Any opinions on the original (pre- 2, 3 and Apollo) Rega Planet?

Seems a decent player, albiet a bit hokey looking- nowhere as nice as the Planet 2, 3 or Apollo.

It kinda looks like a squashed X-box.

It uses Sony optics.

And Burr-Brown chips.

I'm more concerned with the digital-out- it's not optical/toslink, but in 1997, what other types were being used? What's the Rega have?

And is this Sony optic setup still available? Or is it one of the Sony "Unobtanium" laser blocks?

I'd imagine the Rega would be best used as a transport at this time, but I'd like to know if it's compatible with digital-coaxial out, or if it's something else.

And the laser- it's 10 years old now, so suspect to replace it any time now- but will parts source be an issue?

Here's some links for you :

http://www.stereophile.com/cdplayers/634/

http://www.audiophilia.com/hardware/regaplnt.htm

http://www.acoustica.org.uk/t/rega/rega_planet.html

http://forums.klipsch.com/forums/thread/117219.aspx

It probably has a coaxial digital output.

by all accounts the Rega Planet is a fine player and not one to pass on if the price is right.

Looks can be deceiving, as I´m sure you know Paul. The Rega looks cheap and plasticy, but it is actually quite a nice player.

I think it could use some added mass to the box to help isolation. A Marble slab on top might also help you there.

Jorge

Rega Apollo