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Help for a vinyl novice

Hello,

I've swam about in hi-end audio for over a decade now, but only in the digital world. I've had plenty of experience with tubes, ss, planars, drivers, etc. However, i'm making the plunge into the deeper waters of vinyl. Whenever I see a good, "entry-level" tt for sale, I immediately start researching it here and elsewhere online. And, of course, there are as many good reviews as there are detractors and I end up with cold feet.

Could someone point me to a solid tt under $1K, including arm and cartridge? I'm not averse to upgrading either at a later date and feel comfortable enough to undertake such an upgrade as needed, though not immediately.

I have a pair of Reference 3A de Capo i's being powered by an LSA Statement integrated with an MM phono input. My listening room is small - 10'W x 12'L x 7'H - and I have an 8" Velodyne sub lurking in the corner.

Maybe take a look at what's being offered now and advise? or advise what to look for in future listings?

Thank you much,

Simao
128x128simao
simao's avatar
simao OP
656 posts
 
Okay - so everyone is raving about the Technics 1200. I have no experience with it, but is it really THAT good? Maybe I'm swayed against it by its reputation as a DJ tt, or that it's not belt-driven?

Would you recommend the 1200 or the Linn LP12?
dsper
271 posts
 
My strong opinion is that if the rotational speed is not accurate, nothing else matters. This just makes sense to my logical, analytical side.

The Technics tables are direct drive so the accuracy is there.

A lot of folks will probably disagree with me - good for them - it is there ears to hear what they hear.

The DJ thing is baloney, or elitist, as dj's will use equipment that can be relied upon every night.

With the Technics, one needs to address the surface upon which the table will sit(butcher block and brass cones) and the tone arm requires rewiring.

$1000 with cartridge and you are good to go.
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
Purists may scoff...as it doesn't carry a "boutique" pedigree...but the Technics is a time tested, quality machine...unfortunately the cat is out the bag...prices have increased...but deals still abound...even in stock form...its pretty impressive...I would pick it over a mid level Rega, Project, etc...but to each his own....
vinylmad814
59 posts
 
For pure audiophile use the Lp-12 by leaps and bounds over the 1200. The Technics is what i call an industrial use piece of equipment, robust, as one has said can be used as in evironments with more than your conventional home audiophile use. Its not an elitest thing at all, its a fact. The Lp-12 with the proper Tonearm/cartridge is still held in the highest regard among audiophiles. The Lp-12 of course cannot be used for Dj work or nightclub/frat party use. It sounds like Simao is more heading into the home/audiophile direction. So Lp-12 hands down. There is plenty of information on the 2 units so I would be interested to hear what your impressions are.
dgarretson
2,394 posts
 
The LP-12 is a continuum of product bifurcations dating back a mid-70's design. I wouldn't recommend it to any self-professed novice, and certainly not at the $1K price level.

http://www.high-endaudio.com/RC-Linn.html

Arthur's site can be controversial, but so is an LP-12.
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