I own both the Technics 1210 GR and a Music Hall Stealth. Both are positively reviewed by multiple sources. Apart from the ridiculous position of the power outlet and RCA cable connections on the Technics ,the table is quite musical and easy to set up. A true 1200 in terms of weight and torque supplied with the core-less motor. Using the Stealth ,my only complaint is the UV sensitive auto shut down feature. Absolutely useless and should be disabled ( a mere rear switch). Not as robust as the GR however a more nuanced sound IMHO. I never used the supplied cartridge in favor of a Hana and a Nagaoka MP300. Obviously I prefer direct drive.
The Technics GR2 can be found within your price range and is a better table than either the Stealth or GR. A much better choice than the 1500c unless you need a built in phono preamp. Regas are sweet but adjusting the VTA is a chore. Enjoy the ride.
Which turntable is better?
I am considering my first turntable and having difficulty deciding between Technics 1500C, Audio Technica LP8X, Music Hall Stealth, Mofi Ultradeck or Rega Planer 6. My budget is 2K to 2.5K. I understand all the diferences in these tables as far as belt drive versus direct drive and semi automatic functions etc. but wanted to know from others experiences with these? I will probably upgrade cartridge from what is supplied. I don't have to have built in phono stage as my integrated, Unison Research Unico Due has one onboard.
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1st turntable Not everyone sticks with Vinyl, then there is keep it but only as an option, followed by hooked on vinyl. How many LPs do you own? Jazz, eventually with many Mono LPs? here’s hooked on vinyl, took me over 40 years to get here That’s a dedicated Mono Cartridge on the left; rotation of various Stereo MC moving coil in the back; rotation of various Stereo MM Moving Magnet on the right. I helped a friend with a Luxman PD444, which allows the easy addition of a second arm, it’s a real winner https://www.audiogon.com/systems/11900 ............................... Arm: I highly recommend a removable headshell, combined with a height adjustable tonearm, because cartridge heights vary from undersized 14 mm to oversized 21mm, 17mm typical, and, a true mono cartridge is definitely better for playing Mono LPs (how much better depends on the lp). You can get a starter system and use it to prove whether you get hooked, move up later, keep a working spare, ...... |
You Phono input has an MM Phono and an optional MC setting. Like my Luxman Integrated in my office, it has a single fixed 100 ohm impedance. If, when you try a LOMC low output moving coil, look for one with a coil impedance between 8-12 ohms. I chose and highly recommend AT33PTG/II LOMC with a 10 ohm coil. Eventually you might want a separate SUT Step Up Transformer with optional impedance settings, to continue to use you unit’s MM Phono input, or a separate more flexible MC Phono stage. I chose this SUT, because it has 3 selectable inputs, PASS for MM, and 4 optional impedance settings (all options front selectable rather than rear switches or internal jumpers). https://www.audiogon.com/systems/11318 |
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