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Turntable upgrade recommendations: SME vs AMG vs Technics vs other

I've recently upgraded most of my system, but I still have a Rega P8, with Linn Krystal cartridge, which I like, but I've heard that there may be better options.

I have Sound Lab electrostatic speakers, Ypsilon Hyperior amplifiers, an Ypsilon PST-100 Mk2 pre-amplifier, and am thinking about an Ypsilon phono stage to match with my system, and a turntable/cartridge.  I listen to almost entirely classical, acoustic music. 

Based on my very limited knowledge, and simple research, I've been looking at three brands, each of which is a different type of turntable: SME (suspension), AMG (mass), and Technics (direct drive).  
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of turntables, and of those in particular?

Thanks.   

drbond
rsf507
2,222 posts
 

How about ANY Kuzma table/arm combo?

billstevenson
337 posts
 

I highly recommend that you call Steve at High Performance Stereo in Miami.  He is honest and knowledgeable.  He is an advertiser here at Audiogon.  I have dealt with him for years and can't say enough good about him.

Bill

drbond OP
391 posts
 

@billstevenson 

Thanks for the recommendation, but Miami is 5 hours away from me, and, as has been mentioned, dealers will peddle their own goods.  (It may as well be NYC.)  

I was hoping a user had heard a couple of these turntables and could recommend what the strengths of one vs the other are, but I suppose not many have listened to these TT.  

Thanks.

drvinyl01's avatar
drvinyl01
27 posts
 

If your looking at turntables in that price range you might also consider Reed this last one is a modern idler drive. 

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,156 posts
 

@drbond , I have Sound Labs Speakers. If you are talking about the SME 30/2 or 30/12 it is a no brainer. I would take the SME 12A over any Technics Table. It is isolated and has a much better arm than any Technics ever made. I do not think genre means anything when it comes to tables and arms. Cartridges are another issue. I would consider a transimpedance phono stage like the Sutherland Loco or Channel D Lino C and a really low impedance moving coil like the My Sonic Lab Ultra Eminent EX

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