Diving back into analog...which turntable to buy

If you couldn't get better sound with your LP12, what makes you are going to get better sound spending a lot less? Not only that, if you focus on how much the components cost, as opposed to what you are trying to accomplish, you'll fail.

The minimum you need to do here, is come up with a plan that includes matching a TT w/arm, cart and phono pre to each other, as well as making sure it will work with the rest of your system. It would also help to know what your taste in music and equipment is, along with your current system, especially, the digital front end you are looking to best so this all isn't a waste of time.

"09-01-15: Missioncoonery
Well this is all discouraging,lol...I tried everything possible with the lp12 I had.I even had a table guy come in and do his magic as he stated before coming.Couldn't compare to my Esoteric player.Anyway I want to try this,my budget is a grand..Im seeking info on tables to consider new or used,thats all really."

OK, but compare how? You didn't like the base. You didn't like the treble? Maybe the ticks and pops? If you don't focus on what went wrong the first time, you can't expect to get better results this time around. Especially with a lower budget.

You should be able to get a good, used VPI Scout for 1k. It comes with an arm. There's also a lot of upgrades for it, if you decide to stay with vinyl.

I read through your test. Assuming I take you at your word as to how the test was done, and what the results were, what exactly does the test confirm?

"09-02-15: Moonglum
Dear Zd542, assuming this question was directed at myself, you should be aware this was an experiment conducted by a Spanish(?) audiophile society 7 or 8 years ago. I am not connected with it in any way."

Sorry if I wasn't clear. My last post was for you.

This was from your first post.

"I've been using a group of bog-standard Sony players for years. This must surely confirm my golden-eared status. ;^)
Moonglum (Threads | Answers | This Thread)"

I'm just not sure what you meant by that, even after reading about the test.

I recommended a used Scout. Johnnyb53 recommended the new Pioneer that people seem to like very much. Eventually, you'll get recommendations for a Rega P3, Pro Ject and an entry level Nottingham or Thorens. All good TT's. I still would pick the VPI because it sounds great stock and has the best upgrade path.

Another option would be to use a dealer that knows what they're doing. For what you're looking to do, I would call Larry at Hollywood Sound in Hollywood FL. I've done business with him in the past, and he's the best at getting the most value for your dollar. All he does is TT's and should have anything you want in stock. I know several other AQ members that can confirm he's a good person to do business with.

"09-02-15: Moonglum
Dear Zd542,
That last statement was merely a joke... ;^)"

I'm glad to hear that. I couldn't tell if you were joking or not. I've gotten into more arguments with the "objective" crowd more times than I can remember. My biggest criticism is that they talk science and measurements, and never do any testing. They just keep talking. When you posted that ridiculous test, I didn't have the heart to point out that it had more holes in it than a cheap block of Swiss cheese. I thought, at least they tried. Even though it wasn't a very good test, I respected the fact that they made the attempt. At least I can now laugh and not feel guilty.

"09-03-15: Missioncoonery
Guys...no idea what the heck you are all bantering about and don't really care but it doesnt address my question about turntable recommendations..focus please"

No problem. But it will go better if you let us be audiophiles, and not force us to be dentists.

"09-02-15: Missioncoonery
Im saying a grand on the table..not a table,cart and phone pre...and yes I have albums tons of them that have been boxed for decades,lol.I guess ill go back to google..thanks though"

"09-03-15: Noromance
VPI? Not sure if it'll cut it given that the OP didn't like his LP12."

The design is completely different on those TT's. I don't see why not liking the Linn would be a factor.