Rega Planar Turntable Guide

If you are choosing a Rega turntable for the first time or its a gift for someone else, you will need to check if the amplifier/system you have has a 'phono pre amp' built in, also referred to as a phono stage. if your not sure, the easiest way is to check the amplifier has a Phono input, this can be done by looking on the input select switch on the front of the amplifier or system. Does one of the options say Phono?

Yes there is a Phono input then you can choose either the Planar 1 or 2

No Phono input, check if there is an Aux or Auxiliary input most amplifiers will have, if you have a amplified speaker like a Amazon Alexa, Sonos or even a soundbar you can check on the back of the unit to see if there is a small 3.5mm input, this will look like a small headphone socket. If you have a Aux input then look at the Planar 1 Plus as this has the Phone pre amp built in and will work perfectly with your speakers.

Rega Planar 1

If you are looking to get into vinyl, or rediscover your old records then this is a great place to start. The turntable is fitted with a Rega Carbon MM cartridge. This is a modified Audio Technica and is inexpensive but rather good. It also has a detachable stylus which makes it easy to replace without taking the turntable into a retailer or getting your tool box out.  This is an ideal place to begin or to rekindle your love affair with vinyl. At home in a budget to a mid-priced system you’ll love the Rega Planar 1. 

Rega Planar 1 Plus

Same features as the Planer 1 but this has the phone pre amp built in so it is perfect for plugging directly into Bluetooth speakers, sound bars & smart speakers, or amplifiers/systems with only an auxiliary input.

Rega Planar 2

The Planar 2 has a number of improvements over the P1, The plinth is made of a different material; a laminate acrylic which is stiffer in all planes. The tonearm is also improved. The P2 incorporates the RB220 which has a continuous one-piece casting. This offers greater rigidity and better performance at the frequency extremes. The P2 also has an improved bearing housing and an improved power supply board. And finally the platter changes from an acrylic one to a glass one; offering Improved accuracy. The P2 is also fitted with the Rega Carbon MM cartridge.

The differences are clearly audible, the Planar 2 gets more information from the groove. The music is easier to follow the dynamic range is better.

Rega Turntable Systems

We have also included some of our most popular turntable packages for you if you require a full turntable system.