Deciding on new TT: Rega Planar 6 or...?
 

I recently sold a bunch of my entry-level audio gear to my younger brother, including the Music Hall mmf2.2 turntable that had facilitated my introduction to vinyl for the past couple years. I figured that my upgrade to C2600/MC601 gear would justify an turntable upgrade as well, so I gladly parted ways with the Music Hall piece (and my brother was very grateful for the excuse to go buy a bunch of vinyl!). Of course, the itch to fill the empty space at the top of my component stand has gotten more intense, so I'm on the hunt to step up to a turntable in the $2k-or-less category.

Someone had recommended the Rega Planar 3 to me as a great TT that's a step above entry-level; upon further research, it became clear that the Planar 6 would be a better investment since I would otherwise probably end up getting the LPS for the Planar 3 (it's included with the Planar 6), and from there it's only a few hundred dollars to just get the 6. So I'm leaning heavily toward the 6, but before I take that plunge, I was curious if AA'ers had recommendations for other products at this price point that I ought to consider, or if they had any first-hand experience with the Planar 6 that they could relate..?

Rega is a great basic table - set and forget. I have owned and enjoyed the P5, P7 and P9. I currently own a VPI Aries 3x3 and is a major step above my P9. For $2K you should be able to purchase a used table that retailed for $4K. For an instrument as fragile as a TT I would not purchase used unless I could hear first hand and pick up. The Planar 6 has received positive reviews.

I love my VPI Scout. It can be found in the price you are looking for. Personally I think it a set up from the Rega. It does allow future upgrade capability by changing the plater or arm.

I think you should check out the Gold Note Valore 425 Plus Walnut, at $1695 its hard to beat, and some great reviews. :thumbsup:

Ron

https://www.audioaficionado.org/atta...1&d=1532730736

Saru, your post is about 3 weeks old, are you still on the hunt? You don’t mention whether your price needs to include cartridge. If without cartridge, then I would see if you can somehow stretch to the Rega RP8. Without cart it runs just under $3k, and it’s an outstanding value. It can easily compete with tables from other manufacturers in the $5k range. If your budget needs to include cartridge, then the 6 is a great table for the price.

Clearaudio Emotion SE anyone?

Gold Note is not a known name in the USA but has been an OEM for many years, and in fact makes Bryston's popular turntable, and should be a consideration for a well made, high quality, and high value turntable. You will start to hear more from this new name.

Ron

I actually had to put my audio-upgrade journey on hold recently, due to some unforeseen circumstances. Might not be in the market for a new TT (w/ cartridge, btw) for a little while, and I may have to consider something lower-tier ($1k or less) when I am ready to buy. Which is too bad since I was really interested in the Planar 6, but might have to be satisfied with the Planar 3 or a comparably-priced unit.

I bought a used rp6 and immediately installed a TangoSpinner sub platter and triple pulley.
Brand new exact cartridge, with a Herbies mat.
I didn't like the table from the start.
I have since benched the Rega and replaced it with a VPI classic with Soundsmith Carmen mkii cartridge. Night and day difference. I honestly believe that I bought my ladt turntable.