@avanti1960 " consider the VPI prime."
Sorry, not a fan of the unipivot arm.
@viridian
Thanks for your comments, very helpful.
Sorry, not a fan of the unipivot arm.
@viridian
Thanks for your comments, very helpful.
Rega RP8 or Technics SL1200G
I'm a bit reluctant to post this "either or question" because I know that everything in this hobby is subjective, but here goes.
I currently have a Rega RP3-24 with an Exact 2 and I want to upgrade to my final turntable. I have read all the reviews that are available on both tables and both received stellar reviews, although Fremer stated that his RP8 sample table ran a little fast. I like the simplicity of the RP8 ($3000), however, I also like the adjustability of the SL1200G ($4000) which eases the task of trying different cartridges, although I don't plan on swapping out cartridges very often. On the other hand, I am not adverse to using spacers to adjust VTA on the Rega so I can try non Rega cartridges.
So it really comes down to which table sounds better, which is built better, etc. I would like to hear from anyone who owns or has heard either of these tables. I won't have the opportunity to audition either one.
I listen to rock, jazz and some classical.
The rest of my system is:
Cayin A-88T MKII Integrated with Gold Lion KT88's or Svetlana Winged C EL34
PS Audio GCPH w/Underwood Mod (planning to upgrade to Parasound JC3+)
Harbeth SHL5 Plus 40th Anniversary
Rega Apollo-R
Accuphase T101
Cables: Morrow PH4 to phone preamp
Thanks in advance.
Eric
I currently have a Rega RP3-24 with an Exact 2 and I want to upgrade to my final turntable. I have read all the reviews that are available on both tables and both received stellar reviews, although Fremer stated that his RP8 sample table ran a little fast. I like the simplicity of the RP8 ($3000), however, I also like the adjustability of the SL1200G ($4000) which eases the task of trying different cartridges, although I don't plan on swapping out cartridges very often. On the other hand, I am not adverse to using spacers to adjust VTA on the Rega so I can try non Rega cartridges.
So it really comes down to which table sounds better, which is built better, etc. I would like to hear from anyone who owns or has heard either of these tables. I won't have the opportunity to audition either one.
I listen to rock, jazz and some classical.
The rest of my system is:
Cayin A-88T MKII Integrated with Gold Lion KT88's or Svetlana Winged C EL34
PS Audio GCPH w/Underwood Mod (planning to upgrade to Parasound JC3+)
Harbeth SHL5 Plus 40th Anniversary
Rega Apollo-R
Accuphase T101
Cables: Morrow PH4 to phone preamp
Thanks in advance.
Eric
126 responses Add your response
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shadorne, wrote: "That Technics TT is a legend - the 1200G is the best yet - technically outstanding. Relatively speaking, Rega is very good but is more of a cool looking design which is gimmicky rather than purely functional - not really in the same league. Professional device vs awesome looking audiophile jewelry." Homerun! |
I would go with the Technics. If you don't like it, you could sell it with very little loss. I don't get people knocking the arm. It is quite good for the price and not inferior to the Rega arm IMO. Of course you could buy a Triplanar 12" for the price of two Technics 1200 turntables if you want to do an upgrade. |
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I recently brought home (October) an RP8 with an apheta 2 cartridge. It’s my first high end turntable, so I will not call myself an expert. I will tell you that Rega matches the power supply to the motor. When I measure the speed at 33 rpm with turntablist, I get 33.4 Ideal. When I measure the speed at 45 I get 45.3. I have only had a couple of people over to listen but the comments on speed are it sounds right or perhaps it’s a bit slow. I think it sounds amazing and find I am more a victim of recording quality than system flaw. A friend brought over People in Sorrow by The Art Ensemble of Chicago and it sounded so good, like they were in the room with us. My feeling is you probably can’t go wrong with either TT. |
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I own a Rega P-9 and recently purchased a SL1200G. I was quite surprised the SL1200G sounds better accross the board compared to the P-9. I am comparing in the same room with the same equipment. The P-9 has a Dynavector 17D-3 and the SL has a Hana SL. I should swap cartridges to give a better review but....sorry. I have always liked my P-9 and a P-7 I also own but the G is by far my new favorite |
The Technics is hands down the winner. Its more speed stable and overall more dead, IOW more resistant to vibration. Its arm is the weak link, but its better than the Rega am. which is even more of a weak link on the Rega IMO/IME. The Technics arm is far more adjustable. Its possible to replace the arm with other arms, we've installed a Triplanar 12" on it with fabulous results. |
@ericsch .... I plan on giving my P3-24 to my son.In that case from the two you are considering - I would go for the Technics. I think Rega have been sitting on past laurels for far too long and the competition now surpasses much of their product line But personally, I would take a look at VPI, SOTA and Music Hall - they all have some outstanding TT's/Arm combos Regards - Steve |
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@ericsch - Not sure if you are prepared to get your "hands dirty", but here is an option that can work in your favour for less money. Replace the Arm on your existing Rega with an Audiomods arm. They are superb and you can get it with a micrometer adjustment for extremely accurate VTA adjustment. Ask for the Absolute Harmony RCA’s to be installed Get a Denon DL103 or 103r - superb cartridges on this arm You can also get the cartridge "tweaked" by Soundsmith and a few other companies - https://www.sound-smith.com/ If you are very bold you can try this... http://image99.net/blog/files/23c020f75290d3392577113371f4dc94-38.html If your existing Rega has the plastic subplatter - replace it with a metal one like this http://www.groovetracer.com/subplatter_groovetracer.htm Replace the bearing with a ceramic one - like this https://dogoodaudio.co.uk/products/high-performance-ceramic-bearing-upgrade-for-rega-turntables-and-... Replace the platter with an acrylic one - like this http://www.groovetracer.com/acrylic%20_platter_groovetracer.htm Your Rega will sound amazing with these changes at a reduced cost. Here’s my old Rega Planar 2 with the mods I made - I even replaced the plinth. http://image99.net/blog/files/category-turntable-mod0027s.html It sounds superb and will be with me for the rest of my time in this hobby :-) Hope that does not confuse things too much Regards - Steve |
I'm not saying that DD tables are low grade at all. Its just that they are more for people you like to have full control over the speed , adjusting pitch up or down very accurately using the slider and strobe not to mention super fast starts and stops! So, if your a really hands on active spinner, DD’s are for you! But, If you want ease of use (RP8) or infinite upgrade possibilities (Gyro SE) both tables have excellent dynamics and detail and a awesome liveliness to the music that is not easily bested. . Matt M |
Eric, at $4000 you are in the JA Michell Gyro SE with Techno Arm price range, call Needle Doctor or Direct Sound. If you like the REGA P3/24 with Exact and you are looking to make this your LAST table, I seriously suggest you look at this table. I went to a JA Michell after I had a Rega P3/24 with all groove tracer upgrades and a Project Xtension 10. The Project ($3500) was a few levels up from Rega but too laid back and the REGA was great but not refined enough. Enter the Gyro SE, this is my last and reference table now ...Otherwise... Get the REGA RP8 it comes with the power supply (gotta love that). Going Direct Drive instead of belt is good if your a DJ! Matt M P.S. Try a Dynavector 10X5 or even better 20x2 low or high :-) |
