Recommendations for audio equipment
(7) updates to this series since Updated
Q. I recently took advantage of Emotiva’s “30% back in Emobucks” promotion and bought the $399 T-Zero speakers. I then used the resulting 30% credit towards their $399 TA-100 receiver. Now I want to get a turntable and upgrade my CD player, which is an old Technics SL-PG100 from the 1990s. I have $1,000 total to spend and figured I would spend $500 on the turntable and $500 on the CD player. I planned on getting the Music Hall MMF-1.5 “Vessel Special” for $499 from LP Gear. Is there anything else that might be better for around $500, and what would you recommend for the CD player?
Q. We are really enjoying our new stereo composed of Polk LSiM 705 speakers, Cambridge Audio Alva turntable, Cambridge Audio AXC35 Stereo CD Player and Cambridge Audio CXA80 amplifier. I am sure you recognize all the components because we purchased them all based on recommendations you have made in your column.
Q. What do you recommend for cleaning vinyl LPs?
Q. My husband has large planar speakers (6 feet high, 3 feet wide) and we are moving to a condo. It will be impossible to use them in the smaller space. Can you suggest small speakers that would provide the same quality when he plays his classical records? We are willing to spend up to $3,000 total for the speakers and amplifier.
Q. I am an old codger and want to get a turntable to play vinyl again. I like the Technics SL-1500C, but it is over my budget by a lot. I want something good, but for under $1,000. I need the auto off feature because I am afraid of forgetting when the record is over and having it spin for hours and hours, ruining my needle.
The resurgence of vinyl records never happened in my house, simply because they never left. If the comeback hasn’t reached your world, the Crosley’s Mini Cruiser and RSD3 turntables are a great way to start.
Q. I am confused about modern vinyl records. I have seen multiple negative reviews regarding the sound of newly manufactured vinyl, at least with some albums initially released in the 1950s-1980s. Why would anyone play with the sound of a perfect-sounding LP?
Regardless of musical tastes or budget, and from social media to e-commerce, vinyl record lovers remain thrilled to be analog users in a digital world, says our columnist.