How does a beginner turntable compare to digital ?


I am thinking of trying my first turntable with a 300-500$ turntable such as Rega P1 or Pioneer. How does that sound comparing to digital playback ? For example compare to Rega Apollo CD player ? what kind of differences can I expect ?

I am using Rega Brio 3 amplifier and Harbeth C7-es2 speakers.
Excellent midrange is a must to me. I am listening mainly to folk, bluegrass, jazz, small chamber musics some ballad rock.
vqlong2000

Showing 1 response by frogman

Vqlong2000, you wrote: "the ritual of listening musics through a turnable. After countless hours with computer and lossless music files that you can easily move from file to file at will, the idea of taking care of your records, your turntable and taking time to set up a record to play music seems enjoyable to me. It is like taking care of your pet and it is also like ZEN; living slower, mindful of what you are doing and enjoying v.v."

I think you are a perfect candidate for an analogue rig. Now, to answer your original question, my recommendation is that you try and attend a couple of live concerts. Preferably ones with minimal electronic amplification. Great venues, and great performers are an obvious plus, but not absolutely necessary. Local music college recitals, church concerts, will do just fine. Go and listen to the music, not hi-fi effects, and calibrate your ears. As soon as you get home from the concert listen to your CD player using similar music. Do you notice your shoulders relaxing at home as much as they did at the live concert? Those are the kinds of differences that you can expect.