cartridge for rega 25,Sonic Frontiers SFP-1

The Dynavector 10X4MKII has been my chice for a very musical cartridge. I really can't fault it much, may not have the last ounce of detail but very toe tapping with great bass. Puts out 2.5mv so will work with all phono stages set up for moving magnet. I use mine on a Nottingham Analog Spacedeck fed into a wavelength phono.I have tried the Clearaudio Beta but found it a little sterile, though many really like it I found the dyna to be more settled and rich. for under $750.00 It's a no brainer. Check out Rob Doorack's review in last years listener. This guy has a very good ear and I know him. He's one of us not some [more money means better sound] type.
All the best,
JC

New Dynavector 20xh -- $520
Benz Micro Glider 2 -- $550 if ordered from Hong Kong.
Lyra Lydian Beta -- $700 if ordered from Hong Kong.

Denon 103D MC cartridge, a oldie but goodie, could be called a classic, is available from Denon USA for $229. I'd also say, in case you don't know it, that Grado cartridges and Rega tables are a bad mix--hum. I know that's true for Rega 3 and it may well be true for Rega 25 too, though maybe not. At least I'd check if you're considering a Grado.

I had a Denon 103D years ago and loved it, but replaced it, as us audiophiles generally will, with something else that might well not have been clearly better. I'm getting another for a Rega 25, but haven't heard that combo yet.

Mike Fremer (the stereophile analog guy) commented that you should try and stay with rega cartridges with rega players. I guess the cartridges are built to fit the non-adjustable arms. I've heard both the exact and the super elys (my cartridge) with the rega 25 in several systems. Superb sound. The exact does sound a little better.

The Clearaudio Aurum Beta S is considerably better than the standard Beta for only $100 more. It works well in the Rega 600 arm which comes with the Planar 25.