Turntable upgrade recommendations, please.


Hello,

I am a bit of a newbie, but have have been chasing the "magic" every since I got started on this journey about 2 years ago. My system currently consists of:

Denon dp-47f w/ a Denon 301 mkII cartridge
McIntosh MAC6700
Magnepan 1.6qr

I am interested in upgrading my turntable, assuming that there are real sonic benefits to be had from a new rig at approx. $2500. I have been looking at the usual suspects from VPI, Rega, Pro-ject, etc. 

I am curious to hear if those of you with more experience can tell me how my Denon stacks up against these and if the view will be worth the climb. To my ears, the Denon sounds good, but I am anxious to upgrade if there are significant gains to be heard.

I am also very interested in a McIntosh MT2, but haven't seen any new info or announcements on the release.

Please share your opinions and experiences. 

Thanks in advance!


sdmbdad71

Showing 2 responses by sancho22

One more vote for VPI - check out AG or Sound Stage direct (no affiliation). I have the Ortofon Cadenza Black on my Prime, but would suggest getting thge Cadenza Bronze as recommended by Harry and Matt Weisfeld of VPI.
Or if you want to stick with vintage the above mentioed Technics may be a good choice
I would also consider (just a few examples for tables and carts)

Kenwood KD-750 (650 is also nice but different plinth)
Pioneer PL-C590 (or other higher end Pioneer tables)
Yamaha PX-3, PX-2 (PX-1 is likely out of budget)
Yamaha GT2000 or 1000 (latter more likely to fit the budget)
Thorens TD 124, 125 MK II
Lenco 75 (modded)
Garrard 301 or 401 (likely higher than your budget)

Vintage MC carts
Supex 900, Fidelity Research FR-1 MK III
Dynavector Karat D23 or 17

MM
Grace F-9L or F-8L