Is the Rega Planar 6 RS Edition suitable for serious audiophile systems?
Yes. The Rega Planar 6 RS Edition is a special-performance version of the acclaimed Planar 6, incorporating several technologies from the higher-end Planar 8 while retaining the practicality and classic styling of the standard Planar 6. It is designed for listeners seeking near-reference analogue performance without moving into flagship pricing.
What makes the Planar 6 RS different from the standard Planar 6?
The RS Edition upgrades several key components, including the RB880 tonearm from the Planar 8, the flagship Nd9 moving magnet cartridge, a CNC-machined twin-drive pulley system, and dual Reference EBLT drive belts. These enhancements improve detail retrieval, speed stability, and overall performance.
Does the Rega Planar 6 RS include a cartridge?
Yes. It comes factory-fitted and professionally aligned with Rega's flagship Nd9 moving magnet cartridge, allowing it to be installed and enjoyed with minimal setup.
Is the Planar 6 RS a belt-drive or direct-drive turntable?
It is a belt-drive design. The RS Edition uses Rega's upgraded twin Reference EBLT drive belts and precision pulley system to improve rotational accuracy and reduce unwanted vibration.
What tonearm does the Planar 6 RS use?
The turntable features the premium RB880 tonearm, normally found on the more expensive Planar 8. This highly engineered arm offers exceptional rigidity, precision bearings, and reduced resonance for improved tracking performance.
Does the Planar 6 RS include electronic speed control?
Yes. It is supplied with the Neo MK2 power supply, providing electronic speed switching between 33⅓ and 45 RPM along with fine speed adjustment and motor vibration optimisation.
What is the plinth made from?
The RS Edition uses Rega's lightweight Tancast 8 foam-core plinth with a high-pressure laminate and aluminium skin construction. This design is intended to maximise rigidity while minimising stored energy and resonance.
What type of listener is the Planar 6 RS designed for?
It is ideal for enthusiasts who want performance approaching the Planar 8 while retaining a more traditional turntable appearance, integrated dust cover, and simpler ownership experience.
Does the Planar 6 RS require an external phono stage?
Yes. Like most high-performance turntables, it does not include a built-in phono preamplifier and must be connected to a phono stage or amplifier with a phono input.
What type of music does the Planar 6 RS excel with?
The turntable performs exceptionally well across all genres but particularly shines with acoustic, jazz, classical, and complex recordings where timing accuracy, dynamics, and detail retrieval are important. Reviewers have praised its balance of musical engagement and refinement.
How does the Planar 6 RS compare to the Planar 8?
The RS borrows many technologies from the Planar 8, including the RB880 tonearm, but retains the traditional full plinth and dust cover design. Many listeners view it as a sweet spot between the standard Planar 6 and the more expensive Planar 8.
Is the Planar 6 RS easy to set up?
Yes. Because the cartridge is factory fitted and aligned, setup is straightforward. Most users only need to install the counterweight, platter, belt, and dust cover before playing records.
Can the Planar 6 RS be upgraded in the future?
Yes. Owners can explore future cartridge upgrades, phono stage improvements, isolation accessories, and system upgrades while retaining the turntable as a long-term source component.