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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
musicmatters1206 OP
40 posts
 

@tablejockey thanks for the AT recommendation. I just missed a like-new P10 right here in NJ on the mart, which was listed for 5K. That said, i do really value the automatic lift in Thorens - knowing myself, it will definitely elongate the life of the cartridge. I just feel saving nearly $2500 (new vs new or used vs used) will allow for a really good cartridge, overall a better combo....

tablejockey
3,798 posts
 
" I just missed a like-new P10 right here in NJ on the mart, which was listed for 5K."

Ouch! I hate seeing those kinds of deals AFTER the fact. 

I get it- auto lift of the Thorens. Lyra or ART 20=nice setup. 

kahlenz's avatar
kahlenz
263 posts
 

I still think you will end up with an RP-10.  I have not heard the Aphelian 3, but the P-10 with the Apheta 3 is impressive (and hits your budget with no room to spare).

fsonicsmith1
101 posts
 

End-game. What does it mean? It is different for every individual. With wine, there is a saying that "all roads lead to Burgundy". With audio, there is no such consensus or even a similarly evocative saying, something that raises a knowing smile among the cognoscenti. I have my own idea as to what an end-game turntable, arm and cartridge combination is but there are at least 50 and likely more legitimate turntable and arm combinations alone, forgetting the cartridge choice. The thing that has to put a smile on any vinyl-fan's face is how healthy the turntable market is presently. 

FWlittleIW, the Thorens TD124 and Garrard 301 with your choice of a Reed arm are my idea of an "end game" table. As durable as cockroaches, as enduring as Sophia Loren. 

grk
207 posts
 

Acoustic Signature Tornado Neo turntable comes with a 15 year warranty. The best in the business!

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