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Better TT or Better Pre? MMF5 vs XII vs Debut III

Morning all...

I'm setting up a small system for my study and I'm in a dilemma re: which TT to choose. It's a budget system, so please keep that in mind. I was thinking about the Debut III with the Tube Box II. Then, I started thinking, would it be better to get a MMF-5 or Xpression II and a cheaper phono stage like the pro-ject phono box II, then pickup another stage later (save up for a Slee maybe)? Is it easier to upgrade the phono stage rather than the TT? What are your opinions?

Thanks,
Paul
pablo16
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Thanks for the response...

Makes complete sense to knock out the cartridge. So, maybe I'll go with the Debut and Tube Box. Get a new cartridge and enjoy it over the next few years. Then, when school is over, I'll be able to upgrade everything.

Thanks...any other opinions appreciated
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Also,

What do y'all think about getting the speedbox as well? I've heard amazing reviews about this little gem. Esp. with some of the lower end tables (debut, xpression, etc).

thanks
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
For about the same money you're talking, I would get a Technics SL 1200 Mkii (about $400), a Bellari 129 phono preamp ($249), and an Ortofon OM 10 Super ($60).

With the Technics, you won't need an external speed control, the cartridge/tonearm compliance is a good match (and you can upgrade all the way to an OM 40 Super with just a stylus upgrade), and the Bellari is a Stereophile Class B giant-killer phono preamp.

For ergonomics, quietness, build quality, longevity, and transient dynamics, the Technics has it all over the entry-level audiophile-approved MDF-based belt drive tables.
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