Thank you all for all the responses and the lively conversation. I really learned a lot from everybody!
I went to listen to 3 turntables
1. Rega P6 with ND7 at Hifi Buys
2. VPI Classic 1st series, 10.5 tonearm with Dynavector xx2 mk ii
3. SOTA Sapphire Series III with Premier FT-3 arm and Benz Micro Acs SH cartridge
For the VPI and the SOTA I went to Wolfsong Audio and Mike was absolutely fantastic!
I really enjoyed the experience to listen to all 3 of them and I have to tell you that they really all make a difference form lower level turntable.
The fist major impression was the absolute silence between tracks, something that I was not used about (I have an old cheap Sony with a 2M Red).
Mike allowed me to bring my phono stage so he could make sure I would be able to enjoy the MC experience. I have a simple Parasound Zphono and I was happy to hear that it could handle even the lower output from the Dynavector.
At Wolfsong I brought my known records and Mike was kind to shuffle them and allow me to enjoy the experience,
And let me tell you what an experience it was!
I truly rediscover the pleasure to listen to music again and I am starting to understand all your enthusiams you had suggesting me your favorite tunrtable.
The soundstage from the VPI was phenomenal! 3D! Spatial! Surrounding! I am sure that a lot has to do with Mike skills on setting up the turntable and the cartdridge properly, but it opened my ears to a new dimension!
This was a lifetime changing experience!
I know that this is the first step into the higher end and I know that there are many more step forward but this is what I could afford with my budget and I am extremely happy!
So you can guess that I am the proud owner of a 65 lb baby: VPI Classic!
Now I need to listen to music and enjoy the ride.
Thank you Mike @ Wolfsong Audio for a great experience!
Thank you HiFi Buys for the same!
Thank you all for your support and passion that helped me pick my next turntable!
