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Rega RP8 or Technics SL1200G

I'm a bit reluctant to post this "either or question" because I know that everything in this hobby is subjective, but here goes.

I currently have a Rega RP3-24 with an Exact 2 and I want to upgrade to my final turntable. I have read all the reviews that are available on both tables and both received stellar reviews, although Fremer stated that his RP8 sample table ran a little fast. I like the simplicity of the RP8 ($3000), however, I also like the adjustability of the SL1200G ($4000) which eases the task of trying different cartridges, although I don't plan on swapping out cartridges very often. On the other hand, I am not adverse to using spacers to adjust VTA on the Rega so I can try  non Rega cartridges. 

So it really comes down to which table sounds better, which is built better, etc. I would like to hear from anyone who owns or has heard either of these tables. I won't have the opportunity to audition either one.

I listen to rock, jazz and some classical.

The rest of my system is:
Cayin A-88T MKII Integrated with Gold Lion KT88's or Svetlana Winged C EL34  
PS Audio GCPH w/Underwood Mod (planning to upgrade to Parasound JC3+)
Harbeth SHL5 Plus 40th Anniversary
Rega Apollo-R
Accuphase T101
Cables: Morrow PH4 to phone preamp 

Thanks in advance.
Eric

       
ericsch
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,521 posts
 
I'm not saying that DD tables are low grade at all. Its just that they are more for people you like to have full control over the speed , adjusting pitch up or down very accurately using the slider and strobe not to mention super fast starts and stops! So, if your a really hands on active spinner, DD’s are for you! But, If you want ease of use (RP8) or infinite upgrade possibilities (Gyro SE) both tables have excellent dynamics and detail and a awesome liveliness to the music that is not easily bested. .


Matt M
shadorne's avatar
shadorne
7,477 posts
 
That Technics TT is a legend - the 1200G is the best yet - technically outstanding. Relatively speaking, Rega is very good but is more of a cool looking design which is gimmicky rather than purely functional - not really in the same league. Professional device vs awesome looking audiophile jewelry.
williewonka
3,110 posts
 
@ericsch - Not sure if you are prepared to get your "hands dirty", but here is an option that can work in your favour for less money.

Replace the Arm on your existing Rega with an Audiomods arm. They are superb and you can get it with a micrometer adjustment for extremely accurate VTA adjustment. Ask for the Absolute Harmony RCA’s to be installed

Get a Denon DL103 or 103r - superb cartridges on this arm

You can also get the cartridge "tweaked" by Soundsmith and a few other companies - https://www.sound-smith.com/

If you are very bold you can try this...
http://image99.net/blog/files/23c020f75290d3392577113371f4dc94-38.html

If your existing Rega has the plastic subplatter - replace it with a metal one like this
http://www.groovetracer.com/subplatter_groovetracer.htm

Replace the bearing with a ceramic one - like this
https://dogoodaudio.co.uk/products/high-performance-ceramic-bearing-upgrade-for-rega-turntables-and-...

Replace the platter with an acrylic one - like this
http://www.groovetracer.com/acrylic%20_platter_groovetracer.htm

Your Rega will sound amazing with these changes at a reduced cost.

Here’s my old Rega Planar 2 with the mods I made - I even replaced the plinth.
http://image99.net/blog/files/category-turntable-mod0027s.html

It sounds superb and will be with me for the rest of my time in this hobby :-)

Hope that does not confuse things too much

Regards - Steve


ericsch OP
761 posts
 
@shadorne  I think the arm on the Technics might be the weak link .

@williewonka  Thanks for your suggestions, but I plan on giving my
P3-24 to my son.
 
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,524 posts
 
I would go with the Technics.  I heard it at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest and was totally blown away by it.  If I hadn't recently spent 4K on my Prime, I would have bought the Technics.  The new arm is excellent and is nothing like the older one as all of the turntable is totally redesigned.
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