Rega ND3 Moving Magnet Cartridge Review

Rega ND3 Moving Magnet Cartridge

The Rega ND3 moving magnet cartridge stands as the latest innovation from Rega, replacing the longstanding Elys 2 model. The ND3 incorporates advanced technology and design elements borrowed from Rega’s moving coil (MC) family, promising enhanced performance at an accessible price point.

Key Features of the Rega ND3 Moving Magnet Cartridge

• Neodymium N55 Magnet: Utilised for its superior magnetic properties, this powerful magnet allows for lighter and finer coils, reducing the overall mass and enhancing sound quality.

• PPS Plastic Spine: This single-piece spine forms the top and rear sections, housing the generator in a ninety-degree arc, similar to the moving coil models.

• Elliptical Stylus and Aluminium Cantilever: These components provide competitive performance while being forgiving of alignment errors, making the ND3 user-friendly.

• Three-Point Mount System: Ensures perfect alignment when used with Rega tonearms, simplifying installation and improving precision.

Performance of the Moving Magnet Cartridge

The ND3 offers a dynamic and refined sound, delivering exceptional performance for its price. It excels in capturing details and providing an engaging listening experience across various music genres. The cartridge handles bass frequencies with impressive speed and control, integrating seamlessly with the midrange.

Pros:

•Dynamic and refined sound quality

•Forgiving measurements and requirements

•Well-made and easy to use

Cons:

•Not as spacious as some rivals

Installation and Usability

Weighing around 6 grams, the ND3 is lightweight and easy to install. The three-point mount system simplifies alignment, particularly for Rega turntable owners. The cartridge’s output of over 5mV makes it compatible with a wide range of turntables, ensuring versatility.

Sound Quality

When tested on the Rega Planar 10, the ND3 demonstrated quiet operation, excellent tracking, and a seamless partnership with the iFi ZEN Phono 3. It captures rhythms effectively, delivering an energetic and engaging sound. Compared to rivals like the Goldring E4, the ND3 offers a more fun and lively listening experience.

Conclusion

The Rega ND3 is a significant step forward in the world of affordable moving magnet cartridges. It brings some of the energy and dynamics of Rega’s moving coil designs to a lower price point, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of turntables. The ND3 is a worthy successor to the Elys 2, offering improved performance and ease of use.

AVForums Ratings and Award

AVForums has rated the Rega ND3 highly across several categories:

The ND3 has also received AVForums’ “Best Buy” award, highlighting its exceptional performance and value for money.

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