Red Mosquito

Didn't want to overtake the Vinyl thread with this.
I'm in the market for a new turntable. Our old one bit the dust, and our current one is shit, so I want to get a new one that's at least decent and can create a good and consistent sound. I'm not looking at spending $500 on a record player or anything, but want something that is good and reliable. Thoughts on brands or models?

I'm also in the market for some solid vintage stereo equipment.. mostly a receiver and maybe speakers. Had my eyes on a couple of Pioneers on ebay, but also wouldn't mind getting some recommendations on what brands and models for those as well.

What do you guys have, and do you like?

I'm not a real expert on these, but I think if you can get a second hand technics, pioneer, or other decent brand TT, it'll be better than any cheap new TT. Just make sure the needle is still good, you can usually get replacement needles for TT's but they're not usually cheap, and you may end up buying a model that you can't find a needle for.

Look for used Technics 1200's at guitar center, you'd be surprised. I love my 1200, and you might be able to score a used deck on the cheap, just make sure they weren't beat to death by some half assed DJ.

Under 500? This looks okay, I guess. Or maybe a pro-ject.

Music Hall Audio - MMF USB-1 USB


For vintage stuff, keep an eye on your local Craig's or hunt estate sales. Audiogon is nice to browse too.

For vintage stereo you cant go wrong with a Marantz. Try watching your local craigslist like super nintendo said. Anything starting with 2220 up to a 2240 should suit your needs while providing superior sound vs a lot of the other vintage gear - Pioneer included.

For turntables look for technics, thorens, dual or old pioneer, yamaha, etc. Nothing plastic!

I love my Technics ss well. Turntable and receiver.

When I bought my speakers I didn't know how to choose either so I bought a consumer's report and picked their top rated for the best sounding of their lower price range and I still love them 20 years later.

I love my marantz receiver so much, it's a 2245.

If I owned nothing and wanted to get started in the world of vinyl/vintage gear for under $500, here is what I'd get:

Receiver: Marantz 2230, $150
Turntable: Lenco L75 Idler Drive (stock condition), $200
Speakers: Dynaco A-25, $100

thanks guys, this is great advice as i'm starting to research

I've heard good things about this one.

http://www.insound.com/AT-LP60-Automati ... /INS70640/

Guys, I think I'm going to buy my first Rega next month. Just the entry-level RP1, but still very excited.

Simple Torture wrote:Guys, I think I'm going to buy my first Rega next month. Just the entry-level RP1, but still very excited.

Simple Torture wrote:Guys, I think I'm going to buy my first Rega next month. Just the entry-level RP1, but still very excited.

I've owned two Regas, currently have a P3 that has been in and out of the main system.
You won't be disappointed. Plus, if you ever get itchy for upgrades the Rega is ideal for modifications.

super nintendo chalmers wrote:I've heard good things about this one.

http://www.insound.com/AT-LP60-Automati ... /INS70640/

I've got that one. Works like a champ.

All this shit really should be in the vinyl thread.

despite 'snatchers good intentions

southp wrote: For turntables look for technics, thorens, dual or old pioneer, yamaha, etc. Nothing plastic!

I have a 40 year old TD-150. With the exception of the shitty tonearm and the somewhat melted cover (it survived a fire in '79), it's a beaut!

Anyone ever had a turntable shipped to them? Specifically from an ebay auction? Just wondering if it's worthwhile or if there are bad issues when shipping. Obviously better to buy from someone who is a legit turntable seller since they would probably know how to pack it (versus a rando person)

i had my TT shipped to me from this guy and he did a great job of packing it and giving instructions: http://www.audioproz.com/AP.php

the owner is very knowledgeable, but will chat your ear off, so ask a direct question and then run away.

btw, i like the idea of a separate thread for hifi equipment.

anyone recommend an entry level audiophile semi-auto table? vintage or new? I have the dual cs 5000 but I want some other choices to recommend.

super nintendo chalmers wrote:Look for used Technics 1200's at guitar center, you'd be surprised. I love my 1200, and you might be able to score a used deck on the cheap, just make sure they weren't beat to death by some half assed DJ.

Under 500? This looks okay, I guess. Or maybe a pro-ject.

Music Hall Audio - MMF USB-1 USB


For vintage stuff, keep an eye on your local Craig's or hunt estate sales. Audiogon is nice to browse too.

Definitely don't get this one. I did and it was a POS. Wouldn't stay on speed, and you couldn't blow on it without it skipping. I returned that for the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon and couldn't be happier. It sounds amazing and is built like a tank. I can hop on the floor right in front of it and can barely get it to skip.

Bummer. Usually the MH stuff gets good write ups.

I got some Polks on CL this weekend. Nice little upgrade.