Greetings fellow Jacketeers.
I'm looking to buy a turntable to listen to my vinyl, both old and new, after a break of about 15 years. Been buying the odd LP here and there, and have a collection of late 80s / early 90s records to rediscover. Really want to listen to Circuital, though, which has spurred my decision.
I've got an old (and trusty) Denon PMA355 amp and (equally old and trusty) floor standing Mission 702e speakers which give plenty of neutral, powerful sound together.
I really like the look of the Rega RP1, Pro-ject Debut III - anyone tried/owned them?
I'd love a Linn LP12, but the budget doesn't stretch that far...
All input welcomed.
Mark, I had a Rega P2 for 20 years - they make GREAT tts.
Linns are also great but you might be better off buying a used one at a sight like audiogon.
http://www.audiogon.com/ (http://www.audiogon.com/)
I currently have a couple of vpi's that i love but there are many good tts out there these days. on line sites like elusive disc and acoustic sounds are also good to check out.
but imo, if you get a rega, you will never be sorry. pm me if you have any questions.
Thanks for the advice and link headhunter - I'll be going along to my local audio store for a listening session in the next few weeks. I love the look of the Regas - nice and minimalist.
As usual, searching around on the internet has unintended and expensive consequences - now thinking about upgrading the amp, CD player and speakers too! :D
Recently got myself a new (old) one. Thought about getting the Pro-ject Debut III at first but eventually went for a vintage one, a 1975 Thorens TD165. It sounds really wonderful. You can usually find one for around a 100 bucks, you just gotta be patient and wait for a nice one to come around, or a restored one. You might have to replace the belt but they're still available and not that expensive.
(http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/608/318441075.jpg)
That looks niiiiice, CC. I seem to be entering an almost endless world of turntables, tonearms and cartridges - too much choice! ::)
That Thorens is a beauty CC. Those vintage Thorens tt send out a beautiful sound (not to mention the gorgeous look!)
Also love the TF print hanging in the background. Nice.
Ay yi yi, you guys are making me itch real bad for either a new unit or to have mine restored...and after finding this (http://www.vintageturntablerestoration.com/), I'm thinking this is just the guy to get my Marantz 6300 back in shape. I like the vintage stuff too.
I just wanted to bump this thread and say that I'm jonesin' for a new turntable. There's a Thoren on ebay right now for $110. Man I love vinyl.
On a side note, cheap receiver on woot.com today too...not sure if it's any good...probably not for $150, but the price is right if anyone needs a cheap receiver! :beer:
Gotta bump this after the arrival of the Rega RP1 and Bellari VP130 preamp...sounds pretty damn good. Still debating on if it sounds $600 better than my old turntable (Audio Technica ATPL50, which, admittedly is a low-dollar POS) or not, but it definitely sounds better. Clearer, warmer. The static and imperfections in the LP's are much more noticable now, so I think the next investment may be a good record cleaner.
I tried playing a CD copy of Yim's "Tribute to" vs. the vinyl copy. I definitely "get it" now regarding the "warm" vinyl sound. They both sounded great, but the CD sounded much more "sterile." I'm not really good at using these audiophile terms, and honestly, it kind of annoys me to even use the terminology, but whadyagonnado.
Resisting the urge to upgrade the table already...I'm always thinking that next upgrade is going to make such a world of difference. Considering:
leather DIY mat instead of felt
upgraded "white" drive belt
Groovetracer subplatter
Groovetracer acrylic platter - this one looks pretty damn sharp too
Anyway, good Saturday going so far listening to the new table! Circuital, YY, Pet Sounds, Abbey Road, Basement Tapes, Surfer's Choice, Who By Numbers, Derek and the Dominos :thumbsup:
Now just gotta fix my left Klipsch SF-3 speaker. I think the crossover is bad.
I got my tt working and I love it. I had to buy a replacement cartridge and it seems to be too heavy for the arm. Is it called an "arm", btw. lol It plays the records and is sounds great, only thing is when you hit "lift" it doesn't lift. And when the record is over, if I'm not there to catch it, it scratches across the record to get back.
Also, I found this online. Anyone have any insight to this? I would love to have this in my house, just afraid it might be a piece of junk. It might be cool to have anyway, though. Decisions, decisions...
http://pensacola.craigslist.org/atq/2749962021.html (http://pensacola.craigslist.org/atq/2749962021.html)
Quote from: Jon T. on Dec 21, 2011, 08:59 AM
Also, I found this online. Anyone have any insight to this? http://pensacola.craigslist.org/atq/2749962021.html (http://pensacola.craigslist.org/atq/2749962021.html)
That, my friend, is a radiogram. It looks a lot like one my grandparents used to have. The sound was never up to much, but the look cool.
it's time for me to get a turntable. I just bought this setup.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882981013&nm_mc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel&cm_mmc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel-_-Content-_-text-_- (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882981013&nm_mc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel&cm_mmc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel-_-Content-_-text-_-)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882120176&nm_mc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel&cm_mmc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel-_-Content-_-text-_- (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882120176&nm_mc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel&cm_mmc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel-_-Content-_-text-_-)
2 days ago they had a deal on newegg with these both bundled together for $499 with free 3-day shipping., deal is apparently over now.
So I want a turntable, but have absolutely zero knowledge of what I should get. Sounds like I'll need a preamp as well as the receiver does not have a phono output. Any advice. Would really love to go on the cheaps. Should I look for a used one on C-list? Any advice on brands, preamps, what not to get, etc. would all be appreciated. Thanks.
Nice setup Walter! I can't offer much advice on how best to round that out, but it sounds like there are some folks here that can help you.
I've got my dad's old turntable. It's a Kenwood KD 500, probably about 35 years old or so. I've replaced the needle, but other than that it's original and it still sounds great. I've got all his old records too.
I've only had 2 turntables, and only really listened to a few more. The best I've heard yet has been my new Rega RP1, but it's not exactly cheap. $450 for the turntable and $155 for the preamp (normally $250). The Audio-Technica ATPL50 that I had was perfectly adequate. I had it for 3-4 years before having this Rega gifted to me. Honestly, you really have to focus and listen to hear the difference (at least at first). Once you hear it, it kind of sticks with you and the difference becomes more obvious, but IMO, the Audio-Technica is a great deal, if you want a NEW turntable (around $75). Then, there's the whole "used" market, which is another story. From what I've seen, it's not hard to find a solid, used Thorens on eBay, if you want the vintage look. There are many other options in the "used" realm. I've got no recommendations there, but if you do your research and stick to a reputable brand, it would probably be hard to go wrong. If you need a preamp, I've got no complaints with the Bellari VP-130. Tubes are easy to change out (or "roll" in the preamp lingo), sound is good. No on-off switch is the only complaint...unplug the mains power or put it on mute when you're done listening, but the tube stays on...I would think you wouldn't want that tube staying constantly on (although from what I've read it is a low power source through the tube), for optimal tube life.
Just noticed I passed 1,000 posts! :D Only took 5 years ;)
Any good ideas for one I can hook up to my Bose Speakers?
I finally got a new cartridge for my Marantz 6300, and now I really know how long overdue it was. I didn't get anything special, this budget Shure number (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006I5SB/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details) (I was lucky enough to get it for $20 less than the price listed), but it is pretty nice, has some good features and sounds great. It had been too long since At Dawn sounded so good on my system!
I have been wanting to go totally analog with a tube amp setup for a long time. Anybody have any advice on that front, Hawkeye?
Quote from: Crispy on Jan 15, 2012, 12:23 PM
I finally got a new cartridge for my Marantz 6300, and now I really know how long overdue it was. I didn't get anything special, this budget Shure number (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006I5SB/ref=oh_o00_s00_i00_details) (I was lucky enough to get it for $20 less than the price listed), but it is pretty nice, has some good features and sounds great. It had been too long since At Dawn sounded so good on my system!
I have been wanting to go totally analog with a tube amp setup for a long time. Anybody have any advice on that front, Hawkeye?
I would be happy to help. I have a hybrid amp (combo solid state and tube) and a fully tubed pre-amp. Tube sound is so much warmer.
My girlfriend and I want to buy a turntable, and I was wondering if any of you folks had brand/model preferences. I'm wanting to listen to my records on a daily basis. Is it true that the record player will eventually ruin vinyl? If so, how long does it normally takes to wear vinyl out?
Thanks!
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 08:07 AM
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
Christ! I hope not! :grin: Its the one I use... though I don't have the USB port. I'm not sure I'd ever have much use for that, as most albums come with a digital download or CD.
BTW, the price for the LP60 on Amazon seems very high. I got mine on Amazon, again the model without USB, for about $60. My local record shop has 'em for around $80 or so. You might check your local Best Buy. Otherwise, if $120-$140 is your price range, you could probably do better then the LP60.
Read the first review, too.
The LP120 might be a better way to go, if you can afford $240.
Its $214 shipped here:
http://gamestoysonline.com/product/146635_Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable-USB-Analog-.html (http://gamestoysonline.com/product/146635_Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable-USB-Analog-.html)
I hope to upgrade someday...
Quote from: johnnYYac on Jun 11, 2013, 11:15 AM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 08:07 AM
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
Christ! I hope not! :grin: Its the one I use... though I don't have the USB port. I'm not sure I'd ever have much use for that, as most albums come with a digital download or CD.
BTW, the price for the LP60 on Amazon seems very high. I got mine on Amazon, again the model without USB, for about $60. My local record shop has 'em for around $80 or so. You might check your local Best Buy. Otherwise, if $120-$140 is your price range, you could probably do better then the LP60.
Read the first review, too.
The LP120 might be a better way to go, if you can afford $240.
Its $214 shipped here:
http://gamestoysonline.com/product/146635_Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable-USB-Analog-.html (http://gamestoysonline.com/product/146635_Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable-USB-Analog-.html)
I hope to upgrade someday...
Indy CD and Vinyl has the lp60 for $120 without USB, and the lp120 for $300, so I'm definitely shopping around online. Is the 120 really that much better? We might try to save for it.
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:33 AM
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
I agree. If I don't listen to them, then there is no point! I'm assuming it takes a lot to wear one out though?
Johnny, how reliable is that vendor for the 120? That is the cheapest price I can find anywhere. I'm assuming it is unopened too?
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:36 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:33 AM
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
I agree. If I don't listen to them, then there is no point! I'm assuming it takes a lot to wear one out though?
It would take a lot of spinnings, but I guess it depends on your definition of "worn out." In my 30+ year history of record playing, I have replaced maybe 10 records that I thought didn't sound as good as I would like them to. The latest example was my old copy of Rush's Exit Stage Left, which I surely wore out, thereby generating large amounts of happiness. I found a like-new copy at Amoeba in SF, which had JUST been placed in the New Arrivals bin, and was immediately all snatched up by my greedy little hands.
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:45 AM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:36 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:33 AM
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
I agree. If I don't listen to them, then there is no point! I'm assuming it takes a lot to wear one out though?
It would take a lot of spinnings, but I guess it depends on your definition of "worn out." In my 30+ year history of record playing, I have replaced maybe 10 records that I thought didn't sound as good as I would like them to. The latest example was my old copy of Rush's Exit Stage Left, which I surely wore out, thereby generating large amounts of happiness. I found a like-new copy at Amoeba in SF, which had JUST been placed in the New Arrivals bin, and was immediately all snatched up by my greedy little hands.
Thanks Crispy!
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:51 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:45 AM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:36 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:33 AM
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
I agree. If I don't listen to them, then there is no point! I'm assuming it takes a lot to wear one out though?
It would take a lot of spinnings, but I guess it depends on your definition of "worn out." In my 30+ year history of record playing, I have replaced maybe 10 records that I thought didn't sound as good as I would like them to. The latest example was my old copy of Rush's Exit Stage Left, which I surely wore out, thereby generating large amounts of happiness. I found a like-new copy at Amoeba in SF, which had JUST been placed in the New Arrivals bin, and was immediately all snatched up by my greedy little hands.
Thanks Crispy!
You bet! Now that I think about it, three of those replaced records were Dark Side of the Moon...but hey, one of those per decade is pretty good, right? :grin:
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:56 AM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:51 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:45 AM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 11:36 AM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 11:33 AM
The whole thing about wearing out your records by playing them is strange...and true—just like driving your car will wear it out! I once had a guy lecture me about playing my records once when I was out shopping for cartridges in Tulsa, he was all, "You gotta seal those things up and never play them, they're an investment!" I agree, record collecting is an investment: an investment in my happiness which is generated by listening to my records! :grin:
I agree. If I don't listen to them, then there is no point! I'm assuming it takes a lot to wear one out though?
It would take a lot of spinnings, but I guess it depends on your definition of "worn out." In my 30+ year history of record playing, I have replaced maybe 10 records that I thought didn't sound as good as I would like them to. The latest example was my old copy of Rush's Exit Stage Left, which I surely wore out, thereby generating large amounts of happiness. I found a like-new copy at Amoeba in SF, which had JUST been placed in the New Arrivals bin, and was immediately all snatched up by my greedy little hands.
Thanks Crispy!
You bet! Now that I think about it, three of those replaced records were Dark Side of the Moon...but hey, one of those per decade is pretty good, right? :grin:
Haha! Listening to Us and Them on vinyl gets me all excited. Oh and Eclipse!
It looks like the 120 has to be plugged into the computer at all times? Anyone know this for a fact? That would definitely complicate where I could place it at the house.
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 08:07 AM
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
I can vouch for the LP60 being a good turntable to start with (although take that as you will since I know very little about turntables). But like Yac, I didn't pay nearly that much for it. I think I payed maybe $80 off amazon?
Quote from: TheThird on Jun 11, 2013, 12:14 PM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 08:07 AM
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
I can vouch for the LP60 being a good turntable to start with (although take that as you will since I know very little about turntables). But like Yac, I didn't pay nearly that much for it. I think I payed maybe $80 off amazon?
It can't play 78 rpm records though correct? I'm new to vinyl, so I am not sure how common those records are anyways.
I got a nice solid Technics on craigslist for $65 I think. I would poke around there first...
Quote from: TheThird on Jun 11, 2013, 12:14 PM
Quote from: EverythingChanges on Jun 11, 2013, 08:07 AM
Also, I've been looking at the Audio Technica LP60 turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60USB-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPB8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1370950140&sr=8-4&keywords=audio+technica+record+player)
Any chance that would wear out my vinyl?
I can vouch for the LP60 being a good turntable to start with (although take that as you will since I know very little about turntables). But like Yac, I didn't pay nearly that much for it. I think I payed maybe $80 off amazon?
I got my LP60 about a month ago and have loved it. Bought from Amazon and payed around $80.
A bad needle will wear out your vinyl, but a well maintained setup works just as it should.
I like vintage Merrill, Linn, Acoustic Research and Thorens tables. Some good and not so good deals at www.vinylnirvana.com
Quote from: adastra on Jun 11, 2013, 03:57 PM
A bad needle will wear out your vinyl, but a well maintained setup works just as it should.
I like vintage Merrill, Linn, Acoustic Research and Thorens tables. Some good and not so good deals at www.vinylnirvana.com (http://www.vinylnirvana.com)
That is a good point, and one I neglected to make...if the sound matters to you, you will keep things aligned and balanced, and replace old cartridges and keep worn-out needles off your vinyl.
Here's a nice trick: Mr Clean Magic Eraser works extremely well for light cleaning of needles. And it's a whole lot cheaper than anything "audiophile approved" :)
The problem with the lp60 is that the cartridge cannot be changed. The needle can though.
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 04:03 PM
Quote from: adastra on Jun 11, 2013, 03:57 PM
A bad needle will wear out your vinyl, but a well maintained setup works just as it should.
I like vintage Merrill, Linn, Acoustic Research and Thorens tables. Some good and not so good deals at www.vinylnirvana.com (http://www.vinylnirvana.com)
That is a good point, and one I neglected to make...if the sound matters to you, you will keep things aligned and balanced, and replace old cartridges and keep worn-out needles off your vinyl.
how about a garden stone Crispy...Danz?
Thanks for all of the great feedback! I'm poking around the nets to see if I can find a good deal. I still really like the LP-120 though.
I'm getting a new LP 120 for $205 tonight! Here's a video that got my pumped up, and I figured you all might like it. Thanks again!
ViciAudio - Explosions in the Sky Take Care, Take Care, Take Care - 2xLP Vinyl (2011) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mdgzwsn1gpc#ws)
Way to go, EC! :thumbsup:
Quote from: bluesky on Jun 11, 2013, 10:41 PM
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 11, 2013, 04:03 PM
Quote from: adastra on Jun 11, 2013, 03:57 PM
A bad needle will wear out your vinyl, but a well maintained setup works just as it should.
I like vintage Merrill, Linn, Acoustic Research and Thorens tables. Some good and not so good deals at www.vinylnirvana.com (http://www.vinylnirvana.com)
That is a good point, and one I neglected to make...if the sound matters to you, you will keep things aligned and balanced, and replace old cartridges and keep worn-out needles off your vinyl.
how about a garden stone Crispy...Danz?
Ha! I missed this earlier -- better mill that stone down real good! :grin:
Well, sonofabitch! My old Marantz heard me talking about this subject and shit the bed! The damper function has been off for a long time, and now the switch controlling the output completely broke, so I have nothing. I had a line a while back on a guy that refurbished old TTs, but he stopped responding and looked to be pretty fishy, so now I'm back to searching for somebody to work on it, or take the plunge and do it myself. Anybody have suggestions?
Quote from: Crispy on Jun 13, 2013, 10:39 AM
Well, sonofabitch! My old Marantz heard me talking about this subject and shit the bed! The damper function has been off for a long time, and now the switch controlling the output completely broke, so I have nothing. I had a line a while back on a guy that refurbished old TTs, but he stopped responding and looked to be pretty fishy, so now I'm back to searching for somebody to work on it, or take the plunge and do it myself. Anybody have suggestions?
That's shitty!
I'm new to this universe, so I assure I have no suggestions. Haha. Good luck though!
Any tips and tricks to maintaining a record player, and/or vinyl?
I would check out websites like audio karma. TONS of info there. Turntables/vinyl are kinda like anything else...you can make it as simple or as in-depth as you want to! I tend to stick towards the "simple" end of the spectrum...I am too busy doing other things to be obsessing about the turntable.
With that said, some basic things you could/should do:
1) Make sure the table is level. You can also "set it up" to wear on the vinyl as little as possible...I have not done this with my table yet...haven't noticed any problems or issues yet, but may look into this some day.
2) Obviously don't stack the vinyl laying flat, store them at proper temp/humidity, etc.
3) Clean the vinyl with a record cleaning brush before playing. Should save on the vinyl and the needle. If a record is really old/dirty, clean with a cleaning machine or other method before playing (although I have been guilty of throwing a few really dirty records on the table and haven't broken the needle yet).
I'm sure I am forgetting some things but these are the things I think about. Just wait until you get the bug to "upgrade" your table/system...that's a whole other story! For now, enjoy!
Just FYI I have a Rega RP-1. My wife bought it for me as a Christmas gift in 2011.
Quote from: Hawkeye on Jun 14, 2013, 11:29 AM
I would check out websites like audio karma. TONS of info there. Turntables/vinyl are kinda like anything else...you can make it as simple or as in-depth as you want to! I tend to stick towards the "simple" end of the spectrum...I am too busy doing other things to be obsessing about the turntable.
With that said, some basic things you could/should do:
1) Make sure the table is level. You can also "set it up" to wear on the vinyl as little as possible...I have not done this with my table yet...haven't noticed any problems or issues yet, but may look into this some day.
2) Obviously don't stack the vinyl laying flat, store them at proper temp/humidity, etc.
3) Clean the vinyl with a record cleaning brush before playing. Should save on the vinyl and the needle. If a record is really old/dirty, clean with a cleaning machine or other method before playing (although I have been guilty of throwing a few really dirty records on the table and haven't broken the needle yet).
I'm sure I am forgetting some things but these are the things I think about. Just wait until you get the bug to "upgrade" your table/system...that's a whole other story! For now, enjoy!
Just FYI I have a Rega RP-1. My wife bought it for me as a Christmas gift in 2011.
Thanks Hawkeye! If they are pretty clean with a few spots of dust, a dry LP brush will work just fine? Instead of using liquid cleaner?
My record is hooked up and spinning! One problem. My sound system is turned to max, but it isn't as loud as I was expecting. Any help? Is vinyl just naturally quiet?
Perhaps the built in pre-amp on the audio technica lp 120 is the culprit. Explosions in the Sky seems louder than ISM. I enjoy everything else so far! Great sound! Golden sounds superb on it.
If it is the pre amp that is making everything sound quiet, can anyone point me in the direction of a good pre amp that I could use on this table? Thanks for any help.
Here's some info about my pre amp:
Output Level: Pre-amp "PHONO": 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec Pre-amp "LINE": 150 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Phono Pre-Amp Gain: 36 dB nominal, RIAA equalized
Yeah I just use a dry brush. I'm using the Hunt EDA Mark 6 brush...first one I've ever owned/tried, but it seems to do the trick for removing light surface dust!
Preamp I use is a Bellari VP130.
http://www.needledoctor.com/Bellari-VP130-Tube-Phono-Preamp (http://www.needledoctor.com/Bellari-VP130-Tube-Phono-Preamp)
Hard to beat for "bang for the buck" and it uses a tube (which can be switched out/upgraded) so that addes to the "cool factor!" Not sure if it will get much louder than your existing preamp or not though...and it's meant to take a phono signal, so I think you might have to find a way to disable your existing preamp to use it? Sorry I'm not super technical with this stuff yet anyway!
I'm just noticing that your phono output is only 2.5 mV...3-5 mV is more common, so maybe you just have a low-output cartridge, and upgrading your cartridge would help?
Quote from: Hawkeye on Jun 16, 2013, 08:39 AM
Yeah I just use a dry brush. I'm using the Hunt EDA Mark 6 brush...first one I've ever owned/tried, but it seems to do the trick for removing light surface dust!
Preamp I use is a Bellari VP130.
http://www.needledoctor.com/Bellari-VP130-Tube-Phono-Preamp (http://www.needledoctor.com/Bellari-VP130-Tube-Phono-Preamp)
Hard to beat for "bang for the buck" and it uses a tube (which can be switched out/upgraded) so that addes to the "cool factor!" Not sure if it will get much louder than your existing preamp or not though...and it's meant to take a phono signal, so I think you might have to find a way to disable your existing preamp to use it? Sorry I'm not super technical with this stuff yet anyway!
I'm just noticing that your phono output is only 2.5 mV...3-5 mV is more common, so maybe you just have a low-output cartridge, and upgrading your cartridge would help?
So you think the cartridge is more the problem?
I discovered that my needle wasn't fully seated in the cartridge. The player is decently louder now thankfully.
However, it makes a low constant crackling sound now, and occasionally there is a louder pop. Is this normally caused by tracking too hard? Or by a faulty needle? I'm super frustrated at the moment. Hopefully the stylus isn't damaged.
This is my stylus:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-Magnet-Phono-Cartridge-AT95E/dp/B004NRVUMI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_3 (http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-Magnet-Phono-Cartridge-AT95E/dp/B004NRVUMI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_3)
I have it set to 2.0g. Any ideas?
Not regarding a turntable, but turntable-related:
Just upgraded my home stereo.
Former setup:
Klipsch SF-3 speakers
Panasonic SA-XR25 receiver
Rega RP-1 turntable
Bellari VP-130 preamp
Traded out the Klipsch SF-3 for some Wharfedale Diamond 9.6. Unfortunately they are in Ohio right now (I'm in NC)...hoping to get those within a month or so.
Replaced the Panasonic receiver with Emotiva UPA-200 amp and USP-1 preamp. The USP-1 has a built-in phono stage, which I haven't tried yet. May or may not be keeping the Bellari. It is a tube amp, so it may supply some warmth to the sound that the Emotiva phono stage may be lacking in...we'll see!
Excited to be getting the speakers, but the new amps have already greatly improved the sound! For anyone looking for "budget" stereo amps, I can recommend Emotiva. As many others have said "they should cost at least twice as much." Built like a tank. Great clarity, extremely quiet "noise floor," very powerful...and I bought the cheapest amps they make!
Quote from: Hawkeye on Jun 26, 2013, 10:07 AM
Not regarding a turntable, but turntable-related:
Just upgraded my home stereo.
Former setup:
Klipsch SF-3 speakers
Panasonic SA-XR25 receiver
Rega RP-1 turntable
Bellari VP-130 preamp
Traded out the Klipsch SF-3 for some Wharfedale Diamond 9.6. Unfortunately they are in Ohio right now (I'm in NC)...hoping to get those within a month or so.
Replaced the Panasonic receiver with Emotiva UPA-200 amp and USP-1 preamp. The USP-1 has a built-in phono stage, which I haven't tried yet. May or may not be keeping the Bellari. It is a tube amp, so it may supply some warmth to the sound that the Emotiva phono stage may be lacking in...we'll see!
Excited to be getting the speakers, but the new amps have already greatly improved the sound! For anyone looking for "budget" stereo amps, I can recommend Emotiva. As many others have said "they should cost at least twice as much." Built like a tank. Great clarity, extremely quiet "noise floor," very powerful...and I bought the cheapest amps they make!
Sounds super nice!
Thanks EC. Sorry I didn't answer your last question, but I'm not sure...make sure the records are as clean as possible...I think that's the #1 cause of pops and crackles. If you have any REALLY dirty records, they make all sorts of record cleaners you could try. If they are just dusty, just try a carbon fiber brush...lots of those out there too.
I will post on here if I decide to sell the Bellari pre-amp, in case anyone is interested. It will come with 2 extra tubes.
Quote from: Hawkeye on Jun 26, 2013, 04:41 PM
Thanks EC. Sorry I didn't answer your last question, but I'm not sure...make sure the records are as clean as possible...I think that's the #1 cause of pops and crackles. If you have any REALLY dirty records, they make all sorts of record cleaners you could try. If they are just dusty, just try a carbon fiber brush...lots of those out there too.
I will post on here if I decide to sell the Bellari pre-amp, in case anyone is interested. It will come with 2 extra tubes.
I've determined the culprit to be static. When I opened up Z for the first time, my arm hair stuck out towards the record. The more I play it, the less it seems to pop.
Finally got my home stereo set up:
audio-technica AT-LP60 (came highly recommended by several forum peeps)
Sony STR-DH130 (pretty basic receiver)
Klipsch B-20 speakers (got a great deal)
Pic: http://twitter.com/parkervb/status/353961790553600000/photo/1 (http://twitter.com/parkervb/status/353961790553600000/photo/1)
Don't own any Jacket records yet so broke it in with Beggar's Banquet followed by Dark Side of the Moon.
Not a turntable question, but a hi-fi question. Anyone heard Magnepan speakers (or any planar speakers)? I'm considering getting some MMGW (small, wall hanging $325/pair) or MMG (floorstanding, $600/pr). Read lots of reviews...just can't decide if they will be better than my Wharfedales (which I don't have yet). The Wharfedales are $1500-2000/pair new...can these lower-priced speakers compare? I've heard the sound from planar speakers is like none other...BIG soundstage, detailed, realistic, natural, airy...all descriptors I've heard. People say once they get used to planar speakers they can't go back to box/cone speakers again. That will probably be my Christmas present, trying out some Magnepans.
Just bought a Technics SL-B1. A very solid turntable. Now I need a new receiver. Any suggestions? :tongue:
Wolof, are you in the States? If so, I'd at least take a look at Emotiva. I got their USP-1 preamp and UPA-200 amp. Their bottom of the barrel stuff, but it sounds great. The UPA-200 has TONS of clean power, to drive even difficult speakers. Cost me $690 for both.
Quote from: Hawkeye on Jul 14, 2013, 01:20 PM
Not a turntable question, but a hi-fi question. Anyone heard Magnepan speakers (or any planar speakers)? I'm considering getting some MMGW (small, wall hanging $325/pair) or MMG (floorstanding, $600/pr). Read lots of reviews...just can't decide if they will be better than my Wharfedales (which I don't have yet). The Wharfedales are $1500-2000/pair new...can these lower-priced speakers compare? I've heard the sound from planar speakers is like none other...BIG soundstage, detailed, realistic, natural, airy...all descriptors I've heard. People say once they get used to planar speakers they can't go back to box/cone speakers again. That will probably be my Christmas present, trying out some Magnepans.
Hawkeye,
I've had Maggies for 10 years now and they are the only part of my system I never change. Imo they are the best audio speaker you can get for the $. I have 3.6rs. PM me if you want to chat. I'm always happy to chat about Maggies and audio equipment.
But fyi, I cant thing of another brand of audio equipment that I would rave about more than Magnepans.
Dang it, HH, I was afraid you would say that... :wink:
I think the Wharfedales will sound really good too, but I'm kind of obsessed with Magnepans right now. The only thing is I'd be trading a more expensive Wharfedale for bottom-of-the-line Maggies. I have a buddy that also has 3.6's and he just loves 'em. I can't spare that kind of cash right now but I could get some MMGW or MMG's. Ah, white people problems! Feel free to PM me with any additional wisdom.
Picked up a Rega RP3 on the weekend. Sounds amazing! Finally have something to play the vinyl I've been buying...
Quote from: ralph on Jul 23, 2013, 08:42 PM
Picked up a Rega RP3 on the weekend. Sounds amazing! Finally have something to play the vinyl I've been buying...
NICE!!! Rega makes an amazing line of TT's. Reliable and always good. Welcome to the good life.
Quote from: ralph on Jul 23, 2013, 08:42 PM
Picked up a Rega RP3 on the weekend. Sounds amazing! Finally have something to play the vinyl I've been buying...
Nice Ralphie!!! I've got an RP1. Had it about 1.5 years so far. No complaints, no issues. Plug it in, turn it on...sounds great! You will enjoy it, no doubt. I will probably make some minor upgrades to this table before trying to upgrade all-together to a higher-end Rega or something else. Mine came with the Ortofon Red cartridge...might try out the Blue.
My speaker saga continues...I think I'll be getting the Wharfedales in a few weeks now but I couldn't wait...last night I traded in a Bose Wave Radio + $150 for some KEF Reference 103.2's. Never heard of them until I came across them at the local pawn shop. Apparently they're very well-regarded...they do sound really good! I need to get some stands for them...they're just sitting on the floor for now, but they sound much better when lifted. At some point I will have the tweeters fixed...apparently they have a ferrofluid inside that dries up...supposedly refilling these will make them sound like new again. May re-cap the crossovers and touch up the cabinet too. Good "project" speakers. Also should be getting my 8" hand-built subwoofer today...came as a package deal with the Wharfedales.
Should we rename this the HiFi thread? I'm kinda hi-jacking it :evil:
Thanks guys, I'm enjoying it so far. Currently spinning Okonokos!
.If anyone in the Southern California area either wants an analog turntable, or finds one that needs some help this is THE place to go.
http://www.patleaver.com
He will refurbish your turntable, or sell you a vintage one in brand new condition. He sold me this one, a late 70's Pioneer direct drive, for about the price I payed for the 4 record set in this picture, and I got this set for a pretty good price. (http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm38/hewlett61/turntable.jpg?t=1437365911)
Quote from: rincon2 on Jul 21, 2015, 12:20 AM
Maybe this is not the proper thread for this, but maybe it is. If anyone in the Southern California area either wants an analog turntable, or finds one that needs some help this is THE place to go.
http://www.patleaver.com
He will refurbish your turntable, or sell you a vintage one in brand new condition. He sold me this one, a late 70's Pioneer direct drive, for about the price I payed for the 4 record set in this picture, and I got this set for a pretty good price. (http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm38/hewlett61/turntable.jpg?t=1437365911)
that's a gorgeous TT. wow.
As a turntable geek, I'm always interested in what other people are using to spin LPs. I got mine over 20 yrs ago, at a decent price, and have made a number of upgrades over the years. It's always fun to see the look on the face of the person who is listening to some music with an LP playing...
(http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg137/HENRY88_photos/dsc_0086.jpg)
Nothing better than a good TT. I've had a couple of nice VPI's over the years but am very happy with my current brinkmann.
it won't be replaced anytime soon.
(http://i1047.photobucket.com/albums/b479/jgsvinyl/brinkmann_zpsa85ojyyp.jpg)
Quote from: headhunter on Jul 23, 2015, 03:28 PM
(http://i1047.photobucket.com/albums/b479/jgsvinyl/brinkmann_zpsa85ojyyp.jpg)
Nice TT.
Like the preamp. :thumbsup: