Table of Contents
If you love vinyl records like I do, you know how exciting it is to set up your turntable. Choosing the correct phono cartridge for Rega turntable is one of the most essential parts of that setup. You’ve probably seen many reviews and recommendations while looking around. It can get confusing, but I’m here to help you understand one of the most popular choices: Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges.
Why should you care about MM phono cartridges? They offer a great mix of good sound quality and a fair price. Whether you’re just starting with vinyl or have been listening to records for a while, MM phono cartridges are a solid choice. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some of the best MM cartridges, from affordable picks to high-end options.
What Is a Moving Magnet Phono Cartridge?
Before we dive in, let’s break down what a Moving Magnet cartridge is. An MM phono cartridge has a tiny magnet connected to the needle (stylus) that moves when your record spins. This movement creates a signal that turns into the music you hear. People love MM cartridges because they last long, are easy to use, and work well with many different turntables. Understanding this primary mechanism is the first step if you’re looking for the best moving magnet cartridges.
What Should You Look for in an MM Phono Cartridge?
When selecting one of the best MM phono cartridges for Rega turntables, consider the following factors:
- Frequency Response: A broader frequency response range ensures better sound reproduction, capturing more detail in the music.
- Stylus Shape: The shape of the stylus affects how it interacts with the record grooves. Common shapes include elliptical, spherical, and Shibata, each offering different levels of detail and tracking ability.
- Tracking Force refers to the downward pressure the stylus exerts on the record. The optimal tracking force varies by cartridge but generally falls between 1.5 to 2.5 grams for MM cartridges.
- Output Level: MM cartridges typically produce a higher output than Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, making them easier to pair with a wide range of phono preamps.
- Price: MM cartridges come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Your choice will depend on your budget and the level of performance you seek. Balancing cost with sound quality is crucial, especially if you’re looking for the best budget cartridge.
Best MM Phono Cartridges For Rega Turntables
Each of these cartridges has been chosen for their compatibility with Rega turntables, offering the best performance and sound quality tailored to Rega’s design philosophy. Here’s a list of the best MM phono cartridges specifically suited for Rega turntables:
Ortofon 2M Blue
Awards: What Hi-Fi? Awards (Best Cartridge Under £200)
Overview: The Ortofon 2M Blue is a popular mid-range cartridge that provides a noticeable upgrade in sound quality from the entry-level 2M Red. It features an elliptical stylus with excellent tracking and a more detailed and dynamic sound. The 2M Blue is a fantastic choice for those looking to enhance their vinyl listening experience without breaking the bank. It’s one of the best moving magnet cartridges for those on a budget. If you have a Rega turntable, check out the Ortofon 2M Rega version.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 18 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 1.8 grams
- Stylus Radius: Elliptical, r/R 8/18 µm
Goldring E3
Awards: What Hi-Fi? Awards (Best Cartridge Under £100)
Overview: The Goldring E3 offers an outstanding balance of performance and value, making it the best budget turntable cartridge. It features a dual-magnet generator with a bonded elliptical stylus. The E3 is known for its vibrant sound and excellent tracking, making it a popular choice for those looking to upgrade from an introductory cartridge without breaking the bank. The Goldring E3 stands out for its affordability and performance among the best moving magnet phono cartridges. You can read a detailed Goldring E3 review that is successfully installed on the Rega Planar 1.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 17 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: Elliptical, 0.3 x 0.7 mil
Nagaoka MP-110
Awards: Highly praised by audiophile communities and reviewers
Overview: The Nagaoka MP-110 is beloved among vinyl enthusiasts for its warm, rich sound and exceptional tracking ability. It features an elliptical stylus and a proprietary design that minimizes surface noise and distortion. The MP-110 is a great mid-range option offering impressive sound quality, making it one of the top-rated phono cartridges in its class. It’s easily one of the best MM phono cartridges suitable for Rega turntables and for those who appreciate warm tones.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 18.5 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 1.5 – 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: Elliptical, 0.4 x 0.7 mil
Audio-Technica AT-VM95E
Awards: Hi-Fi Choice Recommended, What Hi-Fi? Awards
Overview: The Audio-Technica AT-VM95E is a budget-friendly cartridge that offers remarkable value. It features an elliptical stylus and is part of the versatile VM95 series, allowing users to easily swap out the stylus for different sound profiles. The AT-VM95E is known for its clear, detailed sound and is an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking an affordable upgrade. As one of the best moving magnet phono cartridges for Rega turntables in its price range, it’s perfect for those new to vinyl.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 17.2 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: Elliptical, 0.3 x 0.7 mil
Audio-Technica VM540ML
Awards: Hi-Fi Choice Recommended, The Absolute Sound Editor's Choice
Overview: The Audio-Technica VM540ML features a MicroLine stylus with superior tracking and reduced distortion. This cartridge is well-regarded for capturing fine details and delivering a balanced sound across all frequencies. It’s ideal for complex recordings where precision and clarity are essential, making it one of the best MM phono cartridges.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 17.3 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: MicroLine, 2.2 x 0.12 mil
Goldring 1042
Awards: Hi-Fi News Outstanding Product, What Hi-Fi? Awards
Overview: The Goldring 1042 is a high-performance MM cartridge with a reputation for exceptional detail retrieval and natural sound. It features a Gyger II stylus, which tracks intricate details in record grooves. The 1042 offers a smooth, balanced sound, making it a favorite among serious vinyl enthusiasts. If you’re searching for the best moving magnet cartridges for professional sound quality, the Goldring 1042 is a top contender.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 17 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 1.5 – 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: Gyger II, Line Contact, 6 x 17 µm
Rega Nd7
Awards: Recognized by various audiophile publications
Overview: The Rega Nd7 is designed for precision and dynamic sound, featuring a fine-line stylus that provides excellent detail and low distortion. It’s engineered to complement Rega’s line of turntables, offering high performance and integration for those who want to get the most out of their vinyl collection. As one of the best moving magnet phono cartridges for Rega turntables in the premium category, the Rega Nd7 doesn’t disappoint.
Useful Specs:
- Height: Approximately 14 mm (based on general Rega cartridge design)
- Recommended Tracking Force: 1.75 grams
- Stylus Radius: Fine Line
Sumiko Amethyst
Awards: The Absolute Sound Editor's Choice, EISA Award
Overview: The Sumiko Amethyst is a premium MM cartridge known for its refined, nuanced sound. It features a nude line-contact stylus and an alloy cantilever, providing exceptional detail retrieval and a smooth, balanced frequency response. The Amethyst is a top choice for audiophiles seeking the best MM cartridge performance in a high-end setup, earning it a spot among the best moving magnet cartridges on the market.
Useful Specs:
- Height: 18 mm
- Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 grams
- Stylus Radius: Nude Line-Contact
Wrapping It Up
Picking the best MM phono cartridge can significantly enhance the sound of your records and is one of the best upgrades for Rega turntables. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for the best possible sound, there’s an MM cartridge that suits you. The Ortofon 2M Blue and Audio-Technica AT-VM95E are great for those on a budget, while the Nagaoka MP-110, Rega Nd7, and Goldring 1042 offer top-notch performance if you’re ready to spend a bit more.
When setting up your turntable after installing a new cartridge, the key aspects to focus on are the vertical tracking force (VTF) and cartridge alignment. VTF, the pressure the stylus applies to the record, needs to be set within the manufacturer’s recommended range to avoid skipping or excessive wear.
Cartridge alignment ensures the stylus tracks the grooves correctly, preventing distortion and uneven wear on your records. Taking the time to adjust these settings properly will enhance your listening experience, offering better sound quality and prolonging the life of both your records and stylus. For those new to this process, consulting your turntable’s manual or seeking professional advice is highly recommended to ensure these critical adjustments are made accurately.
On Rega turntables, the tonearm is set up to work well with most cartridges. But if you use a cartridge that’s a different height, you might need to adjust it by adding small spacers under the tonearm. This helps the needle sit at the right angle in the record groove, making the music sound clearer and reducing any distortion. If you don’t want to deal with adding spacers, you can use a thinner 1mm slipmat to balance things out.
Investing in a quality MM cartridge enhances the sound of your vinyl records and ensures longevity and enjoyment for years to come. When selecting a cartridge, consider your turntable, musical preferences, and budget to find the perfect match among the best moving magnet cartridges available.
*If you make a purchase through links on my site, I might earn an affiliate commission, which helps support me in creating more content for you.
