Record player setup

How good is good for ya? Vinyl isn't cheap as people think. A halfway "decent" turntable (with or without a stock cartridge) can run you at about $500.

As far as speakers and amps go, you can't play a turntable without a dedicated phono amp (or in some cases, a built-in phono amp). So bear that in mind. Most receivers have this (i.e., Marantz AV Receivers).

However, this isn't to say you have to spend an arm and leg to get something decent. I would check out Marantz's website and browse through their Hi-Fi Components product section. They have some turntables that are around the $330-$350 range, which seems reasonable.

Here's an example setup:

- Marantz TT42

- Marantz PM6004

So now we get to speakers, which really all draws down to you. I'd recommend you hear some if possible before making a purchase because only your ears will tell you what sounds good. I'd also recommend that you go for some floorstanders because they allow you to have a nice listening experience without having to make some room for a sub (not to say you don't need a sub though).

Well, there you are. I know it may seem a whole lot, but it is definitely worth it. Cheaper turntables break quickly and always seem to experience issues. With a "decent" one, you should be fine.

 

have a look at the projekt turntables, they are awesome and will last you in your discovery, they aren't too expensive but not too cheap, very well built.

I have a debut III into my naim setup through a Projekt phono amp and it sounds AWESOME. You can get some bargains on ebay etc, but i'd recommend going buying a new cartridge once you have it.

as for forums etc, have a look here: http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/index.php

 

check out the audiokarma forums

a lot of the posters there are audio guys who do repair/restoration work and can point you in the right direction as far as gear goes.. and often they have stuff to sell.

 

Pro-Ject makes some of the best phono amps out there. I got to hear them a few months back and they were gorgeous sounding!

Those "light bulbs" are tubes. The explanation of tubes and how the work for sound can be a lengthy one. There are two types of amps (generally speaking) that you can choose from. Solid State, or Tube. Tube provides a lot of warmth for music. It adds a certain quality to sound that most Solid State amps can't replicate. This isn't to say Solid State amps are bad though.