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Fully upgraded Rega P3 vs P8

Once again, I'm seeking advice from you guys.  I want to first say that I really appreciate all the helpful suggestions I've received here.  I don't really participate much except to ask questions but I'm just eager to learn.

I have a Rega P3 with pretty much all the upgrades:

external power supply upgrade
white belt
groove tracer reference subplatter
groove tracer delrin platter
groove tracer counterweight
Apheta 2 cartridge (I got this at an incredible discount so I couldn't resist)

First I should say I realize I should have saved my money on all the upgrades and bought a higher end tt to begin with but the P3 was my first serious tt and the upgrades were part of my journey

I have a feeling that with all the upgrades I have met and perhaps surpassed the performance of the P6.  I'm wondering if going to a P8 on an RP8 would yield a significant upgrade?  I realize that my table is outmatched by my cart.  I'm loving the sound right now and I don't have the itch to upgrade.... yet.  I'm just curious to see what folks think?  

thanks so much

adam8179
11 responses Add your response
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,470 posts
 
I doubt your P3 exceeds the performance of the P6. The P8 is even further improved.
petg60
1,486 posts
 
Hi,
P8 is a different design a more sophisticated one and will outperform your modified P3. Carries a better arm too. If you are happy with current tt stay with it.

guy-incognito's avatar
guy-incognito
169 posts
 
I was in a very similar situation. I had a current model planar 2 that I upgraded with an rb330 tonearm, GT subplatter and derlin platter, JA Michell Tecnoweight and Rega Ania cart. The upgrades as a whole made the table sound amazing even if it didn't make financial sense in retrospect.

I just recently traded in that table along with every upgrade except the Ania cartridge. The trade in helped me purchase a new model planar 8 and I have no regrets what so ever.  I have had the new table for less than a week and I am thrilled with the improvement in sound quality. I was also concerned about a planar 6 being a lateral move but i can confirm the planar 8 is a significant step up. With your Apheta 2 cart on a new model Planar 8 I can't imagine you being disappointed. 
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 

Adam, in addition to what you have, I have the "Incognito tonearm wire" that runs from cartridge through the tonearm to input with RCA plugs.

I have a Grado Master cartridge, and presently, at this moment I'm grooving with some 6922 Telefunken tubes in the phono that put everything over the top. I'll give you an illustration using the LP I'm presently listening to, how good things sound.


Santana Abraxas is an LP I purchased in 1970, and since have worn out a few LP's. Today, each and every note is a revelation; that's after installing some Telefunken tubes in the phono. The rig is sounding so good, I would have to hear something better, or fall into a wadd of cash to even  consider any upgrade.
adam8179 OP
67 posts
 
@orpheus10 did you notice a big improvement with the incognito rewire?  How does it compare with the other upgrades?  I found that the gt subplatter made the biggest difference followed closely by the TTPSU.  Is the upgrade on that level or less?  Thanks!
adam8179 OP
67 posts
 
@guy-incognito  Thanks!  seems we had a similar journey.  I think somewhere down the line in the future lies a P8.  Glad you're enjoying yours!
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 
Tone arm wire gave the biggest improvement.  Wire oxidizes over a period of time and doesn't conduct electricity as well, although you can't tell it until you replace it and notice the new clarity.

I wouldn't do it myself again, I would have it done by the people who sell the wire.

Happy listening!
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 

When I upgrade, it will be to the Rega Planar 10. I don't have a permanent space for a turntable, therefore I like the light weight of the Rega's; I can easily set them up and take them down. That's in addition to the sound of course.

orpheus10
8,668 posts
 

Adam, did you do this;


    https://www.musicdirect.com/equipment/rega-24v-motor-upgrade-kit
lewm
12,514 posts
 
Uninsulated copper wire would oxidize on its surface, to copper oxide, which is an inferior conductor compared to pure copper. But who uses bare wire? Teflon coated copper should remain free of oxidation for many years. Other, looser types of insulation might not prevent oxidation. Silver oxide, in contrast, is just as good a conductor as pure silver. No worries about its oxidizing.
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 

Adam, once you make "all" of the upgrades, I suggest that you request a Planar 8 as a loaner that you can audition and compare to your completely modified P-3, which is no longer a P-3.

Ask "musical direct" for a loaner. Of course you will pay shipping and leave a refundable deposit, but that way you will know for certain which way to go.
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