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Analog upgrade path

The source I’ve been using with my integrated amp is a Technics SL-1500 mk1. Well, I’ve recently decided to step things up and have acquired an ARC linestage, which does not have an onboard phonostage. Now I’m beginning to think that pairing my Technics with my new linestage might not be a well balanced match, quality-wise.

What I’m wondering is, where will my money be best spent? Buying a nice phono stage (been looking at the Black Ice F159 or ARC PH5) and sticking it out with the Technics, or upgrading to a higher end ‘table (been looking at the VPI Scout Prime or maybe LSA T-3) and running it through a budget phonostage. Obviously the optimal solution would be both, but that’s not in my budget currently.

thx for the feedback


rfnoise

Showing 1 response by inna

inna
7,132 posts
 
I know almost nothing about cartridges but I do know that Goldring 1042 sounds quite good with Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm and Acoustech PH-1 phono stage. I am sure there are better MM cartridges, both vintage and modern, but for the price new it would be hard to beat, maybe some AT on sale. I got mine from the UK, analogueseduction.net
Cheap budget phono is never a good idea. In your case, I would upgrade phono stage and maybe cartridge first. But if you wanted to upgrade everything step by step then yes, I would probably start with the turntable. Depends on how much to spend and when. Or maybe wait longer and then upgrade everything at once. That's what I did.
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