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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
10,475 posts
 

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

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,922 posts
 

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. 

noromance's avatar
noromance
10,475 posts
 

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.

tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,732 posts
 

MP-110

is affordable, great sonic value and pretty sturdy

@noromance for the win

ps I keep one in my travel setup troubleshooting case and have loaned as a bridge many many times..  It’s home is a flat rate usps box…

elliottbnewcombjr
7,744 posts
 

just found this concise collection of stylus shape/cantilever material info, it's worth a careful read IMO.

https://snvinyl.co.uk/Hitachi-DS-ST-40-Shibata-Stylus-for-Cartridge-DSST40-MT10-1

 

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