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What to do...

So, I have a vintage set up running a Garrard 40 mk ii through a McIntosh MA5100 amp to Klipsch Heresy speakers. Also have a Technics 5disc changer going through the same system. I inherited all of the components. The Garrard suffers from the typical mechanical issues of most old Garrards, but works fine manually. I replaced the cartridge/needle with a Shure M44-7. So, now I have the vinyl bug(also inherited about 100revords from the 1920s- the 60's. I have also purchased more of my own(love Dire Straits on vinyl). I have not listened to any higher level systems, so I don't know what I'm missing - so maybe ignorance is bliss? Or, I have been eyeing the Techincs SL-1200, and also saw some similarly prices MH mmf 5's on eBay. First, will the upgrade in table be significantly noticeable only moving up to that level, or should I wait until I have more funds(which could be a loooong time as the wife is not a fan!). And, out of the SL-1200 and MH mmf 5(not 5.1) which would be a better choice? Or do you go with the new MH 2.2 or low end Rega? I've read a lot, but just wondering in the context of my existing system what the best choice is?
Thanks!
skoorb
skoorb OP
5 posts
 
Thanks for the great responses. When you are on a tight budget and don't know enough to ensure a good decision, the info on this community is invaluable!

How are the 80's direct drives? There is a Sanyo TP-1020 locally on CL for $50. Looks to be in good condition. Would this be a nice upgrade for me? My next table will have to last me a while or the wife may change the locks!

Low prices always scare me since I see the higher end rigs most of the people here use. But, with 4 kids(3 of which are 19mo old!) any $ spent on this are tough to justify. I just don't really know what vintage tables are steals and hitch I should stay away from.

Thanks again!
schubert
7,386 posts
 

Buy the Sanyo, they are ok.Put the cheapest Grado cartrige on it , set it a 1.8 to 2 grams and go about your business.
skoorb OP
5 posts
 
Thanks Schubert. So, even with a bottom of the line cartridge, you think it will be a noticeable increase in sound quality over my garrard?
Thanks again!
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
I've never heard/seen the Sanyo, but at a minimum it should maintain constant and accurate speed better than a 40yo Garrard 40 Mkii that's been sitting idle. The rubber drive wheel in the Garrard will almost certainly have developed flat spots and/or be dried out and brittle.

Can't say more because I know nothing of the Sanyo's other qualities, except that it's unlikely to be as much fun (or fuss) as three 19 month olds!!!

Once you have a table running there are various tweaks you can try for virtually no money. Vibration absorbing materials in/around the plinth, different headshells and headshell weights, DIY footers or a wall shelf. Etc. One of the fun things about vinyl is the ability to tailor the sound in different directions. Its educational to try stuff. You learn even if you dislike the result, and many tweaks cost next to nothing.

Have fun (and try to get some sleep, lol).
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Yes, it will, contrary to popular opinion, Sanyo was the most
bang for the buck stuff back in the day.
Just get some kind of paper cartridge set-up template , clean it up and put a LIGHT coat of oil on the spindle and track whatever cartridge you get at the highest force recomended force.
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