Thoughts on an Inexpensive Turntable for A Second System

[Folsom]

Looks vintage to me, just like the Thorens

I guess with the silver arm it’s more vintage looking. The 3009 is much better looking though.

 

[Audiophile Bill]

Looks vintage to me, just like the Thorens

Hi Jeffrey,

Everyone should own a Linn LP12 at some point on their journey

 

[Atmasphere]

Empire 208

To my eyes looks nice. Iater if you can't help yourself @Atmasphere has modded them to a higher level

But we don't use the stock tonearm. Usually we have it set up with a Triplanar. But if you want mid-century appearance and high end performance at the same time, its hard to beat. Empire made some nicely styled machines!

 

[jespera]

Lenco L70

 

[Folsom]

Lenco L70

You really think it's good? Most don't.

 

[jespera]

You really think it's good? Most don't.

I know it is.

Most people havent heard it. Have you?

 

[JackD201]

LP12s are fantastic if you have the patience to learn the skills to get them working as they should.

I say go like XV-1 and get a Exclusive P3.

 

[Solypsa]

If you can source Exclusive P3 for the OP stated budget sign me up too

 

[jeff1225]

LP12s are fantastic if you have the patience to learn the skills to get them working as they should.

I say go like XV-1 and get a Exclusive P3.

Please send me one for $2K. I’ll write you a check!

 

[JackD201]

Hahahaha find one with a lay away. It's worth it!

 

[JackD201]

Ok fine there's a P10 on ebay for a shade over 2k

 

[morricab]

I'm looking to add a turntable to my living room mid-century modern system that is based around a pair of Bose 901's. This system is used for background music and for when people (non-audiophiles) visit. The table needs to be $2000 or less and have a mid-century look to please the wife. Here's what I'm thinking:

1. Linn LP12
2. Empire Turntable
3. Thorens 125 or equivalent.

The question for WBF members is are there any other classic vintage tables I should look at? I don't care if the table is belt or direct, it just needs to perform well and look cool.

Thanks!

Yamaha GT-2000. You can get them from Hifi Do in Japan when they come up (relatively often)...you might find it's better than your main table as it's that good.

 

[jespera]

Thorens td 135

 

[Folsom]

I know it is.

Most people havent heard it. Have you?

I have one, just never used it.

 

[Brucemck2]

I haven’t seen a Well Tempered Classic in many years. That table and arm punched way above its price class - really innovative “first principles engineering“. The looks aren’t for everyone but it’s beautiful to a minimalist.

https://skyfiaudio.com/collections/vintage-tables/products/well-tempered-classic-turntable

 

[jeff1225]

I have a really nice Vinyl Nirvana Thorens 125 mk2 in great shape that would look really nice in your 2nd system. It's not being used and is drilled for a SME arm. Let me know if you are interested.

I have decided to buy Bob Heinatz’s Thorens 125 to add to my living room mid-fi system. Now all I need is for a SME 3009R to shown up to purchase!

Thank you for all you’re responses.

 

[Folsom]

I purchased my integrated amp last night for my retro system.

Jeff, where you considering any other arms? I'm torn on what to use. In fact I've ordered two on eBay I've had to return for different reasons... 3009 is on the list for sure but I actually want to go with a bit heavier arm to use low compliance carts. Finding stuff in the 9 inch for that seems challenging while staying retro.

 

[jeff1225]

I purchased my integrated amp last night for my retro system.

Jeff, where you considering any other arms? I'm torn on what to use. In fact I've ordered two on eBay I've had to return for different reasons... 3009 is on the list for sure but I actually want to go with a bit heavier arm to use low compliance carts. Finding stuff in the 9 inch for that seems challenging while staying retro.

I have about 10 carts and most of them are in SME headshells. I have purchased a GrooveMaster II for my Garrard 401 project but I also got that with the SME sliding base.

I really like the SME 3012R. I like how it sounds and I like the ease of set up. So no, I'll be buying the 3009R for the mid-fi table.

 

[Solypsa]

... 3009 is on the list for sure but I actually want to go with a bit heavier arm to use low compliance carts. Finding stuff in the 9 inch for that seems challenging while staying retro.

I'm sure you already know but the FR64S has around twice the effective mass vs the 3009R...

I have been meaning to try the Karmadon 'Grey clone' one day. $380 and about as retro as they come (although new).

 

[Folsom]

I'm sure you already know but the FR64S has around twice the effective mass vs the 3009R...

I have been meaning to try the Karmadon 'Grey clone' one day. $380 and about as retro as they come (although new).

Link to this clone?

FR64S price is a little crazy for this build. Maybe if I go for a very extensive build out and switch to a TD124.