Garrard 301 vs Rega Planar 3

Verdict

The Garrard 301 turntable is highly regarded by many audiophiles, but it requires a good plinth and tonearm to perform well. It is considered a vintage turntable and can be expensive. Some users prefer other vintage turntables, such as 70's Pioneer TT, for their solid build quality and ease of maintenance. However, many users still consider the Garrard 301 to be one of the best turntables available. Some users have customized their Garrard 301 with a custom plinth and SME or Jelco arm with a fancy MC cart. Overall, the Garrard 301 is a highly sought-after turntable for its sound quality and durability.

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.