With over 40 years of experience designing turntables, Rega boasts of products that attain the best musical performance. Planar 2 is the company’s newer version of the entry-level Rega Planar. I assess its different features to see if Rega lives up to its promise.
Rega Planar 2 Overview
According to the vendor, Rega Planar 2 is designed to extract the optimal detail from your vinyl collection. It also comes with a precision RB220 tonearm coupled with low noise, 24v synchronous motors to provide a premium listening experience. The turntable is relatively expensive, but based on customer reviews, many users are satisfied with its overall functionality. Nonetheless, some complain of high motor noise and problems with the anti-skating mechanism, among others.
Technical Specifications
The turntable has the following features:
- Premounted Carbon cartridge
- RB220 precision tonearm
- Low vibration motor
- Advanced EBLT drive belt
- Acrylic or walnut effect laminated plinth
- Optional lid/plinth protectors
- 10mm float glass opti-white platter
I can confidently confirm that Planar 2 is a ‘plug-and-play device.’ With a pre-mounted cartridge, all there is to do to get it ready is balance the arm. Featuring ultra-low friction bearings, a permanent headshell, and an integrated cueing lever, you’ll just appreciate the convenience the RB220 tonearm offers.
But I am bothered by the anti-skate mechanism. Although it’s meant to ensure easy setup and optimal tracking, some users report it could be unstable. Therefore, it may swing back to its resting position when you least expect it. This could eventually damage the stylus or your records.
Rega Planar 2 Drive Mechanism
Of course, this turntable is driven by the belt. This is where the belt attached to the motor pulley rotates the platter at the required speed to play vinyl records. This mechanism aims to minimize the motor noise that reaches the stylus. Rega has even used a 24V low-noise motor to enhance this feature. However, there’s a chance that you could hear some motor noise while playing your music if what other clients are reporting is true. Don’t worry, though. You can solve the problem with proper lubrication.
Is Rega Planar 2 Turntable Automatic or Manual?
The Planar 2 turntable is fully manual; there are no automatic buttons to operate it. You are the one to put the stylus on the record and place the tonearm back to its resting position at the end of playback. Speed setting is also manual. The unit plays 33 and 45 RPM, so you will have to manually reposition the pulley (underneath the platter) to change between the two. This may not be an issue if you play LPs or singles at a time. But I guess it can be annoying if you have to change between 33 and 45 regularly.
Usability and Portability of Rega Planar 2 Turntable
Anyone can use this turntable effortlessly; it has a straightforward manual for a simple setup. The design is also intuitive, making it easier for users to familiarize themselves with the turntable quickly. As far as the turntable’s weight (12.12 lbs or 5.5kg) is concerned, I would say it’s easily portable. However, you cannot play it on the go since it doesn’t have an inbuilt power source like a battery. You are better off using this turntable on stationary setups for convenience and to prevent damaging its delicate components.
Rega Planar 2 Design & Build
I don’t know about you, but the appearance of a turntable matters. Therefore, I am happy that Planar 2 looks classy. It boasts high-quality construction, featuring a high gloss or walnut effect laminated plinth and a glass platter to enhance speed accuracy through its flywheel effect. The design is also uncluttered with the power button underneath the plinth, improving its overall look. Nonetheless, there are a few color options available—white, black, and red.
Connectivity & Sound Performance of Rega Planar 2: Great but…
The turntable relies on analog connectivity, where you connect it to an amplifier or stereo system with a phono input utilizing RCA cables. There’s no built-in phono preamp, so you may have to buy an external preamp to connect it to an audio system. Bluetooth or USB connectivity isn’t available either.
You will simply enjoy listening to this unit as it offers great sound. It digs into the details of your records while delivering remarkable punch and control in the base range if used with quality speakers. However, you should upgrade the cartridge at some point to extract the turntable’s full potential.
Main Technology Perks of Rega Planar 2 Turntable
The integration of the synchronous motor is an advantage as it enables the turntable to attain a stable rotation speed. The use of the RB220 tonearm is another perk. It not only enables accurate playback but also ensures low distortion and precision tracking.
Pricing
Planar 2 turntable is available for $775. This may be expensive for a novice who wants to have the vinyl experience without breaking the bank.
How to Setup & Use Rega Planar 2 Turntable?
Installing the turntable is pretty easy. Follow these steps to get started:
- Once you have unpacked the turntable and its components, plug in the phono cables.
- Connect the power supply.
- Take out the protective cardboard by pulling it out.
- The belt and the speed are already preset; you just need to move the pulley to the bottom if you want to change the speed to 45 RPM or move it up to change to 33 RPM.
- Gently lower the platter onto the center spindle.
- Remove the protective red tape holding the tonearm and the stylus cover.
- Take the counterweight and screw it at the back of the tonearm.
- Unlock the tonearm and try to balance it by adjusting the counterweight.
- Apply the right tracking force (2g).
- Switch on the turntable, move the tonearm over the top of the record, and lower the cueing mechanism to start playing.
You can always have a better music experience with your turntable by minimizing vibrations. As such, consider using vibration isolators, a turntable stand, or placing the unit on vibration-resistant furniture. Brush your records regularly utilizing a special record-cleaning brush to prevent distorted or crackling sounds. Sometimes, it may be necessary to invest in a high-quality ground cable to enhance signal transfer and help you enjoy your collection better.
Overall Impression About Rega Planar 2 Turntable?
By prioritizing ease of use, Rega ensures you start enjoying your vinyl collection almost immediately due to the reduced set-up time. Unfortunately, the lack of USB connectivity means you can’t use it to digitize your records.
Pros
The Planar 2 turntable is easy to use, looks great, and produces quality sound.
Cons
It has limited color options, possible anti-skate issues, and lacks wireless connectivity.
Who Is It For?
This turntable may be ideal for audiophiles who value sound quality. Newbies can also use it effortlessly if they don’t mind the price.
Final Verdict
In my opinion, the Planar 2 turntable is a fascinating, enjoyable listen. By bringing out the details of a record, this unit also enables you to connect with the music. However, the manual speed system can be inconvenient, while the price may restrict users on a budget from owning the turntable.
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