To get into vinyl, or not?, I was set on constructing an analogue system, but.. Options

[almostmitch]

I was set on constructing an analogue system, but I have seen several users criticize the various aspects of the vinyl medium.
(sound quality/accuracy, cost of equipment, effort to play/digitize)

I'm 20 years old and have never truly experienced vinyl. However, I am extremely intrigued by it. I very much like the idea of setting up an affordable but quality system to listen to vinyls on. Also, I would be digitizing my dads old albums and some of my own. I look at it as more of a hobby/interest than its practicality regarding current tech and sound quality. I like the idea of starting a record collection and listening to them with my friends. The nostalgia and audio technology are other aspects that interest me (big tech geek here). I'm aware of the imperfections of vinyl's sound and this is why I want to make sure I get a quality system to achieve the best possible sound the LP will produce (within budget). For my system, I had the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon and a pair of decent floor standing speakers in mind but was not set on which components I wanted to use with it (pre-amp + receiver, integrated amp, or just a receiver w/ phono inputs). This was originally the question I was going to ask you guys. Something I could connect my computer to in order to play music files is something I'd like to be able to do. I have always cared about sound quality and the majority of my albums are perfect CD rips (.flac). I currently do not have a hi-fi system to fully enjoy my music on which is another reason why I'm looking to purchase one. Also, this is something I plan to take with me and enjoy for many years to come.

-So I ask, how do you like the vinyl experience compared to the CD experience? Can the added complexities with vinyl add to the experience?
-Also, if I decide to go for a system, which device(s) combination might produce the best sound quality at a reasonable price?

Thanks for any input!

[RonaldDumsfeld]

which device(s) combination might produce the best sound quality at a reasonable price?

A motor car is far more comfortable, safe and user friendly than a motorbike. Some people prefer the bike because it's more fun.


Enough philosophising already. To practicalities. I saw this in a store window the other day.

Audio Technica LP120-USB

It is dead ringer for the now discontinued and much missed, classic Technics 1210 DD turntable. With all the standard tweeks pre implemented. Plus a built in phono pre amp and USB connection. The AT95E cartridge is pretty decent as well.

Looks to be an excellent one stop shop for the aspiring vinylophile.

I find it hard to believe the internals can be up to the standard of the venerable 1210s but you never know? With a sticker price of £219 it looks a bargain whichever way you look at it.

Anyone have any hands on experience to report?

If you decide on a 2nd hand set of Technics instead then either of these look like excellent companions.

ART Phono Plus V2. £60

ART DJ Pre 2 £30

#1 is essentially an audio interface ( what audiophiles refer to as a DAC) with a built in phono pre amp from a reliable and economical supplier. #2 is a more conventional device but very good value.

Discogs is an excellent site for the vinyl enthusiast. You can buy and sell almost anything and the facilities are very useful indeed. I use it for cataloging and tagging my rips. It's good for obtaining artwork as well. Occasionally (very nowadays) I discover I have a release or version not already on their database and it's nice to be able to contribute to a free service by adding something back.

That's all you need mate. Good luck and have fun.

This post has been edited by RonaldDumsfeld: Nov 29 2012, 13:25