turntable question: low cost/significant improvement
In article zogmo-FCF9B8.09475316092006@localhost,
Zogmorton wrote:
I have a 1980s-vintage Harman Kardon t-45 turntable with an Ortofon OM20
cartridge. It works well and sounds good--I might like to get some more
dynamic range out of the records, but basically I like it, and could
continue to use this without problem. But I am curious about advances in
turntable technology in the past 20+ years. So here's my question: at
what price level would I hear an unmistakable improvement in the sound
of my records by replacing the turntable? Would the low-end of new
"audiophile" turntables (bottom-of the-line Goldring or Music Hall,
etc.) be distinctly better than the good old HK, or should I save up for
something higher up the price ladder? Details of just what sorts of
improvements I'd expect, and recommendations of particular units will be
appreciated--as you know, it isn't very practical to audition a bunch of
turntables these days.
I don't know the sound of the HK, but I can tell you that in my opinion
and based on extensive recent listening, the lower end Goldring, Music
Hall, and Pro-ject tables are very good sounding units. I purchased a
slightly more expensive TT/arm/cartridge combo (about $1000) but beyond
that price point, one has to spend considerably more money to get better
LP sound.
Good luck with your purchase decision!
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