Inexpensive Good Vintage Turntables?

Already mentioned above, the Townshend Audio Rock turntables are like no other. A main feature of the Rock is the employment of a silicon fluid-filled damping trough across the front of the platter, within which rides a "paddle" that is bolted onto the arm’s headshell.

The table is a cult item in the U.S., but was fairly mainstream in the U.K., where it is very highly regarded. The Rock Elite (MK.2) can be found for less than a grand, if you're up for something unique.

@petg60 

I bought/have an Amazon Model one which the uK dealer said was the closest thing to the PT Anniversary. The Funk Firm n came out too late for me - I'd bought the Amazon - that's the closest to a modern version of the anniversary. Arthur went on to make the Funk Firm Saffire. A truly brilliant deck - i heard one and was mesmerised by how inherently 'right' it sounded - very hard to explain.

Alvin Gold wrote for a few magazines if i recall. I recall in the early 90's he got rid of his Sondek and replaced it with the Roksan. Hi Fi Choice magazine were always big fans of Voyd and PT turntables - the problem was that What hifi and HiFi News were in love with the Linn/Naim chain. I very rarely buy HiFi world since Simon Pope left - it went on a loop of: Rega; Origin Live; Michell; Musical ical Fidelity and Garrard. I asked Simon at a show as to why all their reviews are so flattering and he said that in general few new products and shockers - and that manufacturers pay for reviews and want to hear what is said before a review goes out.

Sorry guys I digress - but this is a forum for a bit of fun and banter...

@greg7  - Would be good to hear your definition of "inexpensive". Some of the TTs that have been recommended here are not what I would consider inexpensive. However, everyone's finances and comfort level are different. So, what say you? What's your budget for this "inexpensive" TT?

@lohanimal Amazon tables are great, never listened to One but i really liked model Two with Moerch DP-6 arm. 

Clearthinker:

I bought a VPI HW MK II in 1986.

In 2014, I wanted to upgrade. I was going to buy a VPI Classic, but noticed the change in design philosophy. I called and asked Harvey about it.

He told me that the lead ring used to make a HW was banned, therefore the new designs. He said to save myself $4,000 and simply upgrade the HW MK II to a MK IV. The table is just as good as the Classic.

So I did. I’ve basically been using the same table for 36 years. I replace the belt every 5 years or so.

My speakers are 66 years old.