Turntable upgrade recommendations: SME vs AMG vs Technics vs other

You are in for a treat with any of the upgrade ideas vs the current Rega. You will find, however, that it is tough to correlate design ideals with reality. For example suspension *should* always be a good idea and direct drive has better measured performance most of the time. Yet it comes down to implementation

All three brands you are looking at have accolades and good history of performance ( AMG being the newest ).

You did not mention the models/ budget you are considering- this alone can sway the answers. Is the SP10R in the mix ?

Did you know there is a current production direct drive also with suspension? It is the Motus DQII made by STST. I sell this brand so won’t say more since I have a bias, but you should be aware of it :)

All three are good, this does not mean they sound the same of course. The SP10R offers you the chance to pick the plinth ( one with two arm mounts might be nice...since you are a classical music buff there are a lot of old mono records you might wish to try) as well as tonearm making some personal choices. Have you heard any of these yet?

Makes sense. Will you setup the cart on your own?

If you will want setup expertise onsite I would think that finding a seller ( dealer or otherwise) that is capable of such and willing may also sway the end decision.

@drbond :)