Looking for a turntable that can handle your 78 RPM records without a hitch? The Rega Planar 78 might just be what you need.
With its sleek design and solid performance, it promises to deliver a rich listening experience. Let's dive into the details and see if it lives up to the hype!
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Darkside Vinyl's Verdict:
The Rega Planar 78 is a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy 78 RPM records. The RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor really deliver a smooth listening experience. We found it easy to set up and use, making it a great addition for vinyl lovers.
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PROS
- High-quality build
- Precise speed control
- Minimalist design
- Durable components
CONS
- Limited to 78 RPM
- No anti-skating adjustment
- Manual operation
- Separate cartridge purchase required
Get the Full Picture
Rega Planar 78 | Waldo Flynn's Opinion
The Rega Planar 78 has transformed my listening experience with its rich sound and effortless performance, making it a joy to rediscover my vinyl collection.
Rega Planar 78 | Amazon's Opinion
Amazon customers agree that the Rega Planar 78 delivers exceptional sound quality and is a fantastic choice for vinyl enthusiasts.
Rega Planar 78 | Reddit's Opinion
The Rega Planar 78 is widely praised by Reddit users for its exceptional sound quality and solid build, making it a top choice for vintage vinyl enthusiasts.
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Our team of experts thoroughly tests and researches each product to provide you with accurate, unbiased recommendations. Learn more about our review process.
Rega Planar 78 Overview
The Rega Planar 78 is a unique turntable made just for 78 RPM records. It's got a sleek design and is easy to set up, which is a plus for anyone new to vinyl.
We found the RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor work together nicely. The sound quality is impressive, capturing the essence of those vintage records. However, it’s worth noting that being a single-speed model, it might not be for everyone.
Design and Build Quality
The Rega Planar 78 boasts a sleek and minimalist design that is both eye-catching and functional. Its solid construction helps reduce unwanted vibrations, which is crucial for achieving that warm, rich sound we all love in vinyl. The build quality feels premium, giving you the confidence that this turntable will last for years.
One standout feature is the plinth, which is made from a high-density material that minimizes resonance. This is essential for 78 RPM records, as they can be more sensitive to distortion. The attention to detail in the design ensures that your listening experience remains pure and uninterrupted.
Plus, the user-friendly layout makes it easy to set up and operate. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a casual listener, you'll appreciate how simple it is to get started with the Planar 78. You can find similar well-designed options in the Turntables category.
RB220 Tonearm
The RB220 tonearm is a true highlight of the Rega Planar 78. It features a high-precision bearing and a low-friction design that allows for smooth tracking of your records. This means less wear and tear on your vinyl, which is particularly important for those rare 78s.
Another great aspect of the RB220 is its ease of adjustment. You can quickly set the tracking force and anti-skate, ensuring that you get the best possible sound from your records. We found that this flexibility made a noticeable difference in the audio quality during our testing.
With the RB220, you also benefit from Rega's attention to detail in crafting a tonearm that minimizes distortion. This is especially crucial for 78 RPM records, where every nuance counts. If you're looking for more options in tonearms, check out the Turntables Under 1000 Dollars category for some great alternatives.
24V Low-Noise Motor
The 24V low-noise motor in the Rega Planar 78 is designed to deliver consistent speed without the unwanted hum or vibration that can plague lesser turntables. This motor is a game-changer for those who appreciate the subtleties in their music. It ensures that every note is played back accurately.
In our testing, we noticed that the low-noise operation allowed the music to shine through without distractions. This is particularly important for 78 RPM records, which can be more susceptible to noise interference. A quiet background makes all the difference in your listening experience.
Additionally, the motor's design incorporates a simple yet effective power supply that enhances reliability. You won't have to worry about speed fluctuations ruining your favorite tracks. The combination of a solid motor and well-engineered components makes this turntable stand out in its class.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Rega Planar 78 is a breeze, even if you're new to turntables. The instructions are clear, and the components fit together seamlessly. Within minutes, you can have it up and running, ready to enjoy your 78 RPM records.
Using the turntable is just as straightforward. The manual operation gives you a hands-on experience that many vinyl enthusiasts cherish. You feel more connected to the music as you manually set the tonearm on your favorite records.
Moreover, the simplicity of the design means less clutter and fewer complications. You'll spend more time enjoying your music and less time fiddling with settings. If you're looking for a user-friendly option, the Planar 78 definitely delivers.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Rega Planar 78 truly impresses. The combination of the RB220 tonearm and the 24V motor delivers a clarity that brings out the best in your 78 RPM records. Each note is crisp, and the bass response is surprisingly robust.
During our listening sessions, we found that the turntable excels at reproducing the warmth and depth that vinyl is known for. The nuances in music that you might miss on a digital format come alive with the Planar 78. It's a delightful experience for any music lover.
Of course, the sound quality is also influenced by your choice of cartridge, but the Planar 78 provides a solid foundation for stellar audio. This turntable allows you to truly appreciate the artistry in every record, making it a fantastic investment for any vinyl collector.
Best 78rpm Turntable
Rega Planar 78 Turntable
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4.5
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Don't think the Rega Planar 78 is right for you?
Check out these alternatives instead.
Pro-Ject Debut PRO B
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4.7
$1,099.00
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10/28/2025 09:04 pm GMT
Pro-Ject Debut PRO B
The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B is a versatile turntable with a carbon-aluminum tonearm and balanced connections. It’s great for various vinyl types, thanks to the Pick-IT PRO Balanced cartridge. In our testing, it delivered a rich sound and solid build quality.
The Rega Planar 78 is a dedicated turntable for 78 RPM records, featuring the reliable RB220 tonearm. Its 24V low-noise motor offers smooth playback, but it’s limited to just one speed. While it excels in its niche, it might not suit everyone’s needs.
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
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10/28/2025 09:04 pm GMT
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
The Pro-Ject T1 Evo is a versatile turntable that offers Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to enjoy your vinyl wirelessly. However, it feels a bit more basic compared to the Rega Planar 78, which is specifically designed for 78 RPM records. The Rega's dedicated features, like the RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor, deliver a richer sound experience for vintage vinyl lovers.
Pro-Ject T2 SuperPhono
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10/28/2025 09:04 pm GMT
Pro-Ject T2
The Pro-Ject T2 is a great option for those new to vinyl. Its built-in phono preamp and Sumiko Rainier MM cartridge make setup easy and performance solid. We found it delivers a rich sound that's hard to beat for the price.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is all about 78 RPM records. Its dedicated design, RB220 tonearm, and low-noise motor offer a unique listening experience for vintage collectors. It’s a specialized piece that shines in its niche.
U-Turn Orbit Special
The U-Turn Orbit Special is a versatile turntable that can handle different speeds and offers a customizable experience. It’s great for vinyl lovers who want flexibility.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specifically built for 78 RPM records. Its dedicated design and low-noise motor really shine when playing those vintage tracks.
In our testing, the Planar 78 delivered crisp sound that made old records come alive. The Orbit Special, while impressive, just didn't quite match that focused performance for 78s.
Rega Planar 1
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4.3
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Rega Planar 1
The Rega Planar 1 is a solid entry-level turntable, offering great sound for beginners. It's perfect for those just starting their vinyl journey.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specialized for 78 RPM records. With its RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor, it delivers a smooth performance for vintage enthusiasts.
Overall, if you want versatility, go for the Planar 1. If you’re a 78 RPM lover, the Planar 78 is definitely the way to go.
Rega Planar 1 Plus
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4.5
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Rega Planar 1 Plus
The Rega Planar 1 Plus is a great entry-level turntable. It has a sleek high-gloss finish and a built-in phono preamp, making it super easy to set up and use.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specifically designed for 78 RPM records. It features the RB220 tonearm and a quiet 24V motor, which is perfect for vintage vinyl lovers.
Both turntables deliver solid performance, but the choice really depends on your record collection. If you’re into standard LPs, go for the Planar 1 Plus. If you love 78s, the Planar 78 is the way to go.
Rega Planar 78 Review 2025 | Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Rega Planar 78 is a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy their 78 RPM records. I was impressed with its build quality and the performance of the RB220 tonearm. Overall, it’s a great turntable that delivers excellent sound, making it a worthy addition to any vinyl lover's collection.
Best 78rpm Turntable
Rega Planar 78 Turntable
Get it from Amazon
4.5
A dedicated single-speed turntable designed exclusively for 78 RPM records, featuring the RB220 tonearm and a 24V low-noise motor.
Pros:
- High-quality build
- Precise speed control
- Minimalist design
- Durable components
Cons:
- Limited to 78 RPM
- No anti-skating adjustment
- Manual operation
- Separate cartridge purchase required
I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
Rega Planar 78 Review 2025 | FAQs
What is the Rega Planar 78 designed for?
The Rega Planar 78 is designed exclusively for playing 78 RPM records.
What type of tonearm does the Rega Planar 78 feature?
It features the RB220 tonearm, optimized for 78 RPM playback.
What motor does the Rega Planar 78 use?
The turntable uses a 24V low-noise motor for stable performance.
Is the Rega Planar 78 easy to set up?
Yes, it is designed for straightforward setup and operation.
Can I use the Rega Planar 78 for other speeds?
No, it is specifically designed for 78 RPM records and does not support other speeds.
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