Upgrade RB300 Tonearm or Not?


I am still trying to generate a little more discussion on upgrade issues and benefits for the Rega RB300 Tonearm. I initated another thread earlier with questions about the best wiring, and I want to thank everyone who contributed to that... espcially Onetwothreego. I am hoping for a more feedback on this thread. The question is basically this: I figure if I fully upgrade an RB300, according to my plan (new wiring, i.e. Discovery Cable, Incognito, etc., VTA adjustment, i.e., Pete Riggle VTAF, etc., upgrade counter weight), I would have ATLEAST $700 into an RB300. Is this really worth it for the money, or should I take the $700 and put it towards another tonearm, even if I have to kick in a little more money? I will be using the tonearm on a VPI MKIV with the Super Armboard and TNT platter. I would appreciate any thoughts on this matter advising me for the best bang for the buck. Thanks and regards, Din Dayemi
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Showing 3 responses by narrod

If that $700 includes the cost of the arm it is worth it. If it is in addition to the arm I would consider other options. A used JMW 10 can be had for somewhere south of $1000 and, in my opinion, is a superior arm. I've owned both the JMW and an upgraded Rega.
Well the HW-19 predates the JMW by many years so I don't think they were "made for each other". I do agree that you need to know a whole lot more than most of us do to argue with Harry's choices. He knows his stuff and has a passion for driving incremental improvements in his products. I feel the JMW is significantly better than the Rega and don't get hung up on the "lack" of anti-skate. Harry's twisted wire works as it should. I NEVER heard innergroove distortion with his arm.
>>Tell me anyone here can outthink and design Harry Weisfeld<<

Bob Graham, Frank Schroder, Tri Mai, and AJ Conti for starters.

How many more do you want?

I believe he was talking about people participating in the thread and not other designers.