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SOTA vs VPI (or stick with my Rega?)

I currently have a Rega Planar 3 (2016) with a Dynavector 10x5 that suits me and my record collection (mostly reggae, afrobeat, and jazz) but have been thinking about a turntable upgrade as my vinyl collection continues to expand.

Initially, I considered just a simple Groovetracer subplatter and upgraded counterweight, but am not sure if that is worthwhile. So now I've expanded the search to include a used SOTA Sapphire V or used VPI Prime/VPI Classic. I like the Rega's "PRAT" and no-nonsense design, but would be interested in getting more detail and cleaner, deeper bass out of my vinyl.

Any suggestions/advice/thoughts and alternatives welcome. THANKS!
For reference, my system consists of a Hegel H-160, Vandersteen Treos (non CT), Rega Planar 3, LFD Phonostage LE, and Dynavector 10x5. 
gritter2
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Oh, the SOTA has a nice solidity to the sound with good body and saturation. It’s more like an idler in that sense, only quieter and more serene, with less punch. My LP12s have better PRAT, as did the Regas that I’ve owned in the past.

The SOTA is, pretty much set and forget which is another blessing. they were originally voiced with the later SME arms, so those are a good choice. I use a Well Tempered, which seems to be a good match as well.
gochurchgo
144 posts
 
@viridian The Rega has better PRAT than the VPI? I hadn’t heard that before. Very interesting.

Can you elaborate more? (Not hating, I am in the market and listen to punk and faster music so PRAT is important to me).
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Take my opinion with a grain of salt, as it is just that. Yes, subjectively the P3, P3-24, RP3 and RP6 were all pacier than the VPI and SOTA tables, that I have heard, and owned. And I won’t try to assign a reason as some feel the Rega turntables run fast (mine did not with an LP playing and the stylus in the groove), or that being bass shy causes the effect (more probable, IMHO).The LP12 has more PRAT yet. I would love to hear an RP10.

Unfortunately, PRAT is a rather one dimensional look, and the VPI and SOTA tables have some fantastic, unerring, strengths beyond their Brit competition. PRAT is just not one of them.
smoffatt
205 posts
 
I started out with an AR in the early 80’s than replaced it with a SOTA Star Saphire, a dealer’s démo then. I was so impressed that I traded it in for a Nova a few years later. Both were used with an SME V tonearm. I traded the Nova for a new Cosmos IV in 2008 which now sports a Graham Phatom II. I would never buy a TT without vacuum hold down and Sota does it right at an affordable price (so to speak). For the price they can’t be beat. 
Customer service is also top notch although I miss those animated conversations I have had with Kirk in years past. RIP my friend.
This is a good US based TT company along with VPI. 
gritter2 OP
27 posts
 
So, I took the plunge and purchased the SOTA Sapphire V w/ Origin Live Silver MK3a tonearm. Turntable should arrive in the next day or so, and excited to get it set up and playing records.

For the time being, I'll be running my Dynavector 10x5 on it, so will be fun to compare the sound. Thanks again to everyone on this forum for their feedback/suggestions.
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