Rega Planar 3
Best high-fidelity turntable for dedicated vinyl enthusiasts seeking superior sound quality.
Experience the legendary Rega sound with the iconic Planar 3 turntable, an award-winning component that has consistently redefined analog audio excellence. This model pairs the turntable with the factory-fitted Rega ND3 MM cartridge. It features a precision-engineered RB330 tonearm and an advanced double brace system within its lightweight acrylic laminated plinth to minimize resonance and distortion. The design ensures exceptional stability and musical accuracy, delivering unparalleled performance in its class for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts seeking superior fidelity.
$980.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
77
/ 631
#77 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
-77%
Below average
Tonearm
330
/ Hand assembled precision RB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound and musical detail
- Vinyl collectors prioritizing long-term durability and reliability
- Listeners wanting an easy setup with room to grow
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners who frequently switch between record speeds
- Tinkerers who prefer experimenting with various third-party cartridges
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for modern convenience features
Performance breakdown
Sonic Fidelity
Delivers a transparent, balanced soundstage that reveals deep musical detail.
Tonearm Precision
The RB330 tonearm tracks grooves with exceptional stability and minimal friction.
Vibration Control
Double brace design effectively isolates the platter from unwanted mechanical resonance.
Speed Consistency
Low noise motor ensures rock-solid pitch stability for accurate playback.
Setup Simplicity
Factory-fitted cartridge makes getting started straightforward for most vinyl enthusiasts.
Build Integrity
Lightweight plinth and glass platter offer a refined, durable analog foundation.
Key Specs
Tonearm
Hand assembled precision RB330
Motor
24V low noise motor
Platter
12mm glass polished edge ("Optiwhite")
Weight
6.0 kg
Dimensions (W×H×D)
447 × 117 × 360 mm
Cartridge
Rega ND3 MM (factory fitted)
Connectivity
RCA / Phono
Supported Speeds
33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
Features
- Factory-fitted Rega ND3 MM cartridge for immediate playback.
- RB330 tonearm minimizes resonance and friction.
- Advanced double brace for structural integrity.
- 24V low noise motor for consistent speed.
- Improved isolation feet and dust cover included.
- Re-designed brass main hub bearing for accuracy.
- Supports 33 1/3 RPM and 45 RPM speeds.
- Optional Neo PSU for speed control upgrades.
What customers say
The Rega Planar 3 with the Exact 2 cartridge earns high praise primarily for its exceptional sound quality, described as detailed and dynamic. Users consistently note a significant upgrade in their vinyl listening experience. Beyond audio performance, the robust build quality and elegant design are frequently highlighted, contributing to sonic stability. Many owners view this turntable as a long-term investment due to its upgrade potential. While the initial setup requires some attention, the overall consensus is that the Planar 3 delivers outstanding value, offering performance that rivals much pricier systems. Customers express deep satisfaction with this benchmark component.
Know before you buy
No, the Planar 3 does not have a built-in preamp. You will need to connect it to an external phono stage or an amplifier with a dedicated phono input to hear audio.
Yes, the turntable comes with the Rega ND3 moving magnet cartridge factory-fitted and aligned. It is ready for immediate use once you have completed the basic setup of the tonearm tracking force.
Speed changes are performed manually by lifting the platter and moving the drive belt to the corresponding step on the motor pulley. If you prefer electronic speed switching, you can add the optional Rega Neo PSU.
Because the Planar 3 is a lightweight, high-performance deck, it performs best on a rigid, level, and vibration-free surface. A dedicated wall shelf or a heavy, stable equipment rack is recommended to isolate the turntable from floor-borne vibrations.
Yes, the Planar 3 is designed with modularity in mind. You can improve performance over time by adding the Neo PSU for better speed stability or upgrading to a higher-end cartridge as your system evolves.
No, the Planar 3 is designed strictly for high-fidelity analog playback and does not feature USB connectivity or digital recording capabilities.
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Ready to buy?
$980