2. analog
  3. 187934-79491

New Phono Cart with Character Needed

I want to replace a Rega Ania MC phono cart on a Rega P3 because the current setup is lifeless, flat, and un-engaging. Phono stage is a Pass Labs XP17. The music produced currently is full of detail, very lifelike, instruments all sound very real, good upper end extension, but there is no there there. I can plug my phone into my multibit DAC and stream Jazz Groove and have a better experience because the sound is richer and has more oomph. I want warmth, oomph, texture, and wows from my analog. The Ania is just too flat, clinical and dry. I want to trade that for some color and a little more strength behind the notes. Budget is $1000. I mostly listen to Jazz. All suggestions are welcome.

Rega Ania MC Cart specs: Input Load Impedance 100 Ω, Output Impedance 10 Ω, Nominal output voltage 350 μV, Tracking Pressure 1.75 - 2.00 g

Rega P3 has been upgraded with GrooveTracer delrin platter and subplatter. 

mward
regafan's avatar
regafan
74 posts
 

Rewire your arm.

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

@rauliruegas 

I think usually when people are looking for a "warm" sound they are looking for an amplitude response that is tilted towards the low end or in other words the OP is trying to avoid a bright cartridge. Perhaps his system is already on the bright side and he is trying to melo it out. I have not heard the Nagaoka MP500, but my understanding is it neutral leaning towards bright. It is certainly a fine cartridge. Lew certainly likes it. 

I just ordered a Soundsmith Hyperion MR. Got an amazing deal on it. The highlight of my childhood life was getting a new cartridge. Some kids never grow up:-)

drbond
422 posts
 

With the Rega P3, you will always be rather limited. The Rega I dealer that I dealt with recommended Linn cartridges with Rega, and I can confirm that the Linn Krystal sounded much better than the stock Rega cartridge in my Rega P8. Try calling Accent on Music in Mt Kisco, NY. They were very helpful to me when I owned a Rega. I would go with their recommendation, as they have many years of experience with Rega. Realistically, you will want to upgrade your turntable eventually…

bpoletti
1,553 posts
 

Weak link is the Rega table.  Trade it in on a real turntable / arm combo.  

asvjerry's avatar
asvjerry
4,672 posts
 

"Forward! Into the Past!"

🤦‍♂️ ;)  I got spoilt by a MC cart long ago.....about as long as seeing 'MI' to describe a cart....

As for what's available....runs the same gambit as choice of speakers....which intimates listening to the umpteenth power to different ones' on different arms through different equip in different spaces....

...and budget, or >pick your ceiling<... ;)

Happy listening....

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