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Would Appreciate Advice Before I Buy

Greetings and thanks in advance for any and all assistance. I am re-entering the vinyl world in my 60s, now that I have enough time to give to that approach and a little bit of money to spend on components that will help me to enjoy the music I like.

I am only wanting to spend in the neighborhood of $2,000 - $4,000. I realize that's a relatively small outlay, but I also gather that there are good options at almost every price point. Here is what I am contemplating - I would welcome comments. Am I missing something? Will these components "play well" together?

  • Schiit Ragnarok-2 integrated amplifier (fully-loaded)
  • Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO turntable 
  • Klipsch RP-600M speakers
  • Bose Quiet Comfort headphones (already own these and would use if I can)
I like a variety of music styles: classical, pop/rock, big band, jazz, a little blues and other. I am not a terribly demanding listener, but I think I can hear the difference between great sound and mediocre sound. My room is a currently open large rectangular "bonus room" upstairs in a new home. I can adapt (sub-divide, other) that room over time to improve sonics.

My first vinyl purchase is a set of the Franklin Mint "Greatest Jazz Recordings..." in, well, mint condition that I was able to get very inexpensively at an estate sale this past week. I will probably start picking up some of the re-issued Elvis Costello soon as well. 

What do you think? Thanks again.

David
dprendergast
kennyc
1,227 posts
 
@dprendergast
I like your choices as well. While some Klipsch speakers may be bright for some, the RP-600M many positive reviews indicate otherwise - they would have revealed if it was bright. I’m pretty impressed on your well thought out choices to meet your budget- good job.

Elac is also a very high value choice designed by guru speaker designer “Andrew Jones is Vice President of Engineering for ELAC America. During his illustrious career in hi-fi, he has designed speakers at KEF, Infinity, Pioneer, and Technical Audio Devices. Many audiophiles consider his $80,000 TAD Reference One to be one of the greatest speakers ever made.”
clearthinker's avatar
clearthinker
1,582 posts
 
Hi David.
You should listen listen listen to components you are considering, preferably together if this can be arranged and in your room (I know the latter will be difficult at your price point).

You will have them for a number of years at least so it's essential you know them and like them before you buy.

However much knowledge and good advice there is here, members have their own ears and tastes, not yours.
zazouswing
140 posts
 
I believe Big Band and Classical especially are going to be a challenge for that cartridge - lots of instruments to parse out. Consider upgrading when able. The Denon 103 is a good choice, but you would need a SUT. A Hana SH may be a good choice. I use a Hana mono SL with a lot of Big Band and it does the trick. 
richopp
760 posts
 
Any box speaker distorts sound.  Try out the least expensive Magnepan speakers before writing a check.

Cheers.
sgreg1
612 posts
 
Add a REL sub and don’t look back!
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