I'm torn between 2 different overarching styles: 

1) The "drawer" or bin approach, where I can flip through my records like in a record store bin (like photo 1) or

2) the line 'em up approach so that I can see all the edges of the albums (like photo 2).

What say all you vinyl fans?  What's the best way to store and access your records?... what looks better?  What am I not thinking about?

I appreciate the thoughts and opinions.

Who knew people would consider smuggling recorded music in this day an age?

https://www.zerohedge.com/personal-finance/vinyl-sales-surpass-cds-first-time-1987

I didn't know if the turntable could be fixed.  So, I contacted Carl.  After I quickly described the tragedy,  Carl told me that, even if it could be fixed, I'd be better off buying a replacement turntable because it would cost less.   So, I I found another Technics in a local shop and bought it.  Got it home, added my cartridge, and it played just fine.  But, I wasn't happy.  I realized what was missing was the refurbishment... the comfort of knowing that the gear was working 100% to spec.

So, I contacted Carl again and asked if he would refurbish this replacement turntable, and he gave me a very fair price to do so.  I drove it down to SC yesterday and got a glimpse of Carl's workshop.  It reminded me of @Nahash5150's Nelion workshop....racks of turntables, and turntable parts, 90% Technics brand, test equipment, etc.  Carl told me about how he can't find some replacement parts but has a guy who 3D prints pieces for him.  He quickly showed me all the tests he runs.  I spent an hour just shooting the breeze with him.... he was great.   I asked him a lot of questions and he dispelled a lot of "myths" about turntables... a real down to earth guy.

The whole experience made me very appreciative of all the experts I know for my gear... like the folks here on the CS for Carver gear.

If you're ever in the need of Technics Turntable work, here's the place I recommend: https://turntablesbycth.com/

So, I had to google that...... Turns out Chysler actually offered an under dash record player system from about 1956-1961 on some cars.  You could actually stack a bunch of 45's (like the multi-cd players that came decades later) and flip through them.   I had no idea. 

Found this Youtube video on it and thought you all might get a chuckle.

I'd be interested in what everyone uses for an outboard phono preamp. The last one I owned was a Radio Shack battery powered unit...lol! I gave it to a friend of mine a few years back, I wonder if I can get it back???

Thanks for indulging me.

)

 Found a minty Technics SL D2 (I already have one and I love it).   But it has this cartridge stylus combo I've never heard of... I googled it and got some info.  Apparently SHURE made cartridges for Technics back in the day.  But I can't find any reviews or comparisons to other cartridges.  The guy who sold me the turntable says it is a fantastic cartridge.  I was going to click the Amazon button and buy myself an Ortofon Blue, like I have on my other TT....but, thought I'd check the sellers claims first.  The unit is such pristine condition, I'm inclined to believe him.  Of course, I'll hook it up and listen to it too... 

Anyone have any experience with these?  Are they any good? 

They are being pressed at Quality Records. The 2 I have picked up are 45RPM

The quality of the pressing is very good, a little bit of surface noise, but not much.

The dynamics are great. I have Phil Collins Face Value & Genesis Selling England by the Pound

They are both the best copies of these albums that I own, I do own a couple of different pressings of both of them.

They are being sold through Acoustic Sounds, I will be ordering more.

https://store.acousticsounds.com/index.cfm?get=results&saleid=718&OrderBy=price_d+desc

Brian

Which do you prefer, the sound of a vinyl record or that of a CD? It is a topic that has spurred many a heated debate…

While we won’t argue your preference, when discussing which format sounds better from a technical perspective, there is a clear winner. 

In today’s video, Disc Makers CEO Tony van Veen discusses which format delivers superior sound by addressing a number of key factors, including:

- Dynamic range
- Volume
- Bass
- Analog warmth
- Player environment
- Wear 

any advice?

Muddy Waters - Folk Singer

Paul Simon - Still Crazy After All These Years*

Eric Clapton - Unplugged

Blood, Sweat, & Tears - Blood, Sweat, & Tears*

Stevie Ray Vaughan - Couldn't Stand The Weather*

*I know are available for pre-order. I'll be calling about the other three tomorrow or Monday. 

BST & SRV were $125/copy when I pre-ordered them.

This is a classic that includes an opening flap of the "backpack".

http://thecarversite.com/yetanotherforum/userfiles/watts.pdf

https://mofi.com/collections/ultradisc-one-step/products/paul-simon-still-crazy-after-all-these-years-ultradisc-one-step

Not listed at Music Direct, but I pre-ordered 2 there last month. I hope I get 2.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/124698789847

Only 2000 copies pressed, and they were originally $100. I regularly see it listed at $2K+, but this one sold at $1699.

Quad vinyl is getting harder and harder to collect in VG++ to EX condition at reasonable prices! 😡😡

Probably doesn't help that I'm also a cover snob. 

In the future I will name other years so hold your other favs. For now just Le’s released in 1958. 

 Any ideas?