My first Rega upgrade - groovy baby!!

[bacobits]

I am using a P5 with the now beige belt, TTPS, Groovetracer Pro version sub-platter, Groovetracer counter weight, and BDR Cones and bases. With A 10X 5 it sounds great. Absolutely no speed problems.
These variations show up on piano recordings of course.

I don't feel the arm need re-wiring, and I don't feel the need to replace the glass platter and felt mat. Although I might later on look at Herbie's mats.

One last chance, to speed up the future upgrade to the TT-PSU.
If this upgrade doesn't fix it, then nothing will.
Well, did it? Nope, WTF?!?!?

Back in black, white out the door and perfect (!!) pitch stability!

I find this interesting.

D

[RoDa]

TT-PSU upgrade for Rega P5

First of all, I don't understand why this isn't an original part of the P5.
The motor is made to be used with it, the Rega P3-24 is delivered with it and the same goes for the P7.
Maybe a commercial decision to create a wider price gap between the P5 and the P7?

My own words about the Groovetracer Reference Subplatter:

"The difference is right in your face, no need to double-blind test this one!
I will try to list the most important improvements IMHO:
- Silence. The noisefloor is considerably lowered, the backdrop onto wich the music is presented is blacker and quieter. Earlier I got the impression that the CD-player was calmer and more quiet than the TT, not anymore.
- Focus. The soundstage snaps into focus, all the instruments and artists are more defined and precisely placed. It's easier to hear their placement. I also believe that the soundstage opened up and was presented wider than before.
- Precision. Related to the improved focus, I also hear all details better defined, the sound of a guitar-string, the bass-line, new details in the recordings that earlier where hiding in the "fuzz" ..... "

The TT-PSU gives much of the same results.
Lowered noisefloor, quiet backdrop.
Sharper details, improved focus and bigger soundstage.

The bass is more powerfull and sharper/ more detailed.
Somehow it seems that the TT-PSU brings lowered distortion to the turntable.
I'm able (and willing) to play louder, without any problems or harsness.

This upgrade was a shure thing and not that big of a surprise that it made an improvement.
It is not possible to say that it depends whether you like the change or not, this is a clear improvement for everyone.

45rpm with the touch of a button is also welcome.


BR
Rolf

[Alec124c41]

I don't feel the arm need re-wiring, and I don't feel the need to replace the glass platter and felt mat. Although I might later on look at Herbie's mats.

D

Try a piece of leather. For about $5, you have very little to lose, and a lot to gain.

Cheers,
Alec

[brianmch]

in re the leather mat,

i would look in a fabric store or an upholstery shop. Probably an upholstery shop. Maybe someplace that does automotive interiors. Maybe an artists supply store.

[RoDa]

I am using a P5 with the now beige belt, TTPS, Groovetracer Pro version sub-platter, Groovetracer counter weight, and BDR Cones and bases. With A 10X 5 it sounds great. Absolutely no speed problems.
These variations show up on piano recordings of course.

I don't feel the arm need re-wiring, and I don't feel the need to replace the glass platter and felt mat. Although I might later on look at Herbie's mats.

One last chance, to speed up the future upgrade to the TT-PSU.
If this upgrade doesn't fix it, then nothing will.
Well, did it? Nope, WTF?!?!?

Back in black, white out the door and perfect (!!) pitch stability!

I find this interesting.

D

Actually looking in the DV direction when it's time to replace my cartridge.
DV 20X, AT33EV or a new Rondo Blue (or Bronze) on my shortlist.

Regarding reviwre, platter and mat: You me both








As for the white/beige belt.....
Thinking that the slight wobble on my motor pulley can affect the thicker whitebelt more than it does the original.
Also my whitebelt looks uneven (in thickness) and it doesn't stay in one place on my subplatter. The original belt looks perfect, no up an down movement on the subplatter.
Piano is a good test, I agree.



Will be checking out the leather-DIY-mat


Can you tell me about your experience with the groovetracer counterweight? Aiming towards this one myself.


Best Regards
Rolf

[bacobits]

I don't know why Rega does not include the TTPS on the P5. Pricing thing I would guess. It's always pricing. I got it included with mine used at a price of $925 total Table package. I have tried the P5 with and without the TTPS. The TTPS definitely stays.
My Beige belt looks pretty accurate thickness all around. If yours is not I would return it. I have no motor spindle wobble, if that is wobbling I would replace that too.

I think the Groovetracer counterweight does more for tracking, a tough call on sound of bass where it is supposed to be improved too. My bass is very tight and not bloated at all, especially with Pathos Classic MKII. I also like the smaller Michele counterweights. I got the Groovetracer used at a great price as usual. If you wait long enough everything shows up used. I did not buy the Pro version subplatter used. It is new.

Leather can be purchased cheap at fabric stores. I will try it.



Oh, one important thing that I have had wrong for a long time here is the cartridge alignment. Make sure you have that overhang correct it makes a big difference what "arc" protractor you use. I have commented elsewhere here on the forum.

D

[RoDa]

Thanks for the input, bacobits.

Not shure how I can replace or refit the motor pulley.
A small adjustment would take care of the barely noticeable wobble.

Wonderful deal you got on the P5 and TT-PSU.
Mine was 1540$, used and with the Ortofon Rondo Blue fitted.
Another 430$ for the TT-PSU, new.

BR
Rolf

[RoDa]

...and the fourth upgrade is ordered.

First upgrade - YES
Second upgrade - YES ... NO.... ...yes?.... ...NO!
Third upgrade - YES
Fourth upgrade -

To be continued

Best regards
Rolf

[brianmch]

wellll...pray tell on upgrade 4

[RoDa]

Pics'n'tales coming up, brianmch, as soon as it arrives.

BR
Rolf

[plastico]

Hello RoDa. I too got the white belt as an upgrade. My first belt made my table sound wavery. I sent it back and they-Analogue Seduction, sent me a replacement. I installed it and noticed that it produced a slight tone warble like the first one, but not as severe.I then decided to listen to a 45 RPM recording and WOW! Now thats what I paid for! I,m thinking that when I installed it on the small pulley it was twisted a bit, and when I switched to the bigger pulley it straightened itself out. Now the speed is dead on 33 1/3. I have the Groovetracer subplatter and acrylic platter as well on my P3.

[zfidel]

As for the white/beige belt.....
Thinking that the slight wobble on my motor pulley can affect the thicker whitebelt more than it does the original.
Also my whitebelt looks uneven (in thickness) and it doesn't stay in one place on my subplatter. The original belt looks perfect, no up an down movement on the subplatter.
Piano is a good test, I agree.

Just got the new white belt for my P3-24 with the TT PSU. No pitch instability noted. Nor does the belt seem to move up and down on my (original Rega) subplatter. Piano recordings sounds just fine. My KAB SpeedStrobe Disc agrees. IMO the belt made for a somewhat tighter bass, noticeable so.

[Bob_in_OKC]

I bought my P5 used and then added the TTPSU and a machined subplatter. Both upgrades were noticeable and very nice improvements to my ears, but I feel like I heard more of a difference with the TTPSU. I figure I'm done with upgrading the P5 now...other than cartridges. With plenty of life left in my current cartridge I have a long time to consider my options, but I'm already looking around for others' reactions to LOMC cartridges on similar Rega turntables.

[RoDa]

Hello RoDa. I too got the white belt as an upgrade. My first belt made my table sound wavery. I sent it back and they-Analogue Seduction, sent me a replacement. I installed it and noticed that it produced a slight tone warble like the first one, but not as severe.I then decided to listen to a 45 RPM recording and WOW! Now thats what I paid for! I,m thinking that when I installed it on the small pulley it was twisted a bit, and when I switched to the bigger pulley it straightened itself out. Now the speed is dead on 33 1/3. I have the Groovetracer subplatter and acrylic platter as well on my P3.

Thanks for the input, plastico.
This tone warble just annoyed me too much, now with the blackbelt I find myself enjoying the sound from the turntable more.

Will send an e-mail to Analogue Seduction to hear if they have had customer feedback regarding the white belts.
The first belt I ordered didn't arrive, but AS sent me a new one free of charge. Thumbs up!

I'm very interested in your thoughts on the acrylic platter!

BR
Rolf