The Turntable Thread

[Artisan Fan]

Here's a nice wood plinth: http://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Xtension-Turntable_2?sc=2&category=45

 

[Artisan Fan]

This is a fave of mine. Sadly the pic does not do the wood quality justice.

http://www.vpiindustries.com/table_classic1.htm

 

[Huntsman]

Quote:

Here's a nice wood plinth: http://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Xtension-Turntable_2?sc=2&category=45

This is a fave of mine. Sadly the pic does not do the wood quality justice.

http://www.vpiindustries.com/table_classic1.htm

Geez, AF. The VPI is very pretty, but that Pro-Ject is just stunning -- that is exactly what I want apart from its massive cost, it is very beautiful.

I'm sure there are not thta many cocobolo tables out there! it is my favorite wood, either that or Wenge, both of which I've worked with extensively, so I'd hoped to do it for less than a grand! Like $100 or so for the wood. But I realize I am kind of dreaming, and getting a Rega would be much easier.

~ H

 

[borderline]



I am going to need a turntable sometime soon, since my GF loves vinyl. The only one I  have ever used is my father's vintage Acoustic Research AR-1 'The Turntable' with a Grado cartridge, its lovely mahogany base, and coupled to a massive Onkyo Integra amp and big JBL L112s. It did sound sweet.

What I'd love to do is get the components of a turntable and put them in a custom base since I am a competent woodworker, and make something really beautiful (like this one rosewood AR-1 on some website). Is that sort of thing possible? Can I buy the parts or find a decent turntable and gut it? Failing that, what is the best < $300ish turntable?

~ H

^ I don't know about sub $300 but I supposed if you can find a decent AR and then do all the woodwork yourself...maybe?
Are you familiar w/ Vinyl Nirvana? Basically everything you'd need to know regarding AR decks. I've always wanted an AR and have come very close to buying on a few occasions. I'd really like a Linn Sondek as well. Someday I'll bite.

http://www.vinylnirvana.com/ar-gallery/

I drive by there at least once a week. Do they still keep weird hours like closing at 5?

Which Grados? I have the pretty basic SR60s but absolutely love them

I have an AR-1 turntable hooked up to some VTL tube amps and preamp with old Thiel speakers, and I'm looking for a new cartridge. I have a cheap Grado that's been on there for awhile, and would like some recommendations for model and source. I want something reasonably priced (~$100?) and which sounds decent.

 

[Marshall W]

I have an AR-1 turntable hooked up to some VTL tube amps and preamp with old Thiel speakers, and I'm looking for a new cartridge. I have a cheap Grado that's been on there for awhile, and would like some recommendations for model and source. I want something reasonably priced (~$100?) and which sounds decent.

I'm running an Ortofon 2M Red on my Rega Planar 3. I picked it up at needledoctor.com. I think it sounds pretty good.

 

[Gus]

My interests are returning to turntables and vinyl after a multiple decade absence. I could use some input.


I have two very nice tube amps. I'm looking for a turntable. Where to start? I hear you can get decent turntables for $399. Is that true? If so, any particular models and brands?

Also, I guess I will need some type of phono pre amp. WHat is a good starter brand and model?

 

[Nataku]

For new starter turntables on the lower-end of the price bracket, I'd recommend a Pro-Ject Debut or a Music Hall MMF 2.1. I personally had a Rega Planar 3 for about 8 years that treated me very well.

You can score a killer used turntable for a good price on eBay as well. Thorens, Dual, etc.

 

[Gus]

Thanks Nataku..

I spoke to a high-end Hi Fi guy today. He said you need a $400 cartridge or you "tear up you vinyl". He suggested a Benz or Clear Audio.

 

[Gus]

What would be a few good high end models of turntables that someone might buy used on eBay for $400+/-

 

[jenlain]

Just picked up a Thorens TD160 and put on a new Shure M97xe. I'm using a Musical Fidelity V-LPS II phono preamp. Haven't had it long enough to break in the setup yet, but sounds nice. What phono preamps are you using?

 

[warrenjl1]

Just starting to delve into analog. I picked up an Audio Technica LP60. I know it's no Pro-Ject, but I figured I've got to start somewhere. Thinking about Audioengine A2s to run it through. Should I be looking to upgrade the cartridge soon? What would you recommend and what might fit the AT?

 

[Medwed]



What would be a few good high end models of turntables that someone might buy used on eBay for $400+/-

Rega Planar 3 seem to be clear winner in this price range. I have researched this matter extensively and fortunately unlike with electronics or speakers there is one clear winner in TT and that is Rega.

For cartridge I don't think you can go wrong with Denon for the price.

Phono pre-amp is very, very important component and I'd recommend Graham Slee Reflex
http://www.ebay.com/itm/GRAHAM-SLEE..._HomeAudioHiFi_Amplifiers&hash=item3a8135ca63

Then Amplifier, should be as neutral as possible, none of that designed-by ear crap. Decent amp could be had for under 800.

 

[audiophilia]

Reviewing this right now. Bergmann Magne.

Air bearing 'table and tangential arm.

A fun review period.

 

[Medwed]



Reviewing this right now. Bergmann Magne.

Air bearing 'table and tangential arm.

A fun review period.

Please do tell what you hear over compressor noise?


P.S. Picked up Rega RP6 for a bargain price, no improvement over 30 y.o. Planar 3 ... Nice shiny plinth though...

 

[audiophilia]

Almost silent. And, in the same room. Exceptional, really.