McIntosh MT5 vs Rega 8 or 10

I suspect the best value would be the Planar 8, which many prefer to the Planar 10.

I have a strong disinclination to go near anything McIntosh, which may be entirely wrong-headed, but their idea of industrial design appears to be rooted in the days when American designs were struggling against better-performing and cheaper imports. Gothic text must sound better, right? Utterly silly and unjustified, I know, but we all have our prejudices.

I own the P8 with Apheta 3 cartridge and am very pleased with it.  My two previous TTs were Music Hall and Thorens.  The P8 is paired with the Parasound JC3+ preamp.  Like most responses you will get, I like what I have.  Can't see any reason you would not be happy with the P8.  Rega is clealy taking a different approach design wise from those who think big and heavy is required in a good TT.  The look of the P8 does not please everyone, but I like it.  There are many who will say the look of the equipment is not important but If you're going to spend $4000 - $6000 on a TT, why not buy something that you find visually appealing.  IMHO

Spend on an equivalent Clearaudio (upon which the McIntosh is based). And use the savings to get a better separate phono amp and Nagaoka MP500..

@Dogberry

Why do you say many prefer the Rega 8 over the 10? Everything I read claims the 10 is another step up in improvements. Are you meaning the 8 has a better value/price ratio?