2. analog
  3. 131030-2195

Which Mid Level Turntables Ship Well and Are Foolproof?

I'm looking for recommendations for mid-level turntables (e.g. $500-$1000 used) that are solidly built, are unlikely to be damaged from prior misuse, and that can be shipped relatively safely (assuming original packing materials). I am helping my cousin put together a system, and so far it's pretty nice: (Vandersteen 2CEsigs + 2WQ sub, McCormack DNA 0.5 Rev. A amplifier, modded Eastern Electric minimax preamp, Schiit Bifrost DAC).  He is wanting to get back into vinyl, and has an analog audio store nearby that can either sell him something new (Rega) or help him set up something used.  Given the relative delicacy of turntables and all the mechanical parts, we are debating whether to go used and if so, which models would present the least risk for used condition and shipping.  Much appreciation in advance for your thoughts!  Peter_S 
peter_s

Showing 4 responses by rar1

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,746 posts
 
Go new ... try this one

Project 25th Anniversary Classic.  Factory installed and set-up cartridge.  

Have it 6 months and love it.

http://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Classic-Turntable-1?sc=2&category=352

https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=45537


Rich 
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,746 posts
 
In addition to the Pro-ject Classic, I have a Stanton ST 150 (mk1).  Pretty much everything I say about the Stanton, will apply to the Pioneer as they are very similar.  

These turntables are a lot of fun, are easy to maintain, and allow swapping out of cartridges.  They sound pretty decent and are built like tanks and to take some rough use.  

Keep in mind that it is a DJ oriented turntable, so there are a number of features you may never use.  In addition, since the TT is aimed for DJ use, what might bother an audiophile might not bother a DJ and vice versa.  So the tonearm bearings have some play in them and there is some hum from the built in phono pre-amp (whether you use it or not) which is not audible when LPs are playing.  Google Super OEM to read more.

Rich 
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,746 posts
 
Plug and play.  True no brainer.

Rich
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,746 posts
 
@ chakster - wow, who put the red bull in your Cheerios?

The original poster asked a question about the Pioneer PLX-1000 and I gave an answer.  

Kindly reread what I wrote.  It wasn't that outer worldly.  

@ Peter - for the audiophile experience, the Stanton 150 and the Pioneer 1000 may not satisfy.  They are not awful TTs by any stretch.  Mapleshade uses the Stanton for its TT mods.
  
http://shop.mapleshadestore.com/Stanton-ST-150/products/201/


Rich 

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