RP8; VTA, record thickness and cartridge choice?

Posted by: Judge on 09 October 2017

On my current turntable I use the original 3mm thick rubber mat for my normal vinyl, but for the 180gm stuff I use a 2mm rubber/cork mat.  Both sound fine but the main idea is that because the heavier records are thicker, the thinner mat provides enough correction for VTA.  I could actually adjust the arm too, but fortunately this works really well.

I like the concept behind Rega’s Turntables and the simple design, but I’m not sure how they cope with varying record thicknesses.  I understand there is no VTA adjustment on the arm either.

In a number of photos of forum member systems a Rega seems to feature and so I was curious what users have found when playing different thickness records.  A lot about vinyl replay is some form of [optimised] compromise, so does it even matter?

Also, if the is no VTA adjustment, how do you accommodate different cartridge choice from the Rega options?

Thanks.

Posted on: 09 October 2017 by joerand
Judge posted:

Also, if the is no VTA adjustment, how do you accommodate different cartridge choice from the Rega options?

Rega sell 2-mm spacers that can be placed under the arm to increase the VTA. This is a ring that requires the arm to be completely removed so the cable can be run through the ring. An easier alternative is to use 2-mm thick washers/spacers between the arm and deck so you don't have to fuss with the cable. Loosen the three screws that secure the arm then one at a time insert a washer. I've tried both 2 and 3.2-mm nylon spacers depending on the cartridge height and this approach works fine on my RP6/RB303. A local Rega dealer assured me this is a valid alternative without SQ compromise, though I suppose some may disagree and I can't speak to how well it works with a RB808 arm. Note that Rega sell both aluminum and stainless versions of the spacer ring.

Posted on: 09 October 2017 by Adam Zielinski

Abosultely nothing - I just put a record on, and play

My RP10 has a astandard Rega mat - I think there is enough up-down movement in the arm to compensate for this slight difference in an LP thickness.

Posted on: 10 October 2017 by audio1946

there was a time I had 2 mats because vinyl got very thin , I don't bother any more.  but it did work.  I used to mark sleeve for best fit mat..