I had to do it. I’ve been longing for a Rega Planar for the longest time. I’ll occasionally check Craigslist or eBay auctions looking for a deal on a modest P1, P2 or Planar, never really contemplating a P3/Planar 3. When I saw one come up for auction within Canada I thought it could be a good chance to finally pull the trigger. The big question mark however was the fact that the seller has 0 feedback and had only joined eBay two months earlier.
The starting price on the auction was $150 US, which was reasonable so I decided to watch it in my eBay. I had kinda forgotten about it during the week, until today when I got the reminder email. Sure enough, 6 hours to go and not a single bid. HMmm, looks like bidders might be scared off by the 0-feedback score. I decide to shoot the seller a quick message to ask about shipping to Montreal. He gives me a very prompt response with three Canada Post options. Sounds promising, and still 4 hours to go in the auction.
I go about my business, watch some TV and finally look at the time… 8:30pm. Let’s see what’s happening with that Rega. Only 2 bidders, and it’s at $165. I tell myself, “I’ll take the risk on the 0-feedback if I can get it for $200.” With exactly 1 minute to go I throw out a $175. “You’ve been outbid.” Refresh. 28 Seconds left. Let’s shoot for it, one shot, $205. “You are the high bidder at $202.50.” 10 seconds, 9 seconds, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, refresh. “Congratulations!”
Sweet. Slight buyers remorse. “How do I explain another turntable to the wife?” No time to think about that now! An email has been sent to the seller, payment is ready to go!
Here’s a look at the table I should be receiving:
I’ll be sure to update you all on my adventure soon enough.
Stay tuned!
See Part 2 - Rega Planar 3 Project - the Tonearm
