Can’t find the best cartridge for Rega Planar 3? Then, you’ve come to the right place.
Rega Planar 3 is a remarkable turntable. However, it is crucial to pick the exact cartridge to fulfill the sonic potential. A turntable becomes more amusing when the high-end cartridge gives maximum money.
Rega reviews among critics are good, but having the best cartridge for this excellent turntable is necessary. Here we have compiled some of the top cartridges for Rеga Planar 3, so you can easily pick the one.
The 5 Best Cartridges for Rega Planar 3
| Image | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica VM540ML (Top Pick) | Check Price |
 | Nagaoka MP-150 (Close Runner-Up) | Check Price |
 | Ortofon 2M Blue | Check Price |
 | Audio-Technica VM95EN | Check Price |
 | Denon DL-301MK2 | Check Price |
Audio-Technica VM540ML (Editor’s Choice)
This cartridge comprises dual magnets matching the right and left channels in the groove of the stereo record for excellent channel separation and increased frequency response. Multilevel-shaped stylus traces record grooves with high-end accuracy, resulting in nuanced audio reproduction that is impossible in conical and elliptical styli. In addition, the shape of a stylus is such that it reduces the wear on records.
Generating efficiency is improved by paratoroidal coils. The center shield plate reduces crosstalk in between channels. Cartridge housing is a low resonance polymer that is durable.
This cartridge is a premier 500 series model in VM cartridge line and high-end phono cartridge incorporating advanced technology of the new era. Para-toroidal coils enhance generating efficiency and provide excellent linearity as the magnetic flux leakage in the unitized, and the continuous magnetic circuit is low. In addition, the use of laminated cores optimizes the permeability of the cores.
Adequate separation of right and left channels is done by a permalloy center shield plate which suppresses electrical crosstalk to less than 40dB. This is the same as the actual crosstalk value found in the record grooves. As a result, this cartridge is one of the best buys you make. When you install it, the sound will feel highly light, and magic happens.
Sound is alive, well balanced, and fantastic that will make you dance. You have detailed and intense high frequencies that are crisp and detailed low frequencies. This is an entirely different cartridge and makes you feel inside the music and does not disappoint you for sure. It is one of the best cartridges available on the market and is highly rated in the community.
Pros
- Detailed sound
- Bass is huge
- No distortion
Cons
- None we could find
Nagaoka MP-150
This sounds the best, much tighter with lesser surface noise and well-controlled bass. The midrange is natural with more secondary distortion, and highs are edgy, crisp, and airy. The cymbals shimmer with much air and ambiance. From a busy recording, it renders individual sound easily. Subtle details beautifully emerge once the cartridge breaks in. The mileage varies depending on the specific audio system setup.
The setup is challenging because the stylus is recessed into the cartridge body, making it difficult to see. The crystal clear and tiny nude diamond needle is invisible, which adds difficulty. So it would help if you were patient when setting up this cartridge. Once set up, you will get high-quality audio which is rewarding. It is one of the best cartridges you obtain at this price.
You can notice a considerable amount of fullness and clarity with this cartridge, completely satisfying you. This upgrade will not disappoint you, so it is best to grab the opportunity to get this deal for realistic sound with beautiful decay. Vocals pop more and bring extra definition in the upper and mid-range. You will not notice any harshness. These are outstanding cartridges that positively impact the sound of your turntable.
Parameters like cantilever shape and material and body material also impact the overall performance. It delivers improved image focus, making the surrounding acoustic standout and flanging effects light. It becomes more articulate and dynamic as it breaks in. Overall it is well made and presents poorly or worn mastered records in their best form. More and more research will make you more confident about this cartridge.
Pros
- No harshness
- Fantastic sound for the price
- Excellent upgrade
Cons
- Setup is hard
Ortofon 2M Blue
The 2M Blue comprises of improved engine providing an increased output of 5.5mV and perfect sound reproduction and high-end sonic accuracy. The stylus has a Nude Elliptical diamond, pole pins, and copper wire.
The cartridge body is highly rigid and eliminates unwanted resonances. It adds more resolution, dynamics, more openness, and details.
The 2M series was created in concurrence with the Moeller Jensen Design, a Danish designer. It is inspired by the facets of a diamond where contours trace the record surface grooves gracefully. The elegance of 2M creates a great combination of functionality and form.
2M is a pretty cartridge made with the highest standards. The unrelenting commitment of Ortofon provides the accurate and most precise reproduction. The name 2M represents the abbreviation for MM, a moving magnet.
The 2M four model was introduced initially in 2008, and the range is extended. The models are excellent and deliver quality sound. Ortofon is a Danish specialist that manufactures high-end products meeting your sonic requirements. This is a trendy choice for upgrading turntables. You can go with this promising option.
The nude tip is elliptical, meaning the diamond bonds to the cantilever end rather than a metal mounting. This usually happens in a budget needle. As a result, it has a higher than average output, making it a universal cartridge for phono stages and turntables.
It has strong build quality despite plastic construction. In addition, a large surface area with precision molding is provided to the removable stylus section, which minimizes the movement which can undermine this type of cartridge.
The sound offered could, however, have a lot more definition. Compared to other versions in this category, it reveals that timing is better, but the bass is not solid. However, it tries to deliver a true sense of vitality. This is a good and capable cartridge that you want in an affordable turntable. It is a fantastic cartridge with detailed sound character, openness, and warmth. Overall it adds to your enjoyment.
Pros
- Ease of use
- Advancement in sound
- Best for money
Cons
- None we could find
Audio-Technica VM95EN
The cartridge provides excellent channel separation with outstanding tonal quality and low distortion. The low resonance housing is durable and includes threaded inserts that allow cartridge mounting to the headshell with only two screws. You will not require nuts for mounting. VM95 series has a similar body; thus, you can replace a stylus with any style.
The stylus is made from a single diamond piece with a round shank inserted in the cantilever. It creates a more rigid yet lighter transmission system. This is cost-effective because of the use of nude diamonds. The reproduction quality is such that it is noticed immediately, particularly in the transient responses’ quality and high frequencies’ fidelity. An elliptical diamond stylus goes around with groove modulation with increased precision compared to a conical stylus, which improves phase and frequency response and reduces distortion.
For excellent audio reproduction, the elliptical stylus tracks record grooves with accuracy. It is made to fit a ½” mount allowing it to be compatible with a wide range of turntables. The VM95 cartridges provide low distortion for astounding tonal quality. The low resonance and durable housing include threaded inserts that help mount the cartridge to the headshell only with the two screws.
You can use the VM95 Series cartridges forever only by replacing the stylus. You need not purchase the cartridge ultimately when a diamond is worn out. Only buy the matching stylus and replace it. With this, you can enjoy the joy of cartridge upgrading with a different stylus. The cartridge uses the electromagnetic engine body, and replacement styli are compatible perfectly. These are pleasant and smooth-sounding cartridges and not harsh. You will surely fall in love with this cartridge.
Pros
- Superior sound and tracking
- Low profile design
- Great sounding
Cons
- None we could find
Denon DL-301MK2
Denon introduced a new cartridge that has changed body style with improved output performance, which offers a more detail-oriented response. Compared to the most MC cartridge, its output is slightly higher and provides a more robust response with lots of punch.
This cartridge sounds impressive when compared to other brands of cartridges of high cost. There is a balance from bass to high frequencies and everything in between. The cartridge tracks perfectly, including the inner grooves, and does not reproduce surface noise.
This MKII offers more detail than other cartridges. It mounts to every headshell and is a perfect choice for audiophiles, home audio, and superior-quality home theatres. Its vibrating system is lightweight and rigid, whose structure is an integral part of understanding the cartridge performance.
It uses a double-layer tapered cantilever, a small solid diamond stylus, and a cruciform armature. Proper damping, dynamic sound, and excellent trace capability are due to this vibrating system. Using this type of vibrating system allows you to enjoy music and preserves the life of LPs.
Robust body construction removes unnecessary resonance, and the frame structure is highly strengthened and unified to involve the terminal pins and magnet. The precision-engineered light alloy case is used. Thus the body is rigid, resulting in accurate and crystal clear sound. In addition, the unique two-way dumping system is used to suppress tonal vibrations that are caused due to variation in room temperature and obtain level frequency characteristics.
Pros
- Excellent cartridge
- Affordable
- Sounds fantastic
Cons
- None we could find
How Do I Know What Cartridge Fits My Turntable?
Every cartridge available on the market is not made for your turntable, but it is simple to know which cartridge fits your turntable. Cartridges are not universal as they are of two types of fitting, i.e., P-Mount and Half-Inch. You can determine the type of cartridge on your equipment by knowing whether there is a headshell or not.
Headshell
Headshell is attached to the end of a tonearm of a turntable. Headshell has slots where the cartridge is screwed and remains in place properly. Sometimes removable headshell is not present in tonearms, but it is a part of the tonearm. Still, there will be two screws on the cartridge top, which fastens it to the tonearm, informing that it is a half-inch cartridge.
Types of Cartridges
Half-Inch:
The name half-inch is given because the holes for screws fastening are present half-inch apart on the cartridge top. These cartridges are installed via a headshell, making it easy to know the cartridge type. Half-inch cartridge is required when there is a headshell at the end of the tonearm.
Shopping for a new cartridge is still confusing; you need to remember that a cartridge with two screws and holes on the top is half-inch.
Most of the high-end turntables manufactured today have half-inch cartridges. These cartridges need more patience for installation. The screws needed for installing the cartridge to the headshell can be easily loosened but challenging to install. You also require connecting different color cables from the cartridge to the headshell. These cables are delicate, so you need to take care of them when removing them from an old cartridge.
For the best performance, once the cartridge is installed on the headshell, you will require a protractor to align the cartridge correctly. It would help balance the tonearm and set the cartridge weight and anti-skating.
P-Mount
Determining a P-Mount cartridge is easy as there are no holes on the top for fastening the screws. Thus no headshell is required. Instead, a cartridge slides into the tonearm near the cartridge’s back in P-Mount. The screw secures the cartridge through the tonearm to keep it in place.
Turntable owners who do not want to follow the complicated steps required to install a half-inch cartridge go with a P-Mount cartridge.
So, The Best Cartridge for Rega Planar 3 Is…
Audio-Technica VM540ML made a top choice as it has incredible sounding and warmth. This makes it a big yes when selecting the best cartridge for Rega Planar 3. It sounds the best however you may conclude differently and choose the other good options given in the article.