What's your favorite $5-7000 turntable?

Probably the Well Tempered Versalex

Interesting because I have much love for the WT tables. I was using a Simplex on 2 occasions as temp tables while something was being repaired and I always was amazed a how I could probably live with one. 

I've been looking at an Artemis as a possibility but they are hard to find.

A Schopper or a Swissonor rebuilt Thorens TD124 without tonearm. I heard it (Swissonor) at home. The transfo for running it at 215 / 220volt is mandatory.

Kuzma Stabi R, or if that is too pricy, the Stabi S.

Probably the Well Tempered Versalex, though I’m not sure I’d want to exchange a Schröder for an LTD. They’re also made in China which puts me off a bit but that will weigh as you will.

I actually run the Schröder designed Artemis SA-1 but that’s been orphaned for a while now and I did have trouble with the motor bearings drying out but managed to get some oil in there and it’s been fine for the last few years.

I figure I spent just over $5K for my assembly of my 3 arm TT, including the 1st round of moderately priced new cartridges and 3 arm SUT.

JVC TT and Deck, and 2 arms used. The12.5" long arm from Russia that I took a chance on was new.

8th Photo Here

My EMT 948/1210 GAE with a SME 309 & Cadenza Black.

The antithesis of the Idler is a DD in my view. My experiences of ownership of each and having compared them is the DD is fleet-footed animal, there is not a trudge in the mud to be found.

The Idler is a heavy-footed beast, there is a lot of taming required and mass does seem the most successful at reigning it in, and that is not going to get it out of the starting blocks with any verve.

A mass set up on a Wall Shelf will not allow for much peace of mind.                        A DD TT on a Wall Shelf has proven to be quite a valuable mounting method when experienced. 

SL-1210 MK II

none better. 

A Kuzma Stabi R yes a bit more $$ but well worth it IMHO