I just purchased a Rega Planar 3 RS turntable to use with my Uniti Star and the store expert told me I didn’t need to buy a Rega Fono MM MK5 but the internet is telling me otherwise….
Anyone here able to help and confirm what I should do?
I’m not an expert but just love music.. Thank you.
Google says no phono input in Uniti Star
David
Yes, you will need a phono preamp, the “expert” has given you poor advice.
Damn it! Ok thanks. 
You do need a phono stage, and the Rega Fono is the ideal match. I used one for a while with my Star.
Agreed, I use on with my Nova and it’s quite good
+1
Also, when installing my cartridge and aligning it, there were 3 x screws, 2 on the sides, and one at the end. When adjusting the cartridge, I had to remove the top one in order to align the cartridge - is that normal or should i have the 3 screws on no matter what?
Assuming you have a Rega cartridge, it’s designed to automatically self-align using the three screws.
hm. thanks. does this mean the three screws should be somewhat loose to self-align? sorry if this question sounds crazy.
Could your “expert” dealer not have fitted the cartridge for you? Presumably it was a second hand purchase as the Rega is usually supplied with a factory fitted cart.
It is, if you are OK with Rega’s choice of alignment geometry. That’s essentially Stevenson, which has the highest tracking error across a record, compared to Baerwald and Lofgren. Personally, I would forgo using the 3rd screw and use a proper tool to align it. I prefer Lofren for all my tonearms, but but Baerwld is also a good choice.
In fact, some of the modern tools – like SMARTTractor and WallTractor – don’t even bother to include a choice for Stevenson alignment. They use Baerwald and Lofgren. SMARTTractor ass a choce for UNI-DIN.
No, LaBrute the screws will need to be tightened to prevent movement, but not too tight, to avoid damage. If you’re unfamiliar with cartridge alignment do check it out, if you want to get the best from your LPs/ records ( they aren’t vinyls, just made from vinyl).
To answer your original query, yes you will need a phono pre-emptive as the Star doesn’t have one. I speak with confidence as I too have an RP3 into a Uniti Star, and decided to plug the phono I to the Din socket.
Good luck, you’re on a very helpful site.
If you’re not experienced in fitting cartridges then I wouldn’t attempt it. It’s very easy indeed to cause damage to either the cartridge, arm or both through over-tightening or just being unfamiliar with the procedure. Get a dealer to do it.
No crazy question.
If your not skilled or have experience with adjusting turntable and cartridge ? then either get to learn it or have a dealer doing it. Maybe you got friends/family better skilled ?
Many users do not get the tracking force right, its very difficult to hit the exact TF without a digital TF weight. Then comes antiskating, alignment etc etc…
Its a great hobby if your not have shaking hands 