Who LOVES their under $ 1000 table combination ?


Okay.....here's the deal. I'm cuerrently driving my Rogue Audio Cronus integrated amp and Vandersteen 1C speakers with an NAD 533 turntable/Rega RB-250 arm/Goldring Elektra cartridge set-up. I was originally toying with the idea of switching to a thick acrylic platter, upgrading the sub-platter, adding shims to change VTA, and replacing the cartridge. .....Then I thought...that's all crazy. I should just buy a whole new set-up. So...what are some recommendations for table/cartridge combo. that will keep me at around $1000.00, sound considerably better than what I have now, and match well with my amp and apeakers ?
adam18

Showing 3 responses by ferrari

About a year and a half ago, I purchased a Goldring GR 1.2 turntable from Audio Advisor for $299.95 delivered to my door. This table is nothing more or less than a Rega P 2 on a different plinth. Came with the Rega RB 250 tonearm and included a Goldring Electra phono cartridge. Only upgrade to this has been the Rega glass platter that I had from years gone by, as well as a Herbie mat from sometime ago. So no additional cost there.

This has been my daily driver and averages about 30 hours per week in use. Zero problems with it. It replaced a Rega P 3 which was tweaked out with most all of the aftermarket accessories such as acrylic platter,deep groove sub platter, Michell tonearm counter weight, etc.

This was to be an interim unit as I decided what table next. Well some 18 months later I continue to use the Goldring and have found out for its paltry price is a stellar performer at its price/performance ratio. I know of nothing at the $299.95 delivered price that can compete with it.

At the very least now I can move up to another table and transfer the Rega arm to the next table. Such as a VPI Scout without tonearm. The Rega RB 250 tone arm will accomodate a wide variety of phono cartridges, so whatever I choose compatability will not be a issue.

Like the Rega P2 the Goldring GR 1.2 beauty is in its simplicity, low maintenace and arguably one of the finest tone arms ever produced. Value and performance does not have to break the bank.
No the GR 1.2 is factory stock, with exeption of the glass platter and the Herbie mat.

Think I will order the Pete Riggle counter weight for the arm. Have heard good things about that upgrade.
Yes the arm on the Goldring GR1.2 is a Rega RB 250, and will accept any and all upgrades for a Rega RB 250 arm. I spoke with Pete Riggle last night and indeed the counter weight is available, at $75.00 plus $6.00 for shipping. The Herbie mat offered some further damping to the glass platter, although I would not consider this an absolute must have. My opinion the Rega felt mat was near as good, with the Rega glass platter.