Short answer: The Planar 6 RS Edition is an upgraded Planar 6 package, not a different turntable concept. It keeps the Planar 6’s Neo MK2 power supply, low-mass Tancast 8/HPL plinth, glass platter, 24 V motor and dustcover, but adds the RB880 tonearm, a CNC twin-drive pulley with two Reference EBLT belts, a brushed-aluminium skin and higher-tier cartridge options. Choose the RS when those upgrades and its Nd9 or Ania package justify the premium; choose the standard Planar 6 when the RB330-based package meets your needs or leaves more budget for records, amplification or a phono stage.
Planar 6 RS Edition vs Planar 6: the short answer
Rega’s RS Edition preserves the familiar rectangular Planar 6 format and operating method. You still use an external Neo MK2 power supply, select 33⅓ or 45 rpm electronically, place the record on a glass platter and cue it with a Rega tonearm. The meaningful changes are concentrated in the arm, drive system, exterior finish and supplied cartridge.
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The decision therefore depends on the complete package rather than the deck name alone. A standard Planar 6 fitted with the cartridge you actually want may be the better buy, while an RS with an Nd9 or Ania cartridge can make sense if you would otherwise purchase those upgrades separately. Regional bundles differ, so confirm the exact cartridge, phono-stage inclusion and warranty before paying.
What both turntables share
Low-mass plinth and glass platter
Both models use Rega’s lightweight Tancast 8 foam-core/HPL plinth approach, a dual-layer glass platter and the classic rectangular plinth covered by a dustcover. This is the central Planar 6 architecture: reduce stored energy in the support structure while keeping the platter and record interface rigid. The RS does not replace that design with a radically different chassis.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
External Neo power supply
The Neo MK2 power supply is external rather than built into the plinth. It provides electronic switching between 33⅓ and 45 rpm, so speed changes do not require moving a belt by hand. The power-supply arrangement and the low-noise 24 V motor remain familiar to Planar 6 owners.
Same basic user experience
Neither model is an all-in-one streaming or USB turntable. You connect the turntable to a phono input or a separate phono stage, connect the Neo supply to mains, fit the counterweight and cartridge alignment supplied for the chosen package, and use the dustcover during storage. The RS therefore feels like a higher-specification Planar 6 rather than a new operating platform.
Every important difference at a glance
| Area | Planar 6 RS Edition | Standard Planar 6 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonearm | RB880 | RB330 | The RS uses the arm associated with the higher-tier Planar 8, giving it the largest single hardware upgrade. |
| Drive | CNC twin-drive pulley with two Reference EBLT belts | Standard Planar 6 drive configuration | Rega says the RS arrangement is intended to improve speed accuracy and control. |
| Finish | Brushed-aluminium skin with matching edging over the Tancast 8/HPL core | Tancast 8/HPL plinth; the importer lists matt white and matt Polaris grey finishes | The RS has a visibly different exterior and an added skin around the shared core architecture. |
| Fitted cartridge options | Rega lists Nd9 moving magnet and Ania moving-coil variants; its product page also describes an Ania/Fono MC package | Package varies; What Hi-Fi’s comparison uses an Nd7-equipped Planar 6 | Compare the complete cartridge and phono-stage bundle, not just the turntable badge. |
| Power and motor | Neo MK2 PSU and low-noise 24 V motor | Neo PSU and 24 V motor | The RS keeps the established Planar 6 power arrangement. |
Rega’s product page and announcement provide the RS component details, while the importer page documents standard Planar 6 finishes. See Rega’s Planar 6 RS Edition specifications, the 19 March 2026 announcement and the official-importer Planar 6 listing.
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RB880 versus RB330 tonearm
The tonearm is the clearest mechanical distinction. The RS substitutes Rega’s RB880 for the standard P6’s RB330. Rega positions the RB880 as the arm used on the Planar 8, so the RS borrows a component from a higher model rather than receiving a cosmetic-only special edition.
Rank #2
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- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
For a buyer, the arm affects cartridge compatibility, setup precision and the platform’s upgrade ceiling. It does not automatically guarantee a particular sound in every room or system; cartridge loading, phono-stage quality, alignment and record condition remain decisive. The relevant question is whether you value beginning with the RB880 or would rather spend the difference on a cartridge or electronics.
Twin-pulley, twin-belt drive
The RS uses a CNC-machined twin-drive pulley and two Rega Reference EBLT belts. Rega says this combination is intended to improve speed accuracy and control. The standard Planar 6 retains its normal drive configuration, while the RS adds the pulley-and-belt hardware as part of the factory package.
That change is about rotational stability rather than convenience: both decks still use the Neo supply for electronic 33⅓/45-rpm selection. If your priority is pitch stability on sustained piano notes, strings or synthesizer pads, the RS drive upgrade is the relevant feature to investigate during an audition.
Brushed-aluminium exterior
The RS wraps the shared foam-core/HPL plinth in a brushed-metal skin with matching edging. It changes the visual presentation and adds a more substantial outer surface while retaining the low-mass internal architecture. The standard Planar 6 is offered in finishes such as matt white and matt Polaris grey through the official importer.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Do not treat the RS skin as proof that the underlying design is completely different: platter, motor concept, power supply and dustcover remain recognisably Planar 6. Choose the finish because you prefer it, not because the metal appearance alone establishes a sonic advantage.
Cartridge packages: Nd9, Ania and Nd7
Cartridge configuration is where listings can become misleading. Rega’s current RS page documents Nd9 moving-magnet and Ania moving-coil variants, and it describes an Ania/Fono MC package. That does not mean every RS sold in every country includes an Nd9, or that every Ania listing includes the Fono MC phono stage.
What Hi-Fi’s standard-P6 comparison uses an Nd7-equipped model and states that the Nd9 was not offered as a factory-fitted option on the standard Planar 6 in that comparison. Retailer packages can change, so compare the cartridge model, installed alignment, included accessories and phono-stage bundle line by line.
Price context: what the premium was in the October 2026 comparison
What Hi-Fi’s review, published 8 October 2026, reported these prices for complete packages:
Rank #4
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- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Package | United Kingdom | United States | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planar 6 RS with Nd9 | £2,000 | $3,195 | AU$4,199 |
| Standard Planar 6 with Nd7 | £1,655 | $2,595 | AU$3,499 |
| Reported RS premium | £345 | $600 | AU$700 |
Those are dated reported prices, not live quotes. On that comparison, the RS premium was about 21% in the UK, 23% in the US and 20% in Australia. Taxes, exchange rates, dealer discounts, cartridge variants and regional bundles can change both the absolute price and the percentage.
The same review listed the Nd9 cartridge separately at £695, $1,095 and AU$1,499. That figure helps explain why an Nd9-equipped RS can look different from a bare-deck comparison, but it is not a universal international price and should not be used to assume that buying a standard P6 and adding an Nd9 will cost exactly the same as the factory package.
Use the What Hi-Fi RS review for the date and reported figures, then request a current written quote from a local dealer.
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The premium is easier to justify when you want the hardware itself
- You specifically want the RB880 rather than the RB330 and expect to keep the turntable for years.
- You value the twin-pulley/two-belt drive and want the highest-specification Planar 6 drive package from the factory.
- You prefer the brushed-aluminium skin and matching edging enough to pay for the finish.
- The supplied Nd9 or Ania cartridge is the cartridge you would choose anyway.
- Your system already has suitable phono amplification, so the additional deck-and-cartridge cost does not force an inconvenient electronics compromise.
The standard Planar 6 is the rational choice when the package fits better
- The RB330 meets your needs and you would rather direct the saved money toward records, isolation or amplification.
- You prefer the standard model’s Nd7 package or another cartridge your dealer can install.
- The RS is available only with an MC cartridge, while your amplifier has only a moving-magnet input.
- The RS premium would require postponing a necessary phono stage or other system component.
- You cannot audition the RS and the dealer cannot confirm the exact cartridge and warranty terms.
What Hi-Fi reported greater composure and detail from the RS in its own comparison while still describing the standard Planar 6 as capable. That is an editorial listening impression, not a universal measurement or a guarantee in every system; audition both when possible.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Phono-stage and system requirements
Plan for a phono input
The reviewed RS has no built-in phono stage, Bluetooth or USB. Your amplifier or powered speakers therefore need a suitable phono input, or you must add a separate phono stage between the turntable and line-level input.
Check moving-magnet versus moving-coil compatibility
An Nd9 is a moving-magnet cartridge. Ania is a moving-coil cartridge and needs an appropriate MC input or a phono stage that supports MC operation. Rega’s description of an Ania/Fono MC package indicates that the phono-stage combination may be supplied in some configurations, but confirm this on the exact regional listing rather than assuming it is included.
Budget for the whole signal path
When comparing an RS Ania bundle with a standard P6 Nd7 bundle, include the cost of any required MC-capable phono stage. A lower turntable price can disappear if the cheaper package leaves you without the input needed to use its cartridge, while a bundled phono stage can make a more expensive listing easier to install.
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- Confirm the package before opening the box. Match the cartridge model, power-supply version, included cables and any Fono MC component to the invoice.
- Place the plinth on a stable, level support. Keep the turntable away from loudspeaker vibration and leave room to open the dustcover.
- Connect the Neo MK2 PSU. Use the supplied connection between the external supply and turntable, then connect the supply to mains.
- Fit the platter and belt system as supplied. Do not substitute a single belt for the RS’s specified two-belt arrangement; if a belt is missing or incorrectly fitted, stop and ask the dealer or Rega for instructions.
- Install the counterweight and balance the arm. Follow the cartridge-specific tracking-force and bias instructions supplied with the turntable. An Nd9 and an Ania do not share identical setup requirements.
- Connect to the correct phono input. Use an MM-capable input for Nd9 or Nd7. Use an MC-capable input or suitable MC phono stage for Ania, unless the included Fono MC unit provides that function.
- Select speed electronically. Use the Neo supply’s 33⅓ or 45 rpm control rather than moving the belt by hand for normal speed changes.
- Check channel balance and tracking with a familiar record. Hum, severe mistracking or one-channel output usually indicates a cartridge connection, grounding, tracking-force or phono-input problem; power down before correcting wiring.
Questions to ask a dealer before buying
- Which cartridge is physically installed: Nd9, Ania, Nd7 or another option?
- Is the quoted price for a bare deck, a cartridge-fitted deck or an Ania/Fono MC bundle?
- Is the item an RS Edition for your region, and which finish is in stock?
- Does the warranty cover the turntable, tonearm, cartridge and power supply separately?
- What is the return period if the supplied cartridge arrives damaged or the package is not the advertised configuration?
- Can the dealer confirm the exact model number and provide a current invoice including taxes and delivery?
- If buying Ania, does your system have an MC input, or is a suitable MC phono stage included?
Which model should you choose?
| Your priority | Better starting point | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Highest-specification Planar 6 arm and drive | RS Edition | It combines the RB880, twin-pulley/two-belt drive and upgraded finish in one package. |
| Nd9 or Ania factory package | RS Edition | Those are documented RS options; verify whether an Ania listing includes Fono MC. |
| Lowest cost for a capable Planar 6 system | Standard Planar 6 | The RB330-based package costs less in the cited comparison and may leave money for phono amplification. |
| Preference for a particular standard cartridge or finish | Standard Planar 6 | Package availability varies, and the importer lists matt white and matt Polaris grey finishes. |
| Uncertain system compatibility | Whichever package matches your phono input | Choose the complete signal path first; an MC cartridge is not plug-and-play into every MM input. |
Bottom line for the buying decision
Buy the Planar 6 RS Edition if you want its RB880 arm, upgraded twin-belt drive, brushed-metal finish and Nd9 or Ania package, and the documented premium fits your budget after adding any necessary phono stage. Buy the standard Planar 6 if its RB330 and cartridge package already satisfy your system, or if spending less now lets you build a better-balanced setup. In either case, compare complete regional bundles, confirm the cartridge and warranty in writing, and audition both turntables when practical.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
