advice on old Planar 3

[bobchiba]

Ive had a Rega P1 for a couple years now and have always been surprised how good it sounds and have always been reluctant to upgrade until i could afford a noticeable step up, probably a P3 at least. However I had a real gumtree find yesterday and have obtained an older Planar 3 for just £15. Bought from a middle aged woman who seems to have had it in a cupboard for the last 10 years for whatever reason. I haven't seen it yet as i got a friend in the area to pick it up but he assured  me it appears to be in very good condition and spins fine etc.

It is an early version with the S shaped arm, I believe this is the R200? 

Does anyone have any idea how these older models compare to new ones, I'd imagine it is probably equivalent to a new P2 or something, but I imagine someone here has more knowledge or experience than i do as It was likely made before I was born!

Cheers - Rob.

 

[Frank Harvey]

Bargain!

There's not much that has changed with the Regas over the years, mainly the arm, although there may have been changes to the motor and associated electronics. Even if it's not as good as a current P3, it's a hell of a lot cheaper! As long as it's in reasonable nick and the motor works, it's a solid buy.

PS. lovely looking arm as a bonus!

 

[Al ears]

Rob,

Got yourself a bit of a bargain there!

The old P3 is still a very good turntable and perfectly useable although you may like to check / replace a couple of things.

If it really has been in a cupboard for years I would be very careful lifting it as, like mine was, the motor is held in place by a rubber band basically. If this perishes and breaks motor will drop from housing being caught only by the drive pulley on top.

I would suggest you get the latest motor / electrics upgrade and fit this as you'll end up with a much improved deck. The arm should be fine. Plenty of upgrades to RB250 and 300's going around if you feel the need to upgrade it in the future.

Regards and happy listening,

Alan

 

[chebby]

It will be at least 27 years old (and possibly up to 33 years old).

The RB300 equipped Planar 3's were launched in 1983.

Also it has sat in a cupboard for a decade.

I suggest contacting your nearest Rega dealer for advice/Rega servicing. Don't attempt any work on the spindle bearing yourself.

You will need at least a new drive belt and - as the other poster mentioned - the motor supension (more belts) will need replacing.

You will almost certainly need a new cartridge by now. Audio Technica AT95E will be a good choice for about £36.