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Turntable advice

Hello everyone, I’m looking to buy my first turntable and want to get some advice about two specific turntables that I’m looking at. I can get both of these for a similar cost, so I’m looking for opinions on which way I should go. First, my current system consists of Rockport Cygnus, McIntosh mc1.25kw’s, McIntosh c2700 (will be used as phono stage at the start), dcs Bartok apex for digital, Cardas clear reflection cables (not power), rel no 31 pair of subs and torus power units. 

The tables that I’m down to (unless I choose to not spend as much out the gate) are a VPI Avenger Plus, most likely with a Hana ML cartridge and a Pure Fidelity Harmony with the illustrious se Tonearm and either the same cart or potentially the stratos cartridge. 
 

If I go this route, I’d like something that could eventually get more out of upgrades cartridges or tonearms down the road. Any advice or thoughts would be helpful, especially if you have experience with both. Thanks in advance!

128x128dan_springer
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,370 posts
 

I have a VPI Superscoutmaster .....upgraded to the ceramic platter, upgraded to the 2nd pivot on the 10 inch plastic (?) unipivot, center weight, peri weight, etc.. ....have it for about 16 years or so....never a problem, quiet, stable, very happy,

overthemoon
402 posts
 

If this is your first serious venture into vinyl and you don't currently have a lot of records to play  - I'd consider a Rega P8 with an Ania cartridge and my rationale is:

  • It's a high quality turntable that is fix and forget it.
  • The turntable has a lifetime guarantee so if you decide to 'go deeper' there will be a market for it.
  • The built in phono stage will support the MC cartridge
  • You can spend money on vinyl and vinyl cleaning solution (e.g. Audio Deske)

My alternate is to buy something you can upgrade in steps like a Linn LP 12.

jdougs's avatar
jdougs
181 posts
 

I went from a Hana ML to a Umami Red and the different was mind-blowing.  Single biggest improvement I've ever heard in my vinyl system with the possible exception of a dedicated true ultrasonic record cleaner.  I have nothing but good things to say about the ML, but the difference was astonishing.

dodgealum
1,398 posts
 

Hey Dan--sent you a PM. 

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,419 posts
 

I suggest being a little speculative as well, most owners of a Vinyl Collection have experienced uplift in value.

Start Buying Albums, Keep them in their Cellophane until the Vinyl Rig is set up and ready to go.

Albums are a increasing in value Commodity, there are plenty of record collectors who will vouch for this.

The TT Rig might be wise to have a Koetsu Cart' as these are in my view certainly going to increase in Value, even as a well used model.

Ortofon's buy back deal, enforced the used Cart' Market for their Brand to rocket, a Cart' that is revered by many across the Globe and no longer in production will be a good speculative purchase, and many will suggest a wise choice as a Cart'.

Other Purchases are going to depreciate, hence the used market is great as a source to buy into TT's and Tonearms. 

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