Goldring GR-1.2, NAD 533 -- any difference?

I own a Goldrin GR1.2 and did a review on it over at AudioAsylum. Its a great table for the money.

The arm base is quite differant. It uses the RegaP9 3 point mounting method. Much more stable and rigid. But, unfortunately, its plastic. As far as I know, no one makes an aftermarket spacer or replacement for that arm base. Thats why I was asking what other carts are a good swap match for the cart that comes with it so I can upgrade without worrying about VTA. All the other upgrades do work with this table.

if it uses a p9 base for the arm then you can add a rega spacer using the riser nut that's made for the p9 which reaches up thru the plinth to get a grip on the threads.

then you can use any cart.

I remember reading something that indicated that the Goldring is NOT a Rega P2 clone--the design is similar, but not the same. This would help explain why it's cheaper than the P2 or the NAD. Presumably, it won't perform as well, although, given the good press, it should be a good turntable for the price.

As far as I know, the NAD is very similar to the Rega. (But don't quote me on this!) The one difference I know of is that the platter was different in the early years, although I think Rega started using the NAD-style platter later on.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful information! I think I am beginning to get a feel for the difference. Given that my budget's kind of tight, I believe I will poke around for a while and see if I can turn up a demo or refurbished NAD. If not, I guess I'll go with the Goldring.

One problem with your plan Mbrooker. The old NAD turntables used the old style pre-2000 rega motor mounts. Thats a bad thing. Rega finnally admitted their poor design and upgraded the motor and mount in 2000. Warbled speed variations is one such problem they had. Also stability over time. I really don't know how they designed the Goldring after the fact a few years ago. I would assume they did it right. Or better than pre2000 issues.