AR-XA or Thorens 165 vs current tables

Thanks, that's pretty much what I figured. Btw, I meant to say P3 in the OP. I'm a little stuck, cause the P3 is my choice but at $650 is out of my reach, but the P1 at $350 is ok, but just doesn't seem right.

What do you think of the Rega MDF platter, is that really a good medium? or is the Rega all about the arm?

Viridian, my second table is the AR-XB. I agree the arm is the weak link but I have never damaged a record with it.

Wendell

Yes, if the AR was my primary table the arm would be replaced.
I do enjoy playing it and it does make music I enjoy.

I do not have the experience that most are stating here.

I have and AR-XA with the stock arm and an AT-440Mla. I rewired the arm with Litz wire and dampened the top plate. I also added a SS thrust plate and polished the spindle bearing.

I also have a TD-160b MK II with an Linn Basik LVX arm and a Grado Sonata 1.5mV.

In my opinion the AR-XA equals the TD-160b (but I'm not done modding the TD-160)