Posted by manualblock [ 24.191.167.32 ] on January 05, 2005 at 16:17:44:
In Reply to: More qustions? posted by Norris Wilson on January 05, 2005 at 12:21:28:
Hi Norris; This is quite a thought provoking question. The pre-amp you have sets a high standard for a source component. The gain of 53db is pretty high and might just allow you to use a MC cartridge w/o a step-up. I would not worry about overloading the phono stage as you have plenty of headroom left. You don't say what the input impedance is so I will assume it is the usual 47k.
What I would require from a used table is: Upgrade capability.
Here the VPI is king. I have owned the Jr and type 3 and they have a nice articulate sound. They are easily upgraded and the prices for parts are very reasonable and there are lots of them around. They are the Chevrolet of tables, lots of parts available.
The VPI Jr. should cost about 300 used in good shape w/o arm. With the standard PT 6 which is a good arm and will play expensive cartridges, I have seen them for 450$ used.
About cartridges. Grado Green with the stylus glued to the body of the cart. 60$ There is 500$ give or take. That set-up will sound very smooth and musical while you save for a better cartridge. When you get ready you can move up to the type 4 bearing and platter/the Sama power supply/JM jr. Arm etc. The JMW arm is a world class arm so as an upgrade it cannot be beat.
About the Thorens 150; the inner platter and bearing is expensive and if it has not been replaced it needs to be. The motor is old also and may need replacing soon unless it has been. Other than that it is a good table; however it requires lots of alterations to adapt different arms. If the bearing and inner platter are new then I would consider it depending on cost.
Not a big fan of Regas except as a short term compromise. If there is a Rega 3 with the RB 300 for a good price maybe but they go pretty high.
Here is the questions: How long will you keep it; is there a better Table in the future or not?
If so then I have the oddball suggestion. Denon DP 60L. Yes I know it is a DD; but believe me it sounds sweet. And the whole table is designed to use the Denon DL 103r Cartridge; those two and you are set; about 300 for the table and 250 for the cart. The arm on there is good. That combo will do justice to your Pre-amp. That combo will hold it's value until you can afford the Linn or even better the Audio Note with the IQ cartridge.
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