What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
26 MAY 2008
Goldring GR2
The GR2’s rich sonic character offers an alternative to rival decks from Pro-Ject and Rega
Write your own review
The GR1 (£140) announced Goldring’s return to turntable production after a 20-year absence, and buoyed by that deck’s success, the firm is having a crack further up the price ladder. So what does the extra £125 buy you?
For starters the tonearm – derived from Rega’s RB250 – comes with a 1012GX cartridge plus a Gyger II stylus. The more basic GR1 uses the £65-cheaper Elektra design.
The claimed improvements include smoother treble and lower distortion. Also, inside the platter is a new metal ring, which is designed to improve speed, accuracy and dynamics.
As we mentioned, this Goldring deck borrows heavily from Rega kit: the platter design and the underside finish are about the only differences we can see between it and Rega’s P2.
Richer than a Rega
It’s no surprise, then, that the GR2 sounds similar to the P2. The Rega is a five-star deck, so that’s no bad thing, but we still noticed some differences. The GR2’s character is richer, resulting in a velvety-sounding lower mid and upper bass. Play some Louis Armstrong and the deck makes the most of his wonderfully gruff delivery and doesn’t skimp on detail.
However, up against a Bias-cartridge-fitted P2, the Goldring doesn’t deliver Morrissey’s Irish Blood English Heart with quite the same sense of urgency. Definition at the frequency extremes also falls slightly short and bass lags a touch.
But overall, it’s hard to find fault with the Goldring. It’s a definite step up from the GR1 and, fitted with the Gyger II cartridge, it’s a fine choice if you enjoy a detailed, rich and unhurried sounding delivery.