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Rega P25-best upgrade

I'm considering two different directions, one which is not exclusive of the other as it too can be done at a later date. Therefore, I'm wondering which will give me the biggest bang for my bucks and why?
1. Add the 3 Groovetracer upgrades: Subplatter, platter and counterweight; or
2. Add a new Cartridge. Currently running Dynavector 10x5 and considering Dynavector 17D3, Sumiko Blackbird or Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood (with the Dynavector 20XL or XH in the back of my mind).

The reason I might consider using a High output cartridge over a Low output is because I record each album I play to CD so I don't want to have to crank the volume to get the CD up to the gain point of regular CD's. That is, even with the Medium output 10x5 I still need 60 db of gain (and that's the max) and that is perfect for recording. Not sure how a low output cartridge would do as I've never used one. Associated relevant equipment Rega P25, Bel Canto Pre2p and M-Audio 24/96 sound card. Let me hear what the experts have to say...I certainly am not one. Thanks.
nodaker

Showing 1 response by maprik

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maprik
24 posts
 
I would like to chime in here for the record. My experience has been similar to others as far as replacing the subplatter but I have to let everyone know that I found the Iron Audio Acrylic Platter apalling. Sure it tamed the highs a little and took a little of the edge off of bright recordings but overall I lost dimensionality and detail. Not hurt your ears detail, the detail that makes a flute sound like it's solid and floating in space instead of the sound of a flute in 2 dimensions. The detail that makes a soundstage deep and 3 dimensional. The acrylic platter just lost all of that. I just got done calling musicdirect and getting a return authorization. The acrylic is going back...

The glass platter with the Funk Firm Achromat is the best I've yet heard. Used the paper/cork mat thing for a long while but the Achromat was a big upgrade.

I was wondering about the acrylic platter upgrade for a long time. Now I don't have to wonder anymore.

My other upgrades:

Pete Riggle VTAF
Silicon Nitride ball bearing
Mapleshade heavyfeet replaced the stock Rega feet
Project Speedbox SE

Each of these made a major improvement.
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