Well, if we're considering DIY/restorations, try something at least as good as a Garrard or Thorens, likely better than any belt-drive regardless of price, and cheaper than either Thorens or Garrard: go Lenco, of course! Easier to fix up and improve than either Garrard and Thorens too. Mount your Rega tonearm and cartridge to it (even in original plinth with no mods except replacing the tonearm). With the money you save over the more "accepted" and hence expensive Garrard and Thorens, buy a better preamp known for a decent phono stage, like, perhaps, the NAD to start, or even better than that. That said, your 'table is decent, the weakest link is otherwise the preamp. A good phono stage goes a loooonnngggg way! Merry Christmas!
