REGA Planar 1 Plus
Users who frequently change or change their audio equipment know very well how to easily limit the possibilities of good equipment by inappropriate selection of individual components. Building on this insight, Rega introduces the P1 "Plus" model which combines the award-winning Plenar 1 turntable with the well-matched Rega Phono Mini A2D preamplifier.
Based on the tests, the manufacturer decides to combine both components to create a harmonious duo that does not limit each other. Such a configuration is a surety for the buyer who is not always able to match both components together. The Planar 1 Plus uses the same platter, bearing and arm as the P1 predecessor, has the same Carbon MM cartridge, and a 24 V AC motor powered by a 350 mA external power supply included in the set. Phono with output connectors for which we can choose a cable of appropriate quality and length.
Construction
The Planar P1 Plus, just like the predecessor P1, was devoid of buttons located on the top and front part of the housing. The on / off switch of the device is located on the bottom and is not visible when the device is in the normal vertical operating position. Changing the speed forces the plate to be removed and the drive pulley belt to shift from position A for 33 and 1/3 rpm. and B for a speed of 45 rpm. The RB110 arm inclination is preset, no further adjustment is needed, you can pull off the stylus cover, place a record and enjoy the music.
A well-kept Rega Plenar 1 Plus, used for several months, was delivered for the test, and it works with active KEF LS50 Wireless monitors.
The test was performed on a split system consisting of the Densen Beat B200 preamplifier, connected with the Chord Chameleon interconnect with the Musical Fidelity A3CR dual monophonic power amplifier, powered from the Tacoma IFI-23 conditioner, through WireWorld Stratus 7 and MCRU Asylum power cables. The whole was accompanied by KEF LS 50 speakers in the first passive version, mounted on DynamiDuo Stand supports with Atacama Atabiter SMD lead filling, placed on spikes and 1.5 cm thick marble plates. Chord Epic SuperTwin speaker cables connected the KEF LS 50 supported by a REL T5i subwoofer that complemented the low bass frequencies. The turntable with the Densen preamplifier was connected with the reference interconnects Chord Cadenza, and the QED Qunex Silver Spiral alternately.
Sound
The sound changed depending on the wide discrepancy of years between the release of individual records. Older recordings from the 80s and 90s did not have the appropriate dynamics and detail, which are served by the KEFs with the above-mentioned system that works with the RME ADI 2 DAC FS digital-to-analog converter on a daily basis. Newer albums from 2016 presented a much richer insight into the climate as well as stronger dynamics. The background sounds were reproduced in the best way, the timbre and variety of the audience's shouts, applause, whistles, etc. introduced us to a believable concert atmosphere. The vocals sounded clear and velvety, and although they lacked a certain character, they presented a quite strong and engaging message. The highs were clear, even shiny and sweet in places, but they were clearly at the back. The guitars sounded quite flat, and the bass seemed to hide behind the stage covered with a curtain and played louder so that it could be heard clearly.
Conclusion
Rega P1 Plus, just like most audio equipment, has to harmonize with a well-chosen company to spread its wings. Despite the built-in preamplifier optimally selected by the manufacturer, in a poorly selected system it can limit itself and the accompanying components.
Technical data
drive: strip EBLT
insert: Rega Carbon MM
arm: Rega RB 110
preamplifier: Rega Phono Mini A2D
a plate: massive 23mm phenolic with improved flywheel effect for better speed stability
power supply: external 24 V, 350 mA power supply
rotation speed: 33.3 / 45
contribution: with a moving carbon magnet
dimensions: 447 x 117 x 360 mm
scales: 4.35 kg
Prepared by: Łabędź Przemysław