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Mat for Rega P10

I decided to start this discussion to hear different experiences from Rega RP10 and P10 users. I know Rega does not suggest replacing their own, supplied with turntable, mat as doing so can degrade the sound but I have to say that I am loyal opposition to that concept, looking for replacement ASAP.

I know Framer recommended the Stein Music The Perfect Interface Carbon mat but $625 for mat is quite steep I think. Even the cheapest one is $250 and I do not consider It a bargain. 

Does anybody here use either of those two mats and can share some insight as to why they are so expensive and if they really make that much of a difference?

arturgorniak
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,936 posts
 
@arturgorniak 

The Funk Firm mats are available in either 3mm or 5mm thickness.  I also have a couple of the Teac "washi" mats that work very well on the other tables.  I like the FF mat better on the Regas, but the Teac mat is very good.
arturgorniak OP
80 posts
 
@chakster 
Correct -  Rega is definitively not a table for somebody who likes tweaking and experimenting a lot ,however I totally buy into Roy Gandy's philosophy of rigidness and simplicity. 
Same said for Alan Shaw and his Harbeths that I proudly own :)
arturgorniak OP
80 posts
 
@mofimadness 
Since you own the Teac mat - how stiff and robust it is? Does it stay nicely formed on the platter and not come off with record? 
What rega models have you tried the FF mat on?
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
Rega is definitively not a table for somebody who likes tweaking and experimenting a lot ,however I totally buy into Roy Gandy's philosophy of rigidness and simplicity.

Simplicity is VTA on the fly and any proper tonearm must have it, it is not about tweaking, it's about proper cartridge adjustment. It's basic option that every tonearm must have and nearly all Japanese tonearms have it (at least VTA adjustment option). It's so weird that user can't even change the thickness of the mat on those Rega turntables. However, they do not recommend to change their mat as far as i know (same about their cartridge which is definitely not the best cartridge at all). So many limitations for Rega users, strangely they like to have limitations.      


guy-incognito's avatar
guy-incognito
169 posts
 
At best it is a difference in design philosophy. Saying that Rega tonearms aren’t a proper tonearm when they are universally praised and used by other manufacturers and custom turntable builders is a stretch. I respect your opinion chakster and have read enough of your posts to know that you are extremely knowledgeable in regards to direct drive turntables. I have also picked up on the fact that you have an unfair bias against anything that’s not a direct drive turntable. Lots of us really like our Rega gear.
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