2. analog
  3. 172765-2047

Recommend an Entry Level Turntable (And maybe an integrated Amp)

I've been wanting to upgrade my system for a long time now.

My system currently consists of a pair of B&W 630's, an old Denon 50 watt reciever (DRA-550) from the mid 80's,  and a Marantz 5004 cd player.  I'm pretty happy with all three.

I'm looking to get into vinyl and The Project Debut Carbon turntable was recommended.  I listened to it but wasn't amazed by it. So I sent it back.

I then called my local audio store and the salesman said that if the system sounds good with cds but not with the turntable then the weak link is probably the phono pre amp.

So, he recommended the NAD C388 integrated amp which has the added benefit of more power (150 watts per channel) and bluetooth as well (something I definitely want).  He did qualify it by saying that reciever/amp technology hasn't changed much over the years.

He also recommended an upgrade of the turntable cartridge to the Sumiko Rainier.

Just thinking out loud.  I'd be open to adding a bluetooth and a new phono preamp to the Denon, but I'm not sure if that would be better.

TIA

klimt
frogman
7,389 posts
 

Go slow. If you envision continuing on the upgrade path and perhaps envision owning a top shelf system in the future , go slow. ONLY ONE charge at a time (except tt/pre, of course). Get a real handle on what changes that one component made. Good, bad? Try optimizing it with the right cable, placement, etc. THEN make another change. You’ll end up with a better system and you’ll save a lot of money.

I would start with tt first. Good luck and have fun.

Have no idea why everything is underlined😊

klimt OP
164 posts
 

Thanks again.

Can anyone recommend a good cartridge for the the Technics TT?

klimt OP
164 posts
 

Hey, 

Another question:  Would it make more sense to buy an all in one amp that includes a bluetooth/ streaming, and phono pre amp or buy them separately?

petar3
61 posts
 

I want to second, go slow. I know much of the equipment you mention and don't think highly of it or of Bluetooth. there are more effective ways to put a system together. Also, set a goal precisely since 5k does not give you much room. If the goal is to build a great sound around a TT, that is one thing. if the goal is to build the greatest sound possible for 5k, that is a very very very different situation.   

klimt OP
164 posts
 

Ok.

I am interested in doing both if possible (Streaming/Blutooth) and a preamp + TT

I'm just worried that the streaming device may eventually become obsolete.

TIA

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