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Cartridge recommendation for a Rega Planar 3 with a RB330 tonearm with Rega dust cover?

Budget is $200 to $500.  Preamp phono inputs available in likely use descending order are a Conrad Johnson PV-5, an original Musical Surroundings Phonomena and an Audio Research SP16.  Speakers are either Thiel CS 3.5 or KEF LS50 Meta.  The room measures 12' W X 22' L X 8' H.  The speakers will be on the short wall.  Also, are there any negatives to adding shims to the RB330 to get the correct VTA?  Thank you for your suggestions.

5751
noromance's avatar
noromance
10,474 posts
 

Audio Technica VM750SH. I use one from time to time and it’s detailed without being harsh. The new VMx740ML is probably better value but I have not heard it. I believe shims are the only way to adjust the Rega tonearms.

5751? Nice.

noromance's avatar
noromance
10,474 posts
 

Look at the Ortofon 2MR Blue low profile cartridge for Rega arms. No shims needed. $219.

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,913 posts
 

Upscale Audio has information on what cartridges fit Rega tables with and without shims. When I had a P2 I bought Hana EL from them based on their recommendation and it was a great fit. 

neonknight
522 posts
 

The question is what turntable and cartridge did you previously own. What did you like about it and what are you wanting to improve. Are you a moving magnet/iron type of guy or moving coil? Finally, what do you value in musical reproduction? That helps others make a recommendation for you, and not what they want to personally buy in this price range. 

parkergetdean
1,044 posts
 

the Nd5 is a fantastic cartridge, cost $350 in Europe, nearly twice here. I have bought a few...

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