What's the Best TT, arm and cartridge system for under 9k total?

puroagave

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Sep 29, 2011
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new or used? imo, there is no "best" at one price point. you'll have many more possible combinations available used.
 

puroagave

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Sep 29, 2011
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new: VPI classic 3/VPI SDS/Lyra kleos

9k used will also get you a basis debut/graham phantom or SME 20/3 or spiral groove sg2 incl a used 2500 cart at half off, any of which id take over the set-up above.
 

NorthStar

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Feb 8, 2011
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What Dave just said above: Linn Sondek LP12, with the Radikal DC motor with outboard power supply and control unit: $7,450

Also, as Rob said: VPI Classic 3: $6,000

And (but discontinued in 2010): Kuzma Stabi Reference: $8,900

* All three Class A (including tonearm and cartridge), for under $9,000

____________

Spare cartridge alone? ... Ortofon SPU Synergy A: $1,799 ...Also Class A
 

NorthStar

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Feb 8, 2011
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Last, but for $10,000 ($1,000 more than what you asked): VPI Super Scoutmaster Reference Rim Drive

Comes with many things including the JMW-10.5i Memorial tonearm fitted with Nordost Valhalla wire.
 

DasguteOhr

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Sep 26, 2013
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DavidinSF

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Sep 28, 2013
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Thanks guys. I was impressed listening to clearaudio ovation and thei top line mm. Great base and punch. But having psychological barriers with mm vs mc. Should I ignore the conventional wisdom?
 

rockitman

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Sep 20, 2011
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Thanks guys. I was impressed listening to clearaudio ovation and thei top line mm. Great base and punch. But having psychological barriers with mm vs mc. Should I ignore the conventional wisdom?

That was going to be my suggestion...the Ovation. What about phono stage ? Is that included in this budget ?
 

MylesBAstor

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Apr 20, 2010
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One that doesn't get a lot of attention but is worth a listen or two. Impressed me when I heard it.

http://www.onahighernote.com/luxman/?c=7&id=57

In fact, a lot of the new Luxman stuff impressed me including their Class A solid-state amplifier. The stereo amp (would like to hear the monoblocks) really sounded good into the Vivids and had some cajones.
 

DaveyF

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Jul 31, 2010
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One that doesn't get a lot of attention but is worth a listen or two. Impressed me when I heard it.

http://www.onahighernote.com/luxman/?c=7&id=57

In fact, a lot of the new Luxman stuff impressed me including their Class A solid-state amplifier. The stereo amp (would like to hear the monoblocks) really sounded good into the Vivids and had some cajones.

If their new TT is anywhere near as good as their new DA06 DAC, then it would be a contender. The DA06 DAC is a killer piece.
 

jtinn

Industry Expert
Apr 20, 2010
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That is easy. Find yourself an EMT 948 with arm cart and built in phono stage. This direct drive wonder has an amazing life cycle. I own eight of them and nothing seems to go wrong with these other than an occasional bulb dying.

This table has a pace and drive that is not easily matched.

Also, you won't have to spend nearly your entire budget. The rest can be spent on vinyl.
 

DavidinSF

New Member
Sep 28, 2013
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was thinking NOva phonomena - SS. I wonder if i should spend the extra bucks to goto a lamm preamp? but perhaps the SS nova sounds good enough...
 

PeterA

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Dec 6, 2011
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new: VPI classic 3/VPI SDS/Lyra kleos

9k used will also get you a basis debut/graham phantom or SME 20/3 or spiral groove sg2 incl a used 2500 cart at half off, any of which id take over the set-up above.

I like the used suggestions. My buddy has an SP10 MK2/Durand Talea 1/Benz Micro LPS for about $9K, mostly used. Sounds very good also.
 

Mendel

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Feb 13, 2012
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What's the Best TT, arm and cartridge system for under 9k total?

Lots of good choices out there. Here is mine: J A Michell Orbe, with Tecnoarm and Lyra Delos well under 9k new. Or substitute Gyro for Orbe and get a better arm and cart, although I think you are better off getting the Orbe and upgrading the arm and cartridge later.
 

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