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Welcome Licorice Pizza (LP) lovers! Setup guides and Vinyl FAQ.

Re: New into records, help, Rega vs VPI

From what you're looking for, I think you'd be most happy with a used Scout/Dynavector or similar combo from Audiogon.

I've got a Nottingham Spacedeck, which I highly recommend and like very much, (I also think it might have more of what you're looking for sound-wise).. but the Scout is perhaps a better value for the $.

I also have a Clearaudio Virt Wood, which I DON'T recommend as it's not on the "warm, liquid" side of things.. yes, it's evenly balanced, fast, detailed and conveniently MM.. but in retrospect I wish I had bought a good MC that does vocals well such as a Shelter 501.

Don't skimp on the preamp: personally I'd put the $ for the record cleaning machine into a next-level-up preamp (like a used Art Audio Vinyl 1) and go with Disc Doctor record cleaner/brushes.. you can also make a basic DIY vac system with a $35 shopvac.. and/or just buy the record cleaner at a later time ;)

If you get a stock 834, consider at least upgrading the tubes. If you're capable of basic soldering and have a free weekend, you will get amazing value from a kit phono preamp such as Hagerman Tech or Bottlehead. I've got a Hagerman Cornet tube phono preamp, which can be built for less then an Ear 834 and is easily on the same level. (Another kit, the $1500 K&K phono preamp, is basically the same as the $4500 Art Audio Vinyl Reference)

Don't listen to salespeople unless you feel they're completely knowledgeable and honest - to the point of willing to recommend equipment they may not carry. Trust your instincts, and pay attention to feedback from those who have a similar taste in sound but don't have a vested interest in your final decision.

In my limited experience, the Regas have a great feel for pace and timing, but if you're looking for warmth and liquidity you might want to look elsewhere. Also if the skating thing were a real problem, the Scout would not be as well-liked by end users as it is.

Good luck and have fun!


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  • Re: New into records, help, Rega vs VPI - Queg 14:16:50 12/06/05 (0)


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