Audio-Technica AT-LPW30TK vs Rega Planar 3

Great ease of setup
Quiet operation
Included cartridge
Manual operation
Carbon fiber tonearm
Great sound quality
Versatile and upgradeable
Excellent value for its price range
Quality included cartridge
Not immune to microphonics and hum
Flimsy platter
Lack of shock damping
Not all users may appreciate the potential for the turntable to become a "money pit"
Some users mention the delicate cueing lever as a minor drawback
None mentioned

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT-LPW30TK turntable receives mixed reviews, with some users praising its ease of setup, quiet operation, and included cartridge, while others note issues with microphonics and hum. Some users recommend upgrading the phono cartridge and connectors for optimal sound quality. The turntable's manual operation and carbon fiber tonearm are appreciated by many, but some users note a flimsy platter and lack of shock damping. The included plastic dust cover has arrived broken for some users, and customer service has been unhelpful in resolving the issue. Overall, the AT-LPW30TK is considered a good entry-level turntable, but there are better options available for the same price or less.

Verdict

The Rega Planar 3 receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with many users praising its versatility and upgradeability. The sound quality is consistently described as excellent, with many users noting significant improvements over their previous turntables. Some users mention the potential for the Planar 3 to become a "money pit" due to its upgradeability, but overall, the turntable is considered a top value in its price range. The included cartridge is also praised for its quality. Some users mention the delicate cueing lever as a minor drawback, but this is a minor issue compared to the overall quality of the turntable.

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