Turntable advice

[snake1]

Hey guys, got a couple of quick questions. My mom has a TON of old LPs and its got me curious how much a decent turntable might cost and brands that are recommended with my equipment in mind. My AVR has a phono input and I'm guessing thats all that will be required to get it hookedup and playing? If its a relatively low cost deal I'd be tempted to jump on it considering how well people are speaking about vinyl.

[EndersShadow]

Yup, if you have a phono input you just need a working turntable and honestly just see what you can find around on your local CL or goodwill.

Since your in west TN, PM THHNDYMAN I know hes got a bunch of different TT's he might be able to sell you at a very good price and possibly even help set them up.

[snake1]

Is the SQ really there with vinyl or is it just hype and the 'in' thing to do?

[EndersShadow]

Is the SQ really there with vinyl or is it just hype and the 'in' thing to do?

Only one way to find out. Personally I really enjoyed spinning some old LPs and found it to sound very good on my system. YYMV.

You dont have to go crazy on a Turntable when your starting out. Maybe just find something in a range cost wise your willing to try out.

If nothing else have your mom come over and surprise her by playing some of her favorite LP's and just enjoy. My dad and I had a blast.

[TNHNDYMAN]

Snake- IF you are interested in getting something, I do have several turntables. Prices range from $60-250 plus shipping. PM with contact info and I'll be happy to discuss any needs/wants concerns you may have. If you are still interested after talking, I'd be happy to put pics on forum, disclose any relevant functional or appearance issues and go from there.

[Obsession18]

Is the SQ really there with vinyl or is it just hype and the 'in' thing to do?

Yes the sound quality is there but you must keep in mind it takes some effort. First thing is clean scratch free records, the scratch free part can be a pain if buying used - expensive if new, cleaning takes some effort but it is not rocket science (Google is your friend for this). Now we move on to to the table, things like cartridge overhang, anti-skating and tracking force need to be set and the stylus needs to be kept clean and dust free. Also try to find a table that has some weight/mass, the cheap mass produced tables imported from Japan during the 80's are mostly plastic and do not do a good job damping vibrations that will muck up the sound.

[SCompRacer]

Is the SQ really there with vinyl or is it just hype and the 'in' thing to do?

IMO your vinyl experience will depend largely upon what digital experience you have. If you listened to less than good digital playback, then vinyl could be euphoric for you. In many cases vinyl can sound better with less of an investment than digital. And this opinion is from an old guy that grew up with vinyl. We actually had parties or get togethers back in the day that centered around the latest album release.

You have some folks that gave good advice and are willing to help, which is good. The fact that you have a bunch of vinyl makes it easier to jump in. In my locale around Chicago, used vinyl has gone up in price due to more folks seeking it.