How to Install Grado Cartridges on Rega Turntables

UK-based Rega Electronics manufactures a line of high-end turntables. Rega tonearms are designed to accommodate several different brands of phono cartridges, including Grado. A small screwdriver is the only tool needed to install a Grado cartridge on the end of your Rega tonearm.

Things You'll Need

• Small screwdriver

Instructions

1. Unscrew the two screws on the top of the tonearm and set them aside in a safe place where they cannot roll away.

2. Remove the Grado cartridge from its protective packaging and hold it underneath the tonearm, with the two metal pins on its end pointing towards the back of the turntable.

3. Align the two holes in the top of the cartridge with the two holes in the tonearm, then place the screws in the holes through the tonearm and tighten. The cartridge can be adjusted forward or backward, as necessary, to balance the Grado with the tonearm.

4. Attach the female coupler on the end of the red wire on the tonearm to the top metal pin on the back of the Grado. The coupler slips straight onto the pin.

5. Attach the female coupler on the black wire to the lower pin on the back of the cartridge in the same manner.

Tips & Warnings

• Set the tracking and anti-skate settings to the levels recommended in the owner's manual for the Grado cartridge. These settings vary by cartridge model.

• Unplug the turntable from the power while installing a new cartridge.

References

• Audiophilia: A Beginner's Guide to Cartridge Setup

Resources

• Rega Turntables
• Grado Turntable Cartridges