Hi all, I’d like to tap into the hivemind here to get some options for moving away from my Rega P3. I’ve recently replaced my Elex-R with a Supernait3, probably the biggest upgrade I’ve done in a few years. I’m running a Mojo2 fed by a Audiolab 6000CDT and a WiiM Ultra for digital (happy with this for now), and a Planar 3 with an ND7, TT-PSU and Rega Aria Phono stage. I got the aria with the mind of pushing up to a P8 or 10. For speakers I am running Focal Aria 948’s - no intention of upgrading them anytime soon as the SN3 drive them way better than the Elex-R.
BUT moving to the SN3 has put in my head that maybe, just maybe, there’s alternatives out there for a new turntable. I’m open to suggestions but pretty sure that I may not want to go down the LP12 route. Vinyl is my preferred medium. Budget, well I’ll sell the remaining Rega stuff to help the move, and look to spend £3k all in.
I’ve been thinking about the Technics Sl-1300G, ProJect X8/9’s, EAT, Nottingham Analogue, Michell etc. any real world advice and experience welcomed!
Yeah originally I was thinking P6 or P8, but I got to speaking with a mate of mine and he asked the killer question “You thought of not going with Rega?”.
i’m not tied to the brand, why not look around and see what else is in the market at the same price? YouTube the traditional press have been no help lol. So thought why not just ask the gang here.
I am biased towards the direct drive Technics and I really like their dynamic sound. I am not saying it is the best (this doesn’t exist), just suits my listening tastes.
That said, you will get many diverse opinions (like mine) from the members here but they are just that, opinions based on each’s biases and experiences that we all have formed over the years.
If you can, take with you 5 or 10 records and visit dealers that have a big selection of tables and hear which presentation you like more.
Really interesting to see you exploring different TT options. The Technics SL-1300G has a great reputation, but I think trying a British model like the Planar 6 could also be a solid choice. Agree with Ris, definitely worth auditioning in-store to find the sound that suits you best. Good luck with your search!
The P8 and P10 are both fine turntables. As you’ve got the Aria I wouldn’t look any further. As you have the 3, I’m not sure the 6 would provide enough of an improvement to make it worthwhile.
If you like how the Rega P3 sounds then an obvious choice is the Rega Planar 8 that for me represents the best sound quality for the money in the range.
I love Michell TTs and so one of the new updated Gyro’s is worth looking at but will be over your budget. I have had a Gyrodec for many years although updated along the way and for me it is one of the finest TTs money can buy.
Would be helpful if you can get out & listen to a few different options to see what might suite your taste. I personally started with an RP40, then moved to the RP6 which was then replace by a Bryston BLP-1 (made by Gold Note). For me personally the Rega’s were too lean for my taste, swapping to the BLP-1 helped solve this issue as well as significantly improving detail/insight/transparency while still using the same cartridge & phono as the RP6.
Don’t think so. Let’s just say it’s a long standing dealer on the Essex/Cambridge border who is shutting shop. I bought my PMC Twenty5 24is there recently at a very attractive price and boxed. I was mildly tempted by the P8, but thought better of it.
