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Turntable Upgrade question..

Hey, 

I've spent some time upgrading my system the past few weeks and I'm ready to look at a turntable upgrade.  I bought a Rega planar 1 as my first turntable and its served its purpose thus far, but I'm ready to get one that matches my current system.  Currently I'm running turntable--> Rega Phono MM Mk3--> Schiit Freya+ preamp--> Schiit Aegir--> Wharfedale Lintons.  

My prior setup wasn't great so I was happy with planar 1 for awhile, but with this better system I think I can get more out if I get a better turntable.  I like Rega and am leaning towards sticking with them, but would consider other models if anyone has any good recommendations.

I'd like to stay within $500-$600 so looking for something for a good value on the used market.  I've been looking at a used newer model RP3 with an elys2 cartridge or an RP25 from '99. Both are listed at the same price.  My question is would it be better to go with the newer RP3 that has an Elys2 cartridge or the P25? Reviews I've read seem to be in favor of the P25 vs the P3 but these are older reviews before the newer P3 was out.  
hmaudio

Showing 1 response by elliottbnewcombjr

elliottbnewcombjr
5,112 posts
 
I suggest you ’think long’ about features, flexibility, future uses now, as well as quality.

How to narrow the choices? I decided Direct Drive, Quartz Locked for the Spinner as a categorical limitation. I like wood, love keeping vintage stuff going, and the lower cost of used, all reducing choices before looking in earnest.

I was happy for years with a TT with single arm, then, with help here, I went to a large plinth with two tonearms, similar to this one sold here

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa0d8i-jvc-victor-tt-81-dd-turntable-cl-p2-dual-arm-base-ua7082-...

One arm ready for Stereo, other ready for Mono, or One MC, one MM. Actually, I will probably squeeze a 3rd arm on the left side, thus have Mono/MM/MC.

In my case I also decided to try a longer arm for my main cartridge. Actually, that’s what started my new setup, it can be seen in the last photo in this LP listing on eBay

https://www.ebay.com/itm/George-Harrison/133534402519

these things are big, so considering size and placement of a future TT now might help with other decisions.

size of plinth is in this listing

https://www.hi-fi.ru/auction/detail/1155853?refsource=hifishark



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