2. analog
  3. 132927-6882

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
jsm71
141 posts
 

I just ordered the Technics 1200G and it will be my retirement table.  I've only owned belt drive tables but I've heard every (I believe) other approach out there and decided DD was the way to go if cogging was under control.  This new table seems to have focused on solving that with its new coreless motor.  It will also be a big step up for me over the Marantz TT 15S1 table I have now.

I have also spent some time hearing the 1200G at a friends house who has one and that only cemented my decision.  This table runs silently as every reviewer has said. 

I wanted to retire with a zero maintenance TT.  No belts, a motor that should be at least as reliable as Technics motors of the past, and easy cart swapping with the removable head shell.  The table also has easy to use features across the board for all critical setup efforts.

I also ordered two LP Gear Zupreme head shells (bought on Amazon however at a better price) in anticipation of the new table to serve my Lyra Delos and AT ART9 cartridges.  I can't wait for it to be shipped.

ericsch OP
756 posts
 
@jsm71 
Congratulations on getting your new TT and thanks for your comments. Your cartridge choices are awesome. For my budget, I will probably start with a Hana SL. I  also have the Exact 2 on my current table with very low hours. Although I've been retired for a few years, this will also be my last turntable. I've decided to go with the Technics and will be pulling the trigger soon. 
ericsch OP
756 posts
 
@jsm71 
BTW, why the replacement head shell? What are the advantages?  Azimuth adjustment?
nkonor
635 posts
 
@jsm71 @ericsch 

Congrats to both of you. I am excited for you guys. I think that the Technics will be your final TT.

Best
jsm71
141 posts
 

@ericsch 

I got a chance to hear the Hana SL cart at the last Capital Audio Fest.  This is a very musical sounding cart with nothing I could point my finger at as doing wrong and at its price point a strong choice.  The room using the Hana was a fun and nicely balanced room run by Dr. Vinyl.  The TT holding the Hana was a Pear Audio Kid Howard turntable with Cornet 2 tonearm ($4995). 

That puts it in the quality tier of the Technics 1200G in my mind, but I still prefer the values of DD and ease of use.  I'm sure the Technics will bring out the its best.  IMO the only reason the Technics isn't a $5k table is a function of Panasonic's engineering and mfg scale. I'm stealing that from other reviewer observations but I happen to agree.

BTW, my other short list option was the VPI Prime, but that was based more on looks.  In the end function, opinions on reliability, hearing it with my own ears, and to many respects glowing reviews for the Technics won out.  Blindly, I'm sold on DD.

More to discover