Tour of My Rega Turntable & Modifications I Have Made
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- Опубликовано: 11 сен 2024
- Inspired by the works Tudor Turtle, I talk about my turntable, a Rega
P3-24. If you're interested in purchasing a Rega and want to make a
modification here are some useful resources to consider.
Tuturtle's RUclips Page (note no Rega stuff here but video shows lots
of other mods to your system set up):
/ @tuturtle
Groovetracer:
www.groovetrace...
Michael Lim modifications:
lpturntables.bl...
Tangospinner:
tangospinner.co...
Vinyl Engine - Rega Forum:
www.vinylengine...
just replaced my Rega P3's subplatter with the Groovetracer. Wow! spent the past 5 hours listening to records that I've owned for decades and I am amazed at how much better this upgrade makes my TT sound. The last time i was this wowed was going from the stock Rega cartridge to Ortofon Black cart.
If there is one mod I recommend to anyone, it's replacing the subplatter. That change made the biggest difference out of all the changes I have made to my table. But of course, a good cart makes a huge change too. Personally, I think Rega carts are mediocre at best. So glad to here you stepped up to a Black. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.
Thanks for dropping knowledge. I admit that I don't know much about this stuff. Looking forward to learning more. Currently using a rega rp1. Which is the first table I bought a few years back.
The GT Subplatter was a huge upgrade. Speed stability, less rumble, and longer spindle were immediate benefits. I also felt there was an overall sonic improvement. I've discovered that a majority of low bass rumble/feedback at higher volumes comes from the cover being down during use. So I am now trying to design a way to correct that (other than leaving the cover up/off).
Thanks for adding the additional verification Mike! I know there are some that are still skeptical but it's good for more people like you commenting with their experience. As for the lid, I always play my records with the lid off.
I purchased the new Rega P3 2016 yesterday and I couldn't more thrilled ! A great leap forward sonically for the P3 to my ears. I will be doing the GrooveTracer reference sub-platter up grade in the next few week. Until then, this new design sounds fabulous .Something very addictive about Rega TT.
Thanks for dropping a line on your experience. I take it the new sub-platter on the new P3 is still mold injected plastic? I still haven't been able to see a new P3 up close.
Rega says the new P3 comes with a newly designed upgraded sub platter . New material and built to much higher tolerances. I will still be purchasing the GrooveTracer reference sub shortly though ! Any cartridge upgrade recommendations ? I'm using a 2m blue at the moment .I'm not a fan of the 2m Bronze for some reason . I listen mainly to jazz.
If you have the ability to go MC, then try the Dynavector 5 x 5. My 2M Black was good but the shibata stylus was very sensitive to surface noise.
Please confirm if a Dynavector DV XX2 MkII MC is used in your modified Rega turntable. Honestly I found your postings really informative and also enjoyed your exquisite taste in music.
They Dynavector is what I am using now. For this video I was using an Ortofon 2M Black.
I agree with you Paul, Tudor's audio component videos are fantastic and informative.
This was also very informative and interesting. I have been in the process of buying a new TT for two years now if you can believe that. I really enjoyed seeing your platters. The Groove racer subplatter showing was superb. The plastic subplatters on some of the other models were kind of cheesy. Thanks for showing these modifications.
Looking forward to the next post~
Rob/Boston
Thanks for watching me ramble Rob. Next post should be up within the hour. Understand the two year process, it took me about a year to settle on a Rega. I was going back and forth between Rega, Pro-Ject, and Music Hall. VPI now has some table that would have been in my reach back then. What sold me on the Rega was the sound of the stock table which is very good and the ability to gradually upgrade. With most of my gear, I want hear it in person first before I buy but with modifications though this is not possible. I try to read up on the experiences folks have had with them before picking them up otherwise it's a shot in the dark. And I have had a few wasted shots with this turntable which I want others to avoid. BTW - Led Zeppelin really sings on a Rega ;) I am sure they do on other tables as well but I love the sound of Rock And Roll on mine.
Excellent info Paul.
Could you also tell me if the Rega is a pretty easy set up? I am not what you call a Triple T {Turntable Tech}. Or would that be a double T? {smile} > I have heard reports that Pro-Ject tables are really tricky when it comes to setting up the arm. They also supposedly skip a lot too if they are even remotely close to the speakers. But I do love the acrylic platters that come with the Pro-Ject tables.
I do not know much about Music Hall other than they seem to be in same price ratio as the other two I just named, They all seem to be realistically affordable.
Geez, Dan O))) {Vinyl Fury} and Mark {beninski707} helped me out so much on buying one of these newer TT's instead of grabbing a used classic. This was about two years ago and I am still uncertain what route to take. It is not so much a money issue but more of an uncertainty still as to what one to buy. But you are steering me in the direction of Rega Drive and I think this may be the route I am going to take.
Thanks Paul. It is very much appreciated~
Rob
Paneeks1960 To answer your question, it's very simple to set up and change things around. IMO, it might be a draw between a Pro-Ject and Rega since the base designs are very similar (i.e. low overall mass approach). The one thing I think Rega does better than Pro-Ject which I didn't cover in the two videos is the anti-skating mechanism. Pro-Ject uses a fishing weight; whereas, the Rega's use a magnetic anti-skate that you adjust with a little pull knob below the arm itself.
I think the most challenging part is putting the cartridge on but you'll get that with any turntable. That said, if you order from someone like Music Direct or Acoustic Sounds for example, they will put on your cartridge of choice for free and take care of the rest of the set up. Not that I want to take away from Rega but if you can, I highly recommend trying to listen to both tables before you buy one. Definitely continue to take your time with it and go with the one sounds best to your ears. Having heard both, the stock tables both sound fantastic but again, what sold me on the Rega was all of the tweak opportunities to further grab the music between the grooves.
Thanks a million Paul. That makes complete sense to me. Excellent advice.
Thanks for the info on the weights too. Your the best my friend~
Rob
I’ve had my Rega P3 turntable for just over a month now and I love it! I want to get the same upgrades as you have done to yours: Groovetracer Reference Sub Platter, Delrin Platter, & a Dynavector DV-20X2 cartridge, which is my dream cartridge. Also a Rega Neo TT PSU.
Even the stock Rega deck sounds really good right out of the box. So I just responded to one comment but another recommendation, outside of the subplatter, is to go to an MC cart when you can.
Without sounding too controversial, I once went to a "Linn" dealer and he said the same thing about not cleaning Records he said to me that the stylus gets deeper into the groove (record) than any cleaning cloth/brush so clean the stylus instead, after two or three plays of the same record it will be much cleaner, His words not mine, he also said to use two Squash/racquet balls cut in half for cheap isolation feet.
Regards from the UK
Interesting to hear that from a dealer. While there is a little bit of truth in it, not everything will be dislodged by the stylus. Hence the pops and clicks. Not to mention, I would hate to be pushing or pulling an object that isn't polished against the grooves. To each his own I guess. Thanks for relaying the interesting story Robert.
he also recommended a "Kieth monks" record cleaner but we all know the price of those
This video is exactly what I wanted to hear. Dont want to have to upgrade a whole new tt in a few years. Just pushed a RP1 higher up on my list!! thanks
The RP1 is not a bad table and Rega even offers motor upgrade kits for that one.
I have a Rega RP6 and I have also gone the GrooveTracer track and fitted all there kit to my turntable including the Delrin Platter.
One o the best mods I did and the one that gave me the most amazing improvement was the Michael Lim Motor Isolation Base Kit. This had a greater effect on my RP6 than the Delrin Platter and the Reference Subplatter combined and that is saying something..
I also notice you are using a screw down record clamp? This is not a recommended practice, even though the GrooveTracer spindle is decoupled you run the risk of transmitting turntable rumble into the LP and then ultimately into the cartridge. It also puts undue stress on the spindle and bearing. I recommend the GrooveTracer Record Weight which does not do this and is heavy enough to ensure the LP contacts the Platter surface but is not too heavy to cause too much stress and load on the motor and bearing. Not only that, it is another fine piece of GrooveTracer Engineering and Art.
First of all, thanks so much for the comment as I do appreciate others perspectives being put in here. I do agree that the Isolation Base should make a large sonic improvement and this is a modification that I would like to make eventually. Decoupling the motor from the plinth dramatically removes much of the external vibrations that can impact the sound. This is why so many high-end turntables opt to have an isolated motor.
As for the clamp, yes, there is some small potential to stress the bearing but selecting material that is designed to take compressive loading and has a high material hardness is key. One is more apt to damage to the sheath which is made of softer material than bearing or spindle but consider you're probably applying ~one kilo, at most, of downward force when putting it on. VPI and Clearaudio turntables employ similar approaches to clamping.
I think one of the reasons I got such a big improvement from the motor isolation kit was because of the GrooveTracer Subplatter and the Delrin Platter plus the fact I am using a Swagman Labs "SE" Filtered Power Supply for my RP6 as well as Isotek EVO3 Power Cords. I also run Mapleshade "Clearview Excalibur" Interconnects with "Plus" upgrade and Graham Slee Accession MM Mono Pre-Amp with a Graham Slee Elevator Step Up Amp with their own Graham Slee PSU's.
I also run a Tango Spinner Brass Triple Pulley with 3 of his Opal Silicone Belts. These belts are far superior to the Rega white belt or any other belt I have tried.
My Cartridge is a Lyra Delos MM.
My "Hot Rodded" RP6 has rock sold 33.33 RPM and a sound to die for, It can bogie with the best of them. My Hi-Fi buddy has a German $18,000.00 Turntable with a top notch class A cartridge and my RP6 blows it away.
Nice video my friend. Just to mention the mods on my Rega p3 tables. I found these necessary due to vibration from the new 24 volt motors and how they are coupled via sicky pad to the underside of the plinth. Vibration caused by this method running through the plinth and further through the lid if left on led to me designing an off board motor isolation platform. Also it necessitates removing the PCB which is normally attached to the plinth also. I now have 2 tables which are fully isolated from vibration and noise. The biggest and best modification you can make in my honest opinion.
Yes. That's a mod I have been contemplating. I would love to have my plinth decoupled from the motor in particular. Michael Lim has a mod that puts the motor on it's own stand that I've been looking at. Thanks for the great comment.
@@BarakaPDub Michael Lim is obviously a very clever fellow and I have one of his platforms and have talked with him regarding my own isolation platform design. I wanted to prove the point that any idiot like myself could design something to make a difference to an already very good turntable.
Hi Michael , If you have not watched this video yet, what do you think about this realization in bamboo? Observe the subplatter and the diameter of the central stem of the subplatter and many other thing !
Great video, Paul. The one thing I changed on my table was the mat (to a carbon fiber) and was amazed at the difference it made. Like I said in my other video, anything doing with the mechanics of a table will affect the sound (whether it is worth it is up to the user, though).
I agree completely Kris. You got to go for the sound you like. On the mat, while I didn't show it, I had the same experience. The Rega's come with a stock felt mat. I was amazed at the difference a cheap cork mat made. Thanks for watching.
The Rega P6 takes care of a lot of the bugs
I have had many Rega’s over the years, they were sub par, this one hits the mark.
Thanks Robin. At some point, I am hoping to restart the the Rega journey again. I might start with the new R6 or R8 models.
My table is basically brand new, I’ve already changed out the belt, GT REF subplatter and the Delrin platter... going to get some mileage out of it before I do anything else... enjoy the music guys!
Thanks Paul ;) It's fun chasing the audio nirvana. I'm always pondering what tweak I want to make next.
My RP1 had the worst wiring and clips you can imagine. Luckily they provide a rubber cardas to join the wiring to the RCA cables. I simply drilled out the existing cables, pushed the RCA cables through the rubber and glued them. I separated the right and left cables to solder the wiring. Threaded it through the vertical tube, and then down the tonearm (removed). Bolted it back together and terminated new (better clips) to some upgraded wires. The results were better than I could have expected. The bad news is why I had to do this with too short wires and poor solder on their clips. I have a good working turntable, but I will never buy a Rega product again.
I can't say I blame you at all. Rega definitely goes cheap in a lot of regards. The latest kicker is that they are looking to use plastic ball bearings on the new P1. They claim it's better than steel but I know better than to believe it.
I just installed the Deepgroove aluminum sub platter kit. The magnet has to be on the bottom of the old shaft to lift the ball bearing out. Otherwise it works like its suppose to. They give a ruby bearing, so you can save considerable money if you don't mind the subplatter only has a basic polish.
Get to the point, I often hear me "shouting" when I watch this kind of videos. That's because I am a Finn. 😁
I think that if you'd let Rega's tech team comment this video they would "destroy" this man. 😁
Yeah. I am sure they wouldn't be happy with it either.
@@BarakaPDub
Can you name some turntable manufacturer that sells tweaks to its turntables?
Hey there. I've watched several of your videos and share your passion for vinyl and turntables. I must admit though that I much prefer solid vintage tables over the newer ones especially Rega. What bothers me the most about the company is their reluctance to post specifications, i.e. S/N ratio, Speed accuracy and variance, wow and flutter and others. I own a Denon DP 60L from 1980 which runs super quiet. It's quartz locking system assures 100% speed accuracy not like the Rega belt drives that you yourself admit run fast. I really don't understand why mid range Rega's, Projects and other brands of today don't have this type of speed control. In my experience Direct Drive (especially Denon and Technics) offers much better speed stability. I think that the reason we don't see much in the way of DD turntables is the simple fact that belt drive ones can be built at a much cheaper cost. I enjoyed watching both parts of your video as it was well thought out. If you are interested, check out my channel. I posted a video on Why I Love My Denon TT a few years back. Good job!!
+beninski707 Thanks for watching. I have been subbed to your channel for the longest time and have loved your room tours and all of your turntables. Direct Drive and Belt Drive operate under a different design philosophy. With Direct Drive, you do get more accurate and stable speed but the challenge with them is the elimination of motor vibrations that travel up the platter and impact what is read by the needle. With the belt driven, you're correct, the biggest draw back is the lack of stability and most of the upper end tables that are belt driven have a concerted focus on getting the stability to be exact. The VPI turntables for example have a $1000 motor controller that can be bought as an enhancement. In terms of Direct Drive, Denon put out a great table and the standard Technics SL-1200 is really not bad either. Belt driven can cost you a lot of money if you want to do it right ;)
+BarakaPDub Thanks for the response. I respect your thoughts.
The plastic subplatter is intentional to take some of the vibration as the Planar 3 plinth is heavier. The Planar 6 has less vibration with the Tensest 8 hence the metal subplatter is a better option.
Metal is harder and more expensive to machine than to mold plastic. That's why you only see it on the higher end models.
Company's have been told to do models that have builtin obsolesce, people go around company's and advise people to keep changing the models, this keeps the company going and its the same as what the fast food companies trick you into, the Los small, med, medlar ge and extra large sale talk.
i cant agree more about the Rega subplatter1 Mine was bent so bad that if i would have bought the delrin platter first , it would have scraped the plinth.i have the reference subplatter from groovetracer also. the machining is so precise on the combo that Ihave to rely on the ttpsu light to tell if it is spinning..
i have other upgrades on my table as well, But the platter/ subplatter upgrade addresses the biggest weakness of these tables.
Thanks for all your hard work.
Thanks for chiming in with your comment. For me, it's good to receive these here so others can vouch for what the upgrade will do!
Michael Lim double pulley and braced acrylic plinth is on its way. It was your review that incited the purchase of the pulleys, as the plinth has been on the doclet for some time.
I purchased his counterweight earlier this year,and was impressed enough by it to purchase the additional items.
Thanks for your objective review of the different belts and pulleys.Very Useful stuff.
Wow, I am surprised they use that sub platter on anything above the RP1. I have never seen a Delrin platter before, great idea, nice and dense.
I agree Rega should offer more upgrades this will more or less stop the crazyness by other
Audio freaks producing all kinds of upgrades which we really don’t know if it really upgrades
your rega.
I recently bought the blue belt from Edward’s UK, i was very surprised the speed control is
so much better then the original rega belt; rega belt 33.6 edward’s belt 33.4!
So some upgrades are really an improvement, i am just stating Rega good benefit if they
were selling a complete range of upgrades themselves.
Thanks Audio & Watches. For me you know something is right when Music Direct is now selling GrooveTracer products. That should be a sign to them they're missing out on some money. Glad you had a good experience withe Edwards Blue Belt.
Just change the table, costs too much to upgrade
Hey man; thx 4 the heads up ... Groove Tracer sub-platter huh? This & the red belt upgrade should do the trick🤫
I hope you like it if you spring for it ;)
This is a whole new level lol, I am looking for a turntable and have no idea what to look for.
Also this video is 4 years old! How long have you been making videos on vinyl collecting? 😎
Ha! Rega's have their upsides and downsides. On the upside, they're easy to upgrade over time without having to spend a fortune all in one shot. Out of the box, they sound really good but I am a tweaker by nature. Since you're in a city where you can demo things, I really recommend taking in your favorite record to an audio dealer and audition a few tables. That said, everyone has to start somewhere so I don't knock the people that get Crosley's. For me the music is the most important thing at the end of the day and the gear comes secondary to that.
As for vinyl community videos, I've been making videos for about five years now but I started out as a viewer about five years before that. I was too shy for the longest time to put my face on camera until another RUclipsr encouraged me to do it. To this day though, I hate watching myself and I cringe when I have to edit my own headshots ;)
Excellent series of videos on Rega turntables and modifications. It inspired me to purchase an RP6.
Also I really enjoy your recent vinyl spin videos as well! The broad diversity of the music styles you embrace is way cool.
Two questions as I have been watching all the videos starting from the beginning after the Rega ones.
1) Why were you afraid that a voltage spike might occur when you pre-amp was out for repair by directly connecting your TT to your integrated amp? Does it not have a phono pre-amp?
2) Could you post the link where you purchased the black gear furniture that is shown in the earlier videos? It looks great.
I have been wearing out Amazon, Ebay and Disogs based on your recommendations! I also have a call into Music Matters Jazz about a subscription.
Finally I love to stream the DJs on KCRW after their shows post as one of my main vehicles for music discovery. You seem to enjoy a lot of what Chris Douridas plays from classic jazz to Dead Can Dance to the Avener. You may want to stream his show on demand or look at the playlists.
Keep up the fantastic posts!
+Jason Lawrence First of all, thanks for watching Jason! To answer your questions, so I think the unregulated current spike was traveling to parts of my system that were not protected. I noticed some funny things going on but I was unsuccessful in measuring. First I blew the capacitors in my original phono pre-amp and then when I missed playing vinyl, I did plug the lines into my integrated amp for a several listening sessions and for some reason, it screwed up my integrated pre-amp LCD screen. My integrated pre-amp still plays fine but the turntable power supply/grounding was definitely the culprit. Now that I have changed the power supply, I haven't had any issues. The furniture, is actually not that exotic, it's just an Ikea media center. Other audiophiles would laugh at me but I think it looks great and it passed the wife acceptance factor.Thanks for the tip on Chris Dourdias. I'll have to check him out.
I have the groovetracer reference subplatter. Do you think I'll hear much improvement from the Delrin Platter? In what way? Thanks in advance
Joel Lopata To be quite honest, it's inches on the mile or centimeters on the kilometer. I felt the change in sound was very subtle. Perhaps if I had a higher priced phono pre-amp, I could really discern a difference. Previously, I was using the glass platter with a cork mat. I did feel a change using a cork mat but then to go to Delrin wasn't a huge jump in sound quality if that makes any sense.
***** Great. Thanks for the info!
Vielen Dank Armien. I am a big fan of your channel as well!
After doing my homework on all regamodels. The point of dimishing returns seems to be myth when you look at rega.
Rega P3 p6 and p8 sound very similar.
The p10 is almost 2 x the price of the p8 yet its way better.
When comparing the p6 with a apheta cart to zyx on a vpi or a technics 1200 GR with a goldring Elite mc cart the p6 came last for me.
I Will be getting the technics 1200 GR its the best value.
It would be very interesting to see if a P1 with a better electricity box like the oelback would be an option.
My friend has a project essential with a ortofon 2m blue and thx to the better electricity box it still sounds really good i think because of the oelback it can rival the technics.
What I am getting at is that the TT and is important as is every part in the chain/system yet when you have a cartridge like the goldring elite or powersupply like oelbach it Will already sound very good altough tweaks in the TT like on the p6-p10 Will also matter.
I understand that the subplatter is supposed to make a difference as well on the rega so perhaps the better subplatter yet made by another manufacturer for less than regas is available. Would be good bang for the Buck and high end!
If the best sound possible on a budget is the goal like it is for me. Then a 50 dollar pioneer Elite cd player Will give you better value then a entry TT that is more expensive than the cd player like a debut carbon from project Will not be a better investment (with a cheaper cartridge than the 2m blue or goldring elan).
Another thing is that an oelback electricity box ( you get what i mean psu maybe q better term ) Will last longer than an expensive styli.
Will it also be a matter of already having good sound with a goldring Elite on a P1 be worth it to get a technics 1200GR ?
Then we can start talking the point of diminishing returns.
As a P3 Will not feel like its being better unless the step is to a p10 i find.
So do you own a P10?
My RP1 one has always had a bit of a wobble, slight but noticeable. I believe the issue is with the original subplatter. Am I right to assume the Groovetracer corrects this? Will the added weight create more wear on the belt/motor?
Weird. It might be a belt pulley problem. A subplatter upgrade will definitely help but I would try and figure out exactly the cause first. I would remove the platter and see if the subplatter or pulley is wobbly. If it's neither, it could be with the platter itself. I know the RP1 uses a composite material for the platter and it's easy to get an upgrade. You don't have to go with Delrin. There are less expensive glass and acrylic options out there.
@@BarakaPDub Ah, the platter makes more sense. It was like that out of the box. Thanks.
You still have this same setup? How long have you had your Rega and does your table have the RB303? Did you have to shim your arm to install your ortofon
I still have the same set up but have made a few minor mods since this video. I still have the RB303 and I did install a 2 mm shim for the Ortofon carts. Really, you need a shim for most carts outside of Rega's.
Very interesting B. I think Ive watched this video 3 or 4 times over the past year or so.
Question-- do you live in the Houston area? I'm in Lafayette La and go there often. I've seen a couple of your video titles mention Houston, so I was curious
Thanks dsonyay. Now that my skills in video have improved, I hate watching these old ones and I wish I could do them over again. As for your question, yes, I am in a suburb of Houston. Haven't ventured out much recently due to COVID though.
I have a rega 1 great turntable but I would definitely encourage people to swap the carbon cartridge that comes with it, I’ve just fitted a gold ring cost me £99 I’m guessing that’s about $130 USA, but that’s my first upgrade so far, maybe a centre weight for the next mod then I’ll call it a day and just enjoy it.
A change in the cartridge will make the greatest change in the sound of the system and the stock Carbon cart is good to get people going but I too recommend changing it out when you get chance.
@@BarakaPDub it’s a budget deck, they have to keep the costs down somehow, I appreciate that’s 👍
Any mods for a Music Hall MMF 5.1? I already have an acrylic platter and have a 2m Blue on it.
There might be a few mods out there for Music Hall turntables. I found many of my Rega ones on www.vinylengine.com. If you do a search on Music Hall, you're bound to find something.
Rega will sell you parts for their higher models, they are sold as spares rather than upgrades but if you wanted to upgrade the arm, platter or even the plinth, that is entirely possible... Although I do think the subplatter is worth swapping out for a metal one if you have a model supplied with a plastic one, which is all of them apart from the P7, P9, RP8 and RP10.
+Si1983h I have seen the tonearms and platters sold separately but I have never seen the plinths. Is there a website that carries them?
+BarakaPDub They sometimes pop up on eBay otherwise you'd have to order one as a spare through a Rega dealer, not sure that buying a brand new plinth would ever make financial sense but my point is that Rega to sell all parts for all decks, you just won't see them in a catalog.
Hi, thanks for your gear videos! I bought an RP1 about a year ago and wanted to do some upgrades. Would you recommend changing the sub platter or getting the 24v Motor Upgrade Kit first? Or should I just upgrade to the RP3?
+sailor_vinyl17 That's a difficult question to answer but if I were in your position and could get a trade in on my RP1, I would go for RP3 first. By doing this, you get rid of the need for the 24v Motor Upgrade, get a glass platter and you also take advantage of the new bracing that's been employed on the model. While I am not 100% positive, I think you get a slightly superior tone arm as well. But I would check to see if your RP1 is using the RB303 tone arm. You could start with the RP1 as a baseline but I think you might be spending more in the long run. From the RP3, you can easily do a couple of upgrades that would best the RP6 but that's just my personal opinion.
+BarakaPDub Thank you for the input! I'm going to save up for the RP3.
Recently discovered your channel and devouring as many posts as I can at one time. Great content.
Question regarding the subplatter. Did you get the standard, deluxe or reference? I have an RP1 with the Rega update.
I'll probably get the Delrin platter as well.
Thanks and keep posting!
Gary.
Hello Gary! Thanks for subscribing as I have been following your channel for a few years. To answer your question, I think at the time I bought my subplatter, only the standard and deluxe were being offered so I went with the deluxe. Getting the subplatter and platter will definitely take your table to a whole new level.
how easy it is to change a damaged power cable on Rega RP1?
I guess it depends on where the damage is. Is it in the power supply (or wall wart) or is it within the table itself? A wall wart is pretty easy to replace but if it is in the power connections leading up to the motor, it's a little more challenging but not impossible.
Great stuff going on here! I subscribed!
Armien
Very helpful, thank you.
I would like to know the data and numerical explanation about that benefit of changing the original plastic subplatter for the, I'm sure way expensive and equally light, military grade aluminion subplatter, a piece whose only function is support the platter
It's a little more than a support in the design. You need to think of motor vibration translation into the platter and what the belt is applying a force on.
Big fan of your vids.
I have the Rega RP6 with the Groovetracer Delrin platter and sub-platter. I just ordered the Little Belter turntable belt based on your findings, and I'm thinking of buying a Michell Record Clamp. Just wondering which of the Michell clamps you actually have? There are two, one specific to the Rega, with a letter 'R' stamped on the it, and a universal one. Apparently the 'R' Rega clamp is made for the shorter Rega spindle. As I have the Groovetracer spindle can you tell me which clamp you actually have and does it work properly with the Groovetracer spindle?
Glad you found the video useful and I hope your experience will match my own with the Little Belter. For the Michell Clamp, go for the universal one. That's exactly what I am using. Do you have Groovetracer's record weight? I was thinking about picking that one up just to see how much resonance it removes.
Thanks for replying. No re the record weight. Record weights seem to be a bit of a grey area where the Rega's are concerned. For me anyway. You and others are using the clamp style without any apparent issues, while Frank@Groovetracer, and others, recommends the weight style. I know that he's not just pushing his own product because I actually asked him in person about record weights when I picked up my platter/sub-platter back in 2012. He was using a HRS on his own Rega and wasn't even considering making them at that stage, True story, when I saw his machining capability I actually suggested he start making record weights. Low and behold he now he does.
Frank's own FAQ section suggests the using clamp style v weight style may result in premature wearing of the bearing. My reasoning says a pound of vertical weight on a spherical bearing has to be just as bad, if not worse than a clamping style. I've actually emailed Frank to query why clamp is worse than weight. Regardless of his reply I've purchased the Michell universal. If he convinces me my choice was wrong there'll be a cheap Michell on eBay.
Stupid question perhaps but if the platter is now heavier doesn't it force the motor to work more than it's designed to and thus burn it out faster????
The difference in weight is really marginal, which is key. You don't want to go to heavy but once you get the centripetal forces going, it's really not an issue. I've been in this configuration for five years and haven't burnt out a premotec motor yet.
@@BarakaPDub appreciate the reply.....
Great stuff mate. Subbed.
+Nick B Thanks for watching and the comment.
This is very informative. Enjoy your videos. What cartridge are you using on your P3-24?
At the time this video was made, I was using an Ortofon 2M Black. I am now using a Dynavector 2XX as my main cartridge but I am running a budget Nagaoka MP110 for test purposes. I hope to have a video on this in the next couple of weeks.
BarakaPDub That Dynavector xx2 is an expensive cartridge. How does the performance compare to the Ortofon?
Well I have never tried an Ortofon moving coil (MC) so it's hard to do a fair comparison since the 2M designs are moving magnet (MM). After using the Dynavector for awhile now, I can honestly see why people love moving coil designs so much. To my ears, there feels like there is more body and warmth in the music with the Dynavector. I am extremely happy with the Ortofon 2M Black though. My only gripe with the Ortofon Black is the Nude Shibata stylus is extremely sensitive to surface noise; whereas the Dynavector is not. Keep in mind though, the degree of improvement in any cartridge is extremely subjective. After running the Nagaoka MP110 and collecting audio samples, sometimes I can say that spending more money doesn't necessarily give you a quantum leap in sound.
BarakaPDub you make a very good point about the subjectiveness of cartridges. That holds true for any tweak, I suppose, but particularly cartridges. I have the new Planar 3 that came with the Elys 2 cartridge. As my Bryston preamp has a built in MM phono stage, I'm limited at this point to MM or high output MC cartridges. I'm very interested and curious to try a Grado Reference series cartridge as I really like the sound of Grado headphones. But, reviews of the Grado cartridges are all over the place. Have you found any problem with the non-adjustable VTA of the Rega arm with any of the cartridges you have used?
I'm a real fan of your videos ! Could you tell me where your counterweight comes from ?
Thanks Lesire for the kind comment. The counter weight is another after market modification from Groovetracer.
@@BarakaPDub Thank you !
I'm planning on getting a new turntable this year but I have no idea yet, what. My old Kenwood needs to be tuned up and tweaked. The better ones seem way over priced to me.
Personally, I think there are good tables to be found on any budget. But it's like we exchanged earlier, you really want to put more money on the speakers than anything else. And with any equipment, I recommend getting a first hand listen before you buy.
Richard Riley check your local dump! Is the best deals you can get check for the centre bearing is not worn and no slop, if you're buying a manual turntable usually don't have a problem keep away from automatics? Linn lp12 quite common Thorens 160, Denon and other good makes should pop up. The linn Lp12 even if you get a Mark 1 or 2 can be upgraded to a modern version all the bearings can be changed and suspension changes and arms Motors circuit boards have modifications you can find people doing on RUclips.
Know you like your Groovetracer. But have you tried any from those guys "out in S America"? (TangoSpinner by Gus Enríquez)
I haven't used any of the TangoSpinner products but I have been enticed by a few. TangoSpinner has a good rep on the VinylEngine forums.
My RP6 just came in the mail. The set-up I'm going with, based on what was affordable is this:
Rega RP6 with external Power unit
GrooveTracer RP6 Reference Subplatter (though I'm not sure what the ball bearing change improves???)
Using standard 16mm 2 layer glass platter that comes with turntable
Turntable Toys Cork Mat
Ortofon 2M Bronze
Is this a good jumping off point? Not sure because I'm going from a crappy $229 turntable to this Rega.
Not sure how easy it is to swap out subplatter and ball bearing, but I live and work within 5 minutes of GrooveTracer's HQ. Maybe they'll walk me through...
Thanks.
Steven Cacciaroni You're going with an excellent set up and the Subplatter is the most noticeable things you'll notice in the upgrade path. Even without the upgrades, the RP6 should be quite the step up from a $229 turntable.
As for the Subplatter install, it only takes a couple of minutes to do it and I found it to be pretty darn easy. The Groovetracer folks include some detailed instructions but all it involves is pulling out the original subplatter, the steel bearing with the supplied magnet, putting in a little bearing oil (also included), and then dropping in the new parts (zirconia bearing and Subplatter).
Have fun with rediscovering your albums!
Is Tangospinner ok? I can not find GT for my RP1!
Yep. I would have not problem going with Tangospinner.
What's the specific model of that subplatter? standard, deluxe or reference?
So at the time I bought this, there were only two options and I went for the deluxe. I think any of the three should make a nice improvement in the sound.
ok, thanks for the video. But what exactly gets better if you change the subplatter?
+Elimnio The stock table is good but there are notable sonic differences when you upgrade the subplatter. Really, the game in all upgrades is to either minimize the external vibrations read by the cartridge, improve the speed, or clean your electrical signal path. The upgraded subplatter, is one of the best ways to reduce the amount of platter/bearing induced vibrations that can be picked up by the stylus and minimize some of the speed fluctuations. While it doesn't minimize everything most people have felt it was a nice step up. All reports, including my own impressions was that the bass extension was more profound and there was a tighter imaging of the instruments. I only recommend it for people that are looking to get a little more out of what's in the grooves. Thanks for watching.
Hi man ... I plan to buy a Rega Planar 3 in maybe 2 months ... you say in your video that you changed the plastic original sub plater for an aluminum one .... ok right .... but what did it change to the sound exactly ? Because I don't see how this part can improve sound quality .... thanx !
Thanks for the comment and I can understand some skepticism. The metal sub-platter is manufactured to tighter tolerances than that of the mold injected plastic one which introduces much more variability. Moreover, since the mass of the metal is greater than that of the hallowed plastic, you take better advantage of the centripetal force. This results in better stability. Rega has often commented that they take measurements on many of their parts, the bearings in particular. The ones that have tighter tolerances usually wind up in their premium models.
If you read online, there are many others have shared the same thoughts about the sub-platter upgrade being the most dramatic enhancement to the sound quality other than changing a cartridge or phono pre-amp.
Hope this helps.
Thanks for the reply ! .. it helps me to take the right decision, and it's not an easy task ;) ... Now I still would like to know a thing ... you say that changing for the aluminum sub platter improved the sound a lot ... What are the changes/improvements you noticed to the sound quality exactly ??
I would liken it to photography when everything gets more focused. The bass and treble frequencies seem to tighten up. To be quite honest, if I had to do this all over again, I would have created some sound samples to go with each upgrade but I only started making videos a year after I made my modifications. If you dig around on the vinylengine and stevehoffman.tv websites and do a search on Rega upgrades, there are more stories to back my findings. That said, the sound of the stock table is really good. Will the upgrade the sub-platter be a dramatic leap in sound quality? That's probably debatable but if you look at their more expensive models, the sub-platter is made of solid metal. Even Rega realizes that there is a difference to be made but as with any company, they are out to make a profit so they can't throw a solid metal sub-platter on every table. Personally, I recommend just getting a good feel for the stock table before you go for this upgrade. If your happy with the stock table's sound then why change anything. Upgrades are really for the obsessives like myself ;)
Which tier did you end up getting, Standard, Deluxe, or Reference ( for the subplatter)?
Thanks!
Hello Benjamin. At the time of my pick up of the sub, GrooveTracer only had the Standard and Deluxe available. I would be curious to see how the Reference would sound.
where could I go to purchase a suitable sub-platter and platter upgrade for my Rega P3?
+Jayce ota There is a variety of places where you can pick on up. If you click on the 'Show More' option below the video publication, I have several links of folks that manufacture them. Ebay is also an option. As one of the commenters highlights below, there is a company in the UK called Isokinetik which sells through eBay. Hope this helps.
Liked and subscribed too
Thanks Butch! Although these early videos are pretty dry watching. I honestly wish I could do them over again.
GT platter weighs 80 ounces vs 70 ounces of the original glass. The additional weight could affect the functionality of the motor (also the RPM)?
No impact to the RPM at all. I did a subsequent video where the speed was tested. It may take a few more second to get up to speed but the motor has enough torque to get it there. After that it's all centripetal force and fighting against very minor friction.
BarakaPDub - Thank you for your response and the helpful videos.
What is that little mat type thing underneath the record clamp?
It's a very small cork ring. I got it with a cork table mat a long time ago when I was using the stock Rega glass platter.
Can I use that same sub platter on my rp1?
Yep. The sub platter design is the same for all of the Rega models so yes, you can easily drop it into your RP1. After making the change on P3-24, I felt everything was a more focused and the dynamics had improved. I found everyone else who has made the modification has said the same thing. Thanks for watching.
Which thickness replacement platter did you get and did you need thmo shim the arm to raise it.
Nice bro
Hello Mike. The Delrin platters manufactured by Groovetracer are designed and machined to be a drop in replacement to the Rega glass platters. No need to shim your arms at all. I did have to shim my arm to account for my non-Rega cartridge. At the time of this video, I had an Ortofon 2M Black with a 2mm shim.
@@BarakaPDub thanks dude for ye reply, very helpful.
I've found a small company to do the machining for the upgrade so il check with them about that same question.
I don't think groove ship to UK yet (where I live).
Many thanks
ruclips.net/video/yx3QfleRwJ8/видео.html
Thanks for the reference for the video. I had never see that one before. BTW - If you can't get it directly through Groovetracer, you could try Music Direct. Music Direct does ship to the UK. www.musicdirect.com/analog-accessories/Groovetracer-Reference-Subplatter
@@BarakaPDub thanks audio brother 😉
Nice review and breakdown about these tables.
Do you think a Plinth replacement would improve these tables in any way, or would it just be a cosmetic upgrade only?
Actually buying one of these for my dad since this is all his budget really meets.
Honestly, while it has it's drawbacks, it's really not a bad turntable. I mean, I still enjoy mine and my stock model has since been upgraded twice by Rega if you looking to buy one new. The stock models really are good coming out of the box.
There are folks out there that have made their own bulkier plinths. I have often thought about it but I do like the piano gloss black finish of this one. While a bulkier plinth would stray further from the Rega design philosophy, there could be small improvements to damping out external vibration depending on the material used.
If I had to do it all over again, I would have sonic-ally measured each upgrade as I went along. Some upgrades will only give you subtle improvement. Hope this helps you out a little.
Do you oil it once a year or no need?
So everyone's mileage will vary but I personally find once a year excessive. Maybe every other year. That said, it won't hurt your deck if you do reoil every year.
4 minutes until you see the table
Thanks for watching though.
Mods are totally unnecessary. Rega has a total concept that works really perfect as it comes from the factory.
If you want to get a better sound just by a more expensive Rega.
Sure...says the guy who put's plastic ball bearings in the P1 and says cleaning LPs isn't necessary.
Paul,
Do you live in Japan?
Why am I asking?
Ian mentioned that he hoped I'd meet you on my trip there..
I'm really confused..
No but I wish I did from time to time ;) I actually worked there for a month in the city of Tsukuba which is just north of Tokyo. I am hoping to get back there some day.
BarakaPDub Went to the Tsukuba Fair in April, 1985. They even had voice to text translation at one booth. Yes, there's one thing I can brag about and it's Japan Geography. :-)
Have youna records cleaner machine?
Yes. I have and Kirmuss Ultrasonic and VPI MW Cyclone. Both I have covered in videos but the VPI Cyclone one was done when I didn't know what the hell I was doing on RUclips
@@BarakaPDub thanks …looks like high pricey cleaning machines…do you know about the project one?
Hmm. I wouldn't recommend the lowest priced Pro-Ject one. The parts used in its construction are pretty cheap. I think you might be better off looking for a used Okki Nokki or VPI.
@@BarakaPDub thanks for the advice
Hi I have a Rega RP1 with a performance pack up grade.Is the glass turn table and sub platter you describe the next up grade?
The sub-platter is where I would go next. That made the most dramatic change to the sound and then I would follow it up with a good platter. If you don't want to go with Delrin, even Acrylic would be an upgrade over their baseline composite or glass models. Hope that helps.
Regas design philosophy is against clamps. I would stick w the manufacturer recommendations. I'm weary of doing any mods besides adding the NEO PSU, as I trust Rega knows what they are doing.
Been using a clamp now for eight years with zero issues. This clamp is designed for the Rega. Don't be afraid to try something new.
Roy Gandi hates people modding his decks.Each deck is built to a price point and by the time you’ve spent your money on aftermarket upgrades you may as well have purchased a Rega deck up the chain.
True. But I love to tinker. The next deck I buy, I probably won't waste the time with tinkering.
Yes I know what you mean.The only mods my Rega decks have is a low centre of gravity counterweight.I think this improves tracking particularly on the lower arms.Roy does not hold this view apparently.
Edwards Audio is cheaper and they have meaningful upgrades.
+keith “yoro 70” parkhill Yes they do. And I just found that they have one of the best after market belts. I did a video which I compared a few different belts and theirs came out on top.
***** They have just added a new table using a JELCO arm. I am eyeing it heavily.
Paul,
June 6, 2018. MP110 on a Rega RB300 and Rega Planar 3. The overhang on a Rega Elys is around 15 to 20mm. This cartridge has the 3-point mounting system. The overhang is set if the all 3 screws are used. So, shouldn't the overhang on the MP 110 be the same as the Elys? No? I don't know.. who here can offer some advice? TIA
For the MP110, you'll need to put in place a 2mm spacer on your tonearm to make it work. Rega carts are more compact than most other carts on the market. If you get the 2mm spacer, that should set you up well for most non Rega carts. Hope this helps.
BarakaPDub i put spacer in my elys 2 to 2mm and it sounds very well for me until get a Nagaoka mp100 cart greetings from lima peru :)
I would agree with the statement that you should clean your records a little as possible, for many reasons.
Absolutely agree. Clean them if they look like they need to be cleaned or if they sound a bit rough, then keep them stored in high quality inner sleeves. Most importantly handle them with care. I have many 50+ year old records which I play regularly that have not been "deep cleaned" for years. They have little surface noise and still sound great. There really is no need to keep exposing your vinyl to liquids if you treat it with care and keep it away from greasey fingers and dust. Do not blow dust off either. This just adds moisture into the mix.
Do however, clean your stylus regularly and most importantly keep the turntable and surrounding area as clean as possible. There really is no reason why a record, stored and treated with care, should ever be exposed to anything other than microscopic airborne particles.
Amen! Could not agree more, sorry for the late response but what do you use to clean your stylus? Ever since I got into vinyl I have used the "Green Stuff" paper as suggested by my local record shop owner who is a veteran vinyl enthusiast.
Sharkey o I would add however that there are good cleaning methods. Ultrasonic baths and quality RCMs are the way to go it seems. But sadly I recently recieved my own RCM, an older Okki Nokki model that had seen little use. It seemed to work fine but some part of the process must be going wrong because my records actually sound worse after cleaning. It really bummed me about after spending that ki d of money and no one has been able to help me with it so far.
So many modifications. It will have lost its “Rega sound”. It’s like calling a car a Ferrari when all you’ve kept are the hub caps.
I am not sure I agree with the Ferrari analogy. Rega's are a far cry from a Ferrari. If you want a Ferrari or Bugatti, try the Continuum Caliburn or the Techdas Air Force One line. Rega's are more like the Toyota Camary of turntables.
Just buy a LP12
Sure thing.
For 6 grand... Yeh OK.... Il get three
Mike Mcguinness you can buy 3/4 for 6k👍
@@watergate9557 🤣🤣🤣👍
Mike Mcguinness 💋
What is that little brown mat he's using under the clamp?
Ahh that's a small cork cat. I use it for early 50's and 60's presses that had a flat edge and were not coined. At least, I found that it works well with the clamp. The Delrin platter has a divot in it which is best for pressing that were coined. If you're not using a clamp, it really doesn't matter.