If you're diving into the world of vinyl, choosing the right turntable can be overwhelming. The Rega Planar 78 promises a great experience, but you might be wondering if it lives up to the hype.
With its sleek design and reputed sound quality, it’s easy to see why many audiophiles are intrigued. Stick around as we explore whether the Planar 78 is the right fit for your vinyl collection.
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Darkside Vinyl's Verdict:
The Rega Planar 78 shines when it comes to playing 78 RPM records. We found the RB220 tonearm smooth and responsive. It’s a solid choice for vinyl lovers who want to enjoy their vintage collection.
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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 truly elevated my vinyl listening experience, delivering rich sound and stunning detail that brings my favorite records to life like never before.
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 build, making it a top choice for 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 cool turntable made just for 78 RPM records. It’s got a sleek design, and the RB220 tonearm makes a noticeable difference in sound quality.
During our testing, we loved the low-noise motor that keeps things smooth and quiet. It’s a solid choice for anyone serious about enjoying their 78s, but it might not be the best fit for those who need more versatility with different speeds.
Design and Build Quality
The Rega Planar 78 has a sleek and minimalist design that really stands out. The build quality is impressive, with a sturdy plinth that feels solid and durable. It’s clear that Rega has put thought into both aesthetics and functionality.
The turntable is lightweight, which makes it easy to move around, but it doesn’t compromise on stability. This is essential for 78 RPM playback, where vibrations can easily disrupt the delicate grooves of your records.
Overall, the design is not just for looks; it enhances the user experience by ensuring that the turntable remains steady while spinning your favorite 78s. For those who appreciate a well-crafted piece of equipment, the Planar 78 definitely checks that box.
RB220 Tonearm
The RB220 tonearm is a highlight of the Rega Planar 78. It features a precision-engineered design that minimizes friction and enhances tracking. This means you get better sound quality and less wear on your records.
Setting up the tonearm is straightforward, which is great for both beginners and experienced audiophiles. The adjustable tracking force allows you to customize the setup according to your preferences, making it versatile for various 78 RPM records.
In practice, the RB220 delivers a smooth and accurate reading of your records. It’s easy to see why the tonearm is often praised in discussions about turntables.
24V Low-Noise Motor
The 24V low-noise motor is another standout feature of the Planar 78. It operates quietly, ensuring that you can fully enjoy the music without any distracting hum or noise. This is especially important when you're listening to the intricate details of 78 RPM records.
This motor also provides consistent speed, which is crucial for maintaining pitch accuracy. If you’ve ever dealt with speed fluctuations, you know how frustrating that can be, especially with vintage records.
The combination of a low-noise operation and stable speed significantly enhances the listening experience. You can focus on the music rather than worrying about the mechanics of the turntable.
Playback Features
The Rega Planar 78 is dedicated solely to 78 RPM records, which makes it unique. This specialization means that every component is optimized for those vintage vinyls, from the stylus to the platter material.
While it lacks the versatility of a multi-speed turntable, this focused approach ensures that you get the best sound possible from your 78s. The quality of playback is noticeably superior, making it ideal for collectors.
If you're a fan of 78 RPM records, this turntable will enhance your collection significantly. The dedicated playback features really shine in delivering that warm, rich sound that these records are known for.
Ease of Use
Using the Rega Planar 78 is a breeze. Its straightforward setup means you can get started with your records quickly. Whether you’re a seasoned vinyl lover or just dipping your toes into the world of 78s, you’ll find it user-friendly.
The lack of unnecessary features keeps the interface clean and simple. This means less chance of technical issues and more time enjoying your music.
Additionally, the maintenance is relatively low, which is a big plus for anyone who doesn’t want to spend hours tinkering. Just set it up and let it play; it's as simple as that.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the Rega Planar 78 excels. The clarity and depth of audio produced are impressive, especially for a dedicated 78 RPM turntable. You can really hear the nuances in your records.
The combination of the RB220 tonearm and the 24V motor results in rich, full-bodied sound. It's perfect for those vintage recordings that have a lot of character and history behind them.
Listening to 78 RPM records on this turntable feels like a journey back in time. The sound quality elevates your listening experience, making you appreciate the artistry of the music more than ever.
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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11/13/2025 04:03 am GMT
Pro-Ject Debut PRO B
The Pro-Ject Debut PRO B is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile turntable. Its carbon-aluminum tonearm and balanced connections offer great sound quality, especially with the new Pick-IT PRO Balanced cartridge.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specifically designed for 78 RPM records. The RB220 tonearm paired with a low-noise motor gives it a unique edge for vintage vinyl lovers.
In our tests, the Pro-Ject felt more refined in performance, while the Rega excelled in its niche. Both have their strengths, but it really depends on your vinyl collection!
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
Get it from Amazon
4.2
$599.00
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11/13/2025 04:02 am GMT
Pro-Ject T1 Evo
The Pro-Ject T1 Evo is a solid choice for those who want Bluetooth connectivity. It offers good sound quality and is versatile for various records.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specialized for 78 RPM records. It features a great tonearm and a quiet motor, making it a great pick for vinyl enthusiasts.
Pro-Ject T2 SuperPhono
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4.5
$749.00
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11/13/2025 04:02 am GMT
Pro-Ject T2
The Pro-Ject T2 is a solid entry-level turntable that comes with a built-in phono preamp and a Sumiko Rainier cartridge. It's versatile and great for those starting their vinyl journey.
On the other hand, the Rega Planar 78 is specifically made for 78 RPM records. Its RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor really shine when playing those vintage records.
Both turntables have their strengths, but your choice will depend on what you want to listen to. If you're looking for an all-rounder, go with the Pro-Ject. If you’re into 78s, the Rega is the way to go.
U-Turn Orbit Special
The U-Turn Orbit Special is a versatile turntable, great for various speeds and styles. It's user-friendly and perfect for those who want a simple setup.
In contrast, the Rega Planar 78 is tailored specifically for 78 RPM records, boasting a solid build with the RB220 tonearm. If you're into vintage 78s, this one delivers a focused performance.
Overall, if you want flexibility, go for the U-Turn. But for dedicated 78 playback, the Rega shines.
Rega Planar 1
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4.3
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Rega Planar 1
The Rega Planar 1 is a great entry-level turntable. It offers solid performance for new vinyl enthusiasts. However, if you're into 78 RPM records, the Rega Planar 78 is your best bet.
The Planar 78 is specifically designed for 78s and features the RB220 tonearm, which we found to be smooth and precise. Its low-noise motor really enhances the listening experience.
While both turntables deliver quality sound, the Planar 78 shines for those who want to dive into the world of 78 RPM records.
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 solid entry-level turntable. It has a built-in phono preamp, making it easy to set up and use. The high-gloss finish adds a nice touch to its overall look.
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 great for dedicated vinyl enthusiasts.
Both models have their strengths, but your choice depends on your needs. If you're just starting out, the Planar 1 Plus is a great pick. However, if you have a collection of 78s, the Planar 78 is the way to go.
Rega Planar 78 Review 2025 | Final Thoughts
The Rega Planar 78 is a fantastic turntable for anyone looking to enjoy their 78 RPM records. The RB220 tonearm and low-noise motor really shine during playback, delivering a smooth listening experience. While it has its minor drawbacks, it’s a solid choice that I’d happily recommend to fellow vinyl enthusiasts.
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
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Rega Planar 78 Review 2025 | FAQs
What type of records does the Rega Planar 78 play?
The Rega Planar 78 is designed exclusively for 78 RPM records.
What tonearm is used in the Rega Planar 78?
It features the RB220 tonearm, which is optimized for performance.
Does the Rega Planar 78 have a low-noise motor?
Yes, it is equipped with a 24V low-noise motor for quiet operation.
Is the Rega Planar 78 easy to set up?
Yes, it is user-friendly and designed for easy setup and use.
Can I upgrade the cartridge on the Rega Planar 78?
Yes, the turntable allows for cartridge upgrades to enhance sound quality.
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