Rega Apheta 3 MC Cartridge
Rega Apheta 3 MC Cartridge
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The Rega Apheta 3 is a moving-coil cartridge with a fine-line diamond and hand-wound micro coil system, which Rega recommends for the Planar 8 and Planar 10.
Why the Apheta 3?
The Apheta 3 embodies Rega's experience from its own MC production: an extremely light, precise coil system, mounted on an aluminium body with the same 3-point mounting as every Rega cartridge – no fiddling on installation, just plug-and-play precision at a high level. The fine-line diamond reads the finest groove structures that simpler cuts miss.
What you'll hear
A calm, detail-rich sonic background, fine resolution of overtones and soundstage depth, without ever sounding harsh or analytical – typical Rega, just with more resolving power than the MM and entry-level MC models.
Who is the Apheta 3 for? (and who it's not for)
For Planar 8 and Planar 10 owners who want a cartridge that matches the deck's calibre. Plain talk: on a Planar 3 or 6, the Apheta 3 is sonically overkill – there, the Ania or Ania Pro offer the more sensible price-to-performance ratio.
Our verdict
A cartridge that actually delivers on the resolution of Rega's higher-end decks. If you're playing in this league, you should listen to it before going to the competition.
Technical data
- Type: MC (Moving Coil)
- Stylus: bare fine-line diamond (Vital profile)
- Nominal output voltage: 350 µV
- Weight: 6 g
- Recommended tracking force: 1.9–2.0 g
- Recommended input impedance: 100 Ohm, 1000 pF, high gain
- Recommended for: Planar 8, Planar 10
- What's included: 1 cartridge incl. mounting screws
Frequently asked questions
Which turntable is the Apheta 3 designed for?
Rega recommends the Apheta 3 for the Planar 8 (RB880 tonearm) and the Planar 10 (RB3000 tonearm) – there it shows off its resolving power, without the rest of the chain needing to already be at reference level.
Do I need a special phono stage for the Apheta 3?
Yes, an MC-capable phono stage with a high-gain setting, matching the recommended input impedance of 100 Ohm at 1000 pF – such as the Rega Aos or an equivalent third-party brand.
How does the Apheta 3 differ from the Ania Pro?
The Apheta 3 uses a finer fine-line profile and a more elaborate coil construction, which shows up as even more calm and detail in the sound – at the cost of a higher price.
What is the recommended tracking force?
Rega specifies 1.9 to 2.0 grams. A precise scale like the Rega Atlas MK2 helps you set the force exactly and protects the diamond.
Why buy at HD Zürisee?
Authorized Rega dealer with an experienced team, our own technician for advice, fitting and service, delivery in the Lake Zurich region. Call us, write to us, or drop by – we'll advise you on your whole chain, not just one component.
Goes well with
The Rega Aos or Aura as a matching MC phono stage, plus the Planar 8 or Planar 10.
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