Upgrade question. Rega RP3 or RP6.


Hello,

I am ready to upgrade my set up.
I am debating between a Rega RP3 and RP6 with the stock Rega cartridges. I listen to a variety of music with a large portion of my collection being punk rock. The one thing my current set up is lacking on is bass.

*Will I hear a huge difference in sound quality with one of theses over my current turntable?

*What is your opinion on RP3 with upgrades VS stock RP6?

*Will I notice a huge difference between a stock RP3 & RP6 on my current 2 channel receiver/speaker set up?

*Will a pre-amp sound better over the phono input on my receiver?

*Can anyone recommend a shop in the Los Angles area that demos Rega?

Thank you for any input you can provide on my questions.
gregdreg
Brooks Berdan in Monrovia usually has both those models in stock and those folks are always lovely to deal with. Also Acoustic Image in studio city is a Rega dealer (with an amazing listening studio) and Elliot is a class act who specializes in turntable setup. Either of them will take care of you.

Personally, I own the RP6 with a sumiko blackbird cart. Most Rega dealers are really down on Rega's stock carts so you'll likely hear that from them. My friend bought the RP3 but our systems are so different in all other respects I couldn't really tell you the difference in sound. The RP6 I think has a different platter and also includes the outboard power supply (but you can upgrade the RP3 later to the same).

Either one is a lovely turntable that basically requires very little if no effort to operate once you have everything setup. A lot of people are down on Rega turntables because of that but I'm in the set it and forget it camp.
Get a Rega 3 w/Dyna 10 x 5 and close the book for a while. By the way, I've owned Linns, Nottinghams, Regas and the fabled Tech 1200, modded version. The Tech is cool only because it's iconic. I found it does not play music.
You have tiny speakers. How much bass do you expect? I think you should add a sub and you'll be much happier.
Thank you for the great reply's.
I am set on a Rega for sure I love the aesthetics and I am all about Set and forget.

Tortilladc, Awesome. I am in the west San Fernando valley I will definitely make a trip to Acoustic image.

Right now I am leaning towards the RP6 because it comes with the power supply, aluminium sub platter, and exact 2.
I will try to head out for a demo tomorrow and report back.

I am keeping my eyes peeled for a used model in case anyone knows of one.
Here are my two cents:

First, I own a fully modified RP3 comparable to an RP8 and I couldn't be any happier! Gone is my late and rather expensive Linn Sondek LP12/Ekos/Lingo set-up and I don't miss it at all.

Plinth, 24V motor, and double brace tech from the original RP3 (everything else is gone)
Rega TT-PSU
Groovetracer Reference Sub-Platter
Groovetracer Delrin Platter
Groovetracer 130 gms Counterweight
Rega RB808 Tonearm
Dayton Audio threaded/adjustable brass cone footers
Edwards Audio Little Belter
Lyra Delos/DV P-75/Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum/GoldenEar Trito 7

Second, hands down, the RP6 is a better table than the RP3. However, if you plan to upgrade in the future, then the RP3 would be a better option. After all, both share the same design (plinth, double brace tech, arm, belt, motor, pulley, feet, etc.) with slightly different platter and sub-platter. Don't be fooled by the sub-platter because it's exactly the same plastic design with an aluminum top that snaps on to accommodate for the two piece glued glass platter. The most significant improvement is definitely the addition of the TT-PSU.

Finally, the weakest link will be the cart. Save the money and shop for a better cart!

An SE RB40 is currently selling in Agon for 1,200.00. Basically an upgraded RP3 that includes the outstanding TT-PSU.

Good luck and happy listening!