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How can I reach vinyl nirvana with my setup?

I know my system is capapble of sounding better when it comes to playing vinyl, but I don't know how to get there. My system: Rogue Cronus Integrated tube amp, Spendor 5/3e speakers, Project RM-5 with Shure V-15 III cartridge, Bellari Tube phono stage, Tandberg 3014A cassette deck, Sansui TU-717 receiver, Cambridge Audio 640C CD player, Audioquest Copperhead interconnects. I upgraded from the Goldring 1.2 to the Project and experimented with different cartridges but I'm still not satisfied.

The best piece of equipment is the Tandberg – it brings cassettes to life – at least the ones that that were decently recorded. This piece is like my reference. The cd player is decent as well. So that I know what kind of sound is possible and the weak link is from the vinyl source. It lacks the power, presence, and definton that comes through the Tandberg and even the Cambridge Audio 640c.

I have some wonderful audiophile recordings in pristine shape too plus a couple hundred other records that I keep in relatively immaculate condition. So I am very interested in improving my vinyl playback quality.

My upgrade budget is about $1000 - Should I upgrade my phono stage, my cartridge, my turntable? What would you suggest for gear if you could make one or two changes? Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.
waukeag

Showing 2 responses by gregm

gregm
3,395 posts
 
you need to have a VPI or better TT to just get decent vinyl sound
AFAIK yr TT AND yr cartridge, both, are fine. You SHOULD be enjoying good sound -- at least, I've heard the TT and found it great.

Check all the cartridge connections; borrow another phono just in case yr Bellari has a problem s/where.
You don't need a new ANYTHING just yet. By the looks of it, you haven't heard what yr vinyl sounds like yet.
gregm
3,395 posts
 
Place yr TT on suitable support, as above. "Neuance" shelves are a good and reasonably priced option ($~200). With the rest of the money, you may want to look for a used phono.
Before you do that, check out yr phono chain: "It lacks the power, presence, and definton".
You seem to be suffering great loss of energy somewhere along the line cartridge set-up->phono input->phono output to integrated...
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