2. analog
  3. 1300605677

I NEED YOUR HELP with a turntable purchase

Hello Everyone,

I need your help with my first high end turntable purchase.
I will be purchasing in May.

I am looking for a really good turntable for my system. I am not sure which way to go. I checked out a Spiral Groove, and so far I really like that one, mainly for it's no nonsense approach and the ease of use. I have also heard about Basis, SME. SME seems to get really great reviews and their owners really seem to like them. I don't quite understand the significant upcharge to US customers though.

my budget is around $15-30k, hopefully including tonearm and cartridge. i could spend a bit more if necessary. i am NOT necessarily looking for the most expensive turntable, but I want the most bang for my bucks. The phone preamp will be Audio Research Phono Ref2.

the rest of my system consists of:
Preamp: Audio Research Anniversary Ref 40
Amps: Audio Research 610T
Speakers: Wilson Audio Maxx 3
Digital: dCS Scarlatti stack

I would appreciate and help you can give me.

thanks!!
jon_p
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
I would talk with Albert Porter about a high end Technics SP-10 with a great tonearm such as a Graham Phantom, with the stellar Ortofon A-90 cartridge.

That, or a Sota Cosmos with the Phantom arm and Ortofon.

Good luck, I think you are going to love it.
inna
5,245 posts
 
On the other hand, if you wish to start slowly, try that TW Raven or Fletcher Audio Omega Point Five with Zero tonearm or SME table/arm.
oregon
608 posts
 
Consider the Transrotor Fat Bob. With a Phantom, Triplanar or SME tonearm and you'll be in heaven.
jon_p OP
46 posts
 
Thanks for all the responses.
Does anyone have any thoughts on the turntables that I listed in my post?
I am not opposed to purchasing used.
4musica44107
520 posts
 
I have heard the Spiral Groove once. It was excellent. I feel the Ayre/DPS with Mr. Bauer's tonearm (which I have owned for about a year now) is just as good as the SG and so is another option you might want to consider. Better yet, consider the Shindo Garrard. As good as the Ayre/DPS and Spiral Groove are, the Shindo Garrard is in another class entirely.

BTW - That's one nice system you have!
More to discover