turntable question?

the sonic differences in the alexandria 1and 2 are not earthshattering. the condition is the most important thing. it is an incredible front end, and you would have to get into a used or new rega 7 for comparable performance.

I beg to differ with the above advise. While someone experienced in TT's may tweak better sound out of a properly functioning Alexandria, I would worry about how that perticular TT was packaged and shipped, AND, worry whether a neophyte would have any idea on how to set it up, without damage to the tonearm or cartridge/stylus assemply. Buy the new Rega, have your dealer help you set it up, save your packaging materials, be happy, learn about your purchase, and, when you figure out what upgrades you want, you should be able to sell it and recoup at least half of what it cost you, rather than buying a used, possibly dysfunctional TT, which would be relatively worthless both to you and others.

I have the Alexandria MK II and am very happy with it. Its a little frustrating for me because I have little experience in setting it all up and think it could be tweaked better. I just installed a Sumiko Blackbird cartridge and want to find someone local with more experience help me get the best sound out of it. I have thought about selling to purchase a VPI Scout but think that may be a lateral move. I am hoping mine is the newer model with the aluminum sub chassis. It weighs a ton for it's size.

I have owned an Alexandria MKII since I first bought it in 1984. A few years ago I bought the Oracle $150.00 maintenance kit and had my local guy install it for me. The kit is still available. It wasn't having any problems but now it has new springs. If you can find a users manual it explains everything very well and spring adjustment is not that difficult. It is a good looking table and sounds great for the price.

Cannot comment on the Rega, having never owned or heard one.