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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
128x128chuckelator

Showing 2 responses by jedinite24

jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Chuck

What is the current table you have and what cart is on it? Could it just be that it could just needs a new stylus or cart even?

For phono preamps under $400 new I would say look at the Jolida JD9 phono preamp (There have been many a thread posted here praising this preamp). A phono preamp that I currently own and enjoy is a Cambridge Audio 640P phono preamp. Best of all it can be found for under $200.

As for budget TTs the recommendations are what others told me when I was looking for new budget TTs. I'd also add the Pro-Ject Debut III TT.
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
Hi Chuckelator

You are lucky to have a dealer that has both the Pro-Ject Debut III and Jolida products so close. You can audition and possibly try them out in your set-up without having to buy and then re-sell if it doesn't sound good. I believe Jolida.com is in MD as well so they could potentially help you out as well.

Any idea as to what AT cart you have? The reason I ask is that I found that a TT I'm trying to fix up has an Audio Technica AT10 cart and I read that even if it is a budget cart one can change the stylus to make it sound very good.

It could be a potentially good way to save some $ and have decent sound while you are researching things for your vinyl set-up.
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