re: Audiophile/Vinyl Thread - Post Pics, Advice, Questions, Setups, etc.

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Total noob question here: Is the Audio Technica AT-LP120-USB the best "starter" turntable? If not, any recs are appreciated.

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What is your budget and what do you already have? There are people on here that know more than me, but I have just spent a lot of time on this same chase.

I'll start by saying that this table has an ok entry level cartirdge, has a reputation for sounding pretty good, and is speed stable. It has a USB which will allow you to rip your vinyl to digital files. It also has a built-in preamp, which is a money saver, but in my mind a less-desirable setup. It is also plasticky, and though it is substantial in terms of weight, I don't know that I would consider it as weighty in all the right places, especially the thin aluminum platter.

It is generally going to run you around $300 - if I were wanting a "DJ-style" table, I would try to stretch the budget to $375-$400 for a used Technics SL-1200 Mk2.

If you want to buy new, near this price range you have Pro-ject debut carbon, Rega Planar 1, or Music hall 2.2. In that price range, I would definitely look at U-turn Orbit w/ their pluto preamp and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge and you can come in under $350 - American made with supposed excellent customer service.

Check out the link I am going to post below. Also check out the turntable forum over at vinylengine and at stevehoffman.tv - plenty of great info there and some specific threads on entry TT's under $500.

I recently did this, and ended up getting a good deal on a very well taken care of used Rega Planar 3 with a really nice cartridge (Sumiko Blue Point II MC) for under $500. I spent a lot of time trolling eBay, craigslist, Audiogon, USAuidomart and talking to sellers before nailing one down.

There are real experts here who will chime in as well. I am new to this, but tend to be OCD when I get into things. Good luck and have fun.

HiViNyws YouTube