Upgrading Turntables. Stick with Rega?


So I'm new to here, but I think I have the bug that is referred to as being an "audiophile" By the way; I'm not entirely sure if I'm comfortable with the term. Can't I just love good quality music? I guess I am admittedly becoming more obsessed with every passing day. Anyways, I'm planning on upgrading my Turntable. It's time. I've spent a fair amount of time on a recent Rega P2 with my own Sumiko Pearl MM that's on loan from a dealer near me. I love it to be honest. I had a Denon 35f prior, so this is a big step up for me. 

So, what I'm looking for is advice on what's best for my budget. It's around 1k and preferably less. 

I know that I don't want anything by Pro-Ject, and probably Music Hall. The Carbon, and 1xpression classic just don't do it for me. I'm not crazy for the Ortofon Red either. I much prefer the Sumiko Pearl. 

Being very fond of the Rega P2 I'm thinking it would make the most sense to just stay with Rega for now. But, should I stay with the P2? I'm not sure about the auto bias adjustments on the rb220, but being relatively inexperienced is this even a valid concern? I like everything I've seen on the newest P3, but again, being relatively inexperienced, would I likely even notice the benefits from the P3? 

Im considering getting an older Rega table, but I can't really decide, and the dealer I live closest to very rarely has the older Rega's in to demo. What would someone who's familiar with Rega recommend to someone who's forming a budding relationship with Rega? I wouldn't mind upgrading as time went on, but I'd like to at least start with a Planar 2 due to the base features being a step above the 1.  

Or or maybe there's another turntable manufacturer aside from Rega worth looking into that can provide the same quality for the same price? 

Any advice is helpful, even simple "Just stick with what you have and stop posting long drawn out discussions asking very simple questions" 

I know at this point that I plan on staying analog for a long time. I'm actually thinking about getting home to play some new records I got in the mail today!! 

Thanks for your time. 


128x128audiodoggy
I was in the pretty much same situation a few years ago - went from a Denon to a Rega P3-24 with a Rega Exact, and loved it. I eventually wanted to go up to the next step, and was patient, and bought a highly upgraded RP3 (full Cardas rewire, TTPSU, all the top of the line Groovetracer stuff, etc.) here on Audiogon for a great price. I put a new Exact on it, and I am pretty much set - sounds fantastic, and unless I am willing to upgrade all my other gear, all I think I need. Good luck with whatever you decide.

My gripe with Rega has always been the lack of adjustability of the RB arms. No VTA or azimuth tweaking?? Whats with that? 


Update:

I got the new P3 after hearing it spin a record for approximately 30 seconds. Absolutely beautiful. Thanks for all your input! 

Now its it's time to obsess over my next upgrade!!!