Turntable change

[rmcin626]

It’s been a few years since I scratched this particular itch, but thinking of changing turntables.
Would spending £4-5k bring a significant improvement over my present setup?
I was thinking of moving up the Nottingham Analogue range but there are no dealers in Scotland.

Any suggestions.

Cheers
Robin

[Barry]

Depends on what you are using at the present - but I would have thought £4 - 5K could provide a significant improvement.

[rmcin626]

Depends on what you are using at the present - but I would have thought £4 - 5K could provide a significant improvement.

Nottingham Analogue, Rega arm and Goldring Elite, Barry

[crimsondonkey]

It’s been a few years since I scratched this particular itch, but thinking of changing turntables.
Would spending £4-5k bring a significant improvement over my present setup?
I was thinking of moving up the Nottingham Analogue range but there are no dealers in Scotland.

Any suggestions.

Cheers
Robin

What about upgrading your vinyl front end as-is with a cartridge upgrade, maybe phono stage too?

New or second hand btw?

[Barry]

Oops - Sorry didn't read your signature.

I don't know the Nottingham range of turntables, so cannot comment on their performance. But I do know the Rega arm and the Goldring Elite cartridge, and whilst they work as a pair, I would replace the Rega arm first, and the cartridge second.

[Cyrus]

Which Nottingham Analogue?

[rmcin626]

What about upgrading your vinyl front end as-is with a cartridge upgrade, maybe phono stage too?

New or second hand btw?

Happy to go used , I looked at quite a few phone stages before buying the Primare which I think is very under rated.

[rmcin626]

Which Nottingham Analogue?


Interspace

[Jimbo]

Have a look at the VPI Prime Signature. This is within your budget and would sound stunning.

https://www.vpiindustries.com/primesignature

[rmcin626]

Have a look at the VPI Prime Signature. This is within your budget and would sound stunning.

https://www.vpiindustries.com/primesignature

Will have a look for Scottish stockists

[Jac Hawk]

What about upgrading your vinyl front end as-is with a cartridge upgrade, maybe phono stage too?

New or second hand btw?

+1 Change the arm, then the cart

[rmcin626]

I am happy with the sound but at the same time I know spending a few thousand will improve things and the manual speed change on the Nottingham Analogue can be annoying, all things considered time for a change.

[Vrajbasi]

I am happy with the sound but at the same time I know spending a few thousand will improve things and the manual speed change on the Nottingham Analogue can be annoying, all things considered time for a change.

Before recommendations can be made, are you considering new or used? While 4-5k is not a small sum one has to be careful

[Cyrus]

I am happy with the sound but at the same time I know spending a few thousand will improve things and the manual speed change on the Nottingham Analogue can be annoying, all things considered time for a change.

I use a Pro-Ject Speedbox SE (I think that's the correct model) for speed accuracy and changing.

[rmcin626]

Before recommendations can be made, are you considering new or used? While 4-5k is not a small sum one has to be careful

Happy to consider used for the right product.

[chris@panteg]

Simon of SJS has Voyd. 5 reference for sale I think, easy speed change and a killer deck.

[rmcin626]

Simon of SJS has Voyd. 5 reference for sale I think, easy speed change and a killer deck.
Must have missed that Chris

[chris@panteg]

Must have missed that Chris

Send him a message, he told me last week it's still available, it's at the top of your budget but it's one hell of a deck, and looks great too.

[rmcin626]

Send him a message, he told me last week it's still available, it's at the top of your budget but it's one hell of a deck, and looks great too.

Will do and find out further details

[Barry]

+1 Change the arm, then the cart

Agree - it's what I said. The Primare phonostage doesn't need changing.

[Jac Hawk]

Yep £5k is a lot to spend on a TT when cheaper and potentially more noticeable sound improvements will be had from a better arm and cart, i don't play 45's, but I can't imagine you'd play a 45 then a 33 then another 45 and so on, yes moving the belt can be a faff on but I know I'd be able to live with a bit of inconvenience if I knew I could get better sound improvements for spending less

[rmcin626]

Yep £5k is a lot to spend on a TT when cheaper and potentially more noticeable sound improvements will be had from a better arm and cart, i don't play 45's, but I can't imagine you'd play a 45 then a 33 then another 45 and so on, yes moving the belt can be a faff on but I know I'd be able to live with a bit of inconvenience if I knew I could get better sound improvements for spending less

Changing speed is a pain, but not the main, also lots of new vinyl 45rpm, interesting one dealer has suggested the biggest improvement would turntable upgrade not arm or cartridge

[Jac Hawk]

Changing speed is a pain, but not the main, also lots of new vinyl 45rpm, interesting one dealer has suggested the biggest improvement would turntable upgrade not arm or cartridge

Was he trying to sell you a new TT? I can't understand any other reason he'd say that considering the deck you already have. You said you have a Rega arm but you haven't said which one if it's an 250 or 300, get a new Audiomods Series 6 for £800 and i guarantee you'll hear the difference

[crimsondonkey]

... interesting one dealer has suggested the biggest improvement would turntable upgrade not arm or cartridge

Which TT was he trying to sell you? :rolleyes:

New arm and cart is a good shout for your existing deck, but if you’re really looking for the thrill of a completely new deck then you’ve got a lot of choice at your budget level.

[rmcin626]

Was he trying to sell you a new TT? I can't understand any other reason he'd say that considering the deck you already have. You said you have a Rega arm but you haven't said which one if it's an 250 or 300, get a new Audiomods Series 6 for £800 and i guarantee you'll hear the difference

I think the arm is a 250 which I had upgraded but Audio Origami a year or so back. Happy to look at upgrading arm and cartridge.
To be fair he was suggesting another turntable in the Nottingham range.

[Lee Henley]

Ive been pondering the same idea as yourself for quite a while, currently use a NAS Spacedeck with heavy platter, I recently changed the arm from a Jelco 750D which is no slouch to a Fidelity Research FR64s and the difference is quite noticeable to say the least. Last year I had a loan of a J Sikora TT with Kuzma arm, although it was a really nice deck I felt that the difference between the Spacedeck and Sikora was not worth me spending the extra money for this combination.

Ive still got an inclination to change my Spacedeck in the future and have considered the Dais for quite a while. I also had the pleasure of Ollie (Bigman) bring his SP10 round to the house which is also well worth considering. If you are staying with Nottingham decks and are moving up the food chain then you will still have the problem of belt changing unless you buy a Project speed controller, that said I am not sure if the Project works on the Dais as it comes supplied with the Martin Bastin speed controller as standard.

For the amount of money that your looking to spend then there are many many options to be had, as Jim pointed out the VPI is an attractive option and one deck Id like to hear myself at some point in the future as Ive not really heard one, also consider a Thorens TD124 with the Schopper upgrades, a Lenco PTP is another option and a deck which has currently been pointed out to myself but costs a bit more and might be worth saving the extra for is the new Kuzma Stabi R, these are reported to be awesome decks but I am yet to hear one for myself.

Very best

Lee

[antonio]

What about trying a Technics SL1200G, approx. £3000, excellent sound and hassle free according to reviews on various forums.

[rmcin626]

Ive been pondering the same idea as yourself for quite a while, currently use a NAS Spacedeck with heavy platter, I recently changed the arm from a Jelco 750D which is no slouch to a Fidelity Research FR64s and the difference is quite noticeable to say the least. Last year I had a loan of a J Sikora TT with Kuzma arm, although it was a really nice deck I felt that the difference between the Spacedeck and Sikora was not worth me spending the extra money for this combination.

Ive still got an inclination to change my Spacedeck in the future and have considered the Dais for quite a while. I also had the pleasure of Ollie (Bigman) bring his SP10 round to the house which is also well worth considering. If you are staying with Nottingham decks and are moving up the food chain then you will still have the problem of belt changing unless you buy a Project speed controller, that said I am not sure if the Project works on the Dais as it comes supplied with the Martin Bastin speed controller as standard.

For the amount of money that your looking to spend then there are many many options to be had, as Jim pointed out the VPI is an attractive option and one deck Id like to hear myself at some point in the future as Ive not really heard one, also consider a Thorens TD124 with the Schopper upgrades, a Lenco PTP is another option and a deck which has currently been pointed out to myself but costs a bit more and might be worth saving the extra for is the new Kuzma Stabi R, these are reported to be awesome decks but I am yet to hear one for myself.

Very best

Lee

Thanks Lee, was considering moving up the Nottingham chain however there are no Scottish stockists, which is not great. My nearest hifi dealers are in Glasgow, one is a Linn, Rega, VPI stockist, the other one has the likes of Michell, Origin Live Brinkmann plus others.
I would be happy to buy used if it was mint.
Not hear a Thorens for a number of years too be honest.
£5k is my maximum budget and too be honest would prefer to spent round £4K.

[rmcin626]

What about trying a Technics SL1200G, approx. £3000, excellent sound and hassle free according to reviews on various forums.


Thanks David, will have a look for stockists near me.

[Lee Henley]

Thanks Lee, was considering moving up the Nottingham chain however there are no Scottish stockists, which is not great. My nearest hifi dealers are in Glasgow, one is a Linn, Rega, VPI stockist, the other one has the likes of Michell, Origin Live Brinkmann plus others.
I would be happy to buy used if it was mint.
Not hear a Thorens for a number of years too be honest.
£5k is my maximum budget and too be honest would prefer to spent round £4K.

Ive heard good things about Brinkmann but am yet to hear one myself in my system. My advice with your local dealers would be to take your turntable in the car and compare it to the ones in the dealership just to give you a flavour of where your current set up stands against higher level competition

[rmcin626]

Ive heard good things about Brinkmann but am yet to hear one myself in my system. My advice with your local dealers would be to take your turntable in the car and compare it to the ones in the dealership just to give you a flavour of where your current set up stands against higher level competition

Thats the plan Lee, just looking for some ideas that I might not think of, lots of helpful suggestions so far.

[crimsondonkey]

Well in the classic spirit of recommending something similar to what you have, having recently bought a Bergmann Sindre myself, I would have to recommend that you also look at Bergmann too ;)

Within your budget there is a Magne here - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/312570960862

Very low noise and lovely reproduction of music from vinyl, and imo looks pretty cool too.

[rmcin626]

Well in the classic spirit of recommending something similar to what you have, having recently bought a Bergmann Sindre myself, I would have to recommend that you also look at Bergmann too ;)

Within your budget there is a Magne here - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/312570960862

Very low noise and lovely reproduction of music from vinyl, and imo looks pretty cool too.

If I can find a Scottish dealer I will add them to the list

[rmcin626]

Just spoke with a stockist of VPI turntables, never got mentioned was quickly pointed towards Linn LP12.

[fiddlemaker]

Just spoke with a stockist of VPI turntables, never got mentioned was quickly pointed towards Linn LP12.

Someone will probably chew my nuts off for saying this, but having owned an entry level NA horizon (the model down from yours) as well as an LP12, I think what you have already is probably better than the Linn.

[rmcin626]

Someone will probably chew my nuts off for saying this, but having owned an entry level NA horizon (the model down from yours) as well as an LP12, I think what you have already is probably better than the Linn.

To be honest John, it’s a long time since I owned a Linn nearly 40 years, I sold mine as I was going to be moving around and bought a Rega which was much more portable. After that I went down a different route, Elite Rock a couple of others then the Nottingham Analogue, just feel it time for a change, if there was a Nottingham Analogue dealer in Scotland I would probably just go up the range.
I have been offered a Linn, with lots of upgrades for just under £4,000.

[Jimbo]

Will have a look for Scottish stockists

Try Renaissance audio https://www.renaissanceaudio.co.uk/

[Cyrus]

Someone will probably chew my nuts off for saying this, but having owned an entry level NA horizon (the model down from yours) as well as an LP12, I think what you have already is probably better than the Linn.

Coming from a NAS Interspace Jr and going to a Vivid upgraded LP12 with a lesser arm, I can say from my experience that both do certain things better than the other but I'm really enjoying the Vivid (because I was told there's not a lot of LP12 left!) presentation as a whole.
I think the OP was herded toward the Linn because the potential profit for the dealer is much higher. I'd look privately if I were buying an LP12.

[rmcin626]

Try Renaissance audio https://www.renaissanceaudio.co.uk/

As far as I know they are distributors, and supply the shop I contacted.

[rmcin626]

Coming from a NAS Interspace Jr and going to a Vivid upgraded LP12 with a lesser arm, I can say from my experience that both do certain things better than the other but I'm really enjoying the Vivid (because I was told there's not a lot of LP12 left!) presentation as a whole.
I think the OP was herded toward the Linn because the potential profit for the dealer is much higher. I'd look privately if I were buying an LP12.
The LP 12 was actually one that they had put together in the shop and was not new.

[Cyrus]

The LP 12 was actually one that they had put together in the shop and was not new.

Do they have their own upgrade line then?

[Blackmass]

Have you considered a Well Tempered deck? Loud and Clear are stockists in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
At the very least they're worth a listen. I’ve gone from a top of the LP12 to a Versalex and couldn’t be happier. They might surprise you?

[rmcin626]

Do they have their own upgrade line then?

The are main dealers for Linn and repairs and servicing

[rmcin626]

Have you considered a Well Tempered deck? Loud and Clear are stockists in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
At the very least they're worth a listen. I’ve gone from a top of the LP12 to a Versalex and couldn’t be happier. They might surprise you?

Will have a look Rob

[crimsondonkey]

I'd much rather keep and upgrade what you've got than end up with a bloody Linn LP12 fruitbox, ugh.

[rmcin626]

I'd much rather keep and upgrade what you've got than end up with a bloody Linn LP12 fruitbox, ugh.

Not sure I will be going down the Linn route, too many upgrades involved for me, but you never know. I did like my Linn when i owned one but that was nearly 40 years ago, and there were only a couple of upgrade options then.

[WESTLOWER]

I'd much rather keep and upgrade what you've got than end up with a bloody Linn LP12 fruitbox, ugh.

Dont diss the Linn! A good LP12 is miles from the 'Fruit box' you allude to!;)

[crimsondonkey]

Dont diss the Linn! A good LP12 is miles from the 'Fruit box' you allude to!;)

I understand the generation who grew up with them, but there's so much choice at the OPs budget it would be a shame to go down the path of something that requires a lot of 'upgrades' or fixes more like, to sound competitive. YMMV of course but I consistently fail to be convinced by the sound and value of LP12s.

[WESTLOWER]

I understand the generation who grew up with them, but there's so much choice at the OPs budget it would be a shame to go down the path of something that requires a lot of 'upgrades' or fixes more like, to sound competitive. YMMV of course but I consistently fail to be convinced by the sound and value of LP12s.

I hear you, I actually switched from the LP12 full fat version to a Idler and have not regretted it but i must say the LP12 gave me great music and unfortunately
gets a bad rep for going out of tune and such, but that was never my experience. I still have a soft spot for them.

[rmcin626]

I will try and look at all the options in my budget, which may include Linn

[Cyrus]

I hear you, I actually switched from the LP12 full fat version to a Idler and have not regretted it but i must say the LP12 gave me great music and unfortunately
gets a bad rep for going out of tune and such, but that was never my experience. I still have a soft spot for them.

The secret is to let someone else pay for all the upgrades, then buy it from them.

[WESTLOWER]

The secret is to let someone else pay for all the upgrades, then buy it from them.

Been there ...as a seller!!:doh:

[crimsondonkey]

The secret is to let someone else pay for all the upgrades, then buy it from them.

The secret is to buy a turntable that works properly from the beginning.

Perhaps a Palmer and a cart upgrade? Transrotor? Acoustic Solid? Technics SP10 with a 12” Arm and custom plinth?

[rmcin626]

Just seen a Michell Gyro SE + SME M2-9, Ortofon 2M Black, HR PSU for sale which might be of interest

[paulf-2007]

Suggestions from here are not made with a sale in mind like a dealer has. I'm sorry to say this but most dealers I've ever come across are like vultures when they see your budget.

[rmcin626]

Suggestions from here are not made with a sale in mind like a dealer has. I'm sorry to say this but most dealers I've ever come across are like vultures when they see your budget.

I agree, as soon as you give your budget, they always go to the top figure, although the Nottingham Analogue dealer was different and his advice was quite good, more concerned with me achieving my aim, pity he his about 300 miles away.

[Pigmy Pony]

I'm probably going to get shot down for this as I never hear any recommendations for them, but I really like my Monarch turntable. Based around a Technics SL1210, it has understated looks, very solid, heavy as f--- and is pretty much plug 'n' play. Speed change is a piece of piss, just flip start lever t'other way. A bit pricey new, but a used example would leave enough change to get a really nice arm/cart.

[rmcin626]

I'm probably going to get shot down for this as I never hear any recommendations for them, but I really like my Monarch turntable. Based around a Technics SL1210, it has understated looks, very solid, heavy as f--- and is pretty much plug 'n' play. Speed change is a piece of piss, just flip start lever t'other way. A bit pricey new, but a used example would leave enough change to get a really nice arm/cart.

Never heard one to be honest Steve, but new is over budget, will have a look around though. But as I get older I like the sound of plug and play more and more.

[Bigman80]

The Inspire Monarch turntable is superb. No doubt but why spend that much on what will only ever be second to a fully refurbished Technics SP10 MK2.

You don't need to spend that budget on anything else IMO. You could put a SME5 on it with your budget.

If you want belt drive, the best I've heard is the VPI. It's expensive and belt driven so that rules me out but I've not heard a better rubber bander.

[Barry]

Regarding Brinkmann products, a new deck plus tonearm is sadly well above your budget. And unless you are willing to buy used, a Technics SP10 plus SME V will also lay beyond your budget.

You could buy a Thorens 124 in excellent condition for about £1.5K and that will include an arm.

[rmcin626]

The Inspire Monarch turntable is superb. No doubt but why spend that much on what will only ever be second to a fully refurbished Technics SP10 MK2.

You don't need to spend that budget on anything else IMO. You could put a SME5 on it with your budget.

If you want belt drive, the best I've heard is the VPI. It's expensive and belt driven so that rules me out but I've not heard a better rubber bander.

At the moment I am open to all suggestions, this would probably be my last turntable change, so just want to get the right one for my needs.

[rmcin626]

Regarding Brinkmann products, a new deck plus tonearm is sadly well above your budget. And unless you are willing to buy used, a Technics SP10 plus SME V will also lay beyond your budget.

You could buy a Thorens 124 in excellent condition for about £1.5K and that will include an arm.

There maybe a used Brinkmann available waiting to hear what the price will be.

[Barry]

I hope so, because both TT and arms are superb.

Had a quick look - none available on eBay at the moment, but if there is a Brinkmann dealer near you, they may have one taken in as part exchange.

[rmcin626]

I hope so, because both TT and arms are superb.

Had a quick look - none available on eBay at the moment, but if there is a Brinkmann dealer near you, they may have one taken in as part exchange.

The Brinkmann is the dealer’s demo model but might still be over budget.

[chris@panteg]

How about the Technics SL1200G or if you like the Nottingham Analog, a hyperspace? Or the Mentor?

[rmcin626]

How about the Technics SL1200G or if you like the Nottingham Analog, a hyperspace? Or the Mentor?

The hyperspace is certainly a possibility although that would require a 600 mile outdoor trip.

[smangus]

I have an NA Interspace , upgraded my arm to an Audio Origami uniarm for about £1300 last year. It made a massive difference over the previous OL modded Rega. My point is that I think the IS deck is capable of taking a very good arm which allows use of a good choice of more expensive carts (I use a ZYX Yatra).

This made quite a substantial difference to me so if i were you I'd think very carefully about that arm/cart route. You would probably have enough left over to buy a Hyperspace if you wanted to after anyhow after some more trying and thinking etc. [emoji846]

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[rmcin626]

I have an NA Interspace , upgraded my arm to an Audio Origami uniarm for about £1300 last year. It made a massive difference over the previous OL modded Rega. My point is that I think the IS deck is capable of taking a very good arm which allows use of a good choice of more expensive carts (I use a ZYX Yatra).

This made quite a substantial difference to me so if i were you I'd think very carefully about that arm/cart route. You would probably have enough left over to buy a Hyperspace if you wanted to after anyhow after some more trying and thinking etc. [emoji846]

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

Thanks Andy, food for thought my current arm is Audio Origami modified, but the route you have suggested is one I am considering.

[smangus]

Well good luck and have some fun!

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

[Pigmy Pony]

The Inspire Monarch turntable is superb. No doubt but why spend that much on what will only ever be second to a fully refurbished Technics SP10 MK2.

You don't need to spend that budget on anything else IMO. You could put a SME5 on it with your budget.

If you want belt drive, the best I've heard is the VPI. It's expensive and belt driven so that rules me out but I've not heard a better rubber bander.

I've no doubt you're absolutely right about the SP10 Oliver, but I would have thought that a well fettled one would be beyond his budget, and I get the impression he wouldn't want to buy an affordable example then have months/years of modding it. Rather he wants it to be all the deck he would need from day one.

Doesn't Robbiegong have an SL1210 Mk 5 for sale? I bet that would be the dog's danglies and well inside budget.

[Lee Henley]

Another option to consider would be to keep the turntable you have, change the arm for something better this does make quite a bit of difference in my opinion and change the phono stage again for something better for the budget that you have you can get quite a serious package

[Bigman80]

I've no doubt you're absolutely right about the SP10 Oliver, but I would have thought that a well fettled one would be beyond his budget, and I get the impression he wouldn't want to buy an affordable example then have months/years of modding it. Rather he wants it to be all the deck he would need from day one.

Doesn't Robbiegong have an SL1210 Mk 5 for sale? I bet that would be the dog's danglies and well inside budget.A well fettled SP10 MK2 can be had for around £1.5k, if you know who to ask. The OP may want it refinished with a powder coating so £200 max for that.

Tenuto Platter mat for £300ish leaves around £2K for a nice arm.

Personally, I'd go for the PMAT1010 which is well within budget but if the Op wanted An SME5, it's not impossible to do for the money.

Yes, you may have to put a bit of effort in but I'd be very surprised if it's not the best performance for the money.

[Cyrus]

Another option to consider would be to keep the turntable you have, change the arm for something better this does make quite a bit of difference in my opinion and change the phono stage again for something better for the budget that you have you can get quite a serious package

This. I changed the arm on my NAS Interspace Jr from RB300 to a Jelco 750D and there were stark differences; this with a comparatively piffling budget. With the amount of money you are talking, you could keep the player and swap the arm out for a really great arm.

[rmcin626]

I've no doubt you're absolutely right about the SP10 Oliver, but I would have thought that a well fettled one would be beyond his budget, and I get the impression he wouldn't want to buy an affordable example then have months/years of modding it. Rather he wants it to be all the deck he would need from day one.

Doesn't Robbiegong have an SL1210 Mk 5 for sale? I bet that would be the dog's danglies and well inside budget.

You’re right Steve, I am looking at a finished article I’m not looking down the constant modifications path.

[rmcin626]

A well fettled SP10 MK2 can be had for around £1.5k, if you know who to ask. The OP may want it refinished with a powder coating so £200 max for that.

Tenuto Platter mat for £300ish leaves around £2K for a nice arm.

Personally, I'd go for the PMAT1010 which is well within budget but if the Op wanted An SME5, it's not impossible to do for the money.

Yes, you may have to put a bit of effort in but I'd be very surprised if it's not the best performance for the money.

Thanks Oli, if that could all be obtained from the one source, then it would be something I would consider. I like to keep things simple, going along and listen preferably within a decent driving distance, if I like I buy.
I really want to source from the one place.

[antonio]

A well fettled SP10 MK2 can be had for around £1.5k, if you know who to ask. The OP may want it refinished with a powder coating so £200 max for that.

Tenuto Platter mat for £300ish leaves around £2K for a nice arm.

Personally, I'd go for the PMAT1010 which is well within budget but if the Op wanted An SME5, it's not impossible to do for the money.

Yes, you may have to put a bit of effort in but I'd be very surprised if it's not the best performance for the money.

This doesn't look bad either Oli. :lol: Sorry Robin, along way from Scotland. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Denon-DP-80-direct-drive-turntable-Jelco-SA-750E-arm-beautiful-condition/333195461535

[Bigman80]

This doesn't look bad either Oli. [emoji38] Sorry Steve, along way from Scotland. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Denon-DP-80-direct-drive-turntable-Jelco-SA-750E-arm-beautiful-condition/333195461535That's a great shout. Needs a better arm to get the best out of it.

[rmcin626]

This doesn't look bad either Oli. :lol: Sorry Robin, along way from Scotland. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Denon-DP-80-direct-drive-turntable-Jelco-SA-750E-arm-beautiful-condition/333195461535

Many thanks David, but I will be collecting the turntable I purchase, so would only buy from eBay if it’s was available for collection, and I would like hear the the turntable as well.

[rmcin626]

A new suggestion has been Avid Diva II SP turntable, which looks interesting.

[crimsondonkey]

What are you particularly interested in, as in what will drive your decision? You've mentioned easy speed change but are there any other features or aspects that you value? DD or belt drive, or not bothered? Preference in looks, ie rectangle plinth or some other design? Wood or metal? Any particular arm design or length?

[rmcin626]

What are you particularly interested in, as in what will drive your decision? You've mentioned easy speed change but are there any other features or aspects that you value? DD or belt drive, or not bothered? Preference in looks, ie rectangle plinth or some other design? Wood or metal? Any particular arm design or length?

I don’t really have any preferences, DD or Best drive either would be fine, not overly bothered on looks although I obviously like the Nottingham stuff, do like Michell but none of this really matters, what is important is ease of use, once set up stays set up, easy speed change would be nice but I have lived without it for several years now. The most important thing is the sound that I hear from my album collection, which is somewhere around 2000 currently.
The first and most important function of my hifi is providing me with music to enjoy.

[antonio]

A new suggestion has been Avid Diva II SP turntable, which looks interesting.

I understand you can also upgrade to a better bearing from one of their more expensive tt's.

[Cyrus]

I understand you can also upgrade to a better bearing from one of their more expensive tt's.

Aah, but we've been told by one of our experts to buy a product that shouldn't need upgrading.....not my opinion of course.

[AJSki2fly]

I don’t really have any preferences, DD or Best drive either would be fine, not overly bothered on looks although I obviously like the Nottingham stuff, do like Michell but none of this really matters, what is important is ease of use, once set up stays set up, easy speed change would be nice but I have lived without it for several years now. The most important thing is the sound that I hear from my album collection, which is somewhere around 2000 currently.
The first and most important function of my hifi is providing me with music to enjoy.

Below is a list of very well thought of TT’s from a very well respected hi-end dealer and a gentleman who also has a vast knowledge and experience of hifi and has owned many of these. I moved to a Voyd as a result.

"1. Voyd great dynamics and bass slams and openness

2. Technics sp10 for sence of space and foundation and great imaging

3. Garrard 401 audio grail with a russ collinson cherry plinth prefferably with sme m12r or the timestep arm this would give superb grip over the music and superb timing with real good bass. the sme Iv will also do well

4. Nottingham analogue hyperspace for sence of grip with great bass and speed to boot.

5. Townshend rock reference hard to find but a real stunner in terms of performance i dont think u will find one but worth a mention.

6. Alphason sonata hr100 mcs fantastic midrange and vibrancy brilliant bass performance/"

I recently purchase a Voyd Voyd that a in NM condition, paired it with my SME IV and Michel Cusis mc(Benz Micro Wood S based) and it sounds natural very engaging, great bottom end, wonderful mids, lots of detail in top end, lovely soundstage. A good Voyd Voyd is £1500. I believed eve the Voyd 0.5 Reference has more control but. Will set you back around £4K and the Reference about £6k, if you can find one.

If I had the money I would buy either a Voyd Reference or a Townsend Rock Reference, I can point you in the direction of someone who may be able to help on the Rock front. If you want to try out a Voyd then I know of a very nice one coming up for sale. One the arm front probably a SME IV or carefully selected SME V, or a Graham Phantom, or one that was known to work well with TT and choice of cartridge.

By the way you do not need to spend vast amounts to get a very musical sounding combination IMO, although a Rock may push the budget a bit.

[chris@panteg]

The Voyd was my choice also, but having previously owned one, it was an easy decision for me.
I think the only way to make the right choice is for the OP to go and have a listen to at least a few of the decks he's interested in.

[rmcin626]

Below is a list of very well thought of TT’s from a very well respected hi-end dealer and a gentleman who also has a vast knowledge and experience of hifi and has owned many of these. I moved to a Voyd as a result.

"1. Voyd great dynamics and bass slams and openness

2. Technics sp10 for sence of space and foundation and great imaging

3. Garrard 401 audio grail with a russ collinson cherry plinth prefferably with sme m12r or the timestep arm this would give superb grip over the music and superb timing with real good bass. the sme Iv will also do well

4. Nottingham analogue hyperspace for sence of grip with great bass and speed to boot.

5. Townshend rock reference hard to find but a real stunner in terms of performance i dont think u will find one but worth a mention.

6. Alphason sonata hr100 mcs fantastic midrange and vibrancy brilliant bass performance/"

I recently purchase a Voyd Voyd that a in NM condition, paired it with my SME IV and Michel Cusis mc(Benz Micro Wood S based) and it sounds natural very engaging, great bottom end, wonderful mids, lots of detail in top end, lovely soundstage. A good Voyd Voyd is £1500. I believed eve the Voyd 0.5 Reference has more control but. Will set you back around £4K and the Reference about £6k, if you can find one.

If I had the money I would buy either a Voyd Reference or a Townsend Rock Reference, I can point you in the direction of someone who may be able to help on the Rock front. If you want to try out a Voyd then I know of a very nice one coming up for sale. One the arm front probably a SME IV or carefully selected SME V, or a Graham Phantom, or one that was known to work well with TT and choice of cartridge.

By the way you do not need to spend vast amounts to get a very musical sounding combination IMO, although a Rock may push the budget a bit.

Many thanks Adrian, agree with many of your points, I have in the past heard most of the decks you have mentioned apart from a modified Technics.
I owned an Elite Rock in the past and have heard the Townsend Rock so well aware of the sound produced. I have also heard a Voyd in the past not sure which model it was though.
Auditioning new turntables is something I will be doing in the coming weeks and quite like the look of the Avid diva but not heard one yet.
I would be interested also in a Voyd or Rock however I would prefer to collect my purchase so that would depend on the current location, I will not be buying anything I have not listened to.

[rmcin626]

The Voyd was my choice also, but having previously owned one, it was an easy decision for me.
I think the only way to make the right choice is for the OP to go and have a listen to at least a few of the decks he's interested in.


Would like to audition a Voyd, finding one is the issue.

[chris@panteg]

Would like to audition a Voyd, finding one is the issue.

Yes, they don't come up very often, Might be worth asking Simon of SJS, he might know of any for sale.

[AJSki2fly]

Many thanks Adrian, agree with many of your points, I have in the past heard most of the decks you have mentioned apart from a modified Technics.
I owned an Elite Rock in the past and have heard the Townsend Rock so well aware of the sound produced. I have also heard a Voyd in the past not sure which model it was though.
Auditioning new turntables is something I will be doing in the coming weeks and quite like the look of the Avid diva but not heard one yet.
I would be interested also in a Voyd or Rock however I would prefer to collect my purchase so that would depend on the current location, I will not be buying anything I have not listened to.

I will chat with the person that owns the Voyd I know of to see if there is a way of you hearing it. Am I correct that you live in Scotland. It may be possible for you to try at your home, but cannot promise anything, ok


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rmcin626]

I will chat with the person that owns the Voyd I know of to see if there is a way of you hearing it. Am I correct that you live in Scotland. It may be possible for you to try at your home, but cannot promise anything, ok


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Many thanks

I am about 25 miles down river from Glasgow.

[rmcin626]

Many thanks for all the suggestions and messages, lots of food for thought, hopefully have the new turntable in place in the next week or two depending on availability and listening tests.

[Lurch]

The Brinkmann is the dealer’s demo model but might still be over budget.

I must have got lucky bck in March. I picked up a Mint Brinkmann Bardo with glass platter, clamp and SU upgrades for £2.5k. Got a local engineering firm to open out the 20mm Brinkmann arm hole in the armboard to 23mm, popped in my OL Encounter 3C and couldn't be happier, it's definitely a destination deck for me and I've arrived early.
Have a look on hifi shark as there's usually a few Brinkmann decks available.

[rmcin626]

I must have got lucky bck in March. I picked up a Mint Brinkmann Bardo with glass platter, clamp and SU upgrades for £2.5k. Got a local engineering firm to open out the 20mm Brinkmann arm hole in the armboard to 23mm, popped in my OL Encounter 3C and couldn't be happier, it's definitely a destination deck for me and I've arrived early.
Have a look on hifi shark as there's usually a few Brinkmann decks available.

Will have a look John, thanks

[rmcin626]

Nothing on high shark unfortunately


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rmcin626]

Will hopefully have this sorted out in the next week, having spent the last couple of weeks around the house with a new roof being installed. Looking back through the posts, a couple of people suggested keeping the turntable and upgrading the arm and cartridge. Interestingly Audio Origami is probably the closest hifi “dealer” to me and after a chat with John who suggested a PU7 and Dynavector XX2 would work well, so will have list to that combo early next week. Should be interesting and not the cheapest option.

[AJSki2fly]

Before you opt for that unless you like it have a chat with Hugo at Ammonite Audio, a reed tonearm with Phasemation PP-300 might be a very good option. Or even a JELCO with Pp-500.

[rmcin626]

Before you opt for that unless you like it have a chat with Hugo at Ammonite Audio, a reed tonearm with Phasemation PP-300 might be a very good option. Or even a JELCO with Pp-500.

Will do Adrian, the advantage of Audio Origami is that he is 25 minutes away but I won’t be making any rash decisions, as this I hope will be last turntable change.

[AJSki2fly]

Trouble is as I have discovered, TT’s, arms and cartridges all have a sonic signature and some work together and others just don’t, if you can find as as possible neutral arm then you have a chance of balancing the setup with cartridge. I don’t know the signature of your TT but you might find some choices exaggerate it and other compliment. It also completely depends on what is pleasant to your ear as well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rmcin626]

Trouble is as I have discovered, TT’s, arms and cartridges all have a sonic signature and some work together and others just don’t, if you can find as as possible neutral arm then you have a chance of balancing the setup with cartridge. I don’t know the signature of your TT but you might find some choices exaggerate it and other compliment. It also completely depends on what is pleasant to your ear as well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Buying a new car is easier than changing turntables.