Rega Planar 3 vs Project 1Xpression

[br??]

Looking for a turntable to buy, I think I've narrowed it down to either a Project 1Xpression Carbon Classic or a Rega Planar 3, with either an Ortofon 2M Blue or an Elys 2. As with most things, opinions differ from place to place. Does anyone have any insight to lend?

 

[KenM10759]

I own a Project, but in this case I'd have to give the nod to the Rega. It's a newer design and they did bring to it a lot of the character of their better units. It can be even better in the future if you were to get a higher level cartridge.

 

[lovinthehd]

Curious, accessing an old record collection or jumping in all new?

 

[br??]

A bit of both. Records have always been a part of my life, but this will be my first turntable.

 

[br??]

Alright, now it's become a question of an Exact or a 2M Bronze. From what I've read they're completely different sounding carts, and both of them have characteristics that I wish the other had. I'm leaning towards the Exact for its warmth and dynamics (and the "Rega synergy"), but I also like the promise of the detailed and open sound of the Bronze. I know I'm splitting hairs here, and that I'd be happy with either cart having not heard the other, but I still can't choose. Help?