I have been slowly putting together the pieces for a vinyl setup. I now have an SAE 1000E cartridge, an a Heed Quasar phono pre-amp coming. The budget for turntable is $1000.00 or so.
Let's have a nice discussion helping Mike out.
New or used?
You setting it up yourself or want it set up for you?
Putz,
I am open to new or used, and would prefer plug and play. However, if there is work to be done, I have help from my tweak it at all costs, fix it up friends.
I'm partial to VPI tables. The VPI Traveller is their newest table and goes for close to what you're looking to spend. I heard it in the Spring at the NY Audio Show and it impressed me. Think there's some online reviews trickling in as well. Check this out:
http://app.audiogon.com/listings/vpi-traveler-turntable (http://app.audiogon.com/listings/vpi-traveler-turntable)
If you go used, stay local. Audition the table and avoid the heartbreak of shipping damage. Seller would probably let you use your preamp and Cart for the audition.
Traveler sounds like a good deal. I just remembered that Overture Audio has VPI and Clearaudio. I will give them a call to set up an audition.
Traveler is an excellent recco. I was going to recco the same however since a Cart mentioned I opted out. For $1300 complete and I heard it at the DC Audiofest, buy it. It is worth every penny.
charles
I talked to the guys at Overture Audio, they had nothing affordable (in my budget) set is up, but I can bring my phono-pre and audition. They carry VPI, Clearaudio, Basis, Pro-ject, Rega. The next few weekends may be very busy.
During research, I ran across a Thorens TD-125, which my vintage friends say would be great if in good shape, and has a decent arm :wtf: I would hate to jump on a vintage machine and have to rebuild to make it work, but the vintage guys would probably have a field day as I continue to listen to Cd's ](*,)
The rabbit hole is getting deeper.....
Your biggest issue will be trusting your ears. Unknown territory I believe is the biggest factor you face.
Remember there is no best. Only what is best for your ears. Insecurity plays a heavy roll in decision making. One does not need to be a seasoned veteran with golden ears. Trust your ears not opinion.
I think most are insecure with their audio decisions. Especially when entering an unknown territory.
Have no trepidations in your decision. Just TRUST the EAR cause that's all we have to go by. Have fun and learn.
charles
I have a turntable! I picked up a Thorens TD-125 from a local audioshop. It looks to be in pretty good shape, had a good price and came with an SME 3009 tonearm, Ortofon MC20:?: cartridge and a STM-72 step up transformer. I have not had a chance to listen to it with the SAE 1000E or Ortofon through the Heed Quaser. I had an emergency and had to go out of town. The vintage guys are taking a look at it for me. I can't wait to get back on Tuesday and check it out!