Pro-ject XPRESSION III vs Technics SL1200 mkII vs Rega P3-24

[admin_exported]

Hi guys,

I am looking to buy my first turntable and it looks like the three above are my best options for around £500. I would like something that is trouble-free and reliable, has a clear and detailed sound, and will work well with 70's and 80's rock / metal.

Technics SL1200, in particular, seems to have an excellent reputation... What would you suggest to go for?

Pro-ject XPRESSION III vs Technics SL1200 mkII vs Rega P3-24

I will also buy an appropriate phono box to match the choice of turntable...

Many thanks

Roman

 

[5cats35]

What's your amp & speakers?

 

[plastic penguin]

Not heard the Technics, but heard the previous incarnation Rega and I use Pro-ject. The Pro-ject is very good in terms of ease of system matching, and should you want to upgrade the cartridge they are pretty welcoming...

 

[Anonymous]

speakers are Dali Ikon 6.

I'm looking for an amp now, so not too sure yet, but it will be something with a lot of clarity and instrument separation and warm musical bass. Hope that's helpful?

 

[mitch65]

I know i'm a bit late to this one but I've had an sl1200 (not standard either) and I have a p3-24 and the p3 wins hands down especially if you find a dealer doing B-stock for silly money...........

 

[crusaderlord]

As outlined above the best value i found was the Rega P3-24 which if you find a B grade (try Lintone Audio) for £350 which includes an external PSU then you have an excellent set up and just need a cartridge - this will then depend on budget available but you can get a Rega fitted or as i did look at the Ortofon red or blue range and fit yourself.

My B grade Rega i have inspected very close and cant find any marks at all - most of these are simply the rega badge print being either slightly faint or at a slight angle and wont affect performance in the slightest

 

[mitch65]

Totally agree crusaderlord, bought mine from Moorgate Acoustics 3 months ago for the same money found one small mark out of sight so very happy indeed!