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Two Arm Turntables

Although I have nice VPI Scout now, I am thinking about upgrading to a new turntable, one with two arms. I want to be able to very conveniently (i.e. no switching wands+vta settings, etc.) switch between mono and stereo cartridges, and check out some arms other than the VPI JMW. I was thinking about $6K, ex-arms, used, preferably (much) lower (although I don't want to get upgradeitis again, a most expensive condition), as going beyond this amount seems ridiculous. Ideas so far: Garrard 301 with custom plinth, Verdier Platine, Micro Seiki 5000 (hard to find arm boards?), and TW Acustic Raven Two. Well, hard to find these used, especially from a dealer...but I'm patient. Other ideas would be much appreciated. Thanks, Mark
mcmprov

Showing 3 responses by mikeyc8

mikeyc8
174 posts
 
My Coral Beta 8 speakers are very sensitive, (101 dB) and go down to 30Hz. There's no rumble, the plinth absorbs all extraneous noise.
mikeyc8
174 posts
 
I just had a Lenco L75 modded with a 75 lb cherry plinth by Jean Nantais. He had it made with 2 armboards (and it also came with 2 extra armboards) so theoretically I could have 4 arms at any point. This is a relatively economical solution for you as its about half of your budget plus IMHO this table runs with the big boys that you mentioned. Check out the Home Despot thread for details on the Lenco and my system for pics if you're interested.
mikeyc8
174 posts
 
Yes the Garrard's are great, they are the gold standard for sure, but just the player without a plinth is $1500-$2000. After you add a plinth, kokomo bearings and tonearm it gets pretty pricey. The lenco players in contrast start at about $300 for a good one, and arguably have similar performance.
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