Re: Rega - discussion thread

[Y.C.]

Had a closer look at specs sheet of Rega RP6. Somehow, I just can't help feeling that it's actually an improved P3-24 (units with colourful plinths which require a TT-PSU to operate) rather than a P5 outright although it may eventually sound better than a stock P5 due to presence of a precise metal subplatter unit and its plinth is structurally-reinforced. These are the areas of difference from RB3 apart from colour option.

The tonearm fitted to RP6 is RB303 that retails for £240 in UK whereas P5 used to have a RB700 (retail price of £460 in UK).

Rega might eventually introduce more new models, a RP10 and perhaps a RP8 (merely my wild guess) once they clear existing stocks of P7 and P9.

[ryder]

The subplatter of the RP6 is a combination of metal and phenolic resin(the same material used on the P3-24 and P5) wedged together to form a piece, not a complete metal piece. There was a discussion previously on PFM. The belt is said to be on the phenolic piece, which is kind of surprising since construction tolerances of the phenolic piece are usually low ie. poor quality.

[Y.C.]

The subplatter of the RP6 is a combination of metal and phenolic resin ...

Ryder is obviously spot-on as only the top section of subplatter (where the glass platter is in contact with) is made of metal with a centre hole to slip onto the spindle of subplatter, the whole assembly is again made of Phenolic. The belt apparently rotates on the Phenolic portion.

[cmboy]

Remember all Planar and P models with phenolic parts are tuned for low budget purchase. Of course pay more and you get the likes of P7 & P9 OR some other make which seems better.

[JediSavant]

It's kinda weird how it seems that the presence of plastic in the sub platter and anywhere else would make some people quite impassioned to point them out as potential flaws or otherwise noteworthy of attention. Sme turntables out there are fully plastic yet are coveted and trade for high prices. But I guess they're okay cos they have metal bits inside.

I still contend that a well set up Rega deck is capable of much sonic ability and provides a decent amount of pleasure with minimal fuss.

[mugenfoo]

plastic, metal, wood, and now the new hybrid metal-plastic .... as long as it doesn't warp.

Rega's all-plastic subplatter is notoriously infamous for its "signature warpage" & poor tolerances. If their subplatter didn't cause so much warpage in the first place, no one here would be fussing over the subplatter's material in the first place. There was even a batch of Rega P-something series turntables in which the subplatter was scraping against the plinth as it rotated; right out of the box brand new. Go figure...

[JediSavant]

Mine works fine.... Lots of PLAAAATTT... I mean PRAT...

[CT-Boy]

If you have 'issues' with the subplatter then it'll be PLAT... LOL.

[JediSavant]

Perceived issues versus real issues seems to be a common dilemma...

[wingman]

Hi...

Any forummers have gone out and purchased a RP3 or RP6. I know there is a subtle difference between both.

What is your take on this new TT from Rega ?

Cheers

[Hard Graft Records]

As an importer/seller of vinyl records, sound quality is important to me. Having said that, I'm a music lover first and that's why Rega appeals to me.

I've listened to the RP1, RP3 and more extensively, the RP6. From the RP3 and beyond, each model is better than the one before it. Is each miles ahead of the one below it? No, not in my opinion. The improvements are obvious and of course noticeable.

I think what trips people up as they become poised to make a purchase are the issues of "quality" regarding the sub-platter, platter etc. The reality IMHO is that these are the "standards" at this level of the market. But I honestly believe that notwithstanding these "issues", the performance of the decks are unaffected (unless it's so bad; I've seen a P3-24 platter "kick" up in a YouTube video). But I can see how this can put off buyers.

But coming back to the RP3 vs RP6. Yes, the RP6 with its 2-piece platter and fitted with an Exact cartridge does outperform the RP3. It's able to extract more detail from the record. But the RP3 is still damn musical and enjoyable.

After market mods are always an alternative. But whether it's worthwhile or not really depends on the individual.

But some facts to consider, FWIW:

RP3 + Elys 2 + TTPSU (Mk II) would be about RM500 cheaper than the RP6 (w/ TTPSU Mk II) + Elys 2. But bear in mind, that the RP6 does have a better platter, plinth and improved sub-platter (though not fully aluminum). I think you can see where this is going.

Hope this is of some help.

Cheers!

[wingman]

Graf...

Appreciated.

Physical difference between the models are minimal....plastic, resin to metal or a mixture or marriage of materials. With the difference SQ varies as well.

So all boils down to how deep is ones pocket and preference or you got the itchy bum syndrome.

Cheers

.

[JediSavant]

Just refreshed my vintage Planar 3 with some Ceraball footers... yippee kay aye is all i can say...

[wingman]

Hi Jedi...

Been a while... you posted ...thanks for sharing ....Good to know your TT's performance has gone one notch up. Have u upgraded the power supply ?

My Planar 3 has got the power supply transplant...after the fact....music is tight, improved clarity and clear separation from instruments to vocals. Gives an impression that the TT has reeled in lots of muscle back to the vinyl.

Have done some other tweaks to the TT while maintaining the Planar 3 physical originality.

Milking the extra ounce from the TT sure is satisfying with what ever means and add on. ....hmmm ceraballs footers.....something to ponder over...

Cheers

[JediSavant]

wingman!!

I haven't done anything to the power supply except to have stuck a piece of imitation Sun-Mook-type hardwood disc to the power plug using specially measured and carefully hand rolled pieces of Blu-Tack (ori product) and aligned with specific grain orientation of the wooden disc. Similarly, 3 pieces of the discs have been places under the periphery of the glass platter, with their grain direction once again oriented in a specific manner. These discs are arranged at the 2, 6 and 10 o'clock positions, half visible from beneath the platter. The grains are arranged at 3, 7 and 11 o'clock positions respectively.

Specifically, these have done the following to the sound of the Planar 3:

1. reduced quite a bit of noise
2. frequencies extended
3. mids are sweeter
4. not sound related, but has made it look like a modded and tweaked Planar 3, kinda revved up and bad ass...

But the Ceraballs have made the most dramatic improvement. The increase in overall resolution and the sudden appearance of big controlled bass was quite exciting.

What are the 'other' tweaks that you've implemented??

[wingman]

Hi Jedi...

Currently the TT's rubber feet is off and they are on aluminium spikes ( from ATS ) have tried various spike sizes and these paticular ones gives me good feedback.Tried tap washers / half inch metal washers between the spike and plinth.

With my final choice, have permanently bolted them to the plinth....for easy removal...no double sided tape used...to messy when time to remove.

Motor and bearing housing dampening.....really works....ears can gauge the difference....third party noise has been floored . Resulting in improved clarity from instruments to vocals. Bass is well rounded off.

To sum it up....no regrets and not much $$$ spent. The best part the TT is in its original outlook apart from the spikes.

Cheers

[JediSavant]

How did you do the damping for the motor and bearing housing?

I'm gonna wrap the stock power cord with a Kable Jacket tonight and see what other differences occur.

[wingman]

Hi Jedi...

Wrap the power cord with aluminum foil before placing the jacket....let me know your input..after your dry run.....?

Will send photos via PM on the motor / bearing housing dampening tweak when time permits....been busy with work and Diwali preparation.

Cheers

[wingman]

Hi...Jedi,

The motor dampening mod is similar to whats shown in the link below.

http://www.analogueseduction.net/isokinetik-rega-upgrades-and-parts/ISO-MJ.html

Cheers

[JediSavant]

Roger that bro!...

Am travelling at the moment and didn't get around to trying on the jacket. Will do so most likely on Sunday.

that damping device looks like a rather bulky piece of kit... did you notice any specific difference once it was installed? Did you get it locally?

[wingman]

Hi... Jedi,

Mine is a "DIY" version, using rubber studs or legs for chairs. Can be purshased at most hardware shops. The biggest in the range should fit perfectly for the Rega motor. Done this mod job on my LP12 as well.

Cost wise less < RM5

Difference... Improved Clarity and more weight to music. All these are incremental improvements in nature.

All boils down to individual taste as well. Don't like remove and use it as leg support for chair. Dual function.

Cheers

[flowerhorn]

I know very little on TT. Just that something mechanical and analogue about it draws me in. I've been thinking of getting a rp1 because its lighter in the pocket. Was also told that the rp3 sounds better. Which should I go for? I have not have the chance to audition them? Any advice from sifus? Thanks.

[cmboy]

Hmmm...try reading from Page 1 of this thread. A lot of info is revealed and you may find your answers here.

[wingman]

Hi...flowerhorn...

Apart from CM's input, you should go for an audition. There are a few places....looking at your budget and a good places would be Amcorp Mall ...ASIA Sound for new or pre-owned units thats being displayed. Alternatively would be at one floor up from Asia Sound...not to sure whats the name of the shop....know the quirky / helpful owner.... Mr Looi or Joe Mac's at lower ground floor. There is another audio vendor at LowYat plaza as well...selling....Project branded TT's.

And you have loads of pre-owned TT's thats being sold in this forum and am sure they can give you an audition as well.

You have fixed ( rega/projects) and suspended TT's (LP12) and each have their characteristics & strengths.

Have a listen before investing and save some dough to get youself a good TT.

Do not miss on the .....phono stage....there are some good pre-owned units going for sale......in this forum.

The accessories....LP cleaning solution....brush...naming a few.

Ask questions if not sure and it's one sure way of gaining information before investing.

Happy hunting and welcome to the analogue community.

Cheers

[cmboy]

No nonsense plug and play TT entry level = new or pre-owned Rega.
Classic and legendary priced above Rega entry models = pre-owned Linn LP12.
Heavier build and better value than new LP12 = new VPI Classic 1.
Then spend more on records than equipment.
My 3 sen personal stand at this point of time.

[flowerhorn]

Hi cmboy, I went throught the whole thread. Can't say I understand fully what was being discussed as I'm still new and yet to own and understan the characteristics of a TT for myself... But I did find out that enthusiasts likes to mod the TT to achieve better performance.

wingman, thanks for your encouragements towards a newbie like myself . The LP12 indeed looks more serious... but i prefer something easy to setup and play for now... My amp has a phono stage built in so i'll use it for now... maybe keep an eye for any good phono deals at the interim.

I may be looking for some calibration device. Tracking force and alignment tools? Anywhere to recommend a good deal?

[cmboy]

OK, buy a Rega P3..perhaps this looks suitable for your immediate need without breaking the bank. Once you have the TT, read the thread again and perhaps you'd have a better understanding. Having the real thing makes it easier to understand things.
Having said that, modding for improvement is for the technically inclined or a handy DIY'er. There's tons of info on the internet. Sometimes people here advertise tools and accessories for TT optional for you to buy, otherwise, search and buy from online stores on the internet. As with most people, price is a primary concern, and buying from online can be cheaper, but you decide and do your own arithmetic. Local dealers tend to sell these kind accessories at marked up or unrealistic prices. All these are imported and now getting quite expensive. Spend more on records, thats the way.
Good luck.

[flowerhorn]

Ok. Thanks for your advice sifoo. I will come bk and read again once I get the TT.

[cmboy]

Please don't refer me as sifoo..just another enthusiast, thats all.
A very good condition used Rega P3 (not Planar 3) is good choice.

P.S. If you wanna look at something better and complete, I've a used and mint condition Michell Tecnodec (UK) for sale. Friend ask me to handle the sale.
https://www.hifi4sale.net/t29541-michell-tecnodec-turntable-used?highlight=michell
I think price is negotiable.

[wingman]

Hi flowerhorn...

No worries.

Calibration tools.....the web is the way....got myself a digital gauge from muday.my...cheap....works for me perfectly fine.

Another alternative...go have a look at shops selling calibration tools....they carry mini digital weighing scales.....price wise .....reasonable.

The Rega / Project TT's are simple and hassle free. Will second CM's views....spend more on the LP's.

As for me...will get something that makes sense...as an example...got a cake brush....for dusting my records before play...no static...cost wise.... less then 5 bucks.

Cheers

[cmboy]

Audio Technica AT6012 Record care brush kit is a wonderful accessory.
I have it from long ago, and its a good kit for spot maintenance. The cleaning fluid is excellent stuff.
For Rega, Shure stylus gauge, Project stylus brush, Audio Technica Cleaning fluid, DIY vinyl engine alignment protractor, and Audio Technica 6012 brush kit is all the neccessary, no need to go overboard.
Buy from abroad, possibly much cheaper.

I got 3 of Shure stylus gauge, two from the 70's, one new production from 2009. The new production type is non-magnetic, material suitable for MC cartridges. Few realize the MC cartridge body is magnetic, and can stick to the gauge resulting in erroneous force.

[JediSavant]

A good Rega Planar 3/P3/RP3 (all in chronological order) will all give very stasifying results.

If you've got a built in phono input on your amp, just make sure it's a proper phono stage and not just another line level input. If its a proper phono stage, it'll clip any other input you stick in it like a CD player, DO THIS ONLY WITH THE VOLUME turned DOWN in order to test.

Then choose a nice MM cartridge or high output MC cartridge to go with your Rega of choice.

Rega turntables are almost brainless to set up and play. My own 13year old Planar 3 has served me well, complete with loose tone arm turret, which was easily treated using precision cut carbon fiber remote control car parts. Now that its been relegated to bedroom duties, it's still in use and a good basis for assessing how musical the primary system is.

[bal]

Bedroom duties eh? Hmmm.... lots of interuptions getting up and changing record sides every 20mins or so.... my she must be patient....

[JediSavant]

I apologise, I wasn't being specific enough. What I meant was there is no longer any bedroom as the Rega will be powering a secondary system in the room formerly known as the bedroom but will morph into the Bedroom Listening Room.

The couch is quite comfortable for sleeping on, right next to the Main System.

LOL

[Hard Graft Records]

Rega celebrates 40 years in the business. here's the interview with Roy Gandy from the Stereophile magazine.
http://www.stereophile.com/content/roy-gandy-40-years-reganomics

[samn]

I'm considering to buy RP3 in Penang Island, both 2 local shops offered roughly RM2.65K with Bias 2 cartridge. Anyone has any idea how much Asia Sound is selling in PJ?

I was also offered in Penang RP1 Union Jack Edition which comes with Performance Pack at RM1.45K with Bias 2 Cartridge. Anyone heard of this model? How does it compare to RP3?

My budget range is between these 2 models as I cannot afford to go for RP6.

Thanks.

[chewkwokhon]

I am always puzzled by especially Rega cartridges of its specifications.  How to trust an Established Rega Co. when no mention anywhere of its Frequency Response.
I had being advised by one previous user of the same cartridge that he used to replace its stylus with Audio Technica AT-95E.  True enough, it fits very well and play better than the Original.
If, your pre-amp/phono stage is sensitive enough to take input of 3.5mV - 7.2mV and simply put aside first all other parameters like Impedance, Capacitance...
The following worth consideration and its very much a big saving:
Audio Technica, AT95E, Frequency Response is 20-20kHz, Output is 3.5mV.
Price: USD40.90
Audio Technica, AT120E, Frequency Response is 15-25kHz, Output is 6.8 - 7.2mV.
Price : USD109.00
The above price is quoted by LP GEAR on the web is for the whole New Cartridge.

[cmboy]

If one is unsure of some cartridge and very little info available, better to look elsewhere for a cartridge that are have more data specifications for your satisfaction. For any stock Rega tonearm, any popular cartridge that suit your budget, meet your phono requirements and weighing between 5gram and 8.5gram are suitable. Any heavier and you may need a heavier counterweight for a better balance. AT95 is indeed a nice cartridge for the non fussy, no nonsense performance.
Lastly, I don't think Rega are interested in deep technicalities, which I realize their TT's are marketed as no nonsense, plug ang play equipment. The higher the model, the better the sound for the money paid. I guess that more or less summarize Rega TT for what they are.

[chewkwokhon]

Is there a different:
Spring Loaded vs Dynamic Balance Tonearm.  I hope someone who would share his experience here.
While many craved about Linn LP-12, I am disappointed seeing Linn Ittok LV-II is indeed Make in Japan.
Some said that Japanese TT is "PLASTIKY", while paying exotic prices for the heart of a machine that is M I J.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/3ntsrm137e27v80/Linn%20Ittok%20LV%20II.JPG

[cmboy]

Rest assured Linn Ittok is a very well built and sophisticated arm in its heyday. The new Linn Ekos is with similar architecture, albeit facelift and different material which contribute to different or improved sonic improvement. Its of heavier build than any Rega tonearm. The 1st generation R200 Rega tonearm was Made in Japan too. 
No plasticky sound, perhaps found in entry level Japanese turntables.. None of that sort with Ittok, it was made for it. Its still highly sought after, even more than old SME tonearms. Put one on Ebay, and you're guaranteed someone will buy it.

[chewkwokhon]

I find it is hard to accept the FACT that the Make in Japan Linn Ittok tonearm is super good for Linn LP-12.   But the Stupid Japanese forgot to make one super best for their own PLASTIKY TT.
It is damn funny, HAHA.

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