Where do I start?


Hello all,

This is my first post and I am a little hesitent, being that my equipment certainly doesn't measure up to what most of you probably have, but I am "in the process", so here goes.

I am an aging hippie type who grew up with vinyl, and would really love to get back into that world of having a closer connection with the music I love. Although those tastes have changes from, dare I say it, The Beach Boys to Karrin Allyson, I still love that sound, and even with my old ears, I know that vinyl appeals to me much more than digital, although like most, I will still carry digital in my library.

My system is a modest set of Parasound solid state seperates, B & W 602's, and a Rotel 950 cd player. I know it's not much, but it beats the hell out of department store junk.

My first goal is a good front end, and I am starting with a decent turntable, arm, and cartridge. I have been looking at the Basis 1400 and the Clearaudio Champion for starters. I dismissed Rega due to the countless posts on speed problems. I don't plan on accumulating all of the latest and greatest in trying to refine my sound to a point that gives diminished returns, but I do want a satisfying system that will last a while. I also do not want to get into the competition of who's system is best and which brand gives the best sound. The short version is that I am a very passive person who is not out to solicit or cause conflict. I am, though, asking for those of you, and that is many, who know a whole lot more about this than I do, for some suggestions. Thank you all in advance.

Rick
richardtrapp2a31
You will most likely get a wide range of suggestions, mine is, once you have the TT you want, I would buy the best speakers you can possibly afford and worry about the electronics later.
Rick-

Wow! I think that's the nicest post I've ever read! Sorry, can't help you with turntable stuff, but good luck!
The Basis 1400 is a good table - if you have a good stand, it's probably a fair bit better than the arm that comes with it. If you don't have a good stand and/or a really solid floor (ie concrete or brick), you might want to look for something with a suspension, although that will be significantly more expensive.

Don't forget the phono stage - it can make a big difference. There are a number of good inexpensive ones out there, and my experience is that there isn't a good correlation between price and quality.
I bought a used Music Hall MMF-5 turnable about a year ago and I'm very pleased w/it. Has a nice cart. standard and offers very good isolation. Added a little Project (Sumiko) phono pre-amp and it works wonderful. I like the fact it is always powered up so it gives peak performance from the moment you spin your first record. The
"Latest/greatest" isn't necessary that much better than what's been around for 15-30yrs. It boils down to system matching and your listening room. Also, one's expectations. Good luck w/
your quest. Bill