The world of vinyl has witnessed a resurgence in recent years, and with it, the demand for high-quality turntables has soared. Two of the most popular options in this realm are the Reloop Turn 3 and the Rega Planar 2. Both turntables offer a unique set of features and capabilities, making the choice between them a matter of personal preference and specific needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Reloop Turn 3 boasts a sleek and modern design, with a solid metal chassis and a high-quality MDF plinth. The Rega Planar 2, on the other hand, exudes classic elegance with its hand-crafted, laminated plinth and lightweight tonearm. Both turntables are well-built and durable, promising years of reliable performance.

Motor and Drive System

The Reloop Turn 3 employs a powerful direct-drive motor, which ensures instant start-up and precise speed control. The Rega Planar 2, however, utilizes a belt-drive system, which offers a smoother and quieter operation. The choice between these two drive systems depends on the desired level of precision and the preferred listening experience.

Tonearm and Cartridge

The Reloop Turn 3 comes equipped with a statically balanced tonearm and a pre-installed Ortofon 2M Red cartridge. The Rega Planar 2 features a RB220 tonearm, which is renowned for its low-friction bearings and excellent tracking ability. The included Rega Carbon cartridge delivers a balanced and detailed sound.

Features and Functionality

The Reloop Turn 3 offers a multitude of features, including a built-in phono preamp, adjustable pitch control, and a USB output for digital recording. The Rega Planar 2, while lacking some of these features, provides a more purist experience, focusing on delivering the purest possible sound quality.

Sound Quality

Both the Reloop Turn 3 and the Rega Planar 2 deliver exceptional sound quality. The Reloop Turn 3 produces a punchy and dynamic sound, while the Rega Planar 2 emphasizes clarity and detail. The choice between these two turntables depends on the desired sonic characteristics and the specific music genres being played.

Price and Value

The Reloop Turn 3 is typically priced lower than the Rega Planar 2. However, the Rega Planar 2 is considered a more premium product, offering a combination of classic design, high-quality components, and exceptional sound quality. The value proposition of each turntable depends on the individual’s budget and priorities.

Final Thoughts

The Reloop Turn 3 and the Rega Planar 2 are both excellent turntables that cater to different needs and preferences. The Reloop Turn 3 offers a modern design, advanced features, and a powerful sound, while the Rega Planar 2 emphasizes classic styling, high-quality craftsmanship, and pure sonic excellence. Ultimately, the best choice between these two turntables depends on the individual’s specific requirements and the type of vinyl listening experience they desire.

What You Need to Know

Q1: Which turntable is better for beginners?
A: Both the Reloop Turn 3 and the Rega Planar 2 are suitable for beginners, but the Reloop Turn 3 may be slightly easier to set up and use due to its built-in phono preamp.

Q2: Can I use any cartridge with these turntables?
A: Yes, both turntables allow you to swap out the included cartridge with other compatible cartridges to customize the sound.

Q3: Which turntable produces a louder sound?
A: The Reloop Turn 3 generally produces a louder sound due to its direct-drive motor, which delivers more torque than the belt-drive system of the Rega Planar 2.

Q4: Which turntable is more portable?
A: The Reloop Turn 3 is more portable due to its compact size and lighter weight, making it easier to transport to different locations.

Q5: Which turntable is better for DJs?
A: The Reloop Turn 3 is a more suitable choice for DJs due to its adjustable pitch control and built-in phono preamp, which are essential features for mixing and scratching.