2. analog
  3. 1053917824

Lost sheep, Back to LP Turntable: buy guidance

I had an oppourtunity to aquire an old unused LP collection recently and decided to jump on it. They look like they sat unused and uncovered, for at least 30+ years. A bit smelly, and moldy jackets hiding pristine LPs. I bought them, even though I had no ability to play them.
So far I have aquired a wonderful Audio Research PH1 phono, and am using a borrowed Dual 502. I am transfixed and my enjoyment of the music on these LPs is more than I had hoped for.
I am currently using a pair of Maggie MG-IIB and a Forte 4a amp, Kimber silver interconnects, an Adcom 7?? pre and the Audio Research PH1... (until I can retip my AQ midnight speaker cables, I am using ten guage twisted pair automotive wire and super cheap bananas EEEK!)
What TT??
I am leaning to a used Rega Planar 3 with the 300 series tonearm. The newer Music Hall MMF-5 and 7 also look appealing. (however I am a big believer in using stuff where the manufacturer has been around, and will be around) So I wonder if the Music Hall is an overnight balloon?? or not?
With my system, should I wait and go better? Like a VPI Aries Scout?
(I don't need cable advice, I got cables down)
And don't even start in on cartridges! But I would have a preference for a (slight) lower midrange, upper bass bloom in a cartridge, I mean just a tiny hint vs a lean sounding cartridge. And a clear top end, with no exaggeration, all for $200 to $300 (cartridge, new or used) Cartridges are a giant vacuum in my Audiophillia type knowledge...
You suggestions, praise (for coming in out from the 'dark side' ...from ugh, CDs... ),comments, warnings, dark forbodings, appreciated.
elizabeth
Ag insider logo xs@2x
hollytone22
23 posts
 
Elizabeth,
Nice find in the record collection.First if I were you I would not fool around with a used table,you don't no what your getting.You mentioned the Music hall 5 it's a great start comes with eveything and Roy Hall is and has been around forever.The seven is also a real nice bargin all set up and ready to go.I am a big fan of these products as are so many others. Read Mark Fremer Stereophiles recommended components and he raves about these tables.Well good luck in what ever direction you decide but for the money you can't beat this product.
doc_stereo
30 posts
 
Welcome to vinyl...you'll never look back.

You can't go wrong with either tables. I personally like the Rega P3/RB300, especially for newbies like myself. Very easy to setup and sounds great.

As far as cartridges go, I'm sure there'll be many recs. I like the Rega Exact.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Elizabeth:
Nice rig. I would say that A VPI Junior with Rega RB-300 arm will cost much less new than the Scout, at $1000.00, a bit more than the Rega though. Used, they sell for around $650.00 to $750.00. The table can be upgraded into a VPI HW-19 MK 4 in little bites, as funds allow, and TWL can sell you a cool enhancement for the arm. The VPI is really a kit that easily allows you to change out the bearing, platter and suspension along with the plinth. To add to the mix though I would also suggest that you look at the Technics SL-1200 direct drive. It offers a very different set of virtues than any of the other mentioned tables. The sound and build qualities are beyond reproach. It only lacks that bit of audiophile cachet.
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,111 posts
 
Marty and Tom have made some good recommendations. I would first suggest talking to Tom privately. He is one of the most knowledgable AudiogoNers I have encountered.
After that, you might consider looking into a used Sota TT. If you can find a Sapphire in your price range, that would be a good table for you. If you can find a Star Sapphire, that would be amazing! Rega arms can be had fairly inexpensively. Get the best cartridge you can afford though. Your arm and TT will never improve on the signal taken off the LP. Priority should run in that order.
Have fun!!!
psychicanimal
1,738 posts
 
The creature on steroids should be in your short list. If you look objectively at what it offers, you'll see it is really hard to beat for the money. It is by far superior to the glass and particle board TTs and with the tonearm fluid damper its performance is stunning. You can go and read Zaikesman's review in the accessories section. The setup is pretty much plug and play. Like Viridian says, the kids should get out of the room!

KAB is coming this month with an outboard power supply for it--the working prototype has been tested and should be something really wonderful.

Jokes aside, once one listen to a TT with proper speed and rotational stability it's impossible to go back to a flimsy belt!
More to discover