Pro-ject vs Rega

I know that Rega sounds best with their own cartridges 

And how would you know that? They couldn't sound better with the best cartridges around (whatever 'best' means)?

I rebooted my vinyl life with a Planar 3, RB300 arm and a Shure V15xMR some 15 years ago. Then I changed up to a couple of BenzMicro MCs and then the Decca Jubillee and Reference. At that point I went to an SME table and so it goes. I have never heard a Rega branded cartridge, but I don't know of any reason to think they are as good as it gets. Even today, I have two RB330 arms holding extra cartridges on my SME tables. One of them has the best ever 'cheap' cartridge I have come across, the Nagaoka MP-500. It's good enough that I have already got two spare styli in the cupboard so I can keep it going. There are many other choices, and the fact is that if you like playing records you will soon have several.

I stand by my statement that included cartridges may be cheaper, but probably have little to do with 'best.' It is very easy to change a cartridge and align it well enough with respect to overhang, VTF and VTA that no one should be afraid to try. Please don't feel limited to Rega cartridges if you buy a Rega table.

I put an AT-ART9XI cartridge on my P6 replacing the Ania MC and it was a big upgrade.  I didn't shim the tonearm to adjust for VTA.  

Since you like warm, smooth sound I would consider the Planar 6/ Exact combo if you can swing it.  Furthermore, I am not sure the Planar 3 can get the most out of the Ania cartridge.

Thanks for all suggestions and advice. I haven’t made a decision yet. Another question. Will it be a big upgrade to change pro ject x 1 vs x 2?

Quintel@

I have the SL and Project Classic

Very happy good details & on the side of warm 

Project is a solid design & good arm 

never adjusted a throng after purchase 

my guess is you can’t go wrong with either 

I compared project to Rega to German one ?  
 

Cartridge is the difference maker to me 

Jeff