Rega RB 303 on an AR ES-1. Problems?

[kreutzbear]

After more than 30 years of dealing with the stock arm that came with my AR ES-1 I'm thinking of replacing it with a REGA RB 303 with Cardas internal wiring. I understand that the 303 uses a 3-point screw-based mounting system. I've never mounted a tonearm before and I'm wondering if there are any pitfalls I should be aware of prior to taking the plunge, given that I hope to use the arm board that came with the turntable in 1984.

I was hoping there might be a YouTube video but so far I haven't found one.
Any and all advice would be welcome.

[snfrosten]

No real problems other than you needing a new armboard, the original is set up for an arm set at 210+-mm and the Rega arm is 222mm spindle to pivot. Besides that, the original arm board is not very good anyway. This is all providing the ES-1 still has the original armboard, 1/4" compressed board.

[baron167]

After more than 30 years of dealing with the stock arm that came with my AR ES-1 I'm thinking of replacing it with a REGA RB 303 with Cardas internal wiring. I understand that the 303 uses a 3-point screw-based mounting system. I've never mounted a tonearm before and I'm wondering if there are any pitfalls I should be aware of prior to taking the plunge, given that I hope to use the arm board that came with the turntable in 1984.

I was hoping there might be a YouTube video but so far I haven't found one.
Any and all advice would be welcome.

Did you go through with this upgrade? I’m curious and looking at doing the same thing. Thanks!

[kreutzbear]

No, I haven't yet and most likely won't for a while. I'm currently focused on moving from NYC to Tennessee, a process that won't be completed until September of this year. But when I do I'll post it here.

[snfrosten]

Not that hard but there are a few adjustments to be made to the suspension. Almost any arm can be installed on the ES-1 table.
https://i.imgur.com/foU9G9k.jpg

[a.wayne]

Snfrosten ,

Nice looking ES1 , can you explain your platter , glass or plexi ..? Advantages over stock ..? Also any of you guys tried a speed controller on your ES-1 , thoughts on using one ..?



Regards

[snfrosten]

Snfrosten ,

Nice looking ES1 , can you explain your platter , glass or plexi ..? Advantages over stock ..? Also any of you guys tried a speed controller on your ES-1 , thoughts on using one ..?

Regards

The acrylic platter doesn't ring and you don't need a mat, sounds different and may be better in certain systems. I have a speed controller on one of the tables, has a SOTW motor, makes changing speeds easier, especially with the 8 pound ETL-1 platter. Used it on a plain AR motor also, seemed the motor was quieter, less vibration, must be cleaning up the power it sends to the motor.