Rega Planet compare to Arcam FMJ-CD 23

I've auditioned both using the same music, but in different stores and in different sytem setups, so take these comments for what they're worth. The Rega is a great player for the money -- I've seen it used well under $500. However, I found the sound a bit thin and constrained, perhaps even a bit grainy, with little bass. I then listened (A/B) to an Arcam priced at roughly the same point, whose soundstage was far larger and detailed and conveyed much more detail. The FMJ 23, is all that and more. It uses a very sophisticated DAC, is extremely well built and produces a fantastic, open, natural sound. It also costs over $2000 retail. In short, the FMJ23 is a better machine, but is considerably more expensive. If your dollars are scarce now, it would probably be better to get the Rega now, and upgrade to a better outboard DAC in the future. FWIW, I decided to bite the bullet and buy a Sony SCD-1 (got a very good deal on a dealer demo -- not that much more than the FMJ23 and one of the best SACD players around to boot) YMMV.

I did this very test this past weekend. Using both with a Rega Brio amp and Linn Katan speakers. I thought the Arcam was a little bit 'brighter' for lack of a better word. My wife however who was with me just said the Rega sound was 'better'. I trust her hearing over mine and as and architect I am in love with the industrial design of the Rega especially in black. MHO

I compared the rega to the Arcam Alpha 7 and Alpha 9. I remember the Alpha 7 sounding better, even though I wanted to prefer the Rega due to it's superior design values. The alpha 9 (early version of FMJ 23) was even nicer than the 7, but I wasn't ready to spend the extra $1,000. Took the 7 home, and loved it. I probably would have been happy with the Planet, too, but I really like the sound of the Arcam more.

Good luck!