Wanting to get into Vinyl - Need help


I'm a complete neophyte when it comes to turntables and vinyl. Recently I've gotten the itch to take the plunge, but I'm a bit out of my element so I'm looking for suggestions.

My system is Rotel electronics and Vandersteen 2 ce sigs. Nothing grandiose, but I like the sound and it fits my budget. I currently have a Denon DP300F with a Ortofon RED cartridge upgrade on order. The TT won't be in until April so of course this has given me time to look around and read more reviews. Now I'm having second thoughts, and I'm debating changing/canceling my order.

The phono preamp I've decided on is the Musical Fidelity V-LPS MKII. I've also kicked around the NAD PP3i, but the the reviews don't seem as favorable. Any others I should be looking at?

Now for the TT options. The "short list" in my price range seem to be the Rega RP1, Music Hall MMF2.2, Pro-ject Debut III. These three seem pretty indistinguishable from eachother. I guess the Denon DP300F could fit into this catagory as well. I've also seen suggestions for looking at used "vintage" TT's but honestly I wouldn't know what I'm looking for. I don't want something twitchy that I have to lube or whatever people do :) I would consider a more modern used TT if the price is right.

I'm not planning on being a tweaker here. I just want to play music. Can someone help me whittle this pack of TT's down to a choice?

Thanks!
mustangjeff

Showing 1 response by adam18

Rega RP1 and MF V-LPS Mk. II should be a very nice combination. You'll be able to enjoy the wonderful sound of analog music through your Vandersteens, and have $$$$ to start a nice LP collection. There are many A'goners who will try to discourage you and tell you that you need to spend big bucks to enjoy vinyl. Sure, the more you spend (up to a limit) the better your LP's will sound...... but, believe me, you can really enjoy yourself with a good starter system like the RP1/V-LPS. I started with an NAD 533/Goldring Elektra front end years ago, a system that a "hard core audiophile" would have laughed at. But, ya' know what ?.....I loved that little system, and it enabled me to really enjoy the music and have enough money left over to buy a lot of records. Then, as time went by and my "audio budget" expanded, I upgraded to what I have now. Vinyl is a fantastic medium, a great way to listen to music. Start small, enjoy yourself, and upgrade later on, as you are able. Happy Listening.