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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
bside123

Showing 2 responses by pauly

pauly
1,012 posts
 
No, it is NOT worth it.

If you are willing to go used, you can get a substantial upgrade that will easily outperform any modified RB300 by a huge margin. Narrod mentions the VPI, and you can also look at arms like a Bluenote, Morch, Hadcock etc.

You’ll be hard pressed to spend $700 used and not get better ... even an older Ittok or Audiocraft (providing good condition) will knock your socks off compared to a modified RB300.

Note, your VPI will handle just about any arm, however you do not mention what cart you are using. You have to match the arm to the cart you want to use.

Regards
Paul
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Bside, if your budget will allow a used Graham or late model SME, I would defnitely recommend you go for one of them. Graham 2.2s have been selling at very reasonable prices lately.

I agree with Johnny that the RB's bearings are a problem. No counterweight, VTA adjuster or wiring is going to mask that - in fact, if anything you'll only be made more aware of the sloppy bearings if you modify an RB.

Regards
Paul
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