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Suggestions for building system

Hello all, Im a new member to this forum and new to vinyl as well. I've long contemplated jumping into vinyl and, after having been handed down about a hundred records, have decided to really clamp down and seriously research equipment. I'm hoping you all would be kind as to give suggestions/input on all aspects of a system (turntable,amp,speakers) as I am starting from scratch. For the record, I just want a simple system that I can enjoy in the confines of my bedroom.

As far as my budget, I'm dedicating at least $1K and up to $1,500. I also have a $200 gift card for Amazon, which might be integral later on in this post.

I have done some homework and have noticed many trends...

For turntables, I have consistently heard to go the used route, but also to avoid ebay and preferably avoid shipping and purchase something that can be picked up. I don't mind this at all, and a Thorens TD-160 looks very appealing, however I've searched my local craigslist as well as newspaper ads to no avail. There is a record store in the town next over(bout 20 min drive) which occasional gets some tables in, though rarely. I'm in no rush to buy a TT, but my patience with the local market is waning. As far as new, I must admit that the Rega RP1 is appealing, though I've heard polarizing reviews. It retails for $450, though with said gift card for Amazon, I could theoretically get it for $250 out of pocket. Thoughts?

After tables, my knowledge dwindles a bit. For amps, the school of thought seems to be that separates(Pre+amp) are best. First, can I afford to take this route? On the other hand, I've found a good amount of Marantz, which are pretty positively reviewed,in the 22XX range reasonably priced at about $200 and below on ebay. Would this be a good fit for me/my needs?

Lastly, speakers. I don't know much as to what to look for. Based on reading various forums I've heard good things of the PSB Alpha B1 and Image B6, but not much else beyond that.

Sorry for such a long post, guys. Any help at all would be greatly appreciated.

Best,

Daniel
dannyj7

Showing 1 response by horseface

horseface's avatar
horseface
222 posts
 

Bedrooms can be difficult ... I have had better luck with monitors but it really depends on the size of the room. I really like the Vandy 1c advice - I have nearly pulled the trigger on a few sets of Vandersteen's myself. I see them on Craigslist every once in a while. Very good reviews and a bargain if you can pick them up local. I have heard the Totem Dreamcatcher and I always wonder why they never made my list - also a very good choice. I don’t know if you could pull it off but a Jolida 50wpc tube integrated and an inexpensive phono pre (Bellari) would be an interesting combo with either of the two speaker sets. Wouldn’t leave a ton left for the table but a used Technics 1200 MK2 and a Grado mm cart might just cutoff.

I think I'm probably breaking the bank ... I have a hard time holding back when it comes to spending someone else's money.

Another good speaker brand that shows up on Craigslist, at least in the Pacific Northwest is A/D/S. I have a set of L710's and they really sing. Softdome tweeters and mids and the woofers have rubber surrounds so they age very well. I have seen them sell for under $300.

Good luck and have fun with you LP's. I would also recommend the Spin Clean system ... it's cheap and works well. A bit of a pain - having to clean 30-40 albums at a time but I was really happy with the result.
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