2. analog
  3. 137334-90639

SOTA vs VPI (or stick with my Rega?)

I currently have a Rega Planar 3 (2016) with a Dynavector 10x5 that suits me and my record collection (mostly reggae, afrobeat, and jazz) but have been thinking about a turntable upgrade as my vinyl collection continues to expand.

Initially, I considered just a simple Groovetracer subplatter and upgraded counterweight, but am not sure if that is worthwhile. So now I've expanded the search to include a used SOTA Sapphire V or used VPI Prime/VPI Classic. I like the Rega's "PRAT" and no-nonsense design, but would be interested in getting more detail and cleaner, deeper bass out of my vinyl.

Any suggestions/advice/thoughts and alternatives welcome. THANKS!
For reference, my system consists of a Hegel H-160, Vandersteen Treos (non CT), Rega Planar 3, LFD Phonostage LE, and Dynavector 10x5. 
gritter2
orpheus10
8,668 posts
 

The "Delux Groovetracer", tone arm wire, acrylic platter, plus the heavyweight will take the Rega to another level that rivals the Sota, but that would also include a new motor for the Rega.
bpoletti
1,539 posts
 

In my opinion....

Spending more money on a Rega? Trying to turn the proverbial sow’s ear into a silk purse? Ain’t gonna happen. Throwing good money after bad. Rega performance is very limited compared to VPI tables or SOTA tables.
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,774 posts
 
OP,
No experience with the Origin arm, but if SOTA's bundling it then I'd trust that they justifiably consider it a good match and value with their tables. I called up SOTA years ago asking about an armboard for a VPI 10.5 arm (dealer wanted trade me one), and they said in no uncertain terms "NOT recommended". I never liked the feel of wobbly VPI unipivots anyways. My vintage FR arm has been a brilliant match. I think you want rigid gimbal bearings on a suspended table, though the heavily damped and stabilized Graham Phantom unipivots should do well too. 

I'm a "set-it and forget-it" guy when it comes to VTA. I find a setting that sounds best for most records, and leave it there. I even have a Graham Phantom Supreme on my ClearAudio deck, with easy on-the-fly VTA, and never touch it once it's been set for a cartridge. 

I really like the ClearAudio decks too. They do get spendy. I bought my Innovation Master, used trade-in, on large discount from a dealer. The Marantz rebadged CA mentioned above is from their older line. I've seen some pretty mixed reviews on that one. Their current lineup is simply outstanding; I've played with many of them. I'd only advise you stay away from the fully magnetic bearing Clarify arm. It's a mess. Don't go fully magnetic on arm bearings. The hybrid rigid/magnetic Magnify arm is outstanding. 


orpheus10
8,668 posts
 
According to someone who owns both, his Rega is quite comparable to his Sota after all the tweaks, and he's posted that on this forum.
shadowcat2016
132 posts
 
I have one of the original SOTA Saphires, bought new in the 80's. It has always been a great machine and still is, IMO. Only problem or upgrade I've ever done was a new power supply and clamp.............No experience with other TT's, never felt the need. ACOS Lustre GST 801 and yes, it does have on the fly VTA, rare at that time I think.

I can't say how much better the new models are, but after 30 years +/- I'm sure they are................Easy to set up, easy to use, great suspension, easy to upgrade, I just never bothered..............Can't go wrong with SOTA, although there are certainly others out there as good or better, depending on your bank account.
More to discover