2. analog
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Where is the significant point of diminishing returns on hi-end turntable?

For those that don’t know me I am newish to this game. Yes, I believe this chase for perfection in sound reproduction is a game. There are endless variables affecting the sound of every system and 100x that in opinions on each of these variables. I love cool $hit as much as the next guy but I am looking for an analog rig and I keep getting drawn into the seemingly endless "what about this option that costs tons more?". I started with a $6 to $10K budget and now I am considering a $25K setup (Table, cart and phono stage) after talking to a local retailer. I will be blunt, I want to be that guy in the Memorex ad from the 80’s that is getting blown away by his system (my impression is he is overwhelmed by the amazing sound coming from that speaker not the volume). Now that I have acquired some pretty descent stuff I am spending 15 plus hours each week listening and really enjoying this hobby. I don’t want to have any regrets and just be marginally satisfied with my setup but where do I draw the line? Back to my initial question; what is a reasonable amount to spend on an analog setup to achieve the best bang for the buck? I may be somewhat unique in that I don’t want to constantly be upgrading my equipment, I just want to buy great products the first time that are very satisfying and spend hours listening to great music. I don’t want to be the guy always chasing the next great thing.
mmporsche

Showing 3 responses by jollytinker

jollytinker
213 posts
 
Your ears are the most important component. Developing them takes time and effort, no matter what your budget is. That's the hidden lie in that old Maxell commercial. You can't just buy connection. 

I think learning to hear is the great joy of audio, but that's just me. And anyway my Porsche is just a lowly 1980 Euro SC. Maybe I haven't gone fast enough...
jollytinker
213 posts
 
@shydog17 - you state that "the forum is a place for free speech and sharing of views," to paraphrase. Then you proceed to do the opposite of "sharing" when you make blanket assertions that disparage other points of view, without any examples or evidence. Or you create straw-men, as when you assert that vinyl lovers supposedly like a "warm" sound, again with no evidence. that's why people lump you in with the shouter you're defending. 
jollytinker
213 posts
 
This thread is inspiring me to set up my old Rega Planar II in the back seat of my Porsche 911. Maybe a McIntosh car amp in between, and some of those Gallo speakers over the dash? I’m guessing the point of diminishing returns would come mighty quick (at least that’s one clear answer for the OP).
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