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End Game Turntable suggestions

Hello all, looking for insights to help me narrow down to some core choices; I am open to new or preowned. My system details can be seen under my profile.

In summary I have significantly expanded my vinyl collection and as of now I am looking to purchase an end game turntable appropriate for my setup. As you can see I use Mola Mola Kaluga Monos, and I really like the Zesto Pre and Phonostages. I find the class D/tube pre combination very pleasing. 

I would appreciate suggestions for around $5-8K (table + arm), new or used. I will have separate budget for cartridge. One preferred option (but not must-have) is universal voltage, as I may move the unit to Europe later. My current vintage turntable (Project Perspective) is 22 years old, and while I don't know how to compare to something really amazing, I can say that my setup is lacking detail and bass. The tonearm is terrible to keep aligned. Based on visits to Axpona and Cap Audio Fest and other research, I am thinking of a few in my budget, but will really value your suggestions of other brands:

- Origin Live Sovereign

- VPI Signature

- SAM Sinner

- Thorens TD 1601 (semi automatic)

Visual appeal is important to me (which is why Technics 1200 is not on my list despite great reviews everywhere). I love the idea of set it and forget it DD tables, but unfortunately mostly out of my budget (eg VPI HW-40 going for abt 11K used)....

Sorry for the long post but my hope is this background and help solicit good suggestions. Thanks

 

musicmatters1206
dinov's avatar
dinov
799 posts
 

I love my VPI, and the fact you can easily upgrade it make it a clear winner in my books. Consider that as a major plus in your decision. My last upgrade was a Walker speed controller, and a Koetsu Rosewood Signature which really stepped up performance. Good luck!

boothroyd
365 posts
 

@willy-t

Luxman PD-151 is an excellent choice coming in under your budget

👍

 

 

edgyhassle's avatar
edgyhassle
83 posts
 

I would take a hard look at Dr Feickert. The Woodpecker would fall in line with your budget with an inexpensive arm. Then you can upgrade the arm as you see fit. I landed on the Volare and am very happy.  My endgame is to swap out the current arm for a Kuzma 4point 9”.  This full package is attainable in your budget. 

elliottbnewcombjr
5,219 posts
 

Some VPI’s can have two tonearms. Steve at VAS knows which models if you like VPI’s

....................................................................................

Here’s a custom case with a Technics SP-15 (3 speeds); Two arms,

 

I bought a SP15 in factory base at Harvey’s long ago, gave it to my friend, Wonderfully accurate, solid. Check SP15 specs against any other Technics including modern models, it’s one of the best.

https://vintagetechnics.audio/turntables.php
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kingbarbuda
514 posts
 

This is tangential to what the OP has posted. But because I am primarily a streamer, I decided to sell my VPI unipivot Prime Signature with Ortofon 2M Black, ADS, big custom dust cover, and Wayne’s Audio outer ring. I wanted to reduce my box count and take a little cost out of the vinyl rig, but still have it be nice. So I sold the above rig and replaced it with a Technics SL-1210G with a Soundsmith Carmen mk2. The Technics was easy to setup. Happy with the change so far.  

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