Rega RB202 User Manual

Introduction

The RB202 is the latest version of one of Rega’s most popular
tonearms. Replacing the hugely successful RB251 the RB202 utilises a
completely redesigned arm tube. This tube design uses intelligent
re-distribution of mass to optimise performance and reduce stress
on the bearings even further. This ensures improved tracking and
maximises the amount of information a cartridge can extract from the
record surface.

The hand assembled Rega RB202 tonearm is a precision crafted
product. To create the low friction levels and meet minimum mass
requirements many parts of the arm are delicate and require careful
handling. The arm should always be treated with respect and under no
circumstances should any part be removed or tampered with.

Set-up

With the cartridge fitted and aligned using the alignment protractor
supplied, ensure that the bias adjustment slider is set to zero. Screw

the balance weight along its shaft until the stylus is “floating”

approximately 1mm clear of the record. The recommended tracking
force can now be applied by rotating the balance weight so that it
moves towards the front of the arm. A half turn (through 180 degrees)
generates 1 gram of tracking pressure.( turning the weight 360
degrees will apply 2 grams). Use the plastic plugs found on the weight
as a guide.

Set the tracking weight to the upper limit of the suggested tracking
weight provided by your cartridge manufacturers guidelines. The Bias
adjustment slider should be set to the same figure as the tracking
weight. Your Rega RB202 Tonearm is now ready for use.

If you have any doubts regarding correct setup or fitment of this arm
please contact your official Rega dealer who will be able to carry out
the work for you.

Thank you for purchasing this Rega product and we wish you many
happy hours of musical enjoyment.

Names of Tonearm parts

Balance Weight

Bias Adjustment

Cueing
Platform

26

www.rega.co.uk

Made in England

Headshell

Alignment Protractor

& arm mounting

data included

Finger lift

Fitting your Tonearm

The RB202 will directly replace any other Rega tonearm that
currently uses the 3 point mounting without any modification. If fitting
to another manufacturers product or an older Rega turntable (with
the single point nut fixing) the supplied template should be used as a
guide to ensure correct position and alignment. With so many variants
in turntable models it is important to contact your turntable
manufacturer if in any doubt before making any holes in plinths or arm
boards. Before attempting to fit the RB202 arm to the turntable it is
important to ensure that there is sufficient clearance beneath the
turntable and that the arm does not hit the lid, top or sides. Having
checked that there is sufficient clearance in all directions (including
the maximum potential arm movement horizontal and vertical). The
next step is to find the position of the centre of the arm mounting hole.
The easiest way to do this will probably be to use the arm mounting
template supplied.

Arm mounting template guide

The supplied template is for mounting Rega three point fixing arms to
other manufacturers turntables. N.B protractor for cartridge
alignment is also printed on the same template.

1. The template should be kept flat and not bent. The distance between
the centre of the spindle and the centre of the arm hole is critical and
must be 222mm. This template will help you check your positioning
before you attempt fitting and drilling.

3. Position the other end of the template so that the clearance arc is
within the rear and side edges of the turntable base (and the lid when
closed). Also check that there is at least 250mm clearance from the
centre of the hole to the inside front of the turntable.

4. Use a long pointed probe such as a needle and push it through the

‘arm hole centre’ on the template. Keep the needle perpendicular to

the template and mark the position of centre on the turntable.

5. Having marked the centre, check again that if the arm is placed in
this position it will clear the under side of the turntable and the lid.
Also, check that the arm is in a satisfactory position to ensure easy
operation and that the position is pleasing aesthetically. When you are
certain that the arm hole centre is in its correct position (exactly
222mm from the record centre) you can drill the required arm hole.

6. The arm mounting pillar requires a diameter of 25mm which will
provide adequate clearance for accurate fitting. You can then drill the
three screw mounting holes as illustrated on the template. Make sure
the arm is straight and the holes are correctly aligned before drilling.

7. With the holes drilled, you are now ready to fit the arm to the

turntable. Ensure that you also follow the turntable manufacturer’s

instructions regarding arm fitting. Each individual turntable
manufacturer may have different requirements regarding positioning
of the arm signal lead.