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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 1 response by rbirke

rbirke
144 posts
 
I went looking for my cd of dark side of the moon. Turns out I don't own one. Pulled out and cleaned the vinyl. It's playing now in front of me as I write. Lp12, Helikon, tubes....I couldn't be happier.

If I could magically turn everything into secure, hi-rez computer based digital, I would. But I don't have the patience to do it any of the available ways.

And such a rig wouldn't be cheap.

And I think that the lp ritual touches something from my history -- 51 now, still playing albums I bought when I was 12.

Sold a few albums when I hit 18 and got into jazz. Thought I was "over" some of the cornier parts of my rock collection, but years later wanted to hear Ambrosia sing "Nice Nice Very Nice" again. Had to track it down. May listen to it after the Floyd.

Own some modern big-money vinyl. It's mostly pretty great. The re-issue of some of the Roxy Music stuff is thrilling (among others).

What's my point? If you are actually listening to your rig -- whatever it is -- and enjoying it, be happy. If you have the money and inclination to go super digital, it's very convenient and I think it sounds as good as it is required to give immense pleasure. But if you have substantial vinyl and a credible rig, the cost of maintaining is much less than the cost (time and money) of the alternative.

YMMV and happy new year.
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