Used Hodgepodge and Hand-Me-Downs

by bozburn on Opinions Please
Audio System
MacBook Pro hooked up for Vinyl Ripping
Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra Records
SL-1200 MK2 with Grado Ref Sonata

Description

Buying a lot of Jazz and Sinatra records for this outfit. I've had the MC-1 Turbo for almost a year but recently got the Grado Reference Sonata upon seeking a more midrange-centric cartridge. I enjoy its sound, but it seems I have to turn up the volume more with this cartridge (5 mV rating) than with the MC-1 (3.5 mV rating). Anyone have an idea why this is?

Trying to decide between a speaker and phono stage upgrade next.
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Components Toggle details

    • Technics SL-1200 mkII
    Bought used from eBay, only missing dustcover and 45 adapter, and has interesting stickers.
    • Ortofon MC-1 Turbo
    One of the few pieces in my system bought brand-new. This has excellent (though "analytical") sound in my Rega Fono Mini.
    • Grado Reference Sonata (High Output)
    Bought used here on Audiogon. I like how it brings out vocals, though it seems I have to turn up the volume more than on the MC-1.
    • Rega Fono Mini
    Bought used from eBay. Satisfied with the sound though I may upgrade fairly soon.
    • Sony STR-DE135
    Hand-Me-Down from my brother. Fuss-free sound (though nothing to compare it to).
    • Yamaha NS-A1237
    Another hand-me-down from my brother. All ranges sound fine, but I'm considering upgrading soon.
    • Molly Python
    Bought new upon recommendation from Needledoctor.

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Owner
I will post pictures this evening.

bozburn

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