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Driving myself crazy with TT purchase...

You've probably read a post or two of mine looking for info trying to figure out what to buy etc.

I purchased an RD-11e ($78) that needs some work. I'm considering a Grace 707, RB2510/300 or SME 3009 arm for it but the more I look the more I think my $$ could be better spent on a complete table. A few hundred $$$ for an arm a few hundred $$$ for a cartridge, is the current platfrom (RD-11e) worth it?

There are so many TT to choose from in the $600-800 range. For instance I'm trading e-mails on a VPI HW-19 mk, Thorens TD-125, TD-160 Super, Mucsic Hall 5.1 and a Sota. I really do not have the option to listen to any of them.

I don't know what to do, they all seem reputable and modable (?) and they will probably all sound good so in trying to narrow down the broad spectrum, what should I consider? Once setup properly will the setup hold? Do/will any require constant tinkering? and... and... and.

Thanks again.
botit
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I wouldn't sweat the decision. Choose one with good resale value (used VPI, Thorens, Sota) and move forward.

If you become enamored with playing vinyl, this starter table will be a blip on your radar as it will be soon replaced with a more expensive table.

It's a theme repeated again and again in these discussion threads.
steveaudio
328 posts
 
"Do/will any require constant tinkering?"

I'll add a 2nd or 3rd vote for a Rega. Pretty much "bulletproof", easy to set up, etc. And don't forget the cartridge--if you can pick/find a TT with a nice cartridge included, mounted, new or used, do that.....
chazzbo
1,006 posts
 
Yeah.Spend $1200 on Scout and you lose $$ when selling but Project 5 or 6 eries are nice for money.Forget Grace I have it on my old LP12 and would rather better arm (I also have a $550 VPI rig).Or MMF5 from Music Hall.Hook them up to a Denon DL103 and you are off and running.Older decks like you mentioned might have issues.I started with Rega and went from a P1 toa P3 really quick and liked upgrade but like the arm more than deck as motor was held in with chep adhesive foam.25 Rega or P9 that's another story.
Chazz
chashmal
605 posts
 
If it was me I would avoid problems and buy a NEW virgin Rega.
phill
38 posts
 
From what I understand, you are better off going for a MKII version of the Thorens TD-125, the MKI had some electrical component problems and is why they went to the MKII shortly after coming out with the MKI. Don't discount a TD-160, with some work they are fine sounding decks.
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