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New Vinyl Setup

For somebody who is new to vinyl, is there any advantage to buying new vs. buying used? Or is the cost savings of buying used the same advantage with a vinyl setup that it is with most other audio components?

I know there are some setups that come ready to plug and play, cartridge and all. Shy of somebody coming to one's house to install and verify setup, it would seem like the new owner needs to be well versed in setup to really get what they're paying for, new or used, out of vinyl.

Given the mechanical nature of a vinyl setup, it seems like there might be advantages for a newbie getting it right with brand new stuff, but would appreciate any input.
kthomas
tvad
9,467 posts
 

04-11-07: Greenp3
Hey guys It's my first post. I myself just purchased a new table - actually a demo P3. It's certainly a step up from the old Technics & Pioneers I've had in the past. My previous table of any worth was a 1200MkII when I used to dj.
Welcome to the Nut House!

Comparisons between the SL1200 MKII and Rega P3 are of interest to many here. Did you have an opportunity to compare them in your system, or was your experience with the SL1200 MKII restricted to the clubs?
greenp3
3 posts
 
I was using the 1200s way back about 10-12 years ago, I did a few house parties, but mostly just for my own entertainment. The 1200 is a rock solid table, with very fast startup/stop and a strong motor which I'm sure most people here alredy know. I have read some info recently on TNT discussing the direct drive vs. belt drive war - very interesting. Too bad I got rid of the 1200s - it would be a neat comparison test.
shersta
140 posts
 
GreenP3--Congrats on your green p3. I'm sure you'll get lots of compliments on it. The next step to consider is cleaning your vinyl (and keeping it clean). This can be done pretty inexpensively, though doing it on the cheap means more elbow grease is required. Have fun and go record shopping.
johnnyb53
3,490 posts
 
04-11-07: Greenp3
...I'm enjoying a wider variety of music + I love the involvement that vinyl requires and the rewards that it gives.

That turned out to be a pleasant surprise for me too. It's refreshing to see someone else mention it. I derive a special satisfaction from having to change LP sides every 20 minutes or so. It makes listening a more active experience. With a single-play manual turntable, LPs can't fade into background music for very long.

I'm also discovering a lot more music, especially because I hit the 99-cent bins of every used record store I visit. it's amazing what good condition records I'm finding there. Recently I came away with Alan Parsons' I, Robot, a bunch of early Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck Group, Moody Blues, etc. I'm catching up on a lot of rock/pop from the '60s and '70s that I originally missed because I was listening to jazz instead.
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