Getting into analog is tough....

I was overwelmed as well

then I did my homework with a lot of help here

ended up with a Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm and am back into the world of vinyl.

most records are much cheaper, only a few new things are more expensive unless you crave japanese imports

tom

"Getting into analog" isn't about equipment. It's about software. If you already own a stack of LPs, well, then that's why you get a TT. If there's music you love that simply isn't available on CD, then that's why you get a TT. And if you dig the idea of rummaging through bins at second-hand dealers and yard sales in search of cheap thrills, then that's a reason to get a TT. And if you've listened to vinyl and digital and decided you can't live without that vinyl sound and you're willing to go to the effort and expense of tracking down music you like on vinyl, then that's a reason to get a TT. Those are the only reasons I can think of, though maybe somebody can add to this list.

Otherwise, if the preceding paragraph does not describe you, then you have no good reason to get a TT. So don't get one. Gee, that was easy.

I just got into analog about a month ago. I bought a VPI Scout/JMW9 tonearm and an Ortofon OM20 MM cartridge. Here are my thoughts. In my mind, it was worth the plunge (which will probably cost about $3000+ once all is said and done). The sound is noticeably better than my digital rig, which is pretty decent (Muse Model 8 transport and Model 296 DAC). More importantly, it is a "different" sound (more lifelike, better space, more musical) which I've enjoyed greatly. I feel like vinyl has taken my system to a different level. I've also enjoyed visiting all of the excellent used vinyl stores in the SF Bay Area. On the down side, the store forgot to mount my cartridge, so I had to fuss with setting up the cartridge and arm. It took a good deal of time and wasn't fun, but a good learning experience. I also have to clean records and will probably have to buy a record cleaning maching somewhere down the line.

I think you need to consider a number of things:
1) What is the rest of your system? I didn't feel that the rest of my system could be upgraded without spending significantly more than the vinyl rig, so I bought into vinyl for the most economical upgrade that would be significant to my ears. If you have a modest system, you might want to consider sticking with digital and upgrading other components in your system first.

2) Are there stores in your area that have a good selection of vinyl? I don't think I would have bought a turntable if I had to mail order for most of my records. There are enough good stores in my area (San Francisco) so that I can find most things I want on vinyl.

3) Do you want to invest the time vinyl requires? Finding records aside, you'll have to spend time adjusting the turntable, arm, cartridge, etc. and also cleaning records.

For me, I've been very happy with my foray into vinyl.

winston

You started a important thread.

I can't say that I agree with the you-have-to's in analog or audio in general. Its only as hard as you make it. Noting how you are confused and anxious enough to start a thread about it, Match, I'd just get a Rega P25, a Rega cart and Orbitrac record cleaning kit. Its not the best sound for the money, but its certainly quality sound and in my experience, it will net you more enjoyment. No reason for a bad time; you can buy more complicated gear later.

Keep your CD and forget about vinyl. I just brought Ray Brown "Soular Energy" and could not find it in the blue vinyl. Too many people are into vinyl, stay with your CD collection.