Audio T Verdict
The Rega RB78 is a purpose-built mono moving magnet cartridge for playing most conventional 78 rpm records.
Its dedicated 78 profile stylus is more appropriate for the wider grooves found on these records than a normal microgroove stylus intended for LPs and 45 rpm singles.
The RB78 is the natural cartridge partner for the Rega Planar 78, but its mono wiring differs from that of a standard stereo cartridge. Professional fitting is recommended, particularly if the tonearm tags or phono cable need to be adapted.
Rega RB78 Mono Cartridge for 78 RPM Records
The Rega RB78 is a general-purpose mono moving magnet cartridge designed specifically for the reproduction of most 78 rpm records.
It combines a dedicated 78 profile stylus with high-specification parallel-wound coils and a healthy moving magnet output.
The cartridge uses standard two-screw mounting and is particularly well suited to Rega's dedicated
Planar 78 turntable
.
Designed Specifically for 78 RPM Records
Most traditional 78 rpm records use wider grooves than later vinyl LPs and singles. A conventional LP cartridge stylus is therefore not normally the best choice for playing them.
The RB78 uses a dedicated stylus profile intended to sit correctly within the wider groove and retrieve the recorded information more effectively.
It is described as a general-purpose cartridge because 78 rpm records were produced by many companies over a long period, with groove dimensions and recording characteristics that can vary.
Not Intended for LPs or 45 RPM Singles
The RB78 is designed for 78 rpm records and should not be used as a general replacement cartridge for conventional 33? rpm LPs or 45 rpm singles.
Those records use much narrower microgrooves and require a cartridge with an appropriate LP stylus profile.
True Mono Cartridge Design
The RB78 is a mono cartridge rather than a stereo cartridge with its channels simply combined externally.
Its internal coils are wired in series and it provides a single mono signal. This helps reproduce the lateral groove movement used by conventional mono 78 rpm records.
The connection arrangement differs from that of a normal stereo cartridge, which ordinarily provides separate left and right positive and negative outputs.
Cartridge Wiring and Amplifier Compatibility
The correct wiring arrangement depends on whether the amplifier or phono equipment includes a mono switch.
Amplifier with a Mono Switch
Rega's instructions allow one corresponding pair of cartridge tags to be connected to the RB78, with the amplifier's mono function then used during playback.
The exact connection should follow the diagram supplied with the cartridge.
Amplifier without a Mono Switch
The left and right signal wires and their corresponding earth connections must be joined appropriately so that the mono cartridge signal reaches both channels.
This may involve adapting the cartridge tags or making the connection at the phono end of the tonearm cable.
Professional Installation by Audio T
The RB78 does not connect in exactly the same way as a conventional four-output stereo cartridge. Modification of the cartridge tags or tonearm wiring may be required.
Audio T staff can install the RB78, follow the correct Rega wiring arrangement, align the cartridge and set its 1.75 g tracking pressure.
Contact your local Audio T store
for fitting arrangements and compatibility advice before ordering.
Moving Magnet Phono Stage Compatibility
The RB78 is a moving magnet cartridge with an output currently listed by Audio T at 6.2 to 6.8 mV.
It therefore requires a suitable moving magnet Phono input or an external MM phono stage.
It should not be connected directly to a normal AUX, CD or Line input unless a suitable phono stage is placed between the turntable and amplifier.
The
Rega Fono MM Mk5
may be used where the amplifier does not contain a suitable moving magnet phono stage, although the system's mono connection requirements must still be considered.
Tracking Pressure and Setup
Rega specifies a tracking pressure of 1.75 g for the RB78.
The tonearm counterweight should be adjusted accurately and the bias setting checked in accordance with the tonearm manufacturer's instructions.
Correct cartridge alignment and tracking pressure help the stylus remain securely within the groove while limiting unnecessary wear to the record and cartridge.
The stylus guard should be removed carefully after the cartridge has been fitted and should be retained for future transport or servicing.
Key Features
- Purpose-built cartridge for most 78 rpm records
- True mono moving magnet design
- Dedicated 78 profile stylus
- Internally series-wired mono generator
- High-specification parallel-wound coils
- Output of 6.2 to 6.8 mV
- Recommended tracking pressure of 1.75 g
- Standard two-screw cartridge mounting
- Black cartridge body
- Natural partner for the Rega Planar 78
Technical Specifications
- Cartridge type: Mono moving magnet
- Record compatibility: Most conventional 78 rpm records
- Output: 6.2 to 6.8 mV
- Stylus: Dedicated RB78 profile
- Tracking pressure: 1.75 g
- Fixing: Standard two-screw mounting
- Coils: High-specification parallel-wound coils
- Internal wiring: Mono, wired in series
- Colour: Black
- Phono-stage compatibility: Moving magnet
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the RB78 play normal LP records?
No. It is designed for the wider grooves used by most 78 rpm records. Use a suitable microgroove cartridge for conventional LPs and 45 rpm singles.
Is the RB78 a mono or stereo cartridge?
It is a true mono moving magnet cartridge with its internal generator wired in series.
Will it connect to a normal four-tag tonearm?
It can be fitted to a compatible tonearm, but its electrical connection differs from a normal stereo cartridge. The tag wiring may need to be adapted according to Rega's instructions.
Do I need an amplifier with a mono switch?
Not necessarily. If the amplifier has no mono switch, the channel signal and earth connections can be joined appropriately. Professional installation is recommended.
What tracking pressure should I use?
Rega specifies a tracking pressure of 1.75 g.
Does it require a moving magnet phono stage?
Yes. The RB78 requires a suitable MM Phono input or external moving magnet phono stage.
Is the RB78 designed for the Rega Planar 78?
Yes. It is Rega's dedicated cartridge partner for the Planar 78, although it is sold separately from the turntable.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Genuine Rega mono cartridge for 78 rpm records
- Advice on compatibility with your turntable and tonearm
- Professional cartridge fitting and alignment
- Help with the RB78's specialist mono wiring arrangement
- Accurate tracking-force and bias adjustment
- Moving magnet phono-stage advice
- Support for the Rega Planar 78 turntable
- Ongoing help from the UK's oldest independent specialist Hi-Fi retailer
Contact your local Audio T store
before ordering if you are uncertain whether the RB78 can be connected correctly to your turntable and amplifier.
Rega's lifetime limited warranty covers confirmed manufacturing defects. Normal stylus wear, accidental damage and unauthorised modifications are not covered.