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Newbie DIY Cartridge Install? Other options?

K

Kronius

New Member
Hey all:

So, I have pre-ordered my very first turntable--the Rega Planar 3 2016. It's supposed to arrive here in the U.S. in a couple weeks. I ordered the version without the cartridge, because I wanted to go with the AT-OC9ML/II. I will be using the MS Phenomena II+ as my pre-amp.

The place where I'm buying it says they can't install the cartridge for me. So here is my question. Are there places that will professionally install cartridges for a fee even if you don't buy the turntable or cartridge from them?

The only other option that I see is to attempt a DIY install using the MoFi Geo-disc or some other similar product. If I attempt to install the cartridge myself using something like that, am I likely to get as good of a result as a pro? or am I more likely to screw it up? I've never owned a turntable before, so this would be my first attempt and I want it to be done right.

Thanks!!!
 
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Kronius said:
Hey all:

So, I have pre-ordered my very first turntable--the Rega Planar 3 2016. It's supposed to arrive here in the U.S. in a couple weeks. I ordered the version without the cartridge, because I wanted to go with the AT-OC9ML/II.
Thanks!!!
Click to expand...

Don't forget to put the stylus guard on prior to installation. :music:
 
Balifly said:
Don't forget to put the stylus guard on prior to installation. :music:
Click to expand...
Yes and I would recommend you push the wire connectors very carefully on the pins with a pair of good tweezers AFTER initial installation of the cartridge to the arm.
 
I'd take the stylus OUT and put it on the other side of the room until the cart body is in the shell and wired in.
 
If the 'pro' was me, using my Geo-Disc, I'd probably get it done OK, but still wonder if it was right. The wondering would extend to whether looking right is actually right, and then to whether actually right for a particular, perhaps mis-aligned diamond might be crooked, after all.

There might be an advantage to a serviceman who has the expensive tools and does several a week, but if you are afraid to touch it afterwards, that's something lost, too, imo. Unless you are a total fumble-fingers, I'd try it myself, first.
 
You'll do fine, not too much alcohol or coffee in either direction :D Just take your time and work in a clean comfortable uncluttered place and you will be rewarded. If you don't feel you got it spot on the first time just carefully loosen the fixing screws and adjust until it sounds right to you. You will hear it if it isn't aligned well. The pro wouldn't have anything available to him that you don't, just more experience aligning a cartridge. Before long it will be second nature to you when you become as obsessed as the rest of us...
 
I suggest learning how to do it yourself, so you have the knowledge to fix or troubleshoot your turntable. Don't pay for something you can easily do yourself. Watch all the youtube videos and ask lots of questions on here and vinylengine. It's not difficult once you get the hang of it. Learning and discovery is part of the enjoyment of this hobby.
 
Not to dissuade you from doing it yourself, but you could call Sounds Good To Me, in Houston, and ask if setting up turntables is a service that they provide, or if they can recommend somebody who does.
 
Why not buy a cheap $20 cart and install that first. That way you will get some experience before you risk screwing up a $350 cart.
 
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