Rega Planar 3 RS 50th Anniversary Turntable
The Rega Planar 3 RS Edition (Rega Special) introduces a new standard in performance, featuring a revolutionary aluminum HPL laminate skin to create the most rigid plinth we've ever crafted at this level. The striking dark brushed metallic plinth, accented by high gloss black edges, offers an impeccable foundation for the renowned Planar 3. The RS Edition comes with a custom-matched Neo MK2 PSU, with each motor’s vibration circuit hand-tuned to its unique specifications. The low-noise 24v motor drives the sub-platter with the Reference EBLT drive belt, ensuring ultimate precision in speed control. Completing the setup is the iconic handmade RB330 tonearm paired with the new, award-winning Nd5 moving magnet cartridge.
Optimizing an Icon
Rega has long been at the forefront of using lightweight, ultra-rigid plinths to enhance performance. Our lightweight particulate core, enveloped by a highly rigid phenolic resin skin, became the foundation of the original Planar range’s legendary performance.
The new Planar 3 RS Edition elevates this approach, utilizing a High Pressure Laminate (HPL) commonly found in the Planar 6, 8, and 10 models for enhanced rigidity. The premium HPL features a dark brushed aluminum skin with a stunning satin finish. Additionally, our double brace system is strategically placed between the tonearm mounting and the main hub bearing, creating a robust “stressed beam” assembly for added structural integrity.
This intricate plinth design combats energy absorption and prevents unwanted resonance, which can cause distortions in music. Heavier masses can transfer unwanted noise, such as motor or bearing hum, directly into the rotating record. By employing braces, we achieve a double thickness of phenolic resin in critical areas, addressing both mass absorption and energy transmission.
Nd5 Moving Magnet Cartridge
Each Nd5 cartridge is painstakingly handmade by our skilled technicians. Featuring a perfect elliptical nude diamond stylus, the Nd5 uses an innovative elliptical grinding process with polycrystalline manmade diamond. The newly designed generator geometry ensures precise channel balance and symmetry, while the optimized pole gap enhances linearity and reduces cross-talk. This results in a much wider soundstage than previous models. The Nd5 incorporates miniaturized parallel coils wound with 38-micron wire, totaling just 1275 turns, resulting in low inductance and impedance for superior high-frequency response. True to Rega’s commitment to sustainability, the Nd5 is packaged in fully recyclable materials. According to Hi-Fi Choice, the Nd5 represents a significant leap forward, offering one of the best designs in its price range.
Key Features
-
Plinth: Brushed dark aluminum skinned HPL laminated plinth for enhanced rigidity.
-
Motor: Low noise 24V precision motor, custom CNC machined aluminum pulley.
-
Neo MK2 PSU: Advanced turntable power supply with fine speed adjustment, anti-vibration motor circuit, and electronic speed change for improved noise reduction and speed accuracy.
-
Double Brace Technology: 3mm phenolic bottom brace and metalized skin phenolic top brace, forming a structurally sound assembly that minimizes unwanted resonance and energy absorption.
-
Central Bearing: Rega’s patented brass main hub bearing, engineered for a better fit and reduced stress.
-
Tonearm: The RB330 tonearm, designed with advanced 3D CAD and CAM technology, offers extreme stability, zero bearing play, and friction-free movement, ensuring optimal performance and clarity from your vinyl.
User Manual
