Best TT under $1k
I’m looking to get into vinyl but don’t really no where to begin. I’ve been doing ample research on what TT to buy but am seeking the opinions of the A-gon community. I’m looking to spend under a grand, $750 if I can get away with it. (new or used)
Some units that I’ve looked at online:
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon DC Esprit SB Turntable – $599
Rega Planar 2 Turntable – $675
VPI Cliffwood Turntable – $900
Rega Planar 3 Turntable – $945
Technics SL-1200MK2
Criteria in order of importance:
- Sound quality
- Must include cart
- Excellent build quality
- Upgrade-able. Usable now but can upgrade down the road.
- Easy to setup/ use/ maintain
Thanks,
Joe
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- 34 posts total
+1 chackster, OP not going to get all the priorities listed for less than a grand. I agree with chackster a used vintage DD in good shape will perform better than a cheap BD new. I still use my vintage 76 Sony PS4300 DD to compare with my VPI and although 40 years old it still satisfies. Both get playtime. |
I wouldn’t let the inclusion of a cartidge dictate your purchase. If you want a very good NIB table with warranty, the Pioneer PLX-1000 is the best value by a country mile. Order it from somewhere like Needle Doctor or Music Direct and ask them to install a cartridge like the https://www.needledoctor.com/Audio-Technica-VM540ML-Phono-Cartridge Keep in mind that your analog system will need a phono preamp unless your receiver or integrated (or separate line stage preamp) already has one built-in. I’d go with the Mo-Fi Studio Phono at $250. This would put you a little over budget at MSR prices, but most dealers will gladly grant a 10% discount simply for asking. Tell Needle Doctor you’d like the whole package for $1K. That would yield a very respectable starter system IMO and provide a path to support should you run into any problems. |
You can do much better than the Technics SL-1200mk2 with a SL-1600mk2 (fully auto, double isolated with spring suspension and same motor as the 1200) or the SL-1700mk2 semi-auto or SL-1800mk2 manual version. They cost more than the SL-1200mk2 but they are a much better turntable. Start off with an AT95E or AT95EX and save up a few $$ for an Audio-Technica VM540ML and you won’t be disappointed. It may take a little searching for a little while to find one of these turntables, but don’t give up. I found a fixed-upper SL-1700mk2 and restored it myself, and I could not be happier. Oh and another reason to avoid the SL-1200mk2 is because nearly all of them have been thrashed by idiot rap-dj’s. |
- 34 posts total