Turntables

Err · Post by **Err** » Thu Dec 20, 2012 6:07 pm

I'm looking to get back into vinyl. There are several records I'd like to get including a re-release of Californication that from what I gather fixes the debacle of the original CD and vinyl. In addition, I have access to my Dad's record collection dating back to ~1965.

I'm looking at the following:

Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB Direct-Drive Professional Turntable (USB & Analog

I'm not the lease bit interested in the USB connection as I will be using the analog connections. I like the fact that it has line level out but I have an old Pioneer SX-1900 that I think still works that has phono pre amp.

I also like this turntable but I don't think I want to pay this much for one:

http://www.amazon.com/Pro-Ject-Debut-Carbon-Belt-drive-turntable/dp/B00856L1J0/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1356044006&sr=1-2

I'm wanting a quality turntable that will last a while and I'll be able to buy parts for if needed.

Thanks.

DaMaN · Post by **DaMaN** » Thu Dec 20, 2012 6:20 pm

I wish I still had my old Technics 1200's. I loved those turntables but I gave them and my 500+ records to a younger cousin who was a DJ until recently. That Audio-Tecch one looks decent.

What do you think about this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Numark-TT-200-Direct-Drive-Turntable/dp/B0001659D6/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1356045506&sr=1-4&keywords=gemini+turntable

Err · Post by **Err** » Thu Dec 20, 2012 7:01 pm

That one looks good too. I'm pretty sure my aunt also had a Technics 1200. I can't believe what they are going for used these days. Once I started into CD's (Jr High), I pretty much left vinyl behind. Now after hearing some of the so-called "remasters," I wish I'd picked up some more vinyl here and there and made my own transfers.

eGoCeNTRoNiX · Post by **eGoCeNTRoNiX** » Fri Dec 21, 2012 10:26 am

I have a very large record collection, mostly late 60s-80s rock. I have my father's old turntable and listen to them occasionally.. As some of the stuff hasn't been re-released.. Good luck in your search.

eGo

Pugsley · Post by **Pugsley** » Fri Dec 21, 2012 1:03 pm

Err wrote:There are several records I'd like to get including a re-release of Californication that from what I gather fixes the debacle of the original CD and vinyl.

Is this available on CD/Download?

EvilHorace · Post by **EvilHorace** » Fri Dec 21, 2012 8:21 pm

Is this available on CD/Download?

All 3:

http://www.amazon.com/Californication-R ... ornication

Err · Post by **Err** » Fri Dec 21, 2012 9:05 pm

EvilHorace wrote:All 3:

http://www.amazon.com/Californication-R ... ornication

Unfortunately, from what I can find out, only the album was fixed with the reissue. Furthermore, I think only the Limited Edition 180 gram version was fixed. The others are just another pressing of the original releases.

I really want a good release of this album as it contains some of my favorite songs.

EvilHorace · Post by **EvilHorace** » Sat Dec 22, 2012 10:34 am

What needed to be fixed? Poor recording quality or ?
I have some of their stuff but not that album.

Usually if there's a problem with an original recording (was common with live stuff from the late 60s, early 70s), it wasn't better on CD unless they remastered it.

Err · Post by **Err** » Sat Dec 22, 2012 12:45 pm

EvilHorace wrote:What needed to be fixed? Poor recording quality or ?
I have some of their stuff but not that album.

Usually if there's a problem with an original recording (was common with live stuff from the late 60s, early 70s), it wasn't better on CD unless they remastered it.

The unmixed recording is good by all accounts. However, it was mixed too loud and everything was compressed. The album sounds very flat. Below is the waveform for Californication. The top is unmastered and the bottom is the version that appeared on the CD. As you can see (and hear) the bottom recording has almost no dynamic range.

Err · Post by **Err** » Sat Dec 22, 2012 4:23 pm

I bit the bullet and ordered the Audio-Technica. I had enough points saved to buy it. I also ordered 180 gram editions of Californiacation and Pet Sounds.

Pugsley · Post by **Pugsley** » Sat Dec 22, 2012 10:53 pm

You have it exactly correct. I like RHCP but can't stand to listen to it.

eGoCeNTRoNiX · Post by **eGoCeNTRoNiX** » Sun Dec 23, 2012 10:08 am

There are some old beach boys songs that have the same problem.. lol

Err · Post by **Err** » Mon Dec 24, 2012 12:39 pm

Got this today. Amazon had 1 day shipping for $4 this Saturday. The packaging was excellent. It was packed by someone who didn't want what's inside to get broken. Assembly was straight forward. I took my time with the tone arm balance and tracking force. The last turntable I owned didn't have such settings. The sound is terrific.

CaterpillarAssassin · Post by **CaterpillarAssassin** » Tue Jan 22, 2013 8:56 pm

nice looking table