1st cartridge upgrade on 1st TT


Hey everyone,

I am looking to upgrade my 1st cartridge on my 1st TT.

A few years ago, I got into vinyl with a Rega RP8. Left it completely stock and just enjoyed the vinyl experience. Read and learned a lot. Still lots to learn!

I had been pondering an upgrade to a MM cartridge for a while.

The stock Exact cartridge got damaged during a recent move. Guess it's time to stop pondering and find a replacement.

Any RP 8 owners have suggestions? 
Listening to mostly classical and jazz.
Not sure what to budget for this. Perhaps up to around $1k.

Thanks! 

 

hleeid

One caveat with Rega tables is there’s not much flexibility with the VTA adjustment. You need to buy Rega spacers to help with VTA.
It’s safe to stick with a Rega cartridge but you can try and see if any good MC will fit. It’s important to match the cartridge to the arm. I’d give Upscale Audio a call to see what they usually mount on that table. 

Thanks for the responses!

Still trying to clean up and organize after the move and will post pics shortly.

Rega RP 8 >> Vincent PHO 8 >> Bryston BP 26 >> Ampzilla 2000 2nd Edition monoblocks >> Harbeth SHL5+ 40s (and now a new pair of PureAudioProject Trio 15 Coax)
@tooblue  My phonostage will support MM cartridges. But thought that as a starter, it would need to be replaced too. 

 

With the RP8 and the lack of VTA you will want to stay in the Rega family of cartridges. They do make some really good cartridges. The suggestion to call Upscale is a good one.

Good luck.

If you want to try MC and budget is up to $1K, just get the Rega Ania. Simple 3 screws to mount, adjust tracking force-good to go. No alignment hassles.

If you can spend $300 more, get the Ania Pro. Forget the non Rega carts.

For your setup as described-best bet until you’re ready to open your wallet for a more serious table/phono stage.

 

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