2. analog
  3. 166857-149467

turntable upgrade?

Though I primarily listen to Qobuz, I have enough albums that I still desire to maintain a good analog set up. As I have upgraded the rest of my system, I'm wondering if my longtime Thorens TD 166 mkII and/or Signet TK5e may be overdue.  Would a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo be a noticeable improvement, or would I need to go another step up (my budget would be up to around $1000)?  If I replace the cartridge I'm thinking a Naga MP-110 or AT-VM95ML.  I welcome the thoughts from anyone with experience with these. 

128x128xs1137
mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,223 posts
 
xs1137, I have used a VM95ML in my system and I am usually using cartridges in the 2-5 thousand dollar range. I use electrostatic speakers with subwoofers. The VM95SL is an amazing cartridge for the money. It is a good as many cartridges costing 3 to 4 times as much. It will go perfectly with your Thorens. No need to change it at all unless something is broken. 
xs1137's avatar
xs1137 OP
49 posts
 
Thanks for the input so far!

The Lounge phono stage is very well reviewed for it's price range (under $400), possibly it (and/or the cartridge) is a weaker link than the table?  I would like to get my analog end to sound at least as good as my digital end does.

4hannons's avatar
4hannons
187 posts
 
@xs1137 I had the same Lounge LCR before moving up to a Herron VTPH-2. The Lounge is a good sounding unit.

Tom in Sacramento
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
The Schiit Sol turntable might be a worthy upgrade for $800. It includes  a Audio Tech. Cart. The Nagaoka MP-110 is a great cart. for the money. Going to MP-150 even better.
xs1137's avatar
xs1137 OP
49 posts
 
I considered the Sol, but it is not currently offered for sale and I have read that it may be discontinued due to supply issues.

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