Cartridge (other than Rega) with Rega RP10

Lyra is very expensive cartridge, it depends how far you can go ... 

Dynavector KARAT 17D2 or next models with short Diamond Cantilever could be a good choice for less money. 

I have a Sumiko Songbird that I broke right away and have rebuilt now by Andy from Needle clinic with Saphire micro Ridge. I’m using a orthofon 2m for now. How would you guys rate my songbird over the Lyra?

Where I am the 17Dx and Rega Apheta 3 are the same price and the Delos is cheaper than both. The 17D3 used to undercut the Delos but the change to the brass bodied Dx came with a hefty price increase.The Rega will have a good chance of correct VTA on a Rega deck, you’ll have to shim the others if they need adjustment.

Dynavector with short Diamond cantilever is great and this cantilever is very well protected, the other two cartridges with long cantilever in front of the cartridge can be smashed easily and it will be a tragedy. 

17DX
17D2 mkII 
Delos 
Apheta 3 

When I first got the RP10, it came with a Rega cartridge, the original Apheta maybe, I'm not sure. But whatever it was, it was hard, bright and unlistenable. I had it quickly changed out to the Benz. Hopefully Rega cartridges have improved since then.