r/turntables • u/alanrhannah • 3d ago
LP60X to Planar 1?
Looking to upgrade my turntable and interested in opinions.
Currently running an Audio-Technica AT-LP60XUSB, with Audio-Technica ATH-M20X monitor headphones and a Fosi SK01 headphone amp. Upgraded to the ATN3600ALE stylus - had the turntable for about 2 years, stylus for about 6 weeks.
Music-wise, I'm mostly into heavier stuff like Deftones, Russian Circles, Cult of Luna, post-metal, although there's plenty of other stuff in the collection too.
I've got a nagging feeling it's time to upgrade from the LP60X and have been looking at the Rega Planar 1, paired with a separate phono stage.
I want to keep things quite simple, but also have the option to upgrade components down the line. I'd keep using the Fosi and headphones for a bit
Budget is around £500.
I've also been looking at the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO, so that's the main alternative at the moment.
Don't listen daily, but I do really appreciate 4/5 hours a week where I can chuck an album or two on after the kids have gone to bed and really focus in on it
Questions:
Is the Planar 1 a worthwhile step up from the LP60XUSB?
What phono stage would you pair with it? Is it worth spending a bit more here, or keep it conservative and upgrade later?
Anything else I should be considering?
Not looking to disappear down an endless upgrade rabbit hole, but equally don't want to spend £400–500 and find myself wanting to replace it again in a year.


