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TT to pair w/ Yamaha CR-600 & KLH Model 6?

alxndragrams

alxndragrams

New Member
Hi everyone,

Long time reader, firt-time poster here. I'm in the process of putting together a vintage system and can't decide what kind of turntable to pair with my Yamaha CR-600 and KLH Model 6 speakers. This is a bang-for-buck driven project seeking quality and value in tried and true components.

I'm mostly scouring eBay and have my eye on a B&O Beogram 1700 with the MMC20EN cart as well as a harmon/kardon t20 table (cart unknown but less disconcerting if needs replacement).

Any advice to guide this decision? Other quality vintage TTs I should consider that won't cost an arm and a leg?

Looking forward to your help! :beerchug:aa
 
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I have the B&O table you're looking at with the MMC20EN. It's a really nice setup, but just be aware that if you ever need to replace the cartridge, it'll cost you quite a bit. I'd actually be looking on Craigslist instead of eBay for a turntable. Most people don't know how to properly package a turntable.
 
You don't list your location, but if you are near a large metropolis you will have a good chance of finding something on Craigslist. (As was stated previously).

If you are patient you can get the good bang for the buck you are seeking.
 
Lots of options in the "period correct" age group to go with what you already have. Not that you have to but it would be cool.
 
313guy said:
You don't list your location, but if you are near a large metropolis you will have a good chance of finding something on Craigslist. (As was stated previously).

If you are patient you can get the good bang for the buck you are seeking.
Click to expand...

313 - unfortunately I'm in the foothills of NC, so craigslist isn't exactly rife with vintage hifi opportunites
 
The KLH looks to be late 60's and the Yamaha early 70's. Dual was huge during those years. Lots of them around. 1019 and 1219 were big sellers but I'm not an expert on them. Thorens had the TD 125 out in 1970 and that would be a glorious match.
 
The AR-XA was also built in the early 70's and it has a cult-like following here and it is not going to break the bank. I would look for one of these as they are supposedly simple and rugged, and easily modded later if you want.
 
I see quite a few at local tag sales. The big problem is that prices are about $100 to $150, and most have broken phono cartridges. The cheapest complete carts are $40 to $50. If you can find a working dual it wold be good, but most Technics will give you better performance. I am assuming you want an automatic. You may find a $20 cd changer, just to get you going.
 
My first system was a Beogram 1900 and a CR 600. I don't recommend B&O for a budget system because of the cartridge costs. I'd look for a Thorens from the mid 70's for a great player with understated style and similar materials (medium colored wood & aluminum). A stock Thorens would also have a ton of upgrade potential down the road.
 
I'm just over the mountain in Knoxville and my craigslist searches frequently include Asheville and the surrounding area. Double check your craigslist options, there are a few good options right now depending on your budget! Good luck in your search.
 
It's been my experience that a select few eBay sellers know how to properly pack a turntable for shipping but most do not. If you feel you cannot find a suitable turntable locally, I would suggest a $25 investment to subscribe to Audio Karma so you have access to BarterTown. You would also be supporting this fine site.

Good luck and welcome to AK!
 
In my living room I actually have a Yamaha CR-600 and it is paired with a Dual 510 in a walnut plinth from Bill at FixMyDual:

IMG_20160810_181554_zpssyobeeve.jpg


I like the function of the 510 because it is semi-auto: at the end of play the arm cues up and the platter stops.
 
Welcome to AK! I've had both Yamaha and KLH vintage gear at one time. I had success pairing with either Thorens or Dual tables. I suggest a Thorens 166MKii or Dual 1219/29 fitted with a Shure M91ED cart.
 
Some of the late 70s Technics direct drive turntables were quite good and won't break the bank. Focus on the pre SL-1200 series as they are fairly expensive. I realize they aren't what some would call audiophile quality, but then again... quality is a subjective thing.

Another one I had personal experience with but was a bit newer (early 1980s) was the Pioneer PLL-1000 linear tracking turntable. The one I had is what they called "champagne gold", but I've seen pictures of them in black.

Good luck :)
 
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