Question Rega Planar 2 vs Audio Technica AT-LPW40WN?

[vincentjoshuaet]

Hi there, need help deciding for what's the best turntable I can get with my budget and preferences. I will be upgrading from an Audio Technica AT-LP60XBT

I live in the Philippines, getting a turntable from outside my country would be double the price so I have no choice but to pick from the available ones here. I read some starter guides for turntables and unfortunately they doesn't really help due to pricing differences and used market availability in my region, significantly decreasing the available turntables to buy.

Rega and Audio Technica are the only widely available turntables in my country (even for Rega you'll have to make an effort to find and travel to buy one) . I do see one shop selling the Pro-Ject turntables but I don't want to risk it regarding availability (stock), warranty or after sales support. I saw that Fluance RT82 is the most recommended starter turntable, but it would be 700 USD if I import it 🙁

Here are some reasons why these two are my final picks:

• I would like to go from LP60's automatic to manual
• Budget cap of 500 USD (PHP 30,000). I have a separate budget for phono pre-amp if needed
• Prefer buying new over used, already checked FB marketplace and Carousell and there aren't many choices
• Will be using active powered speakers (possibly upgrading in the near future)
• I like the minimalist look that would be a great display in my living room
• Bluetooth is not really required

Rega Planar 2 (475 USD) - the better looking one in my opinion (which is kinda important to me). I do not see much complaints about this as a beginner turntable, except for the Rega Carbon which some say is basically just the same as my LP60's AT3600L. Can someone confirm? If yes, would I notice a significant difference from the LP60XBT? I replaced my stylus with the elliptical ATN3600LE, can I use that with this turntable?

Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN (400 USD) - I consider the price to be much lower than the Rega since I won't be buying a phono pre-amp if I get this (maybe in the future I will), and I say this still has the minimalist look I want (not much compared to the Rega, but maybe it would grow on me).

Can someone compare the build quality between these? The LPW40WN does not seem to be that much popular on forums, but it looks like the ones who bought it have had good experiences.