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

Showing 2 responses by rchermanjr

rchermanjr's avatar
rchermanjr
4 posts
 
@vitussl101  am running it on a old original Denon DP59L that I bought in 80s...have it on the S tonearm for the slightly higher mass...and an acrylic mat...otherwise stock.  Using phono preamp on my Pioneer Elite C90 I also bought in 80s along with the M90 Main Amp and comes out a pair of recapped Klipsch Cornwalls from 1978.  My Stanton was on the straight tonearm but the recommedations from most was to use the S tonearm if I had one for the MP200.  Is still in breakin stage as only had on about 2 weeks with maybe 20 hours on it so far...but very pleased.  It was more sensitive to proper setup than my stanton though....had to really get it dialed in on balance, tonearm height relative to record, tracking force....etc.    Good luck on the search....
rchermanjr's avatar
rchermanjr
4 posts
 

I was in search for a replacement for my original Stanton 981HZS and after going through Denon, AT, Ortofon, Goldring, and various stylus re-tipping options and reading feedback...I settled on the Nagaoka MP200.  If I was in your shoes I would seriously consider the MP500 which has the same boron cantilever but goes to a line contact diamond instead of the nude superfine elliptical on mine.  The time I heard one it sounded slightly brighter with same warmth to my ears...but yours may vary. Good luck.

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