Rega Planar 3 Turntable
Best high-fidelity turntable for serious vinyl enthusiasts seeking superior sound quality.
The Rega Planar 3 represents a significant redesign of an iconic turntable, building on the legacy of its award-winning predecessors. This model features a factory-fitted choice of Rega's Nd3 or Nd5 moving magnet cartridges, offering enhanced sonic performance. The turntable boasts a redesigned RB330 tonearm for improved stability and detail retrieval, and a strengthened double brace-technology plinth to minimize resonance. Its new float glass platter and improved hub bearing contribute to superior accuracy and a cleaner sound, making it an exceptional value for audiophiles seeking superior vinyl playback.
$1595.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
40
/ 631
#40 in Turntables & Record Players
Price vs Category Average
-63%
Below average
Tonearm
330
/ RB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound on a mid-range budget
- Vinyl collectors prioritizing long-term durability and reliable hardware
- Hobbyists who enjoy customizing and improving their audio setup
Who should skip it
- Listeners who prefer the convenience of automatic playback
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an all-in-one entry price
- Beginners wanting a simple plug-and-play audio solution
Performance breakdown
Sonic Clarity
The Nd cartridge series delivers exceptional detail and high-frequency resolution.
Tracking Stability
The RB330 tonearm ensures precise groove navigation with minimal distortion.
Resonance Control
Double brace technology effectively isolates the platter from unwanted mechanical vibrations.
Build Precision
High-tolerance brass bearings and float glass provide a smooth, consistent rotation.
Setup Simplicity
Factory-fitted cartridges make the initial calibration process straightforward for most users.
Aesthetic Design
Minimalist, modern lines ensure it remains a centerpiece in any listening room.
Key Specs
Tonearm
RB330
Cartridge Options
Nd3 or Nd5
Plinth
Lightweight acrylic laminated with phenolic resin
Platter
12mm float glass
Bearing
Brass main hub central bearing
Motor
24-volt motor control PCB
Drive Type
Belt Drive
Playback Speeds
33 1/3 RPM, 45 RPM
Features
- Factory-fitted Nd3 or Nd5 cartridge for enhanced performance
- Redesigned RB330 tonearm for superior tracking and detail
- Strengthened double brace plinth to minimize unwanted resonance
- High-precision bearing and platter for improved accuracy
- Ergonomic design for improved ease-of-use
- Award-winning design with Stereophile Recommended Component status
- Includes a new bias assembly, integrated arm clip, and improved spring housing
- Utilizes a world's most powerful commercially available magnet (N55) in the Nd cartridges
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Rega Planar 3 Turntable for its exceptional build quality and sophisticated design, which together deliver an outstanding audio experience. Many reviewers highlight its ability to produce rich, detailed sound, often describing it as a significant upgrade that breathes new life into their vinyl collections. There is strong consensus that the turntable offers remarkable value for money, performing well above its price point and representing a wise, long term investment for serious music lovers. Its elegant simplicity and robust construction are frequently praised.
Know before you buy
Both cartridges utilize high-performance N55 magnets, but the Nd5 is a higher-tier option designed to offer greater detail retrieval and sonic refinement compared to the Nd3. Choosing between them depends on your budget and the level of resolution you want to extract from your record collection.
Yes, a dust cover is included with the turntable to protect the platter and tonearm when the unit is not in use.
The Planar 3 requires a manual adjustment to change speeds. You will need to lift the platter and move the drive belt to the corresponding step on the motor pulley.
The Planar 3 is designed with a modular approach, making it highly compatible with various Rega upgrades. You can swap out components like the drive belt, sub-platter, or even the cartridge as your system evolves.
No, the Planar 3 does not have a built-in phono stage. You will need to connect it to an external phono preamp or an amplifier that features a dedicated phono input.
The double brace technology increases the rigidity of the plinth between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing. By minimizing unwanted resonance and energy absorption, it ensures that more of the signal from the record is preserved for a cleaner, more accurate sound.
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$1595