Turntable mat journey


I have now tried 4 mats and although my current mat (Herbie’s Way Excellent Mat) solved my problem of static pulling the mat up while flipping records, I would like to get the sound designed by Rega (P8) with it’s felt mat back or as similar to it as possible. Also my current one is a white silicon and attracts anything and cleaning it is not fun or easy. Supposedly, the ideal mat is like shelf paper, and one of my 4 was the TEAC Washi mat which sounded fine, but that also came off the table- not sure if it was static or because it was large in diameter than a record. I haven’t seen any other like this. I also tried a VPI rubber backed felt mat that I though would stick better to the platter, but that one also came off when flipping.

Please don’t recommend ridiculously priced ones over $200 - I’d prefer to be at $100 or less if possible. I saw a very thin carbon fiber mat <.5mm called extreme phono speed mat that said it can be placed over a felt mat; in fact they sell it as an option with a felt mat- maybe this is the answer. It’s $89 by itself (I wouldn’t need another felt mat that adds $20).

Any thoughts of having 2 separate layers not stuck together as a mat?
Has anyone tried this or a thin carbon fiber mat, or have any recommendation? I’ve seen some older discussion threads talking about the My Mat made by a fellow Audiogoner, but from what it looks like, it would be similar to the one I have now since it is in the polymer type category.

I know this is a 1st world problem, but someone must have a solution. Thanks for your ideas.
sokogear
My reading comprehension often fails me.

Tough to find, but a pure cork mat. Most are a blend of cork/rubber. The Project cork mat is the next best thing. Used one when I had a Rega. 

Didn't stray from the Rega sound.
@sokogear 

@bkeske - as @slaw stated he sold out of the MyMats.

You should contact him. I got my second one when he let me know his material was almost depleted and offered a second (doubled-up), but I believe he may still have some.

You might have to pay a premium now though.
@tablejockey - no worries - I don't read all the posts when I respond all the time. Cork tends to crumble over time, but I know it sounds ok, that's why I didn't seriously consider it. Music Direct has several and recommended a cork/rubber blend that doesn't crumble, but I would not want anything like rubber that has resonances.

@bkeske - he posted that he has none on this discussion!