I find this to be an interesting thread for a couple of reasons.
First, I agree with Audiofeil to some degree. The "degree" has everything to do with ones perception of high-end. I am of the camp who believes the Rega is not high-end. Still, it is a decent value for the market that it serves, which I believe is an entry point to high-end audio. If Audiofeil and I are on the same page, then the word "high" is the one of greatest emphasis. The definition of the the term, high-end is one often bantered about, but what does it mean? That perceived definition alone may be the point of contention that separates many of us. I believe it should mean something special.
Second, I agree with Piedpiper to some degree. His grasp of Rega's role is a good one, but he neglects to point out that the cartridge he recommends, a Clearaudio Aurum Beta S, is little more than a dressed up AT-95E, a $35 cartridge. So was the Linn K9, so I suppose that's ok, too. In any event, the Rega lineup is important in that it starts many on their move up the chain. It's like that first little hit of something different on the way to becoming a hardcore, mainlining audiophile. ;)
First, I agree with Audiofeil to some degree. The "degree" has everything to do with ones perception of high-end. I am of the camp who believes the Rega is not high-end. Still, it is a decent value for the market that it serves, which I believe is an entry point to high-end audio. If Audiofeil and I are on the same page, then the word "high" is the one of greatest emphasis. The definition of the the term, high-end is one often bantered about, but what does it mean? That perceived definition alone may be the point of contention that separates many of us. I believe it should mean something special.
Second, I agree with Piedpiper to some degree. His grasp of Rega's role is a good one, but he neglects to point out that the cartridge he recommends, a Clearaudio Aurum Beta S, is little more than a dressed up AT-95E, a $35 cartridge. So was the Linn K9, so I suppose that's ok, too. In any event, the Rega lineup is important in that it starts many on their move up the chain. It's like that first little hit of something different on the way to becoming a hardcore, mainlining audiophile. ;)