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Turntable suggestions for novice...

I would like to add vinyl to my system but am currently on a limited budget. Also, I have not listened to vinyl in about 30 years. My current system is quite good: Cambridge Audio Azur 740C 24-bit upsampling CD player; Musical Fidelity A3cr dual mono pramp, Odyssey Audio Stratus Plus 150 wpc SS amp; all Audioquest interconnects with Midnight 3 hyperlitz bi-wire speaker wire; Von Schweikert VR-4 loudspeakers; RBH stand-alone sub amp with RBH passive sub. I'd like a good 9/10ths turntable (likely used) for under $500. Any sleepers or recommendations?
klipschking
mcfavre4
85 posts
 
Easily a used Rega Planar 3 gets you right where you want to be. RB300 arm, great platter etc. I see them under $500 often in great shape.
ncarv
974 posts
 
Ditto Mcfavre4
inna
5,245 posts
 
I would be careful to buy anything that I see for sale too often. Many buy P3 and many upgrade quickly. So why buy it?
ballywho
134 posts
 
A lot of folks mow through gear, so just because you see something frequently for sale doesn't mean anything.

A P3 would be just fine, but my suggestion would be to get a Technics SL-1210 MkII (and new, if you can find one). Rock solid, easy (and fun) to operate. I think they're all worth more than what you pay.

Good luck!
horseface's avatar
horseface
222 posts
 
I scored a Denon DP62L off of Craigslist for $350 - Mint shape the old guy had two of them and was cleaning house. I threw on a Grado Gold and I was in great shape for less than $550. I was getting the upgrade bug but I cant seem to find anything I like as well that I can afford. I ended up picking up a new cartridge and we will see what that does for me.

I think the P3 would be a great way to go as well ... I have been tempted to go down that road myself.
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