$1,125
Rega has pioneered the use of lightweight rigid plinths. Clever use of lightweight particulate core with a highly rigid phenolic resin skin became the foundations of the high level of performance achieved by the now iconic original Planar range.
The new Planar 3 takes this design philosophy to the next level. A lightweight acrylic laminated plinth strengthened using a new improved double brace system mounted specifically where the increased rigidity is required (between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing) which forms a structurally sound “stressed beam” assembly. This rigid plinth design prevents energy absorption and unwanted resonance, which will add unnatural distortions to the music. Equally, heavier mass can transfer more unwanted energy, such as motor or bearing noise directly into the rotating record. The use of braces instead of the complete skin allows double thickness phenolic resin in these key areas while providing further weight reduction to the plinth which directly addresses the issue of mass absorption and unwanted energy transmission.
The RB330 tonearm was designed using the latest 3D CAD & CAM technology, and is the culmination of more than 35 years of tonearm design experience. Featuring a brand new bearing housing, and our latest tonearm tube designed using intelligent redistribution of mass ensure this arm will exhibit fewer points of possible resonance. Extreme stability with almost friction free movement from the new high precision bearing assemblies guarantees to gather more information from your vinyl than ever before.
High gloss acrylic, laminated plinth, stiffer and vastly improved appearance, ergonomically positioned power switch. Available in three stunning high gloss finishes, black, white and red.
The brace you see between the tonearm and the main bearing is now improved with Rega's new double brace technology which features an improved thicker 3 mm phenolic bottom brace and new metalised skin phenolic top brace.
Rega has re-designed the brass main hub central bearing for improved fit and reduced long-term stress on the bearing itself.
Rega has taken several steps to keep unwanted mechanical vibrations damped and away from the delicate stylus/groove. They made better Feet, Motor, and better dampe4d Circuit boards to achieve this. The new feet increase stability and reduce vibration transfer.
The Planar 3 features an improved new motor control PCB with integration for the addition of Neo PSU for electronic speed change and improved advanced anti-vibration circuit (sold separately). Note that you can actually but a 24 Volt Kit to update older tables.
Supplied as standard / optional lid - plinth protectors - supplied to prevent marks on the plinth and keep it looking its best.
The Planar 3 has a new quick start guide for easy set up
The Planar 3 has a redesigned sub platter for improved accuracy and improved stiffness.
New float glass ‘Optiwhite’ polished edge 12 mm – Improved accuracy in manufacture and stunning looks.
You can order your Planar 3 with a choice of many cartridges, with the Elys 2 being the most popular and the strongest performance per dollar option. Below are the specifications for the Elys 2 and Exact 2. Sonically the Exact 2 brings more fine resolution while keeping the same essential character of a bass from the bottom up sound with British PRAT and an easygoing character. Pearl Audio does built-to-order Rega turntables with cartridges from most major manufacturers.
This remaines the best value turntable on the market
For me, the best record-playing system is the one that most vigorously directs my attention toward the humans behind the music. . . . Rega's new Planar 3 is exceptional at doing just that.
Can I connect speakers directly to the Planar 3?
You need to use an external amplifier/receiver to power your speakers. Some excellent choices are the Rega Brio or Elex because they have excellent built-in turntable phono stages. The Planar 3 is a high performance turntable and also well matched to higher end integrated amplifiers from McIntosh, Linn, Luxman etc.
Can I connect the Planar 3 directly to my receiver?
If your receiver has a built-in phono stage, then yes. You can tell this my seeing an input labelled something like MM or Phono and verifying in a manual. Call us with your Receiver model and we can generally pull up a manual and help you out - the answer to this question can vary quite a bit based on model of receiver, set configuration options, purchased options. etc.
Do I need to buy a tonearm wire for the Planar 3?
The Rega Planar 3, and all Rega's for that matter have a built-in tonearm wire. The Planar 3 has an extra nice one made of high quality copper that would probably cost $60-$100 if purchased separately. One of the big step ups in performance from the Planar 2 to the Planar 3 is the quality of built-in tonearm cable. This cable is also electrically and sonically matched to the Rega cartridges producing a synergistic effect and better sound.
Can I put a non-Rega cartridge on the Planar 3?
Yes, absolutely. You need to install, or have us install Rega shims under the tonearm to raise it to a height to accomodate a non-Rega cartridge. Rega cartridges are 14 mm tall, and most cartridges are 17-19 mm and have slightly different stylus profiles as well. The most common installations of non-Rega cartridges have two 2 mm Rega Spacers which raised the arm 4 mm. Note that when you do this, your lid will no longer close. The remedy to this is to buy and install the lower profile, higher performance Rega Tungsten weight.