Phono Pre-amp for Analog Newbie


OK, I am going to take the plunge and go "Back to the Future". I am buying a turntable. After much research, and a lot of listening, I am leaning heavily towards a VPI Scoutmaster. I am looking for advice on:

1) Cartridge (type and make)

2) Phono pre-amp (it will be going into an Anthem AVM30, or I may upgrade to the D1 Statement). I would like to get one with XLR output if possible, or does that really matter?

3) Reasonbly priced cleaning machine.

4) Other "extras" I will need.

Thanks!!
macdadtexas

Showing 1 response by riffer

It's realy a case of what is your budget.

Usual recommendations for the Scout Master/Scout are the Dynavectors as mentioned by Slipknot1, the Sumiko Blackbird. Maybe the Lyra Dorian. The best cartridge I have used with my Scout is the Benz M0.9, but this hasn't been in production for several years.

As for phono stages - Trigon Vanguard II, Monolithic Sound, Rogue Audio Stealth all go well with the 20XH, as I have owned all three (and the 20XH)

For accessories, I would recommend the KAB Speedstrobe. Very easy to set the correct speed. I have the Wally Tractor and VTA guage coming, so I haven't tried those yet. I use the protractor from the Hi-fi news test record for now.

Get yourself a nice set of Imperial hex drivers, as they make adjusting the tonearm much easier. McMaster-Carr will have these.

Get a bubble level from Home Depot to level the turntable.

I have the Scout, not the Scoutmaster, but the key with the Scout is to isolate the motor vibration from the rest of the turntable. There are a few posts - possibly here, but for sure st the Audio Asylum on this topic.

That's all I can think of for now.