Rega Planar 2 Turntable

The Planar 2 is the next clear step in the Rega range — developed over two years alongside the Planar 3, and sharing more with it than its position in the range might suggest. Where the Planar 1 is the entry point, the Planar 2 introduces a 10mm opti-white float glass platter, the RB220 tonearm with its patent-pending bearing housing, and an 11mm self-securing brass central bearing. These are not cosmetic upgrades; they are engineering changes that result in a more capable and more revealing turntable.

Where the Planar 2 Sits in the Rega Range

The Planar 2 sits above the Planar 1 Plus and below the Planar 3 in the Rega range.

The step up from the Planar 1 Plus introduces the glass platter, the improved central bearing, and the RB220 tonearm in a more rigid housing — each contributing to a more composed and detailed presentation. The Planar 3 above it adds the RB330, a heavier glass platter, and the double-brace plinth system; if budget allows, it is worth hearing both.

Sound and Performance

The RB220 tonearm uses ultra-low-friction bearings with a patent-pending housing design that reduces resonance and improves tracking sensitivity across the frequency range. The bearing housing is stiffer than its predecessor's, which means the cartridge is held more consistently as the stylus traces the groove. The adjustable bias system allows precise tracking force setting.

The 10mm opti-white float glass platter is heavier and more inert than the phenolic platter of the Planar 1. Its flywheel effect provides greater rotational stability, and its surface is more consistent in its flatness, contributing to better stylus-to-groove contact across the full side of a record.

The 11mm self-securing brass central bearing is a redesigned component — more precisely toleranced than earlier designs and engineered to reduce the energy transfer between the sub-platter and the bearing housing. The 24V synchronous motor is decoupled from the main plinth via redesigned feet, reducing the vibration that reaches the cartridge from the drive system.

Compared with the Planar 1, it is more composed — better at low-level detail, more stable in the stereo image, and more rhythmically assured.

Build Quality and Design

The Planar 2 is hand-assembled in Southend-on-Sea and weighs 5.5 kg. The high-gloss acrylic plinth is available in Black, White, Red, and Walnut Effect Special Edition — the Walnut model ships with a smoked dust cover rather than the standard clear. Dimensions with the dust cover closed are 447 × 117 × 360 mm.

The Advanced EBLT drive belt is fitted as standard. Lifetime limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

Connectivity and System Matching

The Planar 2 outputs a standard stereo RCA signal. A phono stage is required; it is not included. The Carbon MM cartridge is the standard fitting; the Nd3 MM is available as a factory-fitted upgrade.

At Planar 2 level, a dedicated external phono stage is recommended over an amplifier's built-in input. The Rega Fono MM MK5 is the obvious choice — designed to work with Rega MM cartridges and audibly more capable than most integrated phono stages at this price.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The Planar 2 is for the vinyl listener who wants to move beyond the entry-level Rega range without committing to the Planar 3's price. It suits those who have a modest system and want a source that will reveal what it is capable of — and those who are starting a serious vinyl collection and want a turntable that will remain capable as the system around it develops. It is also the natural choice for anyone who appreciates the Rega aesthetic and wants it in a colour or finish not available on the Planar 1.

Buying from Martin's Hi-Fi

Martin's Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968, and the Rega range has been part of what we do for years. We are still family-run — Elizabeth Gould runs the business today — and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

The Planar 2 is available to hear in our Norwich showroom. When you get in touch, you will be speaking to Dave or Chris — both experienced hi-fi specialists who can talk you through whether the Planar 2 or another model in the Rega range is the right fit for your system.

Reach them at dave@martinshifi.co.uk, chris@martinshifi.co.uk, info@martinshifi.co.uk, call on 01603 627010, or WhatsApp Dave or Chris directly on 07554 687137 for a quick answer after your purchase. You can read more about who we are and how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY, open six days a week.

Contact: info@martinshifi.co.uk | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY