Two in one - five points. Rega Planar 1 Plus review

Spoiled music lovers are unlikely to take the combination shown in the photo seriously. Can you really count on powerful and precise sound from an entry-level analog source and a couple of very tiny active monitors with a total weight of just over three kg? It turns out that it is possible!

Just like you, we looked at the combination of Ruark MR1 MkII and Rega Planar 1 Plus with some condescension - as fashionable things for those who want to decorate the interior with old records and vintage music lover attributes. However, once we turned on this bundle and listened to a couple of vinyls, our opinion changed greatly. The result not only exceeded expectations, but also once again proved a simple truth: if reputable British manufacturers get down to business, it can’t turn out badly.

At Rega, the definition of “cheap” has never been identical to the concept of “compromise”. For an inexpensive model, the design of the Planar 1 Plus is quite advanced.

In general, this is not just another design system. The kit looks very compact and concise by Hi-Fi standards; it is really extremely easy to install, which can be considered a big plus in today's “smart” era. But this is not the only advantage. Acoustics, for example, are equipped with advanced components and modern system functions. And the turntable very convincingly shows the advantages of analog media over digital compressed formats and will certainly convert many members of the younger generation to the “vinyl religion.” Well, or, at least, it will instill in them a taste for good animated sound.

Together or separately?

Planar 1 Plus costs RUB 34,020. – about the same as Planar 1 (RUB 24,000) and Fono Mini A2D (RUB 10,025) in total. So we couldn't help but wonder which of the two options is better.

By placing Planar 1 Plus and Planar 1 next to each other, you can create a game of “Find the Ten Differences”. Apart from the logo in the corner, these two players are almost identical. The Planar 1 Plus has the same platter, bearing, RB110 tonearm, Carbon MM cartridge, 24V AC synchronous motor and acrylic plinth as the original model.

The best vinyl players

If you are concerned about the question – which vinyl player should you buy? Then you have come to the right place. In this TOP of vinyl players, we have collected the best installations for 2022 - from the most expensive to more budget options, according to TehnObzor.

This rating of vinyl record players can be a great start for you on the path to creating your own vinyl music collection.

Rega Planar 3

For many, the Rega Planar 3 will be the best turntable that has everything you need. The legendary Planar 3 name has returned after several years with the P3 and RP3 names. Now it's a completely new player.

This is an upgraded version with a more rigid housing and new cable routing. The base has also changed - the bearing has a better seat, and the spacers are now stronger. The result is one of the most reliable players at a price of 60 thousand rubles.

Transmission accuracy is high when the sound stage is spacious. Bass is powerful without sounding unnatural. Rega Planar 3 is one of the most profitable modern models in terms of price and quality ratio.

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Advantages

• Sounds incredible
• Excellent build quality
• Dust cover included.

Flaws

• Changing the speed requires removing the plate.

Rega Planar 3 RED pladespiller

Audio-Technica AT-LP5X

When creating the AT-LP5X, Audio-Technica clearly adhered to the adage “don't break what works well.” The original model was almost perfect, and the AT-LP5X adds only the essentials.

A switchable phono stage with a moving magnet and a coil appeared. The pickup used is the AT-VM95E, which only works with 33.3 and 45 rpm recordings. To play at 78 rpm you will need a different cartridge.

Fortunately, the quality of the music remains the same - just as solid and impressive. Audio-Technica AT-LP5X manages to combine convenience, high level of playback and a wide range of functions in one device.

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Advantages

• Decent components
• High-quality assembly and finishing
• Organized, controlled sound.

Flaws

• Not much scale to use.

Audio-Technica LP5x Turntable – Review

Cambridge Audio Alva TT

Alva TT is named after its creator, the phonograph, Thomas Alva Edison. This model from Cambridge Audio is the first of the best turntables to support the aptX HD Bluetooth codec. Lovers of maximum quality and ease of use will love the Cambridge Audio Alva TT.

24-bit/48kHz streaming means you don't have to sacrifice music quality. The assembly is also reliable, you can feel it even considering the weight of the device, and the design is stylish and solid.

Those who decide to buy such a player will probably prefer to listen to records in the traditional way. And for good reason, because the quality of their playback is definitely no worse than with wireless transmission. However, the ability to use Bluetooth will increase the player's appeal to modern buyers. It will allow you to place the installation anywhere in the house and make the transition to vinyl in a more gentle way.

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Advantages

• Great, smooth sound
• Easy to set up and use
• Stream music in high definition
• The build quality is like a bank vault.

Flaws

• It costs expensive
• Lacks maximum dynamics.

Introducing the Alva TT Direct Drive Turntable | Cambridge Audio

Sony PS-LX310BT

Which vinyl player is best to buy? Sony's PS-HX500 featured high quality performance and a relatively low price. The Sony PS-LX310BT model retains all these advantages, but now it also supports Bluetooth.

Yes, this is not the most attractive vinyl player outwardly, but it is quite convenient thanks to the built-in phono preamplifier. During assembly and installation, you only need to add the platter and belt drive. If you're a budding vinyl lover, the PS-LX310BT is a great device to introduce you to a new world.

Right after setup, you will have an excellent player capable of playing quality music. As you might expect, detail is lost a bit in Bluetooth mode. But considering the price, the Sony PS-LX310BT is a good option for those who sometimes need a wireless connection.

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Advantages

• Attractive sound
• Phono stage and Bluetooth
• Easy to set up and use.

Flaws

• Wireless connection quality is slightly worse.

Sony Turntable | PS-LX310BT Turntable with BLUETOOTH® connectivity

Rega Planar 8

Rega Planar 8 eliminated all unnecessary elements and focused on sound quality rather than design. This one of the best turntables ensures that your songs sound natural yet powerful.

If you want to hear your music as it was intended, Planar 8 is perfect. Add in the excellent Ania pickup and you have another amazing model from the wizards at Rega.

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Advantages

• Easy to set up and use
• Exquisite, impartial sound
• Impressive from an engineering point of view.

Flaws

• Not visually impressive.

Rega Planar 8 turntable

McIntosh MTI100

McIntosh MTI100 costs more than 750 thousand rubles, and it is unlikely that anyone will consider this model if they want to save money. However, the quality of music reproduction here is unsurpassed.

The best turntable of 2022 from McIntosh also has a wireless connection. In addition, the MTI100 combines a turntable, hybrid preamp and power amplifier into one package. Thanks to this alone, the model is the best of its kind.

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Advantages

• Oh, that logo, those valves
• Controlled and clear sound from any source.

Flaws

• Very expensive.

Mcintosh MTI100!

Technics SL-1500C

The Technics SL-1500C is arguably the best value-for-money turntable from Technics since the company's comeback.

Believe me, 130 thousand rubles is not so much for a direct drive vinyl player, especially considering the price of competitors. You also get a built-in phono stage, which will allow you to fully enjoy the music from the records.

The SL-1500C is very easy to install and set up and looks great. This model from Technics is one of the best options to buy.

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Advantages

• Simplicity in everything
• Highest build quality
• High-quality, rich sound.

Flaws

• There are better alternatives.

Review of the Technics SL-1500C vinyl player

Rega Planar 1

In terms of ease of use and hi-fi sound quality, few turntables can match the Rega Planar 1. The cartridge is pre-installed and the tonearm has a guide ring. This means that the counterweight can be very accurately installed, taking into account the clamping force of the head, without resorting to the use of special tools.

What's most important, however, is how the Planar 1 sounds. The fidelity is amazing and the detail is incredible. All you need to do is add a good phono stage and you have the perfect device for listening to vinyl records.

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Advantages

• Stylish appearance
• Dynamic, detailed sound.

Flaws

• Awkward change of speed.

Rega Planar 1, Planar 2 & Planar 3 turntable finish options.

Technics SL-1200GR/SL-1210GR

The Technics SL-1200 and 1210 line models are so closely associated with DJing that many have forgotten the original purpose of the devices - as a vinyl Hi-Fi turntable. The Technics SL-1200GR and SL-1210GR deliver even better sound quality with a damping platter and a silent, digitally controlled drive.

The synchronization between these two players is phenomenal and the powerful bass is literally amazing. Forget that the Technics SL-1210GR and SL-1200GR are only for DJs, they're also great choices for true music lovers.

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Advantages

• Seismic Bass
• Incredible versatility
• Fantastic build quality.

Flaws

• Very high price.

Vinyl turntables – Technics SL-1210GR and SL-1200GR

Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT takes a lot from the AT-LP60, but has improved only what is needed when the price is not enough to make you swoon.

In terms of design and build quality, the AT-LP60XBT is inferior to some competitors, and the sound is a little more modest. But, the resonance is reduced for a more melodic sound, when the reproduction is very even across the entire frequency range.

For its price, this Audio-Technica player is quite good, although the sound when transmitted wirelessly is noticeably inferior to records. However, the AT-LP60XBT is a great option for the price and has all the options a vinyl music lover needs.

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Advantages

• Built-in phono stage
• Has the basics of quality sound
• Streaming with Bluetooth aptX.

Flaws

• Not the best in terms of sound.

AT-LP60XBT Overview | Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable

Clearaudio Concept MM

Looking at the impeccable design and superb build quality, you would think that the Clearaudio Concept MM costs as much as traveling around the world. But no, this model is no more expensive than some smartphones.

Concept MM amazes not only with its design, but also with its engineering solutions. The tonearm has a special magnetic bearing that almost completely eliminates friction. The rotation speed is selected via a large knob on the base. Fans of older vinyl records will appreciate that 78 rpm is available.

The sound quality of the Clearaudio turntable is excellent - it's powerful and accurately synchronized, and the detail is much higher than you'd expect from a model with a moving magnet cartridge.

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Advantages

• Easy installation
• Excellent build quality
• Easy speed switching
• Vinyl records with 78 rpm.

Flaws

• Not the best with vocals.

Vinyl player Clearaudio Concept MM

Fluance RT80

The RT80 is an entry-level system from Canadian audio equipment manufacturer Fluance. And this is one of the cheapest vinyl players on the market - it costs less than 20 thousand rubles.

The build quality of the Fluance RT80 is good for the price. The base is made of MDF, which is able to suppress resonance and prevent vibration, so the sound remains relatively clear. The phono stage is built-in, it perfectly amplifies a weak signal, without the need to connect a separate external amplifier.

The sound is quite warm and the playback is rhythmic. The low frequencies are well balanced, together with the detailed mids, this gives us a very high quality sound stage. From the RT80 I would like to have just a little more dynamism.

Advantages

• Smooth, detailed sound
• Built-in phono stage
• Audio Technica AT91 cartridge.

Flaws

• There is a lack of bass.

RT80 High Fidelity Vinyl Turntable Record Player

Strict style, easy setup

If you liked the stylish, minimalist design of the Planar 1 (in glossy white or black finishes), then you'll love the Plus. Setting up is not a problem: Rega took care of the marks for installing the counterweight. This player does not require any other operations to get started.

However, fears about the use of the copy-paste method are dashed by the fact that all the improvements relate to the phono preamplifier and are hidden inside a slightly modified base. Rega didn't just take the existing Fono Mini A2D "as is" and screw it under the platform. The phono stage has undergone changes: the USB circuit has been completely removed, and all the savings have been used to improve sound quality. In our opinion, this is the right approach.

And it bore fruit. While the new integrated version is similar in sound character to the Planar 1 paired with the Fono Mini A2D (as you'd expect), there are some differences.

The Planar 1 Plus sounds excellent. Immediately after connecting it seems a little dry, but after a couple of days it “comes to its senses”, becoming more full-blooded and rhythmic the longer you listen to music.

Rega manages to create models with incredibly flexible and refined - yet extremely enjoyable - dynamics, and the Plus is no different in this regard. He has enough drive, energy and impeccable rhythm to accurately convey the mood of the song Come As You Are by Nirvana.

The figure is resting

Since the early 90s, the Ruark brand has become unambiguously associated with the “new wave” of English Hi-Fi - it was then that the small O’Rourke family enterprise produced several unusual speaker systems with advanced tweeters and expensive dome midrange drivers. However, the company was also one of the first on the market to take on miniature acoustics - new projects were launched back in 2004 and were later released under the Vita Audio brand. So our active kids MR1 ​​MkII, which are now produced under the main brand, also have a solid history.

But how to judge the class of acoustics if the manufacturer does not provide the main characteristics - neither the operating range, nor unevenness, nor SPL? Ruark's position on this issue is as follows: modern technologies make it possible to achieve such high parameters that their comparison becomes meaningless. Which, in principle, we can agree with. Size, weight, power, power requirements - these are the really significant data. But passport hertz and decibels, especially for active systems, will not say anything. All that matters is the actual sound quality.

The speakers are also not simple - 20 mm tweeters with a dome made of impregnated textiles and 75 mm long-throw woofers.

And a lot has been done for him. Firstly, the MR1 MkII integrates a modern Bluetooth module with aptX to bring the broadcast quality closer to that specified by the CD standard. Secondly, the monitors are equipped with an optical and linear input with adjustable sensitivity, as well as a connection to an active subwoofer. But the most remarkable feature is the use of traditional class A/B amplifiers (only power supply is implemented using pulse circuitry), and a fairly solid 20-watt power. And this indicates that the MR1 MkII path also has a built-in DAC. And it’s also probably not the last in quality, since audiophile-grade components are used for signal circuits, according to the manufacturer.

All this stuffing is housed in handmade cabinets with bass reflexes and damped aluminum rear walls. The speakers covered with grills are also not simple - 20 mm tweeters with a dome made of impregnated textiles and 75 mm long-throw woofers. The parameters are optimized for the simplest first-order crossovers, and the high output of the heads is achieved due to powerful neodymium magnetic systems.

For miniature loudspeakers, loudness compensation at low volumes is very important, so Loudness correction in the MR1 MkII is enabled by default. The speakers are connected to each other by the included two-meter cable with 3.5 mm jacks. If not connected, the main master speaker automatically switches to channel summing mode for mono playback. There is one curious thing - independent nutrition. When equipped with a BackPack battery pack that attaches to the rear wall, MR1 monitors turn into a full-fledged mobile audio system with 12-hour autonomy.

Reality check

The guitar chords and bass line are presented juicy and elastic, and in the screaming, desperate chorus, layers of distorted sounds are clearly audible. The player's outstanding detail allows you to physically feel every stroke on the strings.

But what we admire most is the purity and clarity of the sound. These are far from the qualities for which the genre is famous, but one cannot help but admire the work of the producers of the Nevermind album. Kurt Cobain's somber vocals are rendered exceptionally accurately, the contours of every note flawless.

The Plus's sound is open and spacious, with all instruments and voices spaced out and clearly distinguishable. In addition, he masterfully handles HF processing. The energetic saxophone in Tom Waits' song Midnight Lullaby demonstrates amazing clarity, contours and an enviable dynamic reserve.

Question of questions

But the main question remains: which sounds better - Planar 1 Plus or a combination of Planar 1 and Fono Mini A2D?

In essence, they are very similar, but each places a little more emphasis on some factors than others. The pairing of Planar 1 and Fono is slightly superior to the new model in terms of power and persuasiveness. The choruses of Nirvana songs have a little more attack and energy; If Planar 1/Fono prefer richness, then Plus has a more austere and refined character.

The Planar 1/Fono, on the other hand, makes the lush, richly textured bassline of Michael Jackson's Billie Jean appear more moody, as if wandering down a dark alley. In the Plus version, she's more likely to stroll along a newly paved street.

Overall, the Plus has a cleaner, tighter, more rhythmic sound. It doesn't have the same power, but its density and energy are combined with greater detail.

Compared to the more ponderous Planar 1/Fono set, the new Plus seems to easily sweep away the cobwebs from the sounds.

Eliminating the digital circuit and eliminating the need for additional cable between the tonearm and phono amplifier (and associated plugs) allows for the Plus's higher-quality sound. Now the wires go from the tonearm directly to the phono stage board, making the signal paths much shorter. This also helped reduce interference. On the other hand, the presence of separate power supplies for Planar 1 and Fono precisely contributes to the higher persuasiveness and power of the kit.

Ultimately, the choice is determined by personal preferences: are you willing to partly sacrifice these qualities for the convenience of connecting the power supply with only one plug.

When selecting partners, try to avoid components that sound too bright or dry; Otherwise, Rega's new plug-and-play turntable will fit seamlessly into any system - be it a traditional amp and speaker setup, a Sonos multi-room system, or even a pair of desktop speakers like the Ruark MR1 Mk2.

Rega Planar, differences like “One-Two-Three”!

Having burst into the audio market, the new Planar series has created an extraordinary amount of noise. And although the players are similar in appearance, there are very large differences among them, which affected primarily the sound. However, more on all this later. As you know, the main difference between Rega tonearms is compliance with certain tolerances of the tonearm tube. The stricter the tolerance, the more expensive the model the tube is suitable for. It would seem like such trifles, but this is analog audio, so there are no trifles here: even the most insignificant fact can greatly affect the final sound quality.

Planar 1 alone is equipped with the simplest RB110 tonearm. Its biggest difference from its predecessor models is the presence of automatic anti-skating. Like all Rega tonearms, the RB110 has a permanent headshell with a three-point pickup mounting. Initial setup with the Carbon MM pickup is surprisingly easy: just slide the 111-gram counterweight on and slide it all the way.

The RB220, which is included with the older Planar 2 model, also has automatic anti-skating, but the tube meets more serious tolerances. In all other respects, the tonearms are similar. The RB330 is the culmination of 35 years of research and experience, designed using the latest advances in 3D CAD&CAM tonearm technology. We can say that of all three models, this is the most uncompromising. The RB330 is equipped with a new low-capacitance interconnect cable and Neutrik connectors, as well as a 100-gram counterweight. The RB330 is a significant leap forward in terms of design, manufacturing and sound quality. The pickup of models 1 and 2 is the same - the above-mentioned Carbon MM, but the “three-ruble note” can already be equipped with the more serious Elys2.

Planar 2 and Planar 3 tables are the same, made of rigid material with acrylic lamination. Planar 1 has a table made from the more affordable thermoset Thermoset and is also laminated with acrylic. For now, black and white table colors are available, but it is possible that other shades will appear. In any case, the table looks much more expensive than the player costs. The power button has moved to the bottom side, so it's not easy to find initially. Planar 1 comes with a thermoset resin disc, while Planar 2 and 3 come with the new Optiwhite glass disc. All models are equipped with a new 24V motor with cooling, and this is a first for a “unit”: previously, entry-level models had motors with lower voltage. An important difference between Planar 3 and the two younger models is the use of Double Brace technology, which decouples the main components of the player from the table.

It is impossible not to recognize the signature Reg features in the sound, but all three players are noticeably different from each other. If you compare them with each other, you can clearly hear the class of one or another model in its own internal hierarchical ladder. Planar 3 gives a very rich sound, with clearly audible nuances and after-sounds, with elastic bass and transparent mids. Compared to its background, Planar 2 slightly veils the sound picture, but the bass is just as gorgeous. Planar 1 is similar in presentation to Planar 2, but with more modest bass. But all this can only be heard when compared head-on, so you can safely choose a device based on your budget, because all three models have a new level of Rega quality and sound.

Difference in approach

It’s not often that the choice is as dependent on personal preference as it is in this case. While some might prefer the powerful sound of the Planar 1/Fono, we loved the lively character of the Planar 1 Plus.

In any case, by combining two excellent components, Rega hit the mark. She may bemoan the fact that she didn't do it sooner, but the vinyl revival is far from peaking, sales are rising, and the versatile, amazing-sounding Planar 1 Plus is poised to be a huge success.

Rega RP1

Chan Rimu, 04/13/2014

Advantages: Performs the main declared function: a budget pass to the world of decent vinyl sound. The kit includes a cover. It's really very easy to set up for the first time.

Disadvantages: The rest are shortcomings resulting from compromises in the quality of components. 1. English assembly is a very dubious advantage. The quality of the product reminds me of items collected in the garage. 2. For generally a lot of money, you essentially don’t get anything worthwhile: all the components are the cheapest, and if you’re planning to upgrade something, the first thing you’ll understand is that there’s no point in investing in this table. 3. An outrageously bad built-in wire, which is also molded in - a Chinese contraption for 50 rubles. To see this on a type of audiophile component... 4. Most of the positive sound reviews of this turntable are based on the version with the Ortofon cartridge. We mostly get them with a Rega Carbon cartridge, which sounds much worse. Also, this standard cartridge gives a very weak output signal, which is also a problem when using budget phono stages. Combined with the poor wiring and lack of a ground terminal, this exacerbates the induced noise problems. 5. The tonearm is not a tonearm, but some semblance of a tonearm with very dubious tuning capabilities. Yes, of course, it seems to come pre-configured out of the box, but if you want to change the cartridge (and this is necessary for good sound, and someday the regular one will simply run out of resources), then a lot of adventures await you.

Comment: If you are, in principle, thinking about buying vinyl for the purpose of high-quality sound, then add at least a little money and make sure that the turntable you buy has the following properties: 1. Precise adjustment of the counterweight of the tonearm and skating. Without this it is very difficult to make everything look normal. Of course, it would be nice if VTA were exhibited. 2. Possibility to supply your own high-quality signal wire. 3. A decent cartridge included - if we choose a budget turntable, then we need to spend another 5-7 thousand rubles. A decent cartridge is greatly spoiled by its budget. 4. Acrylic disc. To get ALL the above goodies you need to pay quite a bit extra, but the difference will be very big: either you get the real thing or junk. There is no point in buying a Rega RP1: in stock it is not at all as good as they write about it, and any attempts to upgrade are extremely difficult.