Rega Planar 1 Review — A Talented Entry-Level Turntable

Experience the refined sound and thoughtful upgrades of the Rega Planar 1, a standout entry-level turntable with a signature British touch.

A Fresh Spin on a Classic Favorite

In an era of constant change, even Rega’s best-selling turntable couldn't resist the urge to evolve. The latest Rega Planar 1 turntable builds on the original’s legacy with substantial upgrades, yet it preserves the hallmark sound that has made this British brand a household name among vinyl enthusiasts.

The new Planar 1 embraces innovation starting with the upgraded RB110 tonearm, equipped with precision bearings and automatic anti-skating adjustment. Combined with a perfectly balanced counterweight, this means setting up your turntable is smoother and quicker than the lifespan of a typical political scandal—trust me, that’s fast.

Design That Speaks Volumes

Almost every visible component has received a thoughtful makeover. The high-gloss laminated plinth crafted from thermoset polymer now houses a subtly hidden power switch tucked under the front left corner, blending functionality with style.

Our review unit arrived in an elegant white finish, though the classic black option equally impresses with its crisp, clean lines and ergonomic design. For fans of minimalist aesthetics, this turntable is a visual treat.

Even the platter has been beefed up to add more flywheel effect, bolstering rotational stability—a crucial factor for consistent sound quality.

Features Borrowed from the Big Leagues

The Planar 1 isn’t just a beginner’s toy; it borrows some serious tech from its more advanced siblings. It comes standard with the Rega Carbon cartridge, offering a remarkable listening experience right out of the box.

Additionally, this is the first entry-level Rega turntable featuring a 24V synchronous AC motor with an aluminum pulley—these upgrades deliver low noise and highly stable speed control, turning the Planar 1 into a surprisingly serious contender.

If you’ve been reading this far, you’ve probably spent more time than we needed to drop the needle on The Tallest Man On Earth’s Dark Bird Is Home. Rega’s “plug and play” promise? Totally legit.

Sound That Feels Like an Old Friend

Rega’s signature lively sound greets you like an old friend the moment Kristian Matsson strums the opening chords. Don’t be fooled—this isn’t some basic beginner’s sound.

The acoustic guitar resonates with a spaciousness that wraps around Matsson’s vocals, complete with subtle reverbs that highlight each phrase like a bird gliding low over the earth. You distinctly hear every detail, every layer of music intertwining, especially during the lush group vocals closing the song.

Some turntables lean into what’s often called “analog warmth,” but Rega plays a different game. Don’t worry about the sound lacking density—Planar 1’s accuracy ensures you hear the music as the artist intended.

In fact, when a turntable reproduces recordings as precisely as the Planar 1 does, the “warmth” offered by competitors can start to feel like drizzling ketchup over a carefully prepared holiday dinner—totally unnecessary.

Energy Meets Precision

When the adrenaline-pumping track Darkness Of The Dream kicks in, the Planar 1 effortlessly catches its tempo. The blend of energy and solidity resonates perfectly with the song’s driving vibe, reminiscent of Tom Petty and The Waterboys, while also treating softer album moments with equal care.

To truly appreciate the Planar 1, it’s essential to pit it against a rival like the Pro-Ject Primary E turntable. While Pro-Ject is known for its warm, inviting sound—such as on Django Reinhardt’s Djangology—switching to the Planar 1 suddenly makes the Primary’s performance feel more like a rehearsal than a final act.

Timing isn’t slow on the Primary E, but the Planar 1 injects a fresh intensity and clarity that bring every note into sharper relief—the gentle caresses contrasting with the forceful strikes become unmistakable.

That’s not to say the Primary is outclassed; remember, our reference system is far more revealing than what most setups will offer. Still, it’s clear that Rega has raised the bar across the board.

Long-Term Listening: The True Test

The ultimate measure of a product’s value lies in how long it stays a favorite. The Planar 1 has hung around our setup for a while now, effortlessly handling an eclectic mix from Shostakovich to Toots and the Maytals, even jazz with Charlie Parker.

Despite being an entry-level turntable, this is one device you might find yourself reluctant to upgrade. And when that time does come, Rega’s Performance Pack—with the MM Bias 2 cartridge, an improved drive belt, and a 100% natural wool mat (which you install yourself)—means you can enhance your system without immediately jumping to pricier models like the RP3/Elys 2.

Final Thoughts

In these unpredictable times, there’s something deeply comforting about drawing the curtains, sinking into your favorite chair, and spinning a few records on the new Rega Planar 1 turntable. It’s more than just a beginner’s turntable—it’s a gateway to a richer, more engaging vinyl experience.

FAQ

• What makes the Rega Planar 1 different from other entry-level turntables?
  The Planar 1 features precision engineering like the RB110 tonearm, a synchronous 24V AC motor, and the Rega Carbon cartridge, offering superior sound and stability.
• Is the setup process complicated?
  Not at all. The automatic anti-skating adjustment and precisely balanced counterweight make setup quick and easy.
• How does the Planar 1 perform with various music genres?
  It shines across the board—from the subtle nuances of acoustic folk to the energy of rock and the complexity of jazz, delivering clear, detailed sound.
• Can I upgrade the Planar 1 later on?
  Yes, the Performance Pack allows for easy enhancements without immediately needing to buy a high-end model.
• Is the Planar 1 suitable for beginners?
  Absolutely. It offers a “plug and play” experience while providing sound quality that will satisfy even more experienced listeners.

Ready to bring a touch of timeless sound into your home? Check out our collection of favorite album cover posters here. They’re the perfect companion to your listening sessions.