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Will VPI scout or Michell Tecnodec beat my emmlabs

Theoretical question. I have not had a turntable since my Technics SL1200 in the 1970's. I have only 3 new LP's, of alternative artists that I am currently into (bought for auditioning purposes only). Yet, I think I would like to add vinyl to my system: emmlabs CDSD; DCC2; Lamm M1.2 ref amps;Kharma Midi-Grands;Jena Symphony cables. (Perhaps, I am crazy ... given that I don't have a vinyl collection ... yet, a lot of the indie/alternative stuff is available locally or on internet in vinyl ... sometimes recordings are only available as vinyl !!! ... plus, I am tired of worrying about copy control discs that can be a problem ... So, I would like to consider adding vinyl if it can get me past what I have now with digital)

However, I don't want to spend more than 1000-1200 for a table and arm. (Obviously, I will also need a phonostage + cart ? budget ??). I can get a used VPI Scout (6 mo old with 300 rpm motor) for this budget vs. a JA Michell Tecnodec, as two possibilities. I am curious whether any of these tables can allow me to get a significant slice of the benefits of vinyl, without spending a lot of money ? With a reasonable phonostage and cart (not too expensive though), would this surpass my emmlabs. Unfortunately, locally I don't have the ability to trial many tables. There are only 2 high-end dealers (one largely internet-based_, but most of the stuff would have to be bought outright, as demos are not readily available.

Finally, if anyone thought the VPI scout was a reasonable candidate, any suggestions for a decent phonostage and cart that would be appropriate for my associated equipment and allow me to get the most out of that table ? Again, I apologize but I don't have anywhere local to try these things out right now.
thom_y
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,243 posts
 
While I don't have a Emm Labs setup, I do have a Capitole Mk 2SE and an Ayre D1-xe. I was thinking as you were now, except I had a couple hundred old records in a box.

I bought a table/arm/cart for 750 used (nottingham horizon,RB250, and Dyanvector 10x5) and a Whest phono stage. A few new records to get me started and a record cleaning setup (essential)

This meager 750 (more with phono stage and record cleaner) setup is way better than either player I have, so good that I find it impossible to listen to CDs after playing vinyl, it is so much more natural and dynamic that a CD, CDs sound dead in comparison. I still enjoy CDs, but listen to them first or don't listen to vinyl at all when playing them.

I think you will be astounded at how good an inexpensive player will be compared to your EMM gear. Just be prepared for some frustration from time to time with the vinyl. It's not all perfect and even a new record can sound pretty bad, but when you get a good one it's heaven. I'm getting to the point where I would rather hear real music with a little crackle than dead lifeless and compressed music that is crystal clear.
afro18
50 posts
 
Hello,

$1100 can do a lot in the world of analogue. Also, can do even more if you go used. Here's a good idea:

VPI HW 19 MK III used with tonearm ($400)
Grado Gold ($160)
Ear MM tube Phonostage used ($500)
________________________________________

$1060 total.

any thoughts?

Marty Nickison
hooper
396 posts
 
Depends on your listening priorities. If you like the vinyl sound--and some of us actually don't--buy a turntable. If you prefer digital, then put your money into fine-tuning that. As far as I'm concerned, the EMM stuff is the best source I've ever heard.
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