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Turn table for my kid???

My daughter just told me she wants a turn table. That thought really excites me because I hope she eventually loves music as much as I do.  Additionally, I've been thinking of getting into vinyl myself but haven't for fear of the money pit it will become like the rest of my audio endeavors.

So it looks like I can start this journey together with my kid.  Cool.  My question then is what's a good entry level tt?  I assume I will need to get a phono pre, etc?  I would much prefer one that is as self contained as possible.  Ideally I would be able to just connect some speakers to it or connect it directly into my integrated amp. Please take it easy on a vinyl noob.

Thank you and happy new year!
128x128tboooe

Showing 5 responses by rar1

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,745 posts
 
Go the 5 bills and make her a fan.  

Rich 

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,745 posts
 
Anybody own a U-Turn Orbit and can speak from experience?  I ask because I think back of when I had the Pro-ject Carbon Debut and could not understand the rave reviews, after using the turntable.  I thought that the Audio Technica 120LP offered a better product and value.

Rich   
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,745 posts
 
Hi TB -

The LP60 is a bit of a plastic toy.

I have set up a few of my buddies' post college age kids with the Audio Technica LP120.  It is sturdy, the built in preamp is decent and is not susceptible to hum, and the included cartridge is ok.  The silver version is less expensive than the black version, but that is the only difference.  If you want to swap out the cartridge, it is easy to do as it is a standard size head shell.  You could do a lot worse even for yourself.  

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB/112254577196

Lots of choices for powered speakers from Emotiva, and PSB, for starters.

https://emotiva.com/products/powered-monitors/speakers/airmotiv-4s

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_760ALPHPS1/PSB-Alpha-PS1.html

Rich 


rar1's avatar
rar1
1,745 posts
 
If you read through the posts, he does give an idea to budget.  He was looking at an AT LP60 with powered speakers for $350.  Most of the replies have been saying you need to be in the $500 range (assuming new) for TT and speakers, unless you want plastic junk.

Rich 

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,745 posts
 
Not asking too much.  $250 for a turntable, $250 for powered speakers. 

If you are buying new, I still stand by the Audio Technica LP120.  I have owned the turntable and have set it up for a few friends' systems.  Go to any Guitar Center or professional DJ/ music shop if you wish to audition it.  

You may save some bucks if you buy a used/ vintage TT, but you will need to know how to perform basic clean-up and lubrication duties.  Your call.      

As for powered speakers, there are several companies out there to choose from ... Audio Engine, PSB, Emotiva, Klipsch.  They are only going to play so loud, so for a small room system, you will be fine.

See, not so tough.


Rich 



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