REGA PLANAR 3 REVISITED

Synergy Audio Visual has announced that it’s expecting a new version of the Rega Planar 3 to arrive in Australia in June. ‘ This new model is a completely new turntable for 2016 and a significant departure from the last Rega Planar 3 model,’ said Philip Sawyer, , of Synergy Audio Visual, which distributes Rega in Australia. ‘ Roy Gandy and his team took two years to develop this model, and it’s the first turntable release in this price bracket from Rega in five years.’ Gandy says that the main central bearing on this new Planar 3 has improved fit and construction, which reduces stress on the bearing itself. The sub-platter has been re-designed and there’s a new float glass ‘Optiwhite’ polished-rim 12mm platter, plus the power switch has been re-positioned so it’s easier to access. The Planar 3 also has new feet that Rega claims increase stability and reduce vibration transfer, plus there’s a new motor cover tray with integrated cooling. ‘ We considered every element of design and engineering, including new manufacturing processes and small details such as a new computer-controlled air-injected application system for precise lubrication of the main bearing,’ Gandy told Australian Hi-Fi Magazine. ‘ The bracing system has been redesigned to include an aluminium strengthened top brace and a thicker bottom brace. Optional lid and plinth protectors are supplied to prevent marks on the plinth and keep it looking its best.’ The Planar 3 has a high-gloss acrylic laminated plinth which will initially be available only in either black or white. It is stiffer than previous models and has a vastly improved appearance, with an ergonomically positioned power switch. The tonearm has also been re-designed for 2016. The new RB330 tonearm has a new bias assembly, re-designed stiffer vertical bearing housing, an integrated arm clip and improved spring housing with easier-to-read numbers, new low-capacitance phono cable and Neutrik plugs. It also has lower-friction precision horizontal and vertical bearings and a newly designed 100g mild steel counter-weight. When the Planar 3 becomes available in Australia in June 2016 it will retail for $1,249 (RRP) without cartridge or for $1,449 (RRP) when fitted with a Rega Elys 2 phono cartridge. For further information, please contact Synergy Audio Visual on (03) 9459 7474 or visit the website at www.synergyaudio.com