mesch

Responses from mesch

Do I need a pre-amp?
The NAD PP2e loads similar to the Cambridge 551P however has somewhat less gain at 35dB. The gain differential represents no problem for the Ortofon 2M Red. I can’t speak to the sonic differences between these NAD and Cambridge phonostages. 
Do I need a pre-amp?
OK, I thought I would put myself in your shoes and shop Needledoctor. The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC turntable sells for $399 with Ortofon 2M red cartridge. The 2M Red cartridge has a recommended loads of 47K resistance and 150-300 pF capacitance. V... 
Do I need a pre-amp?
Lionsdwarf, I agree with Lowrider57. Purchase the TT and phonostage as an addition to your current system. Should you later decide to upgrade your amplification you can purchase a line level (no phonostage) integrated amplifier at that time. A sep... 
Suggestions for integrated amps for B&W CM10
As an after thought, the Halo has a built in DAC, phonostage and bass management. Are those items you need/want in a single package? 
Suggestions for integrated amps for B&W CM10
If for sure the Halo was what I wanted I would wait till I could afford one or, I would finance to buy it now as apposed to buying something else due to no interest. What would your interest be on $2500 for 12-18 months? If I was not sure I would ... 
Do I need a pre-amp?
I agree with Inna regarding buying a modern TT. Also the suggestion to check out needledoctor, I forgot them in my last post. The Project Debut II seems to be a popular budget choice (~$400). You never mentioned your budget for TT and stage. 
Hi-Fi can be less expensive than anything
Inna, my system cost analysis is similar to your’s and I agree completely regarding the enjoyment I garnish for the money spent. Most of my friends think the ~$8000 I have invested is outrageous, however most spend $60+/ month on a signal to their... 
Admittedly a bit lost
I have a difficult time recommending speakers as i have not heard many of the reported great ones and everyone’s preference differs. I own Esoteric MG-10s and like them for detail, speed, dynamics, coherance and tonal balance. No longer sold in th... 
Do I need a pre-amp?
Being the owner of the SG-3, I have always wondered how it would compare to the newer budget tables. In 1983 the SG-3 sold for $400. It has mounted a Sumiko MMT arm which sold for $250 making total cost $650 in 1983 dollars. I have not taken the t... 
Jolida FX tube DAC III vs PS Audio NuWave?
Only one who has compared them could offer valid comparison. One option is to buy both and sell the one you wish to keep. The FX can be bought with return option and the other bought used. Would tie up ~$500 for the review period, however once one... 
Admittedly a bit lost
Badri, I didn’t mean to suggest restriction to monitors, I just prefer them. Always thought they provided better soundstage/imaging for the $$$. That line of thinking may not hold true today. One additional thought I had was that a monitor on soli... 
Do I need a pre-amp?
I have owned a SG-3 since 1983. It was a great starter turntable then and if in good condition still today. As stated above, you will need a phonostage. I would stick to the moving magnet type cartridge as there are greater choices in carts and st... 
Best value in pre-owned preamps right now?
I think it depends on the budget. For a truly budget system the Schitt SYS combined with the right used power amp might prove better than an integrated.A used Jolida or Quicksilver tube pre also come to mind as a good deal in a somewhat more expen... 
New CD player, Transport or DAC?
I am with Lowrider and Melbguy on this. Purchase a quality DAC having more than a single SPDIF input and start by using your 8005 as a transport. You will have the flex to upgrade the transport if you find desirable and/or add a server. Good luck ... 
Admittedly a bit lost
You have received much great advice above. Pay attention to the Audiokinesis post. I see no problem in finding a quality speaker to match with your Jolida that meets your listening/environmental requirements. I would search out a monitor speaker h...