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Rega RP8 and alternatives in $3000-4000 range

Hi,

I'm thinking of replacing my RP3 with an RP8. Are there any obvious alternatives in the $3000-4000 price range? I've been looking at a VPI Classic 1 (but it's not available in stores in my city so I can't try it).

I'd be particularly interested in hearing from people who have long-time experience with the RP8. Is it a keeper or have you decided to upgrade to an RP10 or something else?
fabsound
dayglow
1,905 posts
 
Don't pay the extra $$$ for a Well Tempered just buy an Opera(Consonance) deck since Opera manufactures the Amadeus.
tzh21y
1,654 posts
 
the vpi's are great with moving iron and moving magnet carts, no so great with moving coil unless you have 12 inch arm.  reason: no antiskate
tablejockey
3,904 posts
 
fabsound- this is as good as it gets for the price. With the money saved,its worth investing in a $1K+LOMC to go along with it.
http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649383010-new-in-box-vpi-classic-1-turntable-with-jmwclassic-1-to...

There is a Prime or 2 listed also, which is a step up.

I would offer $2k, or meet in the middle including shipping.

Consider an upper level phonostage if you haven’t already, to go with a higher performance table.

tzh21y
1,654 posts
 
I disagree that the Prime or Classic is better than the RP8.  Actually i would say the rp8 is the better of the 2.  VPI tables do sound nice as I have one but they need to improve their arms.  They need a better antiskate system.  If they had the good anti-skate, all their tables would be phenomenal performers.  IMO, the rega arm is just in another league and a steal on the rp8.  I am seriously considering the RP 8 as my last table.  Its that good.  Either the rp 8 or a VPI aries with a 12 inch arm or a different arm other than VPI.  High mass designs are great but you really have to isolate them very well to hear all their virtues.  I have never heard a modern design at the price point of the RP8 that performs better. its spooky good.
lewm
13,056 posts
 
tzh, I am wondering why you judge a turntable based on the tonearm that comes with it.  Is it imperative to purchase the VPI tonearm as a package deal with each of the two VPI turntables that you mention?  Until now, I did not think so, but I certainly could be wrong.  Also, I truly don't understand why the choice of cartridge type (MC vs MM) makes the lack of anti-skate more or less tolerable.  Both types of cartridge will create a skating force when used with any pivoted tonearm, VPI or other.

What about speed accuracy and stability, vis a vis the RP8?  I have been led to believe that Rega turntables run a bit "fast".  Does the RP8 include a motor controller, unlike the less expensive Rega turntables?
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