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
avanti1960
1,419 posts
 
while i'm sure the G is an amazing table, has anyone actually heard the RP-8 / Apheta 2? 

One source tells me that the speed, transient response and attack is superior to the G.  This is something that would make me lean to the Rega if true.  
jtsnead's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jtsnead
217 posts
 
I have the G with a ART9 awesome sound I use carbon fiber hs like it better than the zupreme also use baerwald alignment
traudio
92 posts
 
If no one has mentioned it yet....
The new Rega Neo power supply allows you to adjust the speed.
I got one for my P7 and was able to dial in the correct speed easily.
http://www.rega.co.uk/neo-turntable-psu.html
yuvalg9's avatar
yuvalg9
16 posts
 
I would definitely consider a Clearaudio Concept Wood (Maestro V2) https://tinyurl.com/yc6gjx4u as an alternative to both TT’s that you are considering. The lesser Concept has won a TAS product of the year in 2010 and a rave review in Stereophile: https://www.stereophile.com/content/erick-lichte-august-2012

I am a sucker for Ortofon cartridges, and I would add to that a Quintet Black S MC cartridge, which together cost the 4K that the Technics costs.

My experience with DD is quite limited, having owned a 1980-era Luxman PD-246 TT. I eventually couldn’t live with the wow and flutter, two phenomena to which I am very sensitive. That TT had a novel automatic shut-off mechanism, based on an LED and a photodiode - when the arm reached the end of the LP, a plastic piece connected to the underside of the arm blocked the LED, the motor would stop, and a solenoid would lift the arm from the record.

As for high vs. low torque motors: The most extreme case of a low torque motor is found in the British Nottingham Analogue, where you have to give the platter a spin with your hand after turning the motor on, otherwise the belt would slip off either the platter or the motor pulley. With high-torque motors, the plater MUST be very heavy to ward off the noise and clogging coming from the motor. Ditto with idler drive: the idler is made of a stiff rubber and it is directly coupled to both the motor pole and the platter. This is a recipe for considerable noise and vibration transmitted to the platter. Indeed, my old Lenco L78’s platter weighed 5 KG’s.
tzh21y
1,654 posts
 
I heard the RP8.  I prefer the 1200G.  mine is still breaking in.  Using Baerwald geometry.  Waiting for the mint tractor to arrive.  The table is mellowing out everyday.  needs probably at least 100 to 200 hours to really know  
More to discover