Rega question

vrmerlin -- Sat, 03/27/2010 - 11:50

Hi folks,
I'm considering an upgrade to my turntable, which is currently a Pro-ject 1.2, with a Sumiko Oyster cartridge.
I'd like to keep my upgrade to under $1500. My investigating so far seems to suggest I should consider the Rega P3-24. On musicdirect.com, they have it only with a PSU outboard power supply for $1295, without cartridge. Is is worth getting that and a $200 cartridge, or better to get the turntable standalone ($895 on needledoctor.com), and a $600 cartridge? For $1100 the P3-24 comes with a Elys 2 cartridge. Or, should I save my money and invest in the Music Hall MMF 9.1 -- is it a magntitude better?
(note, the Rega and the 9.1 were both listed in Stereophile's latest Best of the Best listing)

Thanks,
John

eric ramos (not verified) -- Thu, 04/15/2010 - 04:49

I wonder the same question in some ways.
Looking to upgrade my turntable which is a project 1.3 with sumiko pearl cartridge (outstanding turntable) for maybe a music hall mmF 9.1 which comes with a excellent cartridge or the rega p5 with exact cartridge or maybe buy a vpi classic turntable

SundayNiagara -- Thu, 04/15/2010 - 07:17

If you can afford the VPI, then why not?

rossop -- Thu, 04/15/2010 - 21:22

Id get the TT PSU and, if money was a concern, save up for a better cartridge. I had a Benz Glider in my P-5. I understand the (cheaper) Ace sounds good too.