I was searching for a suitable platter for my Rega Planar 1 to eliminate the wobble from the resin platter when I discovered the Rega acrylic platter by Supremetech. If you’re a Rega Planar 1 owner, you’re probably already aware of what a fantastic entry-level turntable it is. But like most things, there’s always room for improvement. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to boost the performance of your Planar 1 is by upgrading the platter.
After dealing with a slight wobble on the stock resin platter, I decided to make the switch to an acrylic platter. While I briefly considered the glass platter, I ultimately chose acrylic because of its affordability and performance, and I purchased it on Amazon for the best price. This review will walk you through my experience and why the Rega Planar 1 acrylic platter upgrade is worth every penny.
Why Consider the Acrylic Platter Upgrade for Rega Planar 1?
The biggest issue I faced with the stock Rega Planar 1 resin platter was a slight wobble that, over time, became more noticeable during playback. This wobble can introduce vibrations that affect sound quality, leading to a less satisfying listening experience. When looking into platter upgrades, I came across two main options: glass or acrylic.
While the glass platter for Rega turntables is a great option, it was significantly more expensive than I was willing to spend at the time. That’s when I found the acrylic platter as a more affordable alternative, and it has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and design. I purchased it on Amazon at a great price, making it one of the best Rega Planar 1 upgrades in terms of value.
Affordable Without Compromising Quality
One of the key reasons I opted for the Rega Planar 1 acrylic platter was its price. At a fraction of the cost of the glass platter for Rega, the acrylic version still delivers premium results. When I received it, I was immediately impressed by how sturdy and well-made it felt. The platter is quite heavy, which not only gives it a more premium feel but also improves stability.
The acrylic platter looks and feels like a high-end product, giving you the benefits of a heavier, more stable platter without the high price tag. It’s an ideal upgrade for those looking for affordable Rega Planar 1 platter upgrades that still deliver exceptional sound improvements.
Say Goodbye to Wobble
The first thing I noticed after switching to the Rega acrylic platter was the total elimination of the wobble I had experienced with the resin platter. Once installed, my records spun smoothly and consistently, with no hint of the instability that had previously affected my listening experience. This Rega Planar 1 wobble fix alone makes the acrylic platter a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you’ve encountered similar issues.
Not only does this improve the playback, but the increased stability also enhances sound clarity. By reducing vibrations, the acrylic platter allows your records to play as they were meant to, with crisper highs and cleaner lows.
Compatible with Other Rega Turntables
While I’ve been focusing on the Rega Planar 1, it’s important to note that the acrylic platter is compatible with other Rega models, including the Rega Planar 2 and Rega Planar 3. This makes it a versatile option if you ever upgrade to another Rega turntable in the future. However, if you own a higher-end Rega model, such as the Rega Planar 2 (P2) or Rega Planar 3 (P3), I would suggest sticking with the glass platter, Delrin platter and upgrading the subplatter instead.
The glass platter is heavier and more suited to higher-end models, providing better sound resonance. Pairing it with an upgraded subplatter would be a more effective way to enhance your sound quality on the P2 or P3. But for Planar 1 users, the acrylic platter is an excellent choice that balances affordability and performance.
Perfect Fit with Tangospinner Subplatter
If you’re like me and have also upgraded to a Tangospinner subplatter on your Rega Planar 1, you’ll be happy to know that the acrylic platter fits perfectly. The two upgrades work together seamlessly, providing an even more precise spin that reduces noise and friction. This combination has taken my turntable’s performance to the next level, offering a more stable and quieter rotation that leads to better sound.
For anyone considering the Tangospinner subplatter as part of their Rega Planar 1 upgrade, the acrylic platter is a perfect companion piece. Together, these components dramatically improve the overall performance of the turntable.
No Need for a Slipmat – Simple, Clean Look
One of the benefits of using an acrylic platter is that you can get rid of the slipmat or turntable mat entirely. Unlike with other platters, the Rega acrylic platter allows you to place your records directly on the platter surface, which improves contact and reduces unwanted interference.
Since removing the slipmat, I’ve noticed a clearer, more dynamic sound, with more detail coming through in every track. On top of the improved sound quality, going mat-free gives the turntable a much cleaner and sleeker look. The acrylic material is striking on its own, and without the clutter of a mat, the turntable looks modern and minimalist.
No Spacer Needed – VTA Perfect with Goldring E3 Cartridge
One of the concerns I had before upgrading was the need for a spacer to adjust the vertical tracking angle (VTA). With thicker platters, spacers are often needed to keep the tonearm aligned properly. I’m using the Goldring E3 cartridge, and I was relieved that no spacer was needed with the acrylic platter. The VTA was perfect right out of the box, making installation hassle-free.
If you’re using a similar cartridge, you can enjoy the Rega Planar 1 acrylic platter upgrade without worrying about alignment issues. The tonearm sits at just the right height, delivering excellent sound without additional tweaks.
It looks like I’ve finally got one of the Rega turntable upgrades I wanted! Now it’s time to find a Hi-Fi specialist to retune and realign everything for optimal performance.
Where to Buy – Amazon Offers the Best Price
I purchased my Rega acrylic platter on Amazon and couldn’t be happier with the experience. They had the best price, and the delivery was fast and easy. If you’re looking for the best deal on this upgrade, I highly recommend checking Amazon.
However, you can also buy the acrylic platter upgrade for Rega along with other turntable and vinyl accessories at my Shutter Groove Shop. Amazon offers competitive prices, and their return policy gives you peace of mind if there are any issues.
Final Thoughts: The Ideal Upgrade for Rega Planar 1 Owners
The Rega acrylic platter has proven to be one of the most impactful upgrades I’ve made to my Rega Planar 1. It eliminated the wobble, improved sound quality, and gave my turntable a cleaner, more modern look. For Planar 1 users, this is hands down one of the best Rega Planar 1 upgrades you can make, offering an affordable yet high-quality solution for better sound.
However, if you own a higher-end Rega turntable like the Planar 2 or Planar 3, I would suggest staying with the glass platter and focusing on upgrading the subplatter for a more significant performance boost. But for Planar 1 users, the Rega acrylic platter is a must-have upgrade that won’t break the bank.
Creating a vinyl listening space in a small apartment is all about maximizing comfort and sound quality while minimizing clutter. Start by selecting a compact turntable stand with storage to keep your records organized and easily accessible. Choose a pair of bookshelf speakers that offer great sound without taking up too much space. Adding a comfy chair or floor cushions helps create a cozy spot to relax while enjoying your vinyl. To reduce vibrations, consider placing your turntable on a solid surface or isolation pads. You can check out this guide on choosing the perfect turntable stand with storage for more ideas on creating an organized and stylish setup.
So if you’re ready to upgrade, head over to Amazon and grab your Rega acrylic platter today. You’ll be amazed at how much better your records sound.
