New Rega Planer 8 (P8) Turntable - Apheta 2 Cartridge Combo - Thoughts

fsmithjack-

been following this thread, curious of the outcome.

I'm envious of your position to acquire whatever is suggested to you. Haven't read a thread of someone going thru gear most would be satisfied with.

Have you heard a table system that's equal or better to your digital setup?

Something seems odd here...expectations maybe?

Fsmithjack-
Your audio journey is understood.

Since I'm off the audio gear wagon, it sounds exhausting to me.

"Also, do you think it is ok for me to try out my brand new records or should I wait until I buy a record washer and wash my new records first so I don’t hurt my stylus?"

Arguably, your concern is just audio neurosis. 

Perhaps on some level it's picking up stuff being brand new, but a dip or two of magic eraser after play would remove it.

Someone will chime in with doomsday info if you don't preclean your new records. To each his own.

fsmithjack-

Good to hear you're making progress with your journey.

Yes, the interpretations of my entries should be read as just a point of view, and nothing else.


Many who are SS listeners seem to like what a tube phono stage adds. It may however, induce MORE neurosis with tube rolling! Also, if you're one of those who insist on absolute quiet, SS prevails. I'm not the type who puts their ear against the speaker to hear tube rush.


Ever notice mag review write ups on  SS phonostagesinclude something like this-" brand X almost sounds tubelike?"
Subjective like everything else, but something to ponder.After that, spending time with the existing cart is suggested. If more audio excitement is desired, I would read cartridge reviews for possible enlightenment.

Off topic stuff which may be helpful-


Are you also putting energy on room treatment/speaker setup? It can be the deal breaker with ANY level of gear. Many of us have to listen to our investment in a living space, so we are not hearing our setup in its best light.

Article on cable:
http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm#introduction

It focuses on speaker cable, but touches other areas which you may find
helpful with completing the puzzle.

Once you think your gear is settled, record preference is yet another subject of polarizing views.

fsmithjack-

That system certainly wasn't entry level, although I personally would  have gone tube phonostage.

Still curious if you've heard a table based system you liked?

20K worth of table,cart, and phonostage.
No fancy cables and doodads, can sound amazing. My opinion, naturally.

One other thing, one's choice  in records arguably may influence preferences.

Reissued discs of music originally released on record, are subjectively no better than the CD. IMHO


I'm  one of  those  who obsess playing original presses. Even "greatest hits" are subpar in my realm!

I wonder if your opinion would have been different, if you heard the PERIOD DS album?

Oh well, happy listening.

"Sure they are new and no disrespect to Rega owners but not sure the Apheta 2 is the greatest cart either."

fsmithjack-I think final opinion on the cart is premature , because you DIDN’T hear it through a tube phonostage.

Doesn’t necessarily need to be through the Herron, but a proven model. Again, my subjective opinion. The Rega cart has plenty of positive reviews. It should, it was designed to match perfectly with the arm.

fsmithjack-

Your choice for another go around is a serious piece. Along with the Chinook, If it doesn't grab you, maybe your ears simply prefer  digital perfection?

If I were  getting a top notch table like that, I would up the cart budget if possible. Nice choices at the 1K price point.

'I wish I could have you hear my digital so I could get an honest, objective 3rd party opinion. My digital just vaporized the Rega."

All that matters is what you like. It's all subjective at this level.