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Most important vinyl component to upgrade first ?

1. Phono Pre
2. Cables
3. Table
4. Arm
5. Cart

I would like to speak in generalities if possible, so
I'm not going to refer to my own equipment, maybe later
on in the thread, or a different thread.

In my opinion, I would say the transducer, which is
the cartridge. ( I feel the same about the other system
transducer, the speakers.)

So, as a generality, is it safe to say (if you agree with
my choice) that it would make the most audible difference
to upgrade your cart first ? I hope not to make this a
loaded question, what I mean is: what component do you
think would be most important soundwise, therefore what
would you upgrade first ?
noslepums

Showing 1 response by almarg

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almarg
9,670 posts
 
IMO the comment by TPReaves pretty much says it all, although Viridian also makes an excellent point in emphasizing the importance of a synergistic match between cartridge and tonearm.

I would add that more than a few very experienced audiophiles here, whose opinions IMO command a good deal of respect, have expressed the belief that a relatively inexpensive but suitably matched cartridge mounted on a high quality turntable/tonearm combination will generally outperform an expensive cartridge mounted on a relatively inexpensive turntable/tonearm combination. I see no reason to doubt that, as a general guideline.
02-02-13: Syntax
Your 1-5 list is correct.
Surely you didn't mean to suggest that the choice of cable is more important than the choice of turntable, tonearm, and cartridge, at least in situations where the length of the cable is not unusually long. Or did you?

Regards,
-- Al
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