I am thinking about dipping my toes in Vinyl waters. I do n’t want to spend too much, because I do n’t know if I am going to like it. So, I was looking at the Cambridge Audio Alva TT V2. It has a built-in phone stage, which I could connect directly to my Nait 5si using RCA.
What do you think about such a turntable with built-in phono stage? Could this be a good idea to get to know the world of Vinyl?
I do not know the TT you mention so I can’t say if it is good or bad but in my experience a phono stage built in is something of a design after thought and not great quality. Cambridge Audi stuff tends to be decent though.
It may be worth listening to it and a TT/phono stage combo in separate boxes such as A Rega Planar 3 plus a Rega fono mk5 (phono stage) and a Rega Nd5 MM cartridge. You can get the Rega TT fitted with an ND5 cart for £895 and a fono for £220. The new Rega Planar 3 RS model is probably worth listening to as well and is £999 including an ND5 cartridge. These items will end up at a similar price to the Cambridge TT and even a bit cheaper.
At the risk of sounding boring, you could get yourself a used LP12 with a modest phono stage for not much more money. There are reputable guys out there that will build them up to a budget. I doubt you would be disappointed and if you don’t like it you could sell it on. I don’t think the TT you mention would be up to the SQ of your CD player to be honest.
I am indeed also going to have a look at a Rega turntable and separate phono stage. Price wise that could also be an option.
Really? OK, I have n’t looked at that option yet, because I was assuming that would be way over my head.
I basically want to experience the ‘analogue’ sounds of a turntable to see if I like it. Also to see if I like the physical experience of handling Vinyl. I am very used to streaming, so that is new.
OK good. I suspect if you did go for a Rega setup it will be easier to sell and hold more value than the Cambridge unit if you decide spinning records is not for you.
On the Rega plannar 3 std model versus the RS model and the only reason I did not suggest the RS over the std model is that I have not heard one. However, it is worth a listen to as if it is as good as many say the current price is good value with the ND5 included.
Thanks mate! I will have a closer look at the Rega option too. Make sense to also take the sell option into account if I do n’t like it.
…the thing is, you possibly need to give vinyl replay a try at a ‘decent’ level in order to decide. ‘Decent’ is a subjective term, but I would be confident that the Cambridge option is not representative.
I see your point. Maybe I should find a dealer that will allow me to demo a turntable / phono stage at home for an extended period of time. I have n’t really looked at that option yet.
Agreed…in fact, this should be standard practice. Happy exploring!