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Differences between three turntables

Analog Forum:

I know questions like this have been asked many times on this forum, so I'm going to try and phrase the question a little different in order to avoid a chest thumping contest ;) I am looking to enter the world of analog and am at a young enough age where I have no experience with vinyl at all. I have done some research and I have narrowed down the following turntables and want to know what I can expect in terms of sonic differences and maintaince and setup differences as well as upgradability. I understand that one can definitely mix and match, so I realize that I am being unfair in a certain respect by not giving full specs or options on these turntables, and since I will purchase my setup on audiogon, I will most likely not get a completely stock setup... okay, here the choices are:

vpi hw-19 jr.
rega p25
music hall mmf-7

I will be using the phono stage from a BAT vk-3i and I will be listening to classical music exclusively. I know the BAT can handle mm and mc carts (again, I'm not sure what the sonic and practical differences are between these two formats, so comments in this vein will help too) and I have been told that the phono card has two gains - 45dB and 60dB. Normally it has 47k input impedance, but you can add any resistors you wish. It will work great with any cartridge with output down to .1mV or so.

I'm trying to avoid the "which is better" type of question and am more interested in comparison in terms of sonics, ease of use, and upgradability.

I'm also ameanable to answers that read such as "go with X and then look to upgrade to Y cart or Z tonearm in the future".

Finally, I have somewhat of an inclination to go with the VPI as in general I like to purchase at the low end of a brand that I then will stick with and move up their line (e.g. to the Scout and Scoutmaster).

Thanks!
mre2007

Showing 1 response by coffee_nudge

coffee_nudge
120 posts
 

I am a VPI owner, although I started with a Scout (not the HW-19), and then moved up to a Scoutmaster. However, I auditioned the Rega 25 (with RB300 arm and Benz Ace cart) for a good bit before deciding to try the VPI (which, contrary to popular advice, I bought based on comments here on A-gon without first actually hearing it). However, I have not regretted going with the VPI at all.

Now, after having listened to both, the main difference that I perceive between the VPI Scout/Scoutmaster and the Rega is that the VPI has finer details. Each instrument or vocal is more distinctive and floats in its own space, and seems like it is etched in detail. I like that. Although I believe some people interpret this as VPI being too "analytical." So that's a matter of personal preference.

In contrast, the Rega (IMHO) does not seem as detailed, but instead creates a very "holistic" musical presentation (for lack of a better term). It is very good, and some people prefer that.

So it really kind of depends on your personal taste and what you want to your system to do. As an entry level TT, you can't go wrong with either. However, for what its worth, I have read other comments that there really isn't much of an upgrade path for the Rega 25.

I'm sure others can and will suggest other TTs not on your list.

A final note, VPI is about to ship its latest JMW9 "Signature" arm, which will mate with the Scoutmaster (and Scout). You can get details on the VPI website.

Good luck and welcome to vinyl.
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