A used VPI Classic blows away the RP8 at a similar price. The rest of your system deserves a much better table than a rega. The VPI fits that. And if you can find a used VPI Aries, that would also be a great option.
Just in full disclosure and to save others from taking up the flag against me, I am a known harsh critic of rega tables and can find no redeeming competitive qualities that other lower-priced tables don't have in more abundance. I have owned a rega table and, as the saying goes, burn me once, shame on.... etc.
And as far as Sutherland Duo, it's an OK phono stage. But why spend more on the Duo when a Herron VTPH-2a significantly outperforms it at a slightly lower price and provides much greater cartridge and loading flexibility.
Just in full disclosure and to save others from taking up the flag against me, I am a known harsh critic of rega tables and can find no redeeming competitive qualities that other lower-priced tables don't have in more abundance. I have owned a rega table and, as the saying goes, burn me once, shame on.... etc.
And as far as Sutherland Duo, it's an OK phono stage. But why spend more on the Duo when a Herron VTPH-2a significantly outperforms it at a slightly lower price and provides much greater cartridge and loading flexibility.