Confused about Rega and VTA....


Hello audiophiles-

I have a Rega Rp6 TT with Exact 2 cartridge.  I’m interested in upgrading the cartridge to a MC and am deciding between the Hana EL and the Hana SL.  The dealer I am working with (who will install the Hana cartridge) says Hana SL is only better if VTA can be adjusted.  

So this is the source my confusion!  It looks like Rega discourages adjusting VTA on its tables.  Yet it also looks like people do it all the time (and use spacers etc).  So my question is am I making a mistake getting the technically better cartridge (the SL) if it requires VTA adjustment?  With the Rp6 would I be better off with the Hana EL for this reason?

Two other questions:  does anyone have a recommendation about where to buy spacers?

Should I also get a Groovetracer counterweight while I am futzing around with the table?  (It looks like the Hana cartridges are pretty similar in weight to the Exact, so not sure if this would be something with sonic advantages or not,)

I do have the Groovetracer subplatter now.

Thanks for any insights!  Margot
mcanaday

Showing 1 response by mr_m

I had a RP-6 some years ago. I ordered a round black disc that had various levels of height on it. You loosened the three anchor screws for the tonearm, and put this spacer under it. You turned the spacer  to get the proper level of height with it and then re-anchored the tonearm. This spacer was made by Rega. Cost was approx. $30.