Pro-ject Essential II setup advice (student budget)

[ahc]

Looking to pick up a Pro-ject essential II for my first TT (already considered audio technica, rega and the debut as alternatives).

 

I am in need of recommendations for a lower end set-up that will achieve enjoyable SQ. 

 

If possible, I would prefer the setup to be

- as low-key (minimal looking) as possible

- to a budget of ~$300 (not including the TT, but push on the price if need be)

 

a) What exactly will I need to achieve this? Both a phono pre-amp and receiver and of course speakers?

b ) What would you recommend to get my setup going with the above criteria?

 

Thanks guys.

Edited June 8, 2014 by ahc

[Rural Rat]

With a budget that tight I would suggest a 2nd hand older integrated amp with built in phono stage. I have used (and sometimes still do) an old Yamaha AX400. Has built in mm/mc phono that is more than reasonable. Would think something like this could be had for less than $150. As for speakers hopefully someone else can offer an idea.

 

Good luck.

[djb]

PHONO

Buy a nad pp2 or the project equivalent off uk eBay

FEW YEARS BACK were $60 < see below

Amp avoid the vintage Sansui cult look for a Nad or their spin off Proton from early 80s

( these had a phono stage included) minimalist black grey

Some Sherwood models from same period were good ish)

Marantz isn't cult they appear on eBay from time to time, ditto with Yamaha

Speakers what ever someone might offer here

I'd build the budget to $400 and only buy an amp with a built in phono

Cart will be worst component.

Buy a $50 Audio technica will be your next need

BETTER wangleva tt vwith no cart

SPEAKERS

Edited June 8, 2014 by djb

[Milos]

I'd go for a decent integrated vintage amp (Sansui, Denon, Yamaha...) you can pick them up here on the classifieds or on ebay/gumtree for around this price. The vintage amps should come with an in build phono stage which means you don't need to by an external pre amp for the Project. Some come with an inbuilt tuner too!

I had a project essential hooked up to a Sansui 70's vintage amp and some old Akai speakers and the sound was huge! I bought both of these of Gumtree 2nd hand for around your budget.

M

Edited June 8, 2014 by Milos

[ahc]

Very belated reply.

 

Thanks for your help gentlemen. Much appreciated.