The $400 variance is driven by the difference in cost for the Exact 2 vs the Elys40. I will admit, I have not heard the Elys40 but if it behaves like the Elys 2, you get a bit of a lack of bass clarity vs the Exact 2.

For me, this is mildly noticeable in bass heavy Jazz or classical. I hear a touch of muddiness in the plucking of an upright bass in jazz and in classical, some deep percussion is a touch muddy. If you listen to hip hop or anything that is heavy on bass, the Elys 2 sounds small or hollow. Alternatively, the mids and highs are airy, full and shine like the sun. Horns and strings have this extraordinary warmth and beauty that is Rega's signature sound.

The Exact 2 does not suffer from the bass issues of the Elys 2 yet maintains the great mids and highs. I am looking forward to wearing out my Elys 2 and upgrading to an Exact 2.

That was a very longwinded way of saying that I think there a distinct benefits to getting the Exact 2 vs the Elys 40. If you have it in your budget, the RP6 is a superior table with that cartridge.

I am glad you are enjoying the RP40. It sounds like you got a great deal which, in my experience, adds a touch of sweetness to the sound. Thank you so much for sharing your decision and best of luck to you.