Question What amplifier should I consider?

[reesb88]

Hi there, first time posting a message and complete Hi-Fi noob…

I’ve recently purchased an Argon Audio TT MK2 turntable on a deal at Richer Sounds as an entry point into the world of vinyl.

To go with this, I’ve purchased a pair of Mourdant Short Avant 902i speakers second hand. I’m now looking for an amplifier that would compliment these if possible.

I’ve spotted a few second hand ones including: Cambridge Audio AXA25, Arcam Alpha 6 Plus, and NAD C350.

Keen to get some guidance/reassurance from this community on:

1. Have I made a good choice with turntable/speakers as a starting set?

2. Would you recommend any of the above mentioned amplifiers and/or recommend other makes/models that better suit? Trying to keep budget relatively low as I dip my toe in the water, and if I get the bug I’ll look to eventually upgrade over time.

 

[daytona600]

Spherical Stylus VTF 3.5grams will wear out your records , would change the cartridge/stylus

 

[gasolin]

Denon PMA-900HNE ?

 

[Al ears]

Spherical Stylus VTF 3.5grams will wear out your records , would change the cartridge/stylus

If it's designed to operate with those parameters it will be fine.
My main concern is the OP trying to "enter the world of vinyl" on the cheap, considering the cost of a new LP.

 

[daytona600]

Stylus conical tracking @ 3.5g will be fine if replaced every 150hours
They wear out very quickly , then they destroy your records. Advanced profiles will last several hundred more hours
50+ years ago Shure V15s tracked @ 1gram

 

[record_spot]

I'd get rid of the cartridge and spend £35 on an AT-VM95C which is fantastic for the money. Have it track at around 2 grams max and you'll get 500 hours out of it.

As for the amps you listed, I'd go for the Alpha 6. From memory those 902i speakers had a keen treble and the Arcam, while being an excellent amp in its day, will help tame the treble somewhat.

All IMO obviously.

 

[JimLPM]

If you are willing to venture further afield beyond the big box stuff,, and expand your budget (based on what you listed) by $100 or so, you could look at a Rogue Sphinx (hybrid tube) or an Audio by Van Alstine CA1 (solid state) control amp. Both are really well reviewed. I own one of them and have a friend with the other.