The third version of Rega’s classics is intended for a new generation of vinyl lovers. What impression will it have on older vinyl lovers? The Planar 2's minimalism isn't just limited to how it looks. There really aren't many whistles and bells here – no Bluetooth, no built-in phono preamp, no pitch control. The features this turntable does come with are designed specifically to improve the sound quality. Additionally, I conducted a listening test without using the mat, placing the record directly on the glass surface. As stated earlier, the record adheres quite well to the glass, but as anticipated, this arrangement affects the sound quality. The previously discernible details became lost, resulting in a diminished and thinner soundstage, with the midrange slightly emphasized. The treble became thinner and more pronounced. It is possible that some individuals may appreciate this calmer and potentially more monotonous sound. However, it is not the optimal solution for acrylic plates, and it is advisable to maintain the use of a mat or even consider acquiring a higher-quality alternative. Rega Planar 2 Video Review

The upper mid-range also seems to have just that tiny but more shimmer. Sam Beam’s effortless vocals on Iron and Wine’s magical ‘Beast Epic’ album had a little more air around them, making the presentation a little more realistic. The Planar 2 features a new arm with the designation RB220 - This arm features the latest Rega designed "zero play" ball bearing assembly with ultra-low friction performance (Patent Pending). New automatic bias assembly, re-designed stiffer vertical bearing housing, integrated arm clip, and their custom arm tube.Rega developed the new RB220 tonearm, which is just as cleanly designed as the turntable itself and measures 11”. Rega boasts that the RB220 has “ultra low friction, zero play ball bearings”. It also features an automatic bias assembly, negating the need to set the anti-skate. The arm tube is of aluminum. Notice how dead parallel the tonearm is to the record surface. Rega holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in the analog era, as it is widely regarded as a symbol of exceptional sound quality and reliable hi-fi equipment. As a mid-range British manufacturer, Rega has introduced numerous iconic devices that have left a lasting impact on the industry. While Rega is most renowned for its exceptional turntables, such as the legendary Planar 2, its amplifiers and CD players have also consistently met and exceeded the high expectations associated with the brand since the mid-seventies.

A new 24v low noise, low vibration motor assembly is employed along with a freshly designed bearing housing to offer an improved fit and greater rigidity whilst reducing internal stresses. This has also been designed to remove potential energy problems from the plinth. It’s worth noting that Rega’s reputation for producing top-notch audio equipment extends beyond turntables. Their amplifiers and CD players have garnered praise for their sound quality and performance, further solidifying Rega’s position as a trusted name in the industry. Rega is a turntable from whom you know exactly what you can expect, which that turntable fully provides.

The Rega Planar 2 turntable holds a significant position in the Rega turntable lineup, positioned between the Planar 1 and Planar 3 models. At first glance, the primary difference between the Planar 2 and Planar 3 is the metal connector between the tonearm’s base and the platter’s shaft in the higher-end model. The Planar 3 also features an improved RB330 tonearm and the option of an optional TT-PSU power supply for the motor. By implementing this grounding solution, you can effectively eliminate buzzing or interference that may arise from improper grounding. It is important to note that the issue does not stem from the turntable itself but rather from the grounding of other equipment in your setup. Taking these steps should result in a properly grounded Rega turntable and a significant reduction in buzzing or interference. Rega turntables, including the Rega Planar, utilize grounding to ensure proper audio performance and eliminate potential buzzing or interference. The grounding process involves connecting the turntable’s ground wire to the appropriate grounding points on the preamp and amplifier.

Hub bearing - The Planar 2 has a new 11mm self-securing brass bearing (Patent Pending) offering improved fit and less stress on the bearing preventing the transfer of potential energy.

24 V MOTOR

Speaking of the belt, you'll need to take off the platter and manually adjust it to change the speed from 331/3 to 45rpm. No, we're not particularly keen on this method, either – it's a good job we rarely play singles. For many people from the analog generation, Rega is a synonym for a good sound and solid hi-fi from a mid-size British manufacturer, the one that has produced the most devices that have become history. Rega is best known for its good turntables, but its other devices – amplifiers and CD players – met the same expectations we have been accustomed to this brand in the middle of the seventies. At this time, the first model of the legendary turntable Planar 2 appeared, whose third generation we have the opportunity to test in this post.

So, there's a new 24V low-noise, low-vibration motor, an advanced EBLT drive belt that's built for accurate speed and stability, a newly designed central bearing and a set of feet that have been re-engineered to minimise vibration. Rega has been developing the Planar 3 for decades and there’s no doubt the product has steadily improved over the years. Overall, Rega has established itself as a prominent audio manufacturer, consistently delivering excellent sound quality and reliable performance across its range of products. From their legendary turntables to amplifiers and CD players, Rega continues to meet and exceed the expectations of audio enthusiasts. Rega Planar 2 Specifications 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.

Rega Planar 2 Review – Analog Plug and Play

Overall, the Rega Planar 2 turntable is renowned for its engaging and high-quality sound reproduction, offering a listening experience that captivates the listener and highlights the fine details of the music. The tolerance of the RB3000 tonearm is so tight that no adhesive is used at any point throughout the construction. Our latest low mass, precision engineered, vertical bearing assembly has been manufactured to further complement the inherent design philosophy of the Planar 10 turntable. With the felt mat removed, you can see through the glass platter to the sub-platter, rubber belt and motor pulley below The RB3000 tonearm uses our advanced, preloaded zero tolerance bearing assembly adjusted to less than 1000th of a mm. This gives friction-free movement and zero levels of unwanted play. Simply put, friction-free bearings with no play enable ridges in the record groove of less than a micron to be read.