Best auto-lift/shutoff turntables?


I have a Thorens TD-320 that I bought about a year ago to start my re-entry into vinyl world. Couldn't be happier than listening to records again! Now, with spring in the air, I'm starting to think about upgrading the analog end. As a lazy and forgetful guy, I really want to have the auto-lift and/or auto-shutoff functions. Are there any turntables, new or used, with these functions that will out-perform my TD-320? Thanks.
winegasman

Showing 1 response by dirtyragamuffin

In addition to what Jimbo said about letting it spin, I can attest that many dealers do this regularly. The first time I went to audition some amps at one of my preferred hifi shops, they asked me to just keep the LP12 they had in the listening room spinning--it's no thing to whisk a vinyl off that felt mat while it's spinning. I noticed they kept their Notts spinning, too. Makes sense--starting and stopping a low torqure motor running a big hunk of platter will certainly cause more wear than just letting it go. Only reason I stop my Gyro between plays is because of the "grippy" platter, plus the clamp is tough to screw on in the same direction the platter spins ;) I did let my AR spin, though. I realize this may not help the original poster, but perhaps other readers of this thread could benefit.

Winegasman, it sounds like you have your heart set on a full automatic, and although I'm something of a newbie myself, I personally just haven't seen any better auto 'tables than that Thorens. If you want a truly better analog experience, I'd really consider what these guys are saying about adding aftermarket lifters. If you're not comfortable with the install, then I'm sure you could find a local high end shop to do it for you for a nominal fee, especially if you're on good terms with them. Have them check that things are set up and working properly while it's there.

Good luck-
Dirty