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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
avanti1960
1,482 posts
 
congrats @jsm71  !   I will be very interested to hear how the ART9 and Delos compare as I own the '9 and am considering the Lyra.  
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i'm in a similar position with turntables and am considering the G, the RP8 and the VPI prime.  At the moment my main goal of the upgrade is to have a faster, more explosive / dynamic presentation. A reliable source tells me the RP 8 wins in this area.   anyone agree / disagree?  thanks   
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,849 posts
 
I'll bite. Disagree.

Speed stability is one thing, the platter pad and its ability to control resonance in the LP as the groove is tracked is another.

That variable has to be eliminated (same platter pad on each machine being auditioned) before you can definitively say one is more 'explosive' than another.
mmakshak
589 posts
 
This is not a fair comparison, but from what I've heard(on YouTube?), the RP8 sounded very good.  On needle drops and in person, I found the SP10 not as good as a Linn lp12(note: the Linn was tweaked, and it was mostly the Technics 1200(old version, but somewhat tweaked) that fell (considerably) short of the Linn.  These latter comparisons were on needle drops on PinkFish Media.  Based on the same listening(i.e. YouTube?), the RP8 seems to be quite an upgrade from the RP6.
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
jsm71 wrote:
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.
A big +1 for the ZuPreme headshell (which is a rebadged Jelco HS-25 headshell). I've had one for 9 years. It increased dynamics and clarity from the moment I installed it on my SL1210M5G. It provides the additional advantage of adjustable azimuth, which has proved invaluable for dialing in a well-balanced soundstage.

The ZuPreme is a fairly weight 14 grams, double the weight of the standard Technics headshell. However, KAB's 10g supplemental tonearm weight (scroll down to "10 Gr Aux Weight") fixes any potential imbalance problems and also increases compatibility with heavier cartridges.

I have accumulated a few quality headshells that make it easy to switch among cartridges, including a nice Audio Technica HOMC mono cartridge which I use on Beatles and Beach Boys mono reissues, and also on thrift shop mono pressings. Lots of fun!
jsm71
141 posts
 
My new 1200G arrives tomorrow.  Quick poll here, are you current 1200GAE or G users employing a spindle weight or forgoing one?  I've used one in the past but most online pictures I've seen don't show one in use.  Maybe one isn't needed for this table?
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