Elegant. Simple. Solid. Called "one of the biggest bargains in hi-fi" by Stereophile in 1997, the Rega Planar CD player is one of the few fresh takes on CD player design, ever.

RESTORATIONS

• Full 30-point service check
• Replaced laser and calibrated playback
• Cleaned controls, switches, and chassis

SPECS

Type   Single-chassis top-load CD player, S/PDIF digital output, and single-ended analog outputs

Maximum output (0dBFS signal)   2V RMS

Measured output impedance   930 ohms (unbalanced)

Dimensions   17.2"W x 3.5"H x 10.5"D

Weight   8 lbs.

LINER NOTES

Rega has more rational reasons for avoiding drawers. As they point out, a complex motorized tray is subject to wear and tear and is thus an area of potential unreliability. Also, a repair person can quickly access the laser diode assembly of a top-loading player without taking the machine apart.