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I could use some advice on a TT for my system.

J

Judge Mental

New Member
I have a Dual 522 and wonder if I should keep it or get a new TT. Could I upgrade the 522 and how? Would a newer TT be better and what makes and models would be good. I would want to keep the budget around $500, but could be tempted to go a bit higher if it is really worth it.

Currently running a Marantz 2325 with some later seventies vintage Klipschorns.

Any recommendations for what would sound the best would be very much appreciated.
 
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You are going to as many recommendations as there are stars in the sky..........

I think you should answer this question first, "Is the TT the weakest link in your system".

Can you pimp the 522, add damping to underside of the platter, Dynamat Xtreme works well.

I don't know what the 522 is like as I've never heard one. I am a big Technics fan these days and an SL1200mk3,4 would be at the top of that price range. They are a a good TT stock and be made a lot better with some simple mods.
 
Right now I feel the TT is the weak link. Thank you for the suggestions, I will check that stuff out.

I value the opinions here a lot more than on paid sites or youtube where they can be very suspect because of the closeness to various companies.
 
Wouldn't be surprised if you could find a nice Kenwood KD770D in your price range. If you do be aware this is a LARGE table and will need some real estate.

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Looks black but it's actually high gloss dark mahogany woodgrain, it's even hard to tell in person. This is a semi auto deck, lifts the arm and shuts off at records end. Employs a slotless coreless motor giving it a liquid smooth presentation.

It's only the baby of a later line of audiophile tables offered by Kenwood, might want to take a look at the KP1100 etc, really something special. Gives you an idea of just how special the above KD770D is.

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what's hiding under that beautiful exterior
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some like to run them nude and with multiple arms
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There are other models that also sport this cast aluminum subchassis, have fun looking.

Then there's the legendary LO7D, still commands around 5G used.
 
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someone's selling refurbed KD770D's with exotic wood plinths if wanting something really special but be aware these more than quadruple your budget.

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But this also helps illustrate how really nice these are, and definitely within your budget with the standard plinth, which isn't too shabby in its own right.
 
Those KD770D's look beautiful, much more my taste than the newer TTs. How are they sound quality wise?

I'm more of a music person than a stereo person. I would like to plug and play, but I would be willing to make some upgrades/modifications. I want more to enjoy great sounding music than spend a ton of time and money on yet another hobby, if that makes sense.
 
Judge Mental said:
Those KD770D's look beautiful, much more my taste than the newer TTs. How are they sound quality wise?

I'm more of a music person than a stereo person. I would like to plug and play, but I would be willing to make some upgrades/modifications. I want more to enjoy great sounding music than spend a ton of time and money on yet another hobby, if that makes sense.
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I have 7 tables, all end game for most, it's only second to my Well Tempered Lab Turntable which retailed for $3495 back in 1985 if that helps lol.

It's an awesome table that's absolutely a joy to use. I have a LOMC Denon DL301 on mine and it's outstanding. These decks were in the $300 - $350 range a couple of yrs ago, but I'm confident you could get one within budget now.

But here's the thing, they aren't as plentiful as the Technics SL 1200 variants etc, so some patience may be required. But it's also a lot more table so well worth the wait in my opinion.
 
In searching for a vintage table, it's best to start looking whats around your area. If you end up having someone ship one, the key will be that they pack the table very well. There were many great tables back in the day, so do some research on line. I would aim higher end from back in the day as opposed to the lower end tables. Most brands put out both types. Do you want full automatic, semi auto, or manual? Are you interested in the Direct Drives or Belt Drives, or an idler table? Give us more info on what your looking for a in a new table for you. Vintage looks? Wood? industrial look?
 
I do like my Dual but I find it lacking something. That's why I was wondering if it could be upgraded to sound better and how, or if I should get another TT altogether.

I prefer the vintage look with wood and dust cover, but the absolute first on the list is sounding great with the speakers and stereo that I have. Everything else I am open to.

I have read so much good and bad about each option that I think my mind has turned into mush at times. It's a bit overwhelming for a novice. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
 
That's one of the things frustrating me. If I have to improve a older TT to sound better I understand, technology can improve the sound of a vintage design.

Almost all of the new TTs I have looked at, no matter the price, are a base model that they say sounds better with further options. I get fatigue from all of the up sale pitches. Stuff like VPI isn't cheap but to get the best sound spend thousands more on options, like they are admitting that they are giving you a brand new inferior product to get more cash on the backside. End of rant.

Thank you, it is extremely refreshing to hear somebody recommend something that is great as is, no modifications needed.
 
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