I currently have a Rega Planar 3 (2016) with a Dynavector 10x5 that suits me and my record collection (mostly reggae, afrobeat, and jazz) but have been thinking about a turntable upgrade as my vinyl collection continues to expand.
Initially, I considered just a simple Groovetracer subplatter and upgraded counterweight, but am not sure if that is worthwhile. So now I've expanded the search to include a used SOTA Sapphire V or used VPI Prime/VPI Classic. I like the Rega's "PRAT" and no-nonsense design, but would be interested in getting more detail and cleaner, deeper bass out of my vinyl.
Any suggestions/advice/thoughts and alternatives welcome. THANKS! For reference, my system consists of a Hegel H-160, Vandersteen Treos (non CT), Rega Planar 3, LFD Phonostage LE, and Dynavector 10x5.
I started out with an AR in the early 80’s than replaced it with a SOTA Star Saphire, a dealer’s démo then. I was so impressed that I traded it in for a Nova a few years later. Both were used with an SME V tonearm. I traded the Nova for a new Cosmos IV in 2008 which now sports a Graham Phatom II. I would never buy a TT without vacuum hold down and Sota does it right at an affordable price (so to speak). For the price they can’t be beat. Customer service is also top notch although I miss those animated conversations I have had with Kirk in years past. RIP my friend. This is a good US based TT company along with VPI.
So, I took the plunge and purchased the SOTA Sapphire V w/ Origin Live Silver MK3a tonearm. Turntable should arrive in the next day or so, and excited to get it set up and playing records.
For the time being, I'll be running my Dynavector 10x5 on it, so will be fun to compare the sound. Thanks again to everyone on this forum for their feedback/suggestions.
Congrats!! That is a great table. The Regas look really nice too, but the SOTA is a more complete solution with built-in isolation and exchangeable arm boards. What wood finish did you get?
More congratulations! You will be very pleased with the table and I'm very confident you will notice an immediate improvement. Do take your time setting up the arm and cartridge combo; the table will really reward extra attention there.
Also consider a SOTA Reflex clamp if you don't already have a good one. They're very well made, adjustable and easy to use. Pricey new, but keep your eyes peeled for second-hand ones at places like Audio Classics and Ebay.
So, finally got the SOTA professionally set up and playing records at home. While the Dynavector 20x2L probably needs some time to break-in, my initial thoughts are: - incredibly spacious sound. Infinitely more sound stage than the Rega. With great recordings, this new dimensionality of sound is pretty awesome, not gonna lie.
- bass is much much tighter. The SOTA’s low end might not be as punchy as the Rega, but it is much more accurate. This may also be helped along by the jump up in cartridge and the record clamp--two new variables.
- clarity of recordings is much more apparent. You can hear much more detail--great recordings/pressings sound even better, bad recording/pressings sound somewhat lacking. I think the Rega was more forgiving in this regard, but also was missing a great deal of detail/clarity. In this regard, the Rega may be considered more "fun" as everything sounded pretty much even.
- a distinctly vinyl sound, which I like, and is one of the main reasons why I collect vinyl. There is a warmth and immediacy to the music that makes listening both engaging and rewarding.
- lastly, the SOTA is beefy. It weighs a ton, and seems built to last. While I was not equipped to set it up by myself, I appreciate that it feels sturdy enough that a novice like me won’t inadvertently break something.
Thanks again to everyone for their suggestions and feedback on this forum. Was a very useful guide and resource!
What I mean is that the type of PRAT that the Rega has is different than the type of PRAT from a VPI, IMO. I think of Rega’s sonic signature as being tied to a more traditional British sound, such as from LS5 speakers listening to the BBC all day long in the 50s or 60s.
For me, the Rega kind of PRAT may be more noticeable than the VPI b/c that is more related to Rega’s signature sound. More emphasis on PRAT, and long listening sessions without fatigue. VPI seems to have more emphasis on a fuller or more balanced sound from top to bottom than the VPI. So I think the VPI definitely has PRAT, but it is less conspicuous than the Rega.
Ive heard Rega’s of course, but I chose a SCOUTMASTER II, with a 10.5 arm and Ortofon Black MM. A local Rega dealer of 20 years referred to the VPI TTs as having a “soft” sound. I disagree, but I think that illustrates our preferences and differences. I like VPI PRAT, he likes Rega Prat. As such, one man’s PRAT is ... another man’s PRAT ...
@gritter2 If you haven't decided yet, I have lot to say adding to the get a Sota over a VPI camp, but I won't post it if you are already set. Coming from a former top tier VPI owner. Cheers, Spencer
@sbank thanks for your feedback. In the end, I purchased a used SOTA Sapphire V. I am quite enjoying it, and feel that I made the right decision for my needs/tastes. It seems to pair very nicely with the Dynavector 20x2L I added into the system.
Congrats, @gritter2 ! One of the great things about your purchase is that it will be compatible with the upcoming Series VI that should be out sooner rather than later, according to Donna. She's playing her cards close to the vest, but you can hear the excitement in her voice :-) Cheers, Spencer
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