Rega or ClearAudio Turntable

Traded in my almost new Rega and purchased Michelle Gyro SE and still have it since 2001. Later on rewired my RB300 with Incognito in another year of system usage.

VPI Traveler beat out the RP3 in some recent reviews. I hope to upgrade to a Traveler as soon as I can sell my Pro-ject analog front end (Xpression III, phono tube box II, speed box plus an Ortofon MC 25 FL).

Gotcha, saw the Gyro SE on your system page, but wasn't sure if it was current. I thought based on your comments, that you may now have a vintage table. Thanks for clarifying. I recently heard an RP6, and found it to be quite good. I have heard both the Girard 301/401, and the Shindo 301 in various systems. I do feel these were all very special. I do doubt however, that within a $500-$1500 budget, one of the NEW usual suspects would be bettered going vintage. The usual suspects may include Rega RP3, RP6, or VPI Traveler. To the original post, I think it's too early to find much on the RP8. Depending on your access to a dealer, it may be worth it for you to seek out an RP6, to compare to a Concept. I believe quite a few dealers carry both lines. Then after that, I'm afraid Clearaudio may have a TT that's in the RP8 $ range.

I've also thought about budget, vintage, current... it was like a vision to me that at price point of Michell GyroSE back than it was very hard to beat its performance so as is nowdays.
Due to my budget shortages later on I had to trade out more expensive components for cheaper ones, but Michelle stayed untraded and that's how I believe in value of this table.

I think either turntable you noted will play records beautifully. It's a very subjective choice. One note, Clearaudio has a Performance DC with Verify arm in the $3000 range now. That in terms of dollars will be a match to the RP8.

If you want to save some cash, the Concept will probably be a nice choice. It's going to compete with the Rega RP-6. Also to add the Pro-Ject PerspeX Turntable and add the Pro-Ject Speed Box.

But if I had $3000 or so to spend on a new turntable I'd look at RP-8, The Performance DC, VPI Classic 1 and to add the Pro-Ject Xtension 10 Turntable.

It comes down to dollars & cents, what and hw much do you feel comfortable in spending.