Rega Exact 2 cartridge alignment qestion


I just picked up my new Rega P5 and Exact 2 cartridge yesterday from my local dealer. It was my understanding that this particular cartridge utilizes, and was developed for a three point mounting system when used with a Rega tonearm. I was told that you can use a two or three mount alignment with this cartridge (according to my dealer). I am new to analog and would like to know if any members have experience with the Rega Exact cartridge and mounting on the RB700 tone-arm? My dealer set this cartridge up with the two screw non-Rega style setup. I just want to get the best sound I can given the best set up procedure Thanks for you help!
rick_hilton
Hi Rick. Definately when using the rega exact cartridge on a rega arm the three point mounting is THE only way it should be set up. It does make a world of differance. Also when you mount it the third screw obviously goes from the top of the arm down. The back screws if you mount them with the nuts on the top side of the arm and the screws threads pointing upward it practically aligns itself as the nuts fit perfectly in the slots of the rega arms. The protective cover for the needle can then still be used by just breaking off the little tabs at the sides so it can slip right on . If the nuts are on the bottom side which I have noticed some do the protective cap for the needle can,t be used. Enjoy , you do have a nice anolog front end for being new to anolog and I am sure you will really enjoy this purchase as it is less fussy than some rigs and really delivers great sound for the price paid and then some for sure. My son is still using the rega p2 I bought in the late 70's and it still works flawlessly. Cheers!
Rick...............Has2be made a great point with the proper orientation of the screws for the mounting. Click on my "system" to see a good photo of how the screws are aligned, exactly how Has2be describes. By the way, what other components are in your system ?
Thanks for the responses! I just had my dealer re-install the cartridge using the template that comes with the table in addition to a digital tracking force gauge. Although, i just noticed that they have the screw heads on the top as opposed to the bottom. Looks as if it is lined up correctly. Is this going to be an issue? Also, do any of you use stylus cleaners such as LAST stylus cleaner or stylast on your Exact cartridge? I have already bought LAST stylus cleaner and Stylast, but I am not sure now if these solutions will damage my new cartridge.

My system consists of Wilson Audio Sophia's Series I,Velodyne ULD 12, Ayre Acoustics K1XE pre-amp, Mark Levinson 331 amplifier, Transparent Ultra cable throughout, Transparent powerwave 10 power conditioner, Apple TV for digital server, and a Meridian 562v for the the 20 bit DAC. I am using an NAD PP2 phone pre-amp, and am currently borrowing a REGA Phono MM. Most of my system was purchased used with the exception of some of the newer items and cables. Next upgrade will be a better phono stage. Thanks for all of your input! Analog is all new to me!
I have used Stylast on my Exact 2 and P5 for two years now, no problems, just touch it lightly to the tip.
Wow, my friend, that's a pretty awesome system !! My compliments !! I'm sure that it all works together to make some wonderful music. I'm glad that your dealer re-set your cartridge with the proper three point alignment, but I do not know if it makes a difference whether the two rear screw heads are upward or downward. Physically, it's a lot easier for the two rear screws to be "nuts up," and the front screw to be facing down, but I honestly cannot tell you if it makes an audible difference. It's probably not worth stressing out about this.....but it's definitely a great idea to go with the three point mounting. You should be "in audio heaven" while listening to your LP's.

I really hope that you enjoy your explorations of the "analog world." There's a ton of great music out there. Just remember.....keep it all in perspective. For me, I love BOTH my digital and analog music collections. I have around 700 CD's and 300 LP's, and it all sounds great. Let the music move you, my friend, and don't worry about all the crazy "audiophile details." If the songs make you happy, that's the bottom line.
Take it easy, and Happy Listening !!