Quote:
Originally Posted by JohnnyLaw 
Actually, it's for my sister, who has lots of records but a terrible stereo. I've had a Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB for the past 5 years and I really like it. It's discontinued though and I don't have any experience with the Carbon. I'd be extremely wary of buying a turntable on kickstarter. I also have Epos ELS8 speakers but, again, they're no longer in production. My personal search for affordable gear has led me to these brands (NAD, Pro-Ject, Epos) but there are surely other good options out there. Vintage gear can be great but there's some risk involved and you need a reliable repair shop. I want something with no hassles.
Actually, it's for my sister, who has lots of records but a terrible stereo. I've had a Pro-Ject Debut III Phono SB for the past 5 years and I really like it. It's discontinued though and I don't have any experience with the Carbon. I'd be extremely wary of buying a turntable on kickstarter. I also have Epos ELS8 speakers but, again, they're no longer in production. My personal search for affordable gear has led me to these brands (NAD, Pro-Ject, Epos) but there are surely other good options out there. Vintage gear can be great but there's some risk involved and you need a reliable repair shop. I want something with no hassles.
Is this the one you have?
http://www.amazon.com/PRO-JECT-DEBUT-MATTE-BLACK-TURNTABLE/dp/B000CDHQK2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1363368066&sr=8-1&keywords=pro-ject+turntable
Apparently the Carbon is an upgrade to the Debut III, mainly with the carbon fiber tonearm, but if you're happy with the Debut III, why not save 100 bones? Or you could spend an extra $50 and get the Rega RP1, which I've read is an upgrade to the Pro-ject Carbon.
Honesty, I think your sister would be very pleased with any of the options that have been described.
Re: Vintage gear, having a good (and affordable) repair shop is certainly the key. Luckily I have a retired electrical engineer work on mine who does it mainly as a hobby.
