Schiit Sol or Rega Planar 6?

Has anyone compared these two TT's? I'm leaning towards getting the 6 with the Exact cartridge, though I do wonder about the Sol. I'd probably replace the stock AT cartridge with a Grace F9. I can get the Rega for about $1850; the Sol with the Grace would be about $1200, and I have someone to put it together for me.

I have a Belles Aria integrated amp with a fine MM phono stage, so I'd be plugging the TT into it. Ease of use is important, making the Rega very attractive (I currently have the Planar 3, which was my gateway TT into the pleasures of vinyl). But I'd gladly get the Sol if I was convinced that its SQ is a close match to the Planar 6. And the prospect of someday getting an extra tone arm does appeal to me.

Speakers are Buchardt S300's. Music on vinyl is mostly acoustic jazz and jazz vocalists. Been at this about a year now, and really starting to enjoy records more than any other source. 

One problem: Cats. Five of 'em. One in particular—Loki, the Trickster Cat—occasionally seems inclined to at least consider exploring the shelf where my TT is. He's been instructed about respecting the music and warned about the consequences should he violate the rules, and I'm always attentive when listening to records. But with the Sol not having a cover. . .

Thanks for any thoughts that do not include attempts to persuade me either to get rid of the cats or pursue more expensive options.