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P1,2,3: the best Rega for the job

Of the P1,P2,and P3-24, can anyone offer any thoughts other than to get the most expensive one that a person can afford? Or is there applications in which each could be the best answer? For instance, I have a Mira 3 and GMA Europas. I want to try vinyl (again - didn't fall in love with the Pro-ject or the Technics) and probably won't amass more than 30 records in the next year (no used stuff 'round these parts). I listen to stuff like Lyle Lovett, Wilco, Feist, Phish, but no classical. Could the P1 be "good enough" to let me give vinyl a chance? Is there really a reason for the P2? I'd be inclined to either save with a P1 or splurge the P3 and call it done, but maybe it represents the elusive happy medium. Or does the P3 outclass the Mira's phonostage? My current thought is to try a P1 with a glass platter and "maybe" put a 2M red on it. But that gets close to the price of a P2 with the Bias installed... which isn't that far, in audiophile dollars, from a P3. Hence my dilemna. Thanks to all for your thoughts and Merry Christmas.
clbone

Showing 1 response by cjnolan

cjnolan
27 posts
 
The biggest differences here are the arm, platter, and motor (power capability). The P3/24 has a substantially better arm than the P1. I think it's worth the price difference alone. You can also upgrade the power supply to the feedback circuit TTPSU.

My take is that if you are at all tweaky, you're going to be upgrading the platter to the glass one, the mat, and maybe the arm wiring. There now you're at the cost of the P3/24. The P5 gets you a slightly better plinth and the same basic arm & wiring with a machined vs. molded base. The P7 and P9 are where it gets really interesting.

I also don't think any of these will outclass the Mira phono stage.

I had a P3/24 and think it's a great value, and excellent performer.
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