2. analog
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Entry level recommendations???

So, I've been in and out of analog audio for the past 2 years, and this is due to junk equipment and space constraints in my apartment. I've recently (as of a few days ago) replaced my 1970's Pioneer SX-434 with a Denon AVR 791 that I'm quite happy with. Now, like I said due to my space constraints (and lets be honest, my lack of funds), it is a home theater deal and my living room is my media center, with my computer, my cable, xbox and PS3 running through it, as well as my analog set up. Overall, I'm quite happy with the whole thing, and I feel it's a great "bang for buck" type situation. The only thing I'm unhappy with is the fact that since upgrading, the shortcomings of my TT are really shining through, and my MP3's sound better than my TT does (I'm sure my phono stage isn't helping much either...some 50 doller Audio Technica thing.)

My question is this: Could you guys make a few suggestions for some entry-level TT's and also a phono stage? I plan on using MM carts for the time being, and am looking to spend in the range of 300-400 for each, as that is around the same price I paid for both my receiver and my speakers (Epos ELS 3) So I'd like to keep them around the same quality level. Used, new...doesn't matter. I'd like the best bang for my buck, as I'm not liquid enough to be spending thousands on this sort of thing. Thanks!!!

Also, I know this is the analog forum, but since I'm already posting a message...Any ideas on a decent sound card for my PC would also be greatly appreciated!

-Chuck
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Showing 2 responses by chuckelator

chuckelator's avatar
chuckelator OP
50 posts
 
WOW, thanks for all the info! I was actually considering a Project Debut III to get started with. Luckily I know a dealer who sells them locally... United Home Audio in MD. Aren't they and Jolida one and the same?

To those curious, My current deck is a JVC DD from some time in the 80's...with a low end Audio-Technica cart. It sounds pretty crappy.
chuckelator's avatar
chuckelator OP
50 posts
 
I've been in their show room before...Absolutely incredible. Staff is incredibly knowledgeable, well, the one guy that was there. And showed me some absolutely incredible stuff, and I sat down with him and listened to some of the earlier Stones stuff on a Reel to Reel that they had set up, which, I've never heard sound quality quite like that, or the TT that he was using for that matter. I believe a Clear Audio Reference if I'm not mistaken. And also showed me some other amazing stuff that I'm pretty sure I'll never be able to afford. I believe Jolida and UHA are one in the same, and are ran out of the same offices.

He also was suggesting to me PROject decks to me when I was there, which is now the way I'm leaning, and I'm really happy I could go in there and pick one up when I have the cash to do so.
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