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Best way to spend $2k on a used Turntable & Arm?

I have a limited budget to spend on a used table and arm combo. I have a new Grado $120 cart. but could consider a complete outfit incl. cart. for $2k. I have liked the sound of the Sotas and perhaps Linn but think that I like the sound of the Sota better. I am curious about maybe VPI, Rega or Clearaudio, or anything that will maximize performance in this limited price range. I used to own a Music Hall MMF 5 but was not knocked out with it. Of course I like tubes and will get a phono pre separately. Thanks for the help.
cine100
steveaudio
331 posts
 
"For $2,000 you could have a used Rega P-5 with a brand new Benz Glider!" (Elizabeth)

For a lot of us, $2k would not be a "limited" TT + cartridge budget. About 12 years ago, I bought a slightly used Rega P25 w/a new Benz Glider for about $1275, & loved it. Later I bought a lightly used C-J phono pre for maybe $700. After that I briefly had a Rega P-5 used that I paid $1100 for, was a really high quality beautiful TT.

You can do a LOT w/a $2k TT/cartridge + even a phono pre budget......
frogman
7,356 posts
 
Don't be too quick to give up on the Grado. It is a decent cartridge. If you buy a used package of tt/arm/cart as you suggested, your choices will be more limited. That Grado in a good arm, on a good tt, will sound a lot better than it did on your MMF5. Then decide on a phono pre, and that choice will determine to a great extent your choice for a better cartridge.
cine100 OP
31 posts
 
Steveaudio has me thinking about incl. the phono in the 2k. That sounds like a sensible and very nice package. I am also considering a Clearaudio pkg. @ 2k without phono or stand. Thanks again. Great help.
transnova's avatar
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transnova
350 posts
 
You can get a NOS Acoustic Signature Manfred with stock RB 250 arm new for around $2000.Add an Ortofon 2M blue for not much more.The current model sells for $3500 and is identical except it now includes the RB-300.
rhljazz
1,249 posts
 
There's an Origin Live Aurora listed right now for 1399.00 which has received positive reviews. It is a stunning looking table as well.
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