Rega Planar 1 VS Audio-Technica AT-LP5
Rega Planar 1
  • Brand - Rega
  • Frequency Response, Hz - 20-20000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds - 4.2/9.2
Audio-Technica AT-LP5
  • Brand - Audio-Technica
  • Frequency Response, Hz - 20 - 22000
  • Weight, Kg/pounds - 10.5/23.1

Choose the one for yourself: Rega Planar 1 vs Audio-Technica AT-LP5

Audio-Technica AT-LP5 vs Rega Planar 1

After reading a decent comparison of Audio-Technica AT-LP5 vs Rega Planar 1, the potential buyer must compare a lot of features. What has more priority for you: sound versus build quality?

Features & Performance

The output level of both turntables is as follows pre-amp "PHONO": 3.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec. The pre-amp “LINE”: 150 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec and 2.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz respectively. Their cartridge types are worth noting as well. Both turntables have a moving magnet (MM). The so awaited playback speeds are equal too. 33.3, 45 RPM for each model.

Design & build quality

Made from MDF and laminated with acrylic, the Rega Planar 1 table impresses with its simple, sleek design. Available color options are white or black.

The power button is located on the bottom of the chassis closer to the front edge, i.e., power activation does not cause any inconvenience.

The new legs of the model effectively dampen the vibration, and the main bearing with a brass sleeve has a redesigned structure that helps relieve mechanical stresses. The support disk 23 mm thick is made of phenol-aldehyde resin and has an improved inertial effect during rotation. The kit includes a standard mat, which is installed on a support disk.

By default, the Rega Planar 1 player delivers an accurate, even, rhythmic, expressive and detailed sound. To further improve the sound, the Performance Pack is optionally available, which includes the Bias 2 MM cartridge (an elliptical needle), which provides a well-balanced detailed presentation with elaborate bass and a wide stage. The set also has a high-quality mat made of natural wool.

Assembling the kit of AT-LP5 removed from the box caused absolutely no problems. The cast aluminum alloy disk needs to be installed on the engine pulley - a direct drive eliminates even a short fuse with the belt.

On top, we put a heavy, pressure-molded rubber mat. We wind the counterweight onto the back of the J-shaped tonearm, fasten the AT-HS10 bayonet shell with the AT-95EX cartridge already installed in it with one movement.

Pros & Cons

Rega Planar 1

VS

Pros

    • The turntable comes with a dust cover and one additional cartridge.
    • The set-up is easy even for newbies.
    • The sound remains crystal clear at all listening levels.
    • You can hook up a subwoofer or amplifier if needed.

Cons

    • The unit does not have a built-in preamp.

Audio-Technica AT-LP5

VS

Pros

    • It has a built-in Phono Stage.
    • It has a built-in ADC and USB output for digitization (16 bit / 48 kHz).
    • It is equipped with a proprietary AT95 pickup and detachable 2RCA-2RCA cable.

Cons

    • The manual is poorly written.

Specifications

Specification Rega Planar 1 Audio-Technica AT-LP5
Motor
Drive Method Belt-Drive direct
Wow & Flutter (wrms), % 0.2 0.2
Torque 4.5 kgf-cm >1.6 kgf-cm
Speed, Rpm 33, 45 33.3, 45
Platter Type Plastic aluminum diecast
Sound
Output Level Pre-amp “PHONO”: 3.5 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec. Pre-amp “LINE”: 150 mV nominal at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec
Gain 36
Signal To Noise Ratio, Db 75 50
Frequency Response, Hz 20-20000 20 - 22000
Features
45 Rpm Adapter
Dust Cover
Other has not
Stylus
Model Rega carbon AT95EX
Type MM moving magnet (MM)
Replaceable
Connections
Other has not
Usb 1
Rca 1 1
Dimensions
Weight, Kg/pounds 4.2/9.2 10.5/23.1
Size, Cm/inches 11.7 x 44.7 x 36/4.6 x 17.6 x 14.2 15.7 x 45 x 35.2/6.1 x 17.7 x 13.8
Cartridge
Supplied Headshell Weight, G 10
Appropriate Needle Pressure, G 2
Type MM moving magnet (MM)
Controls
Braking System electronic
Pitch Variation, %
Pitch Control
Operation Type full manual automatic
User Manual
Manual - at-lp5.pdf
Power
Power Consumption, W 5 6

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