1-2k turntable with montille/aurieges?

[KeithR]

Do you have any experience with the pioneer? tempted as I don't have a lot of records, and saving 1-2k would buy a lot of them. Seems to get somewhat mixed reviews but i kind of expected it as a non-hifi approved deck.

David - I do not have direct experience in my system. However, my 40 yr analog setup man prefers this deck to others under 2k (admittedly, he owns 2 Luxman PD444s from 1979 as well as a Garrard 401, so can be DD biased). He setup my VPI Traveler and Clearaudio Concept, which I unfortunately can't recommend either. Steve Guttenberg compares the Pio directly to the VPI fyi.

If I was sticking to audiophile brands, I'd probably go Rega P6. However, I'd order a Pio from Crutchfield first and return if I didn't like it. If the Pio was made by these small brands, it would cost 3x its asking - and its not just a 1200 either, but much better motor, arm, etc. You may have to tighten the bearing a tad, that's about the only complaint.

If you don't have a lot of records, I'd for sure get the cheaper deck and build up a collection - you'll probably want a considerable TT upgrade at some point later.

 

[Walter]

The Linn LP12 would be a clever combination.