Rega Planar 3 Nd5 Turntable, Oak

The Rega Planar 3 Nd5 is the ready-to-play version of the turntable classic Planar 3: finished in a light oak look and fitted at the factory with the Rega Nd5 cartridge (MM, elliptical diamond). Unbox, set up, drop the needle – done. If you know the Planar 3's reputation but have no interest in fitting and aligning a cartridge yourself, this is exactly right for you.

Why the Planar 3 Nd5?

Same genes as the Planar 3 – a lightweight, double-braced plinth, a 12 mm glass platter, the hand-built RB330 – just configured ready to connect. The factory-fitted Nd5 is precisely matched to the arm; you skip the fine-tuning and still get the full Rega character. The warm oak look (new since 2024) also looks good in any living room that doesn't need to shout high-gloss.

What you'll hear

The typical Rega drive: timing, momentum and a bass that would rather be precise than fat. The Nd5 with its elliptical diamond pulls fine detail cleanly out of the groove without ever sounding edgy. Vocals and acoustic guitars? They stand right there, as if the band had just dropped by. Honestly: that's exactly why people put records on in the first place.

Who is the Planar 3 Nd5 for? (and who it isn't – straight talk)

Ideal for anyone who wants to start listening right away, no tinkering, with a cartridge that already sits perfectly. Straight talk: if you already want to fit a specific cartridge of your choice (or go straight for an MC like the Ania), you're better off with the Planar 3 without a cartridge. For everyone else, the Nd5 version is the easier and more coherent way in.

Our verdict

The Planar 3 Nd5 in oak is our tip for an uncomplicated, sonically serious way in: a classic, matched ready to play, in a finish not everyone has. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we're happy to put it together with the right amplifier and speakers on request.

Technical data

• Drive: belt drive with 24 V synchronous motor
• Tonearm: hand-built Rega RB330
• Cartridge: Rega Nd5 (MM, elliptical diamond), factory-fitted
• Platter: 12 mm glass platter with polished edge
• Drive belt: Advanced EBLT
• Speeds: 33⅓ / 45 rpm (manual belt change)
• Connections: RCA; mini-DIN for optional Neo PSU
• Finish: oak look
• Dimensions (W × H × D, lid closed): 447 × 117 × 360 mm
• Weight: 6.0 kg
• Scope of delivery: turntable with RB330 tonearm and factory-fitted Nd5, clear dust cover, plug-in power supply

Frequently asked questions

Does the Planar 3 Nd5 come with a cartridge?

Yes. The Rega Nd5 (MM, elliptical diamond) is fitted and aligned at the factory. You don't need to adjust anything – unbox, connect, play. That saves time and hassle and ensures the arm tracks cleanly from the very first record.

Does the Planar 3 Nd5 need a phono preamp?

Yes. Like any turntable without a built-in phono stage, it needs a phono input on the amplifier or an external phono preamp (MM), such as the Rega Fono MM MK5. We'll recommend the right solution for your system in person.

What does the Neo PSU power supply do?

The external Neo PSU delivers more precise speed stability and electronic speed switching at the push of a button. Audibly, that translates into a calmer, more stable sonic background. It's not included with the Planar 3 Nd5, but can be added any time.

What's the difference between the Planar 3 Nd5 and the Planar 3 without a cartridge?

The scope of delivery. The Nd5 comes in an oak look and with a factory-fitted Nd5 cartridge, so it's ready to play right away. The base – plinth, RB330, glass platter, motor – is identical. Essentially, you're paying the difference for the professionally aligned cartridge.

Why buy the Rega Planar 3 Nd5 at HD Zürisee?

Because we know from experience which combination brings lasting enjoyment in everyday use – and we round out the chain for you: amplifier, phono stage, speakers, placement. As an authorized dealer, we handle the warranty cleanly through the official Swiss distributor. Personal advice on Lake Zurich included.

Goes well with

A phono stage for your amplifier and the right speakers – tell us what you already have, and we'll fill in the rest.