Try a different turntable?


Ever since getting into audio, I've owned a VPI turntable (HW19 upgraded with heavier platter, SAMA, JMW arm). It sounds good, without question. But I've been curious about other TTs that (folks say) come from a different design philosophy--Linn and Rega are often mentioned in this connection.

For the next two years, I am in the fortunate position of having two stereo systems; then I will retire and consolidate into one house and one system. I've set up my second system except for vinyl. What 'table/arm combos would folks recommend as an alternative to the VPI (at about the same price)? Ideally also it would be a tad smaller than the big VPIs since I have less space in the retirement home.

I listen to a little of everything, but like acoustic music (classical, folk, jazz) best, and am looking for a setup that will really connect with the music.

Thanks for suggestions!
magister
Geoch,

I can assure you , at the time the LP12 was superior sounding to my lenco ( 77), there were no internet, so we had no collective knowledge nor ignorance as we have today. Equipment were bought and sold after many shootout's and the lesser was then disregarded, nothing was ever purchased on impulse as most seem to do today and almost everyone i knew back then was into hi-fi(there was nothing else really) so most decisions were never blind and the Lenco lost out to the LP12 at the time....

Now today it seems you either follow internet folklore or you are considered stupid, well i have been around this game along time, more than just a casual player and what has become obvious to me is that no topology has a lock on good sound there is no magic wand in tubes,SS,Digital or analog, the real change for me over the last 35 yrs is the "tone" when one disagrees with the flock.

Shout the merits of ID, the condescension to BD or DD TT is not necessary nor warranted.

Regards,

PS: Maybe in 20 yrs some upstart TT guru will be on the Gon proclaiming how great his LP12 sounds after certain Home depot mods..... :)
Lewm,

The LP12 is still a great sounding table today , a good friend has one and it still charms the soul and a very good deal used i might add.

We should all rejoice that nail dragging thru a groove is still with us 30 yrs after it's imminent death was announced.. :)

Regards,
There is no argument that LP12/Ittok LVII betters a stock Lenco with it's low quality tone arm & it's feathery light plinth.
Sorry, I thought we were both inteligent people.
I'm not the casual player of your early years, neither I delude my self when I find that I took the wrong way.
Your findings over the last 30 years makes you the boss of the thread.
The progress is possible only through research by the next Guru that he has no fear of the boss.
I should consider my self stupid when I felt that I have something to offer to this community.
Next time I'll ask for your permission first.
Geoch ,

Boss of the thread ? I think you got my post wrong, no offense was intended.. my comment were not directed at anyone per se , just in general.

My apologies ..

regard,