Cartridge for Rega Planar 3?

Not sure why you would spend $1k for a cartridge for a $1k turntable that you will be plugging into a receiver.  

I have no experience with the Planar 3.  


Rich 

Not being snarky, I was just trying to understand the logic.  If you look at some of the turntable packages out there (Pro-ject for example), their $800 or so turntables will come with a $200 or so cartridge.  

Without knowing your receiver, it will most likely handle a MM type cartridge, but only a high-output MC type cartridge.  So, at the mid to upper range of your cartridge budget, you may need to consider an outboard phono preamp to get the most out of your purchase.

So yes, you may not be able to tell the difference or possibly, the more expensive cartridge will not sound much better or you may need to crank your receiver up to a volume level where it maxes out.   

On the surface, it seemed to me like you may wind up with a mismatch and orpheus' comments seemed to be the most on point.

Like yourself. I am back using a turntable after 20 years.  It has not been a straightforward experience.  Certainly not plug n play and enjoy.  So,  you may get the best cartridge for the Rega arm, but you will be limited by the rest of your components.  

Ergo my questions.

Interesting enough, with all my noodling with turntables over the last 2 or 3 years, I have come to appreciate more what CDs add to the mix.

I wish I had experience with the Rega or knew your other components to add a useful recommendation.  Personally, the Denon DL 103 is the one I would look at closely.  Also, at $50, the Shure SC35C that Herb Reichert reviewed in Stereophile is a blast to use and the one that my ears seem to like.  I included a link to Herb's review of the Planar 3, he liked the Rega Exact at $600.

http://www.stereophile.com/content/gramophone-dreams-14-rega-planar-3#UmduaApH03MXfF1G.97

http://www.stereophile.com/content/gramophone-dreams-3-shure-sc35c#IRdredCJIMf7BVhD.97

Rich

That makes a difference.  It sounded like you had the Rega already and that trying to get the best cartridge was the goal.

TT and cartridge selection seems to require a lot more knowledge these days.  Almost too much information to take in and then use.   

Have you considered buying a package such as the Project Classic?

http://www.needledoctor.com/Pro-Ject-Classic-Turntable_2?sc=2&category=352

I am taking delivery on one today and will report back at some point.  I wanted something that was clearly the next step or two up from an entry level TT and I wanted less fuss.  It is a departure from my fascination with direct drive TTs.  

I have a Mani in one system (with a Prima Luna PL5 and Musical Fidelity CD Pre 24).  It was a no-brainer purchase at $130.  The ADCOM GTP II preamp from 25 years ago was not cutting it (yet it seemed to do the trick 25 years earlier).  The other amp in the other system (Rega Brio) has a built in phono section.  Arriving at the right cartridge, or almost right cartridge, is a chore at times.  Price is certainly not a good guide.  Once you reach a certain price point ($250 or so), you move out of MM land and into the daunting world of MC cartridges.  


Rich