Hicap/Flatcap CD3.5 and Stageline Rega P3 configurations

Posted by: Roberto Pi on 18 June 2017

Hello all,

I've found that according to my listening experience, that matching the HiCap with the CD3.5 gives a much larger soundstage improvement (huge depth improvement) over the FlatCap comparing it to what it does for the Stageline.  Why?

When I switch between HC and FC on the Stageline, I don't hear the same level of improvement as I do with the CD3.5.  I've settled on the following 

Hicap--CD3.5

Flatcap--Stageline--RegaP3

Make sense?  I was quite surprised at the improvement the HiCap made with the CD.  Brought it much closer to the vinyl level of soundstage than expected.  Both power supplies (olive) have < 1 year old capacitors.  The Stageline Pre-Amp must have a higher level of channel separation inherently compared to the CD3.5.  I was really surprised that the traditional 'upgrade' FlatCap for the CD3.5 sounded so poorly compared with the HiCap.  However the FlatCap does a nice job powering the Stageline. 

Posted on: 18 June 2017 by Robiwan

Flatcap is the best powerhouse for the Stageline in my opinion. Nice balance, open, dynamic and powerfull. HC is overcontrolled, thin and edgy.