U-Turn Audio Orbit turntable setup

cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
edited May 2014 in The Porch
Hey guys,

Just curious if anyone has picked up one of these turntables and what your opinion of them is. Looking at upgrading and considering the Orbit with the Basic platter, Audio-Technica AT95E cartridge and the Q UP tonearm lifter.

Also, does anyone have any recommendations on a pre-amp and some powered bookshelf speakers?

Thanks in advance!
Post edited by cjb5790 on
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  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168
    Mine is tentatively being delivered the week of June 16th (I ordered on May 8). I will leave a review here once I get it. I got the white one with the basic platter but upgraded to the Grado Black cartridge. I've never been so excited to get something in the mail before this. The wait is killing me!
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
    I can imagine! The more I look at those things and build one, the closer I am to ordering one. I really, really need to replace my Crosley. I recently got in to vinyl and have invested a lot in wax so far, so now I want to get a turntable that's worthy of spinning it all. Looking forward to your review!
  • kramer73kramer73 Posts: 2,614
    cjb5790 said:

    I can imagine! The more I look at those things and build one, the closer I am to ordering one. I really, really need to replace my Crosley. I recently got in to vinyl and have invested a lot in wax so far, so now I want to get a turntable that's worthy of spinning it all. Looking forward to your review!

    Whatever you are doing right now, stop. Now order that turntable.

  • cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
    If that's the right turntable then I will. Don't want to invest a few hundred if it's not worth it or there's a better option.
  • cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
    Haven't spun anything in a couple weeks since I realized how terrible the Crosley is, need to get something soon. I hear the FYE over my way has a new vinyl section and carries some turntables, I've heard solid things about the Audio Technica's...
  • tempo_n_groovetempo_n_groove Posts: 40,355
    edited May 2014
    http://www.analogplanet.com/content/u-turn’s-remarkable-179-orbit-turntable-crosley-killer

    http://www.analogplanet.com/content/u-turn’s-remarkable-179-orbit-turntable-crosley-killer


    Great article.
  • tempo_n_groovetempo_n_groove Posts: 40,355
    The link isn't working but it's a great article about the Orbit. Look for it if u can.
  • TinAntTinAnt Posts: 343
    There have been many problems with the Uturn Orbits, they just get glazed over by rabid enthusiasts and Kickstarter backers. I'd be careful in ordering one, especially when you can get a used unit for much cheaper and get a unit of higher quality. They also lack features that should be standard on a turntable in that price range.
  • PJ_SoulPJ_Soul Posts: 49,950
    Re the bookshelf speakers - I got Klipsch bookshelf B-20 speakers last year and they are fantastic. $350 for the pair.
    With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
  • PH20PH20 Posts: 466
    I think I would be more likely to buy an entry level Pro-Ject or Rega vs. that Uturn table.
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  • cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
    My budget is only a couple to a few hundred. What are thoughts on Audio Technica?
  • cjb5790cjb5790 Posts: 190
    TinAnt said:

    There have been many problems with the Uturn Orbits, they just get glazed over by rabid enthusiasts and Kickstarter backers. I'd be careful in ordering one, especially when you can get a used unit for much cheaper and get a unit of higher quality. They also lack features that should be standard on a turntable in that price range.

    What are some of the issues, and what features should be standard at that price range?

  • Amongst the AniAmongst the Ani Posts: 7,790
    This does a pretty good job for the Audio Technica over the Orbit: http://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-turntable/
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  • PH20PH20 Posts: 466
    2006 - Marcus Ampitheater, Milwaukee
    2011 - Alpine Valley Ampitheater, East Troy
    2013 - Wrigley Field, Chicago
    2014 - Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul
    2014 - Bradley Center, Milwaukee
    2016 - Wrigley Field, Chicago
    2018 - Wrigley Field, Chicago 
  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168
    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • PJ_SoulPJ_Soul Posts: 49,950

    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!


    >:P That would piss me off too.
    With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168
    edited May 2014
    PJ_Soul said:

    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!


    >:P That would piss me off too.
    The original estimated delivery (June 16) was 5 weeks after my order
    I ordered 3 weeks ago (May 8)
    Now the estimated delivery was extended an additional two weeks (June 30)

    I can't help but feel it will be pushed back at least one more time
    Post edited by SVRDhand13 on
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • marjenmarjen Posts: 807
    Hey guys,

    I just got my Orbit turntable this week. I ordered back in early April, it got pushed back about 3 weeks longer than it was supposed to be but they sent me an email last week explaining and also offering me a $15 coupon good with no minimum for any future purchase.

    This is my first turntable. I started collecting a couple PJ records and had nothing to play them on. They I started ordering some limited edition colored vinyl just because they looked cool :D So I needed a setup. I had followed the Orbit kickstarter but did not participate. Early reviews have been very positive so I decided to give one a try.

    The unit is really cool looking and well built. I ordered the blue base model with a slightly upgraded cartridge. I purchase a Bellari VP129 pre-amp/headphone amp to go with it and I am using a set of brainwavz headphones.

    So far I am very happy. I dont really have a point of reference as far as record players go, but it sounds great and seems well built. Worth the wait.

    image
  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168
    edited July 2014

    PJ_Soul said:

    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!


    >:P That would piss me off too.
    The original estimated delivery (June 16) was 5 weeks after my order
    I ordered 3 weeks ago (May 8)
    Now the estimated delivery was extended an additional two weeks (June 30)

    I can't help but feel it will be pushed back at least one more time
    FAQ of website still says my turntable is expected to ship the week of June 30th

    Its the end of the week after that and still no shipping

    If I get it next week, it would come 9 weeks after placing my order and a full month after the initial date I was told
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168

    PJ_Soul said:

    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!


    >:P That would piss me off too.
    The original estimated delivery (June 16) was 5 weeks after my order
    I ordered 3 weeks ago (May 8)
    Now the estimated delivery was extended an additional two weeks (June 30)

    I can't help but feel it will be pushed back at least one more time
    FAQ of website still says my turntable is expected to ship the week of June 30th

    Its the end of the week after that and still no shipping

    If I get it next week, it would come 9 weeks after placing my order and a full month after the initial date I was told
    Finally got my orbit yesterday, July 21. And it doesnt work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    I am beyond furious at this point. I guess I will have to ship the turntable back to them and have it replaced or fixed, which is going to take a long time. Best case scenario is I get a working turntable three months after my order, and right before I will have visitors at my house for a week and therefore will be unable to use it. This has turned into such an annoying hassle.
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • StevieGStevieG Posts: 850
    Save your money and get a Rega, even their entry level gear is top notch.
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  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168

    PJ_Soul said:

    My Orbit scheduled delivery just got pushed back two weeks. They did not even send me a courtesy email. I just happened to check on their website. Not happy right now!


    >:P That would piss me off too.
    The original estimated delivery (June 16) was 5 weeks after my order
    I ordered 3 weeks ago (May 8)
    Now the estimated delivery was extended an additional two weeks (June 30)

    I can't help but feel it will be pushed back at least one more time
    FAQ of website still says my turntable is expected to ship the week of June 30th

    Its the end of the week after that and still no shipping

    If I get it next week, it would come 9 weeks after placing my order and a full month after the initial date I was told
    Finally got my orbit yesterday, July 21. And it doesnt work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    I am beyond furious at this point. I guess I will have to ship the turntable back to them and have it replaced or fixed, which is going to take a long time. Best case scenario is I get a working turntable three months after my order, and right before I will have visitors at my house for a week and therefore will be unable to use it. This has turned into such an annoying hassle.
    Uturn sent me a new turntable almost immediately. Now I'm happy with their customer service. This table sounds great!
    image
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • SVRDhand13SVRDhand13 Posts: 26,168
    Cartridge:

    image
    severed hand thirteen
    2006: Gorge 7/23 2008: Hartford 6/27 Beacon 7/1 2009: Spectrum 10/30-31
    2010: Newark 5/18 MSG 5/20-21 2011: PJ20 9/3-4 2012: Made In America 9/2
    2013: Brooklyn 10/18-19 Philly 10/21-22 Hartford 10/25 2014: ACL10/12
    2015: NYC 9/23 2016: Tampa 4/11 Philly 4/28-29 MSG 5/1-2 Fenway 8/5+8/7
    2017: RRHoF 4/7   2018: Fenway 9/2+9/4   2021: Sea Hear Now 9/18 
    2022: MSG 9/11  2024: MSG 9/3-4 Philly 9/7+9/9 Fenway 9/15+9/17
  • marjenmarjen Posts: 807
    Glad they took care of you. I am still enjoying mine and use it daily.
  • coronastycoronasty Posts: 34
    Any further reviews for the U turn Orbit? I'm wondering if it's worth it for a non-audiophile who is about to inherit a pretty big collection of vinyl... My current TT was extremely cheap and I'd much rather upgrade to something that sounds good for a little more $$.
    Are they still having shipping problems? Website says "ships in 5 weeks"...
    Thanks for any help

    "i'm a seed, wondering why it grows...."


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  • Empty GlassEmpty Glass Posts: 12,329
    coronasty said:

    Any further reviews for the U turn Orbit? I'm wondering if it's worth it for a non-audiophile who is about to inherit a pretty big collection of vinyl... My current TT was extremely cheap and I'd much rather upgrade to something that sounds good for a little more $$.
    Are they still having shipping problems? Website says "ships in 5 weeks"...
    Thanks for any help

    My understanding is that some of the needles were on back order, which added to some orders shipping times. I ordered one of these a few weeks ago with a few upgrades. Can't wait for it to get here.
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  • turntable masters, what do you recommend, built in preamp or external preamp?
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  • mrussel1mrussel1 Posts: 29,675

    turntable masters, what do you recommend, built in preamp or external preamp?

    I guess it all depends on the amp you are using. If it has a high end amp (and it's hard to tell if it does without some research or testing), it will be better than a $100 external. So if you are running a vintage Mcintosh or maybe Anthem, I can't imagine you would go cheap external.

    I have a higher end Yamaha and like the amp internal. But when I use my Pioneer Elite 2 channel amp, I prefer the Music Hall external.
  • PJ_SoulPJ_Soul Posts: 49,950

    turntable masters, what do you recommend, built in preamp or external preamp?

    I'm no expert, but I do know that the experts at needledoctor.com told me that if I got an external preamp to use with my TT that has a built in one, my TT would sound even better than it does now. From that I assume an external preamp is the best way to go in order to get the best sound out of your system.
    With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
  • mrussel1mrussel1 Posts: 29,675
    PJ_Soul said:

    turntable masters, what do you recommend, built in preamp or external preamp?

    I'm no expert, but I do know that the experts at needledoctor.com told me that if I got an external preamp to use with my TT that has a built in one, my TT would sound even better than it does now. From that I assume an external preamp is the best way to go in order to get the best sound out of your system.
    This is generally true. Again, depends on how high end your amp is. The best thing to do is order an preamp on Amazon, try it out, and do the Pepsi challenge.
    One thing... DO NOT PLUG THE PREAMP INTO THE PHONE INPUT. You will blow yourself away and could damage speakers or the internal phone amplifier. Plug it into an unused l/r option.
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