If you still own the FMJ listed with you system, and if it contains the MM/MC phono preamp section...
You could use it via "tape out" to get you started (put more money into the TT).
Also, what TT’s have you owned/liked in the past?
I’ve been using belt drive Thorens/SME combos for so long (since the early 70’s) that I’m locked into "that" sound (older DD’s and non-sprung belt’s from other manufacturers just have not floated my boat).
This said, I have not auditioned anything since 2005, or so, and some of the new offerings do look interesting based upon reviews.
Rega seems to have fixed their speed stability issues (the newer P6 look/reads interesting) and the new Technics decks in the $2K range also look/read interesting.
I’ve been looking around a bit in the case that my TD125II/SME combo needs rebuilt as I’m not up to driving to Pasadena and other "local" spots to drop it off/pick up.
My $200 Thorens/SME combo (purchased 20 years ago) now sells for more than your $1K budget.
DeKay
You could use it via "tape out" to get you started (put more money into the TT).
Also, what TT’s have you owned/liked in the past?
I’ve been using belt drive Thorens/SME combos for so long (since the early 70’s) that I’m locked into "that" sound (older DD’s and non-sprung belt’s from other manufacturers just have not floated my boat).
This said, I have not auditioned anything since 2005, or so, and some of the new offerings do look interesting based upon reviews.
Rega seems to have fixed their speed stability issues (the newer P6 look/reads interesting) and the new Technics decks in the $2K range also look/read interesting.
I’ve been looking around a bit in the case that my TD125II/SME combo needs rebuilt as I’m not up to driving to Pasadena and other "local" spots to drop it off/pick up.
My $200 Thorens/SME combo (purchased 20 years ago) now sells for more than your $1K budget.
DeKay