2. analog
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Need advice on what to look for in a turntable - budget $6K to $10K

I am getting into this hobby and am now focused on a proper turntable to support my new amp and speakers (Voxative 211 Integrated and 9.87 speakers).  I also bought a new Parasound JC3+ phono stage.  While at RMAF this year I did listen to the Fern & Roby turntable and was very impressed.  It sounded awesome with the Voxativ equipment.  That being said, it would be $8K+ and I thought I should learn a little more about what to look for in a turntable and ask the community for alternatives.  Thank you in advance.
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jperry
2,433 posts
 
Three I think you should check in that price range are:

Garrard 301/401 with Woodsong Audio plinth and Ortofon or Jelco 12 inch arm

SME 15 (can include a SME tonearm)

AMG Giro (this includes a great tonearm from AMG)
andrei_nz
192 posts
 
I would not be able to go past the new Technics 1200G.  Torque to die for, iconic looks (if that matters) and not to difficult to put on an aftermarket arm if you sooner or later want to upgrade.
vinylvalet
866 posts
 
Someone else recommended the Michell Orbe SE. I agree but take it to the next level with the full Pederson mod. A used Orbe with the Pederson mod kit could run as low as $4k, sounding better than tables costing much more. Pick your favorite arm. Many will work well. I use a Graham 2.2.

sancho22
106 posts
 
A lot of great advice here.

I would suggest also to read some reviews (like the one below in the link) just to solidify what to look for - not necessarily to pursue the TTs in the review. I personally had a Kuzma TT which I loved, have a VPI Prime now and a Micro Seiki BL 99V with SAEC arm and Lyra Lydian Beta cartridge (and a ton of other much less expensive tables). The VPI is running with Shindo Aurieges and Auditorium Hommage SUT, with Ortofon Cadenza Black. Really nice sound.
http://www.dagogo.com/category/analog-sources/turn-tables
berhart
32 posts
 
Rega RP 10 and save a little.
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