shall I buy a RP-1 over the Project Debut III?

[huchiz]

Hi guys, I'm in NZ, here the Rega RP-1 is about 100USD more expensive than DEBUT III, I would consider them the same. By the way, here in NZ, we don't have DEBUT III esprit, and not yet have DEBUT III carbon, agent says the carbon shipment will arrive in ONLY 2 month.

Which one shall I choose? I'm mainly into classical and pop, sometimes easy listening, too. Currently have Naim Nait5i and Warfedale OPUS1, also got a TEAC Reference A-H500, can work as a MM phono stage at the moment.

Looking at youtube, finding some video regarding the terrible wobble platter of RP1, shall I worry about that? I guess I should go to a real shop and ask for open box demo before I buy?

Need opinion. Thanks.

[Sandbah 92]

I've had my Rega p1 for 4 years - upgrades are the glass platter and a white belt and a Nagaoka MP110 MM cartridge - I added a homemade cork platter mat. I'm more than happy with it - it's given me much more than I ever expected - I find it's musicality to be stunning. I researched for almost 2 years before I bought it, and it came down to the p1 or the Debut III. Research showed the Rega was the way to go. I've had no issues with speed or wobble. Now that Technics is no longer producing tables - I also own a Technics 1200 MKII - I believe Rega is the best selling brand so they must be doing something right, and there must be more satisfied customers than dissatisfied. I'd advise you to go with the Rega. Yes, if there's a shop where you can go for a demo by all means take advantage of that.

[MusicallyBiased]

Ideally, one would hear both turntables side-by-side in the same system before deciding, but I appreciate that's not likely to happen in this case.
One of the advantages with Rega turntables is the number of upgrade parts and kits available, including from Rega themselves. One option you might consider is a good condition used Rega, which you can enjoy now but upgrade over time. If going down that path, plenty of owners can advise on what to look for when buying (checking arm bearings, etc)

[Grozni]

I've bought Rega RP1 one month ago without audition due to discount price at that time. I made that decision simply according to excellent reviews and discount price. It's great and well sounding turnable at this price and I didnt't compare it with any other turnable, so I can't tell which is better. It's very simple to set it up. Catrigde upgrade could be complicated since there is no markings on weight for adjusting tracking force.
But if I were You, I would like to audition them side by side.

[gsp0702]

If your Wellington based then I can't recommend Real Hi-fi on Marion street enough, last two items of Hi-fi I have bought were through them and it was a good experience. I also auditioned a turntable with Real (Rega P3-24) and at least they could match my home setup with Nait amp etc. The local Project dealer was a not so good experience rung and arranged a demo, turned up on time to be greeted by surprise and demo room unavailable/not setup.

You could also look at RPM records on Vivian as a place to purchase Rega record decks.

[huchiz]

If your Wellington based then I can't recommend Real Hi-fi on Marion street enough, last two items of Hi-fi I have bought were through them and it was a good experience. I also auditioned a turntable with Real (Rega P3-24) and at least they could match my home setup with Nait amp etc. The local Project dealer was a not so good experience rung and arranged a demo, turned up on time to be greeted by surprise and demo room unavailable/not setup.

You could also look at RPM records on Vivian as a place to purchase Rega record decks.

Hi, thanks very much for the suggestions, but I'm in Auckland.
Just bought a 2nd hand YAMAHA PF800+MC705 cart, now I'm very happy with the sound.

[gsp0702]

Sounds like your sorted, enjoy and have fun building your vinyl collection

[Grozni]

Just bought a 2nd hand YAMAHA PF800+MC705 cart, now I'm very happy with the sound.

Congratulations. Enjoy your equipment and music