Rega P25

Can you use a MC cart? If so, it goes without saying that these would be preferable. However, if you are in a similar position to me, RF interference made this a no go. As a consequence, I went for a Super Elys, which is OK as a stop gap - until I move again. Whilst not ideal, I do think that it does offer better VFM than any of the other Rega carts, all of which rather disappoint at the price.

If an MC is on the cards, I would suggest that you lash out on the extra for an MC30 Supreme - a quantum leap, indeed a cartridge which the P25 is good enough allow it to shine through.

What do you think of the P25 by the way? it seemed to get a rather muted reception, both on this forum and elsewhere, but I think that it is a cracker. Any plans for the P9 upgrade?

Ben

Thoughts?

Since you are in Chicago, you are doubly blessed ! There is a great Naim store in Chicago (I know you already know them, but ) called Pro Musica. Work with them--they are a class operation. Secondly, Chicago is home to NANA--and I know they would help you if asked. Take advantage of your resources and try a couple different combinations and see what you think.

Cheers,

Bob

PS--Check your email !

PPS--I agree with Ross--an LP12 properly set up will wipe the floor with a P25. There are also those who feel an LP12 does the same even to the P9 !
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Do you have the link to the review on the 10x4mk2? I can't seem to find the site to the magazine. Thank you.

Regards
Laxton

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What about the Goldring Elite? - it uses the N boards and is about the same price as an
Exact.

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Is that the high-output version? There's also (more common) Elite with "low" output which runs on S boards.

Rico - musichead

If you're heavily into downsizing, then the P25 is a worthy contender. I think the P25 is fabulous value for money. It doesn't have the LP12's warm bass colouration and it's easy to set and forget. I disagree with Ross (as I always do) about the quality of this deck and I can only surmise that we look at things with a different perspective. In terms of timing, the P25 is almost up there with the Linn! What you get is a much smaller picture, however. The P25 doesn't have the resolution or depth of the Linn.

The P9 is a much more grown-up deck. There are some who prefer its astounding timing, lack of bass colouration and pace, as well as the fact that it's set-and-forget, requires little to no maintenance, and is beautifully made. On the downside, it still doesn't have quite the same scale, portraying a smaller (perfectly formed) picture, and it has a tendency to a little brightness if unsuitably matched. It is a *very* good machine - make no mistake.

As to cartridges, I always recommend the Dynavectors. The 10x4 is an excellent MM offering. If you wish to stay with MM for RFI reasons, there is always the 20XH or the XX-1H. If you don't have RFI problems, then the 20XL, 17D2 (excellent value for money, though Ross disagrees) and the rest all make sense in either deck, though placing a Te Kaitora in a P25 might be a tad much!:) You wouldn't be maximising the Te Kaitora's performance in that scenario.

In my experience, the Dynavectors require a 2mm spacer under the arm for good VTA.

Other options are the Ortofon MC25FL which times like no other for the money, though it has a bit of a harsh treble. I do not like the MC30. Although it has a lovely mid-range, I find it hasn't got any timing to speak of, so I find it boring in the extreme. The MC2000 is a really good cartridge too but that might be a little expensive? Works well in Regas...

I don't go a bundle on Rega's own cartridges since I find their treble to be too busy.

Shahreza - I think the Base might be causing the soft/thinness. Try replacing the isolation platform with something solid (solid MDF or a large tile will do) just to see if the suspension in the rack is causing the problem. We steer clear of the Base platforms for Regas. You could try glass but I'm not so keen since most Regas are already a little bright in balance, most of the time, but even glass is preferable to the isolation platform. This is pretty unusual since the Base stuff usually works well with turntables. If you find the glass/tile/MDF is better, then you could try removing the little rubber feet from under one platform and see what effect that has (I haven't tried it).

I have tried the Projects and I found them quite boring. Yes, they were smooth and silky, but that's not for much other than pleasant background occasions in my book. At least the Regas have pace and excitement.

Chef - In terms of the other question of downsizing, I was discussing the 112 with one of the Naim people yesterday. Now you must appreciate that this was during a Christmas bash and everythign was a little foggy at the time, but this gentleman did say that the 112 is quite superior to the 72, though probably not on a par with the 102.

Personally, if you wish to downsize, then I'd just stick with the 72 and throw in a 180 or 250 instead of the 4-pack. But you WILL lose in terms of resolution, speed and timing. Alternatively, for a really simple, but very effective change, you could swap all your 'amp' for an 82/180. Nice and simple - 2 boxes!

But the 82/180 is a real peach for the money. You'll lose out in terms of scale and drive, but you'll gain many benefits in terms of resolution and dynamics so it's swings and roundabouts really, but it will offer you something quite different from what you've got without being too much of a shock. We've had loads of people who absolutely fell in love with that amp since it has so many of the best Naim trademarks.

I hope this helps (unlikely, I know...)

Regards,
Frank.

b) Trade the LP12, buy a P25, trade the amps, buy a 112/150/Flatcap2, keep SBL's, buy CD5, buy NAT05

My dealer doesn't have the full Series 5 stuff yet but I'm sure he will let me spend extended listening time to both setups.

Thanks again for all your advice

Le Chef

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However, neither the P3, P25 or Project 6 turntables I've owned sound anywhere near as rich, dynamic, liquid, detailed and rhythmic, as my LP12/Cirkus/Ekos/Armageddon/Ortofon Rohmann.

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Just thought I would add that a Well Tempered makes any LP12 or Rega P9 I have owned/heard sound broken.

Cheers

Dev

My experience is the opposite--a maxed LP12 (or even a Rega P3) makes the WTs I have heard sound dull, lifeless, and boring.

A case of horses for courses, I think.

Cheers,

Bob @ Qwest

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The 10x4 is an excellent MM offering

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Actually it's a high output moving coil design.