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Rega P3-24, Pro-Ject RM-5, or Technics 1200?

I'm in the market for a turntable and have been looking at the Rega P3-24 and the Pro-Ject RM-5. I was a DJ, so I already have 2 Technics SL-1200 MK2s, but based on things I'd read elsewhere assumed that these would never really be "hi-fi". I came to Audiogon to see what people had to say about the Rega and Pro-Ject tables and was surprised to find quite a few postings saying that the 1200s could sound as good or better than either of these. Most of these posts discuss KAB modified 1200s. I've already got the tables, can I get the modifications made to one of my existing tables, and which mods would folks suggest? Also, if people think this is the route to go, what cartridge would you suggest? If this isn't the route to go, which table would you suggest?

Just for reference, here's my current system:
- NuForce IA-7 integrated amp
- Reference 3A MM DeCapo speakers
- Arcam CD36 CD Player
- Bellari Moving Magnet Tube Phono Preamp

Thanks for your suggestions!
mcarlson
soulbrass
246 posts
 
If you've already got the table - no brainer...keep it and seek some KAB mods. Perhaps the dampener and a tonearm re-wire for starters..I can vouch for the dampener, but only am repeating the testimonials of others on the re-wire.

Denon DL-110, DL-160, Ortofon 2M line, Dynavector 10x5 are common pairings...search The Vinyl Asylum for other suggestions.

Depending on how far you want to take it, you may want to consider another phono pre???

Good luck!
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learsfool
1,215 posts
 
I would say a P2 easily beats the RM-5. I haven't actually heard the new P3-24, but I have heard the P2 and the RM-5. I would also say it beats the Technics easily. I think that the Regas have a much bigger soundstage, and image quite a bit better as well. If these things are not as important to you though, then you might as well stick to what you have.
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johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
12-08-08: Learsfool
I would say a P2 easily beats the RM-5. I haven't actually heard the new P3-24, but I have heard the P2 and the RM-5. I would also say it beats the Technics easily. I think that the Regas have a much bigger soundstage, and image quite a bit better as well.
Not me. I heard the Rega 3/24 in an all-Rega demo rig and I'll stick with my SL1210 M5G, thank you very much. Some of the "Rega detail" sounded exaggerated and didn't have the solid center image and timbral focus I get from the SL1210M5G.

As for mods to one of your SL1200s, I'd recommend you get the tonearm rewire first and foremost, followed by the KAB fluid damper and the Isonoe footers. Get a better mat, at least KAB's 17-oz. Technics "Supermat" or an aftermarket mat from Herbies, Iron Audio, etc. Change out your headshell for a Sumiko or the ZuPreme from LPGear, and upgrade your cartridge to a Denon DL-160 or Audio Technica AT150MLX.

To beat that you'd have to spend a LOT more money starting from scratch with a belt drive 'table .
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