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What to expect in a TT upgrade?

I've owned a well tempered classic table for many years. I've enjoyed it but have always found it a bit challenging to set up. (make sure the cartridge is alligned properly)I think consequently, I've never gotten the performance out of it I should have. Recently, I purchased a new pre that came with a really nice phone stage. (Joule) I've been considering purchasing a new table/arm or purchasing a new cartridge such as a shelter 501. My budget for the table/arm/cartridge would be in the $ 2,500 - $ 3,000 range. Just wondering if anyone has any thoughts about what is the best way to go. If I did get a new table, I would want one that is fairly easy to set up. Thanks for any input on this decision.
redcarerra

Showing 2 responses by dcstep

dcstep
1,518 posts
 
In your price range, the Pro-ject RM10 with a Sumiko Blackbird cartridge (under $3000 as a combination) is high quality, yet easy to set up. It's totally non-tweaky. (Just be careful of the extremely fragile stylus. In fact, let your dealer align the cartridge).

The Well Tempered is a fine table, but the RM10 comes with its own isolation base, a massive platter, 10" carbon fiber arm and an easy to get at cartridge mount (fixed on the arm). The platter has magnetic repulsion from the bearing, so friction is extremely low.

Now, properly aligning the cartridge is key. Even the most fantastic TT will not be right without close to perfection in the alignment. So make sure that's right.

The main thing you'll gain will be silence in the grooves and very dynamic, rich presentation of the recording. Isolation is very good, but the improvement you actually see will be contigent upon the location of the table relative to the speakers and how well you isolated the Well Tempered before. NO TT is totally imune to feedback, but the mass of the Pro-ject, combined with its isolation base make it one of the tops in this price class.

Dave
dcstep
1,518 posts
 
01-31-08: Larry510 said:
"Can you all really hear a substantial difference between a $1000.00 and a $10,000 TT/Cart system. Are we listening to the music or the equipment? Granted there may be some differences in the sound but are these differences better or just different?"

I don't know how we got on $10k TT systems, but yes, the difference is very clear. Going to just $3000 gains you a ton in resolution.

There are good reasons to limit oneself to $1000; however, the next step up yields pretty substantial gains in quality. I think there is a point of diminishing returns that steepens at the $3000 to $5000 range, but you still continue to gain.

Of course, this is all dependent on proper setup and the total system interface is relevant. But, done right, you do gain substantially at higher price points. The OP gave us a target range and I think he's the only one in position to judge if it's "worth it" to him.

Dave
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