which turntable for the future?


Hi Audiogoners,

I've improved my music system with 2 pearls, both from Soulution, Preamp 725 and Pre phono 751. Great improvement but, as you can imagine, my turtable now sounds inadequate compared with the rest of the analog chain.

For the future (not now, sigh!) I'm considering VPI Avenger  or TechDas Airforce V. Today my turntable is a Michell Gyrodec with SME V. I'm in love with its design: a lot of competitors got ideas from it and after years and years is still a star to follow.

I confess: beside the quality improvement, I'm passioned about design. What you would choose? And second question: do you think that a second hand machine would be a suitable solution?

 

renatocomes

@bobbydd 

“ Consider a TW Acustic Raven,  a Reed arm , With a top flight cartridge “

 

Great recommendations , I would recommend a Top Wing Suzaku – Red Sparrow  

I bought a VPI TNT 3.5 turntable with 10" JMW Memorial tonearm in August 2001.  It has been in constant use for over 20 years.

Although I had to replace the motor several years ago;  VPI promptly supplied me with a new motor at reasonable cost.  I had to install the motor in the original housing, which was not too difficult.

The unit still works very well.  The sound seems to be independent of the turntable/tonearm while significant differences have been noticable between several different moving-iron and moving-coil cartridges.

Of course, I like to think my home designed/constructed phono preamp plays some role in that performance.  The rest of the system includes a high quality preamp/processor and power amplifiers that can easily make audible any deficits in vinyl reproduction.

Were I to replace the TNT/tonearm at some point, I would lean toward another VPI combo based upon my experience.

@renatocomes, I have the same set up but did the Gert Petersen mod. As good as the MK IV is with the V arm, the mod addressed the bass and increased dynamics amongst other attributes. If you are DYIer, a short week of Sundays will bring the table, arm into your future. 

The Gyrodeck is a nice turntable but can certainly be improved upon.

As you value design/looks, the Oracle Delphi Mk VI is worthy of consideration.

The Clearaudio turntables also look and sound great.

A final suggestion is Vertere. I regret I haven't heard them but I'm very familiar with Roksan's and the Vertere's take the same design principles and improve on them.

Are regards the secondhand question, I would have no problem buying a secondhand deck from a reputable dealer. SME's in particular are built like tanks and will last for ever unless deliberately abused.

Of course your ears and eyes must judge what's right for you.