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

just listed, 1 day left

used AT160ml with headshell

https://auc.aleado.com/yahoo/lot?auctionID=l1211193259

Ray Leung at VAS says the headshells are Magnesium, worth $80 in his opinion. Concealed screws from below, no frustrating nuts, loosen allen screw: slides forward and back for overhang, rotates for azimuth, I’ve got two here and one in transit, only works if cartridge has a flange, i.e. would not work with my friends Benz Micro Wood body.

refresh a few times, their site is busy, often says 'doesn't exist', but it's there.

 

Presently I own a VPI Prime Scout with a Benz Micro Silver MC high output plugged into the ARC SP16 preamp.  I like the fast transients, low noise, wide frequency response, musical character and low distortion of the Micro Benz.  I bought the Rega P3 for a second system in our living room so my family members can have a smaller less intimidating TT to use.  I value above all a non fatiguing midrange with good bass reproduction.  The ultimate goal would be to faithfully reproduce a symphony orchestra which is not going to happen with my budget.  My hearing rolls off above 8,000 hz.  Thank you for all these relevant suggestions. It is going to take some time for me to research them.  My local stereo store recommends the Ortofon Bronze MR.  What do you think of the AT VM 760 SLC? Thanks again!

 

The AT VM760SLC is great but given the family room vibe and the preference for a "non-fatiguing midrange," it might be too much. 

Based on the intent of this setup, I’d just go with the best possible Rega cartridge in that price range and call it a day. Simple setup, no shims needed, decent sound, easy to use. 

This is why providing all the info up front is important. Get a cartridge with an easily and economically replaceable stylus. I don’t think you can replace Rega styluses (except the Carbon). Nagaoka MP-110.

I bought the Rega P3 for a second system in our living room so my family members can have a smaller less intimidating TT to use.  I value above all a non fatiguing midrange with good bass reproduction.