Detailed steps for motor isolation base upgrade for Rega P1(&P2,P3) turntable

A Rega P1 user after viewing my earlier post on "Simple steps to improve or upgrade the Rega P1 (& P2)" was puzzled why I did not include the motor isolation base upgrade as an option for the upgrade? Is it not necessary?

Actually when I first introduced these upgrades to fellow enthusiasts, I only began with simple plug and play items only. And this motor isolation base upgrade, though it is simple, it involves some basic dismantling and installation work which requires DIY skill. So I have left this more adventurous part out until we are ready to go one step further!

After my comparison test between Rega Planar 3 motor upgrade and the motor isolation base, IB22, recently and obtained the result that the "old higher vibration motor" on IB22 isolation base out-performed the Rega's low vibration motor fixed to the plinth with double-sided tape (refer to my last post of motor upgrade), I feel that I should highlight this important option to all Rega P1/P2/P3/P5 users also. If you are serious on improving the sound of your turntables, remember that the motor vibration is a major factor impeding the performance of turntable. By removing the vibration from the plinth "completely", you give a major fillip to the sound of Rega P1 .

How to do it? It's quite simple and there is no drilling required.

Here are the detailed steps (refer to my earlier post on "Motor vibration isolation base") :

1. Make sure that the AC power supply is switched off and pull the AC plug out of the electrical socket .

2. Remove the motor compartment cover.

3. Since the motor is fixed to the board (plinth) using double-sided tape, a little strength is required to pull it off the board. Be careful not to break the motor wires soldered to the small PCB (printed circuit board).

4. Remove part of the double-sided tape which covers the flange of motor to reveal the mounting holes (not necessary to remove all).

5. Use the screws provided to fasten the motor to the stainless steel motor base. Apply force evenly on both sides by tightening the screws alternatively.

6. Put the motor/motor base back into the motor compartment and cover the motor compartment with the rubber mesh netting provided. Secure the rubber mesh netting using existing cover screws such that there is a slack of 7mm-8mm. Make sure when the turntable (in upright position) is lifted up from the table, the motor pulley stays within the 20mm hole.

7. Align the pulley in the centre of the hole, making sure that the motor is 1 mm-2 mm below the board, not touching the bottom surface of the plinth.

Now you are ready to enjoy the improvement of your upgrade!

*Read more on : "Tips on upgrading ..........">>