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May 9, 2014 - 8:45am
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Newbie Here. Buying my first setup. RP3 or MMF 5.1?
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I have a Rega P3-24 (the model the RP3 replaced) with an Elys 2 and I love it. The RP3 was a clear step forward, new tone arm, reinforced plinth. The RP3 also is a Stereophile Recommended component while the Music Hall isn't. Full disclosure, I also have a Rega Brio R Integrated Amp which has a phono stage optimized for Rega cartridges. In general, I am a fan of Rega.
That being said, I really like new gear compared to anything that has been used. Was it a store demo? How do you know usage hours? I attempted to buy a used table and almost got burned so I am extra biased on that front.
If these were both new, the Rega would win hands down in my opinion. Others may feel differently. With one being used, without knowing usage details I would say it is even. What are you using for a phono stage?
I haven't gotten that far yet (phono stage). I'm just getting started. If you have recommendations, I'm all ears. I'm a total newb with this. I just really want to have a nice little setup in my home office.
The RP3 is described as "Super low hour dealer demo with new Elys II cartridge. Still looks brand new and comes with the warranty."
The dealer just informed me that it was a demo with 12-15 hours of use and it comes with all the original packaging, warranty, and looks brand new.
12 to 15 hours usage at a dealer with original package and warranty to me is basically new. If you are getting the Rega for like $875 (Music Hall MMF 5.1 price at Needledoctor), I would say that is a very strong deal and would be tough to pass up.
IINM, the MMF 5.1 was a Stereophile Class D recommendation.
Regardless, they are both fairly equally placed.
Rega is known for good pace liveliness.
The MMF 5.1 uses the Pro-Ject 9 Tonearm, same as my MMF 7.1, which tracks quite well, IMHO.
In the end, between the two, the choice of cartridge will have more influence on the sound than which table you ultimately pick.
JMHO YMMV
Enjoy the analog!
Bill
And probably was a recommended component in prior years. I don't doubt that. The nice thing is this is picking between two excellent units.
In the end, you will probably be exceptionally happy with either one. They are both excellent. Couple of things to note:
The Magic 3 cartridge has a replaceable stylus. It slips off, is easily replaced and is cheaper than a new Elys 2. $210 vs $300. The Elys 2 requires you to buy a whole new cartridge and to mount it. This is definitely a pro for the Music Halll as it will be cheaper and easier to maintain in the long term.
One of the nice features of the Rega units is that they do not require a separate ground wire and are grounded via the attached RCA cables. If your integrated amp or receiver lacks a ground for a turntable, this is highly convenient.
Otherwise, they are similar.
I suggest that you get a Music Hall 2.2 for $450, ans then spend $250 on the Clearaudio Concept V2 cartridge.
I have the 7.1 turntable in one system, and the 2.2 in the other one, and I think the difference between the 2.2 and 5,1 is very small. You really have to go to the 7.1 for a major difference IMO.
Okay, so if you had $1000 to start with, what would you spend that on? I don't need everything at once. I plan on piecing this thing together, so if you'd recommend me spending that on a Table alone, I'd do it and worry about a cartridge later. I'm not in a hurry to get this setup, I just want a good setup to start with. I've heard this is addicting, so I'm alright will piecing my addiction together.
The Music Hall MMF-2.2 with the Clearaudio Cartridge is $700.
I think you would have to spend over $1000 to get something better, although perhaps the Ortophon Bronze might be better.
That would be $450 + $450; still under $1000.
You are obviously concerned about good sound quality, but you have not said anything about the amplifier or speakers you will be using.
The recommendation above will get you very good sound quality for $700, but only IF the amplifier and speakers are capable of functioning at the same level of sound quality.
I haven't even thought about the Amp or Speakers yet. That will be a completely separate budget. As I stated above, I plan to piece this together. I don't need to have the top of the line stuff, but I'd like a good sounding setup. Somewhere in the middle. I'm a complete newb when it comes to this stuff, so I appreciate all of your input. If you have suggestions for amps, speakers, etc. I'm all ears. I'll be compiling all this stuff together and purchasing pieces of this as I get the budget for it. Thanks again.
Sorry for the OT, but it appears we have the same turntable.
What cart are you currently using?
What others have you tried?
Bill