[JDK1]

Actually the question involves the price/performance ratio between table and tonearm - Given the scenario: The budget is $2000 (give or take) and it cannot be with used (i.e., Audiogon, eBay) equipment, what is the proper ratio for *new* table and arm? Do you load the boat, so to speak on the table ($1500table with $500arm (i.e., Kuzma with Rega RB250)), or do you weigh more on the arm ($700table with $1300arm), or do you balance out the two (Something complete, like a Scheu Cello, Michell Technodec, Roksan Radius5, Origin Live, VPI Scout, etc.)?

I realize that this is somewhat similar to the $1000 question floating by Tonepub, with the price point kicked up a bit - but the logic is even harder, in my opinion, because of the significant variable and the underlying question of which means more - arm or table...By the way, and not that it matters, but my current (and foreseeable) cartridge is a Denon 103R...
- jdk1

[woodsyi]

This question is moot for me.  I will only buy used.  There is no freaking way I would pay the thousands without getting at least 50% off list. 

[TheChairGuy]

My, JDK1, your mind is quite compartmentalized and specific ain't it?  Probably a sign of intelligence...just gone a little mad in this case.

woodsyi got it right.  This is a specialist industry and because of low volumes and too much attention to 'foofie' issues, we all tend to pay too much for our hobby.  Buying used, you at least knock that insanity to 50% of it's former level.

There's no correct theories on ratio's of this-to-that in audio, it's only what you can afford and what you enjoy listening to regularly.

Study hard, but lighten up and enjoy your vinyl.  You're apt not to make any horrible choice as it's the current highest resolution format out there and that cushions the fall from making the one and absolute best choice possible   

[JDK1]

Thanks for the "common sense" suggestions to both TheChairGuy and to woodsyi - which is never common - and yes, "a little learning is a dangerous thing" (especially for someone with occasional obsessive/compulsive behavior)...As I have to remind myself - just breathe...

So what I'm hearing is that (a) by and large, the Audiogon approach is usually safe and the economical way to go (relative to full retail); (b) If you do err in discreet selection, it's probably not significant; and lastly and most important, (c) this is a hobby that is meant to be enjoyed...
- jdk1

[woodsyi]

JDK1,

I wouldn't buy the table and arm new because well cared for "used" ones are just as good at considerably cheaper prices.   I, OTOH, would not buy a used cartridge unless I knew the actual mileage on the cartridge and pay accordingly.  Needles do wear out. 

[JoshK]

From everything that I have read, it is pretty hard to beat a Rega 250 without paying considerably more, quite considerbly.  So I'd probably go with a 250 and tweak it and then spend the rest on the table.