Rega has finished its latest turntable the Planar 1 Plus, essentially a combination of their entry level P1 turntable and Fono Mini MM phono stage the P1 Plus can be used with “almost any amplifier”. Rega wanted to optimise this circuit for ultimate performance so they removed the USB interface and “used the money saved to improve what was already a stunning disc stage.”
The new built in stage offers the ability to connect the Planar 1 Plus directly to almost any system that has a standard line input via a standard phono to phono cable (supplied) or phono to 3.5mm lead. Simply put, there is no need to purchase a standalone phono stage or use an amplifier with a built in stage. The Planar 1 Plus will connect directly to any standard Line Level input (such as you would connect a CD player to).
There are clear advantages to housing the phono stage directly beneath the tonearm. The biggest being that the tonearm wire is soldered directly to the stage which prevents any unwanted pick up via the usual external cable between the arm and stage.
The Planar 1 Plus benefits from all of the advantages of its sibling, the Planar 1, such as a low noise 24v motor, precision hub bearing assembly and RB110 tonearm with a factory fitted Carbon cartridge. Set-up remains possible in “under 30 seconds making this the easiest to use, and most flexible Rega turntable to date”. Price is £329 in gloss black or white and is available now. Watch out for a review in the coming month.