Rega Planar 3 Turntable Review
Few decks in its price segment marry elegance and performance as seamlessly as the Rega Planar 3 Turntable. As the award-winning heir to the revered RP3, this latest iteration represents a two-year seismic redesign – retaining only the motor and main bearing from its predecessor – and pushing every other aspect into a higher plane of sonic precision and musical synergy.

Under the Plinth: Precision Engineering

At the heart of the Planar 3 lies the newly developed RB330 tonearm, honed by over 35 years of Rega’s bearing-perfecting expertise. Its precision-machined, friction-free bearing and improved stiffness-to-mass ratio dramatically reduce resonance, ensuring the stylus tracks grooves with razor-sharp accuracy. Sitting atop a high-gloss acrylic laminated plinth, thick phenolic braces and a redesigned sub-platter deliver rock-solid rigidity, while the 24V low-noise synchronous motor and polished 12 mm Optiwhite float glass rim keep wow and flutter at bay.

Sonic Signature: Clarity, Dynamics & Musicality

The sonic results speak volumes. Expect a level of detail retrieval that brings vinyl to life – delicate string overtones shimmer, and punchy bass lines remain taut without veering into boom. Speed stability is exemplary, giving voices and instruments an organic warmth and realism that rewards long listening sessions. From chamber jazz to full-blown orchestral works, the Planar 3’s transparency and rhythmic drive will engage the most discerning audiophile.

Who Should Consider the Planar 3?

The Rega Planar 3 Turntable is ideally suited to enthusiasts ready to leave entry-level decks behind. If you’re seeking an upgrade with modular potential—pairing with a standalone phono stage or high-end cartridge—the Planar 3’s neutral platform and ease of setup will reward thoughtful synergy building. It also appeals to those who want a minimal, all-analogue aesthetic without sacrificing technical refinement.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• RB330 tonearm with ultra-low friction bearing for pinpoint tracking
• 24V motor and polished float glass platter ensure superb speed stability
• High-gloss acrylic plinth and phenolic bracing minimise resonance
• Intuitive set-up and maintenance, ideal for seasoned vinyl lovers
• Modular design allows custom phono stage and cartridge matching

Cons

• Phono stage sold separately – but this encourages fine-tuned system matching with our expert guidance

Elevate Your HiFi Experience

Ready to experience unparalleled clarity and musical engagement? Chat with our team at The Audio Tailor to explore how the Rega Planar 3 Turntable can transform your vinyl playback. Call us on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au for personalised advice and next-level service. Don’t just listen—live your music in full resolution.