Beginning setup

[Duran Durandall]

Hello everyone.

Just introducing myself and welcoming some feedback/suggestions.

 

I have an ATLP120 - bone stock.   "Happy" with it.  I'm not underwhelmed or ecstatic, I guess you could say I'm whelmed.  It's playing through a Technics  SA-AX6 Receiver.  Speakers are some vintage Bose 501's. 

 

I'm just beginning my journey to improve overall quality.

 

So far I've ordered an acrylic platter, might also pick up a cork one just to decide for myself which I prefer the most.  I've been considering the pre-amp bypass mod which YouTube seems to recommend.  My anti-skate seems to actually work, so I guess I'm lucky or AT addressed it before I bought mine.

 

I also thought I'd venture into a new cartridge - I'm curious to know if my ears would even notice the difference.  I mostly listen to rock.  I've got a handful of albums... somewhere around maybe 60, spanning from the 1970's to present.  Some of these are handed down from Dad so they are original 70's releases, not all are modern pressings.  I believe the stock cart is an AT95e - I was considering the popular 2m Red.  Does anyone have that cart on this TT?

 

Also considered selling my TT as-is and springing for a slight upgrade.  Something a little less flashy and more on the "reference" side.  Maybe the fluance?  I do like that my TT has a usb out for recording - was one of the reasons I chose it, but I've had it for about 2 years now and I haven't connected it to my PC once.

 

Any suggestions from the experienced are welcome.

 

Nice meeting you guys

[English Invader]

I'd say that if your TT doesn't excite you, it's time to either make a change or find another hobby rather than throwing good money after bad on upgrades.   If you don't love your TT unconditionally, it's the wrong TT for you.

 

Based on your non-use of the USB functionality, I would say that USB should not be a consideration in your choice of TT which is no bad thing as it will reduce vibration and will more or less ensure that you purchase a TT that prioritises sound fidelity over ancillary conveniences.

 

I would urge you to look a bit further than Fluance and explore some of the TTs from Pro-Ject or Rega and other such companies as these are the ones that will offer  something different to what you already have.

 

But, before you splash the cash, I would take a bit of time to think about whether this is the right hobby for you.  I started a couple of years ago with a cheap TT and fell in love with the process and routine of listening to records - I can quite happily spend 2-6 hours a day listening to music.  Do you feel that way or does the whole thing feel like a chore to you?  If it's the latter, I would say it's time to look for something else.

[Ahoffman]

Great initial question......and reply !  I currently have a 30 yo Kenwood TT and have committed to upgrade. Narrowed down to Fluance RT 84  with blue cartridge or Pro-ject Debut Carbon with Red cartridge. Thoughts? 
 

Thanks !