construction of the VPI classic 2. I must say I would favour the VPI for the construction aspect but who knows, its all in what you hear. Love to hear your feedback on the RP8 listening tests.!!!