2. analog
  3. 135974-76221

Happy with digital, but thinking about vinyl--looking for system specific recommendations

I just upgraded my dac to the Chord Qutest which seems perfect for my system.  And in the months between that order & its arrival, I also found a great deal on a Croft Micro 25R (already had the basic 25 preamp).  Since it has an allegedly excellent tube MM phono stage, it seems a shame to not make use of it at least occasionally.  I don't have much experience here, so I'm hoping for some ideas of what might be a good match to my system (ProAc Studio 148 speakers, First Watt M2 amp, Cardas Neutral Reference IC's & Anticables 3.1 speaker wire), preferably the least expensive turntable/cartridge option that's still good enough to make me want to actually not just click 'play' on Tidal. Thanks.


gnostalgick
robelvick's avatar
robelvick
466 posts
 
For around $1600 - you can get a Music Hall MMF-7.3 w/ a premounted Ortofon 2M Bronze MM cart.

That's a fairly easy TT as far as adjustments go, very thorough and easy to read manual, and since the cart is preinstalled, that will save you a lot of time.

It's a Stereophile recommended component too, if such things matter to you.
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
Disappointment rules with entry level turntables, carts, and phono pres.
gnostalgick OP
88 posts
 
So what do you consider above entry level?
gillatgh's avatar
gillatgh
224 posts
 
I'm in the camp of those recommending a vintage, inexpensive table. Full automatic for ease of use. Vinyl is definitely not push a button operation and requires some amount of effort. In my case I run 2 tables. One is a VPI scout mated to a Rogue Pharaoh dedicated to analog and the other (vintage Sony Ps4300 fully automatic) put a disc on platter and push a button is mated to my digital system. If I want convenience I use the digital system. When I am more patient I go analog. Completely different experiences, neither fails to give me joy although I have to say that the analog difference is more pleasure but also more tedious. 

noromance's avatar
noromance
1,780 posts
 
OP, this is an excellent table with great arm and will beat out all those Regas and MDF decks.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis8ig47-gem-polytable-with-10-jelco-sa-750e-tonearm-new-turntables

You could look at the Pioneer PLX 1000 --gets great reviews.

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