I've purchased a Rega Planar 3 and Dynavector 10x4 mk2 for playing a bit of vinyl now and then. My CDX is still very much the primary source.
I've read the recent thread regarding improvements in the 82 when phono cards are removed. Since I'm now in the position to hook a turntable into my 82, is it best to insert internal cards (to the detriment of my CDX) or to use the new Stageline powered by a SNAPS2?
Does the Stageline sound as good as the 82's high-output phono cards? Is a SNAPS sufficient to power the Stageline? Do the phono cards really screw-up the 82?
BTW, I'm using a Super-Cap, which may impact this decision. On that point, could I use the Super-Cap's spare digital output to power a Stageline?
-=> Mike Hanson <=-
P.S. I just noticed that the Stageline has RCA inputs. This would save me the trouble of reterminating my turntable's leads with BNC connectors. Should I still go with BNCs, even if I go with the Stageline?
Posted on: 10 March 2001 by Rico
Mike
I've not heard the stageline. If I wasn't getting too serious about vinyl (eg, a Planar 3, as you mention), I'd just go with the internal phono boards. Funds for a stageline would be diverted to a better source, as first priority (eg used LP12 or alternative), under the 'you might be able to hear more of your source with better phono-preamp' but tempered with the 'not able to make a silk-purse from a sow's ear' school of thought (note - this is not to bag the Planar 3!). I'd take any reduction of 82's performance (from the presence of phono cards) as a minor side effect rebalanced with your new-found ability to trawl garage sales/record stores and enjoy your prizes.
I really think you'll find the difference to your other line sources (with the phono boards in) neglegible - if you don't currently have a pair to try, could you borrow an old pair from your friendly dealer, in order to help you evaluate?
Re termination of BNC's on your planar - go for it, man! And if it's old, a new belt and charge of bearing oil will definitely be in order.
HTH
Rico - all your base are belong to us.
Posted on: 11 March 2001 by Martin Payne
Mike,
I note that you already own a SNAPS2. Do you intend to use this?
If you're going to have to buy internal cards, then the additional expense of the Stageline is only around £100 in the UK.
This will avoid degrading your CD replay, and is currently doing wonders for my mate 'Juan' powered by FlatCap2.
Go for it.
cheers, Martin
Posted on: 12 March 2001 by Mike Hanson
Thanks for the suggestions, guys. It's actually a brand new table and cart, so there's no need for a new belt, etc. I'm actually using both of my SNAPS2's right now (one for the 32.5 on my secondary system, and the other for my Headline). This would mean buying yet another.
Therefore, I'm hoping that the Super-Cap is capable of driving the 82 w/phono cards, without too much degration in sound quality.
-=> Mike Hanson <=-
Posted on: 12 March 2001 by Ron The Mon
Rico said;
quote:
And if it's old, a new belt and charge of bearing oil will definitely be in order.
Only use grease on a P-3, not oil!!
(and definitely replace the belt)
Ron The Mon
Posted on: 13 March 2001 by Goose
Gents
I have just fitted a DV 10X4 on my mates Rega P3 2000, and it sounds great! Very impressive and transparent kind of sound. Between 1.7 and 2grams are recommended!
I am too contemplating vinyl phono stage upgrade for 82/SC, perhaps the DV PHA-100 phono preamp, which is absolutely cracking! Will hear the stageline aswell.
Mike, happy bargain record hunting!
Cheers
Goose
Posted on: 13 March 2001 by Rico
quote:
Only use grease on a P-3, not oil!!
(and definitely replace the belt)
Thanks, Ron - I stand corrected !
Rico - all your base are belong to us.
Posted on: 13 March 2001 by Greg Beatty
C'mon mate - are you *really* considering compromising the performance of your 82 to accomodate a secondary source?
Tell me its not true...
- GregB
Just the Music, Man
Posted on: 13 March 2001 by Mike Hanson
TimF said:quote:
Hey Mike, how are you getting along with the P3
It's still in storage until May or June, once I've moved into my house.
Greg Beatty said:
quote:
C'mon mate - are you *really* considering compromising the performance of your 82 to accomodate a secondary source?
Apparently so. 
I'm not sure how much of a drop in performance it will be. Since I'm installing some Mana at the same time (phase 2 for the CDX and phase 1 for the 82), hopefully I won't notice it.
-=> Mike Hanson <=-
