Pro-ject Debut III vs Pro-ject Essential 2

[JordiMB]

I was thinking of buying a turntable and, being on a budget, I was considering the Pro-ject Essential 2 (or the Rega Rp1 with Rega Carbon cartridge). But an offer has come across: a Pro-ject Debut III, for less than the Essential.

I know the Debut Carbon line has overpassed the Debut III, and that's probably the reason of this price (maybe the store wants to get rid of old stock). Is the Debut III better than the Essential 2?

Opinions and advise wellcome! Thanks.

 

[macdiddy]

looking at the specs for both turntables, they are pretty much similar with only a few differences between them, the Debut lll is/was an excellent turntable for the money (I know I have one) and over the years I have added/changed things like adding a speed box, changing the platter from metal to acrylic, replaced the supplied power supply with one from russ andrews and most recently changed the original cartridge to a 2m red ( which is currently supplied as standard with the new Debut range).

*music2*

 

[JordiMB]

Thanks

 

[Al ears]

Thanks

Both pretty similar as said, buy the cheapest and when possible upgrade the cartridge which is always the weak point on these entry level models.

 

[JordiMB]

I've read about engine noise issues in the Debut III. Any experiences?

 

[macdiddy]

even after over 5 years of ownership, used on a fairly regular basis.

*music2*