Pros and Cons of "Staying with" Analog and Vinyl


After having various turntables over the last 40 years, I am seriously considering getting out of analog. The "vinylists" argue that analog playback sounds more natural, musical, and provides more of an emotional response. I have experienced this feeling several times while listening to my modest vinyl collection, and tend to agree....until I begin hearing pops, clicks, surface noise. I keep my vinyl generally clean and protected

However, after listening to the 40th anniversay edition of Jethro Tull's "Aqualung" I am more convinced that analog is just not worth the time, money and, maintenance. The dynamics on new Aqualung are superb and there seems to be much more detail to what I remember of the Mobile Fidelity remastered recording

I have a modest analog set-up Rega P3-24 with their upgraded PS and the Dynavector 10X5 MC. I was on the verge of upgrading to the new Rega RP-6 which includes a newly design PS, and a choice of color plinths. Even with a generous trade-in value offered by the dealer, I would still be putting in about $1300 + which would get me into the Dynavector DV 20MKII ( above their 10X5.)

I personally don't see the value regardless of the sonic qualitative edge of analog. Maybe, the money could be spent elsewhere or not at all. BTW, I am not getting into computer audio, and am STILL not convinced that a BASIC DAC will bring me closer to analog sound quality. Members have recommended Peachtree's DACIT, and even the supposedly new and improved Musical Fidelity V-DAC II. I have a Rega Apollo player. A great sounding player, but it has its flaws.

Therefore, I would like to hear the pros and cons of staying with analog....or just dumping it. Thanks
sunnyjim

Showing 8 responses by mt10425

I agree with Elizabeth. Also, I probably hear clicks, etc in only about 5% of my 3000+ albums. If you're hearing it in most of your LPs, you might need to change your buying standards. I sold all of my 1100 albums when cd came out. I was dumb. I've done my best to replace those and increase the number. I ordered 5 new ones this Christmas alone. Digital does ZERO for me.
It's not really about "superiority" for me. My Arcam CD player presents a clean sound. It is also very flat as far as depth goes. I simply enjoy the sound of my records and what they bring to the party more. And, as a 58 year old, when i say "been there, done that" I'm speaking from experience.
I see I fed this beast of yours (Rok). The last time my CD player was actually used was 2009.
Hey Inna, what is a "true audiophile"? Or for that matter, "true music lovers"? Your expert opinion and knowledge is so welcome. Enlighten us, please?
Rokdude-honestly it's not an us vs them situation. You seem to want to separate yourself as some modern audio Don Quixote. But, alas, your views about listing to the music is not special. We all listen to the music. All that is different is the way it reaches our ears. Try as you might, there is no right or wrong, better or worse. Ultimately, it's about the music.