Audio T Verdict
The Rega Neo Mk2 is one of the most worthwhile upgrades available for a compatible Rega turntable. It replaces manual speed changing with convenient electronic selection between 33? and 45 rpm while providing more accurate and consistent control of the turntable motor.
Its crystal-referenced digital signal processing generates the waveform used to drive the motor rather than relying directly on the incoming mains frequency. This can reduce motor vibration, improve rotational stability and allow the speed to be adjusted in precise 0.01 rpm steps.
The Neo Mk2 is particularly well suited to a standard Rega Planar 3 manufactured from 2016 onwards. Compatibility should always be checked before ordering, as not every Rega turntable with a 24V motor has the required DIN connection.
Rega Neo Mk2 Turntable Power Supply
The Rega Neo Mk2 is an external motor-control power supply for compatible Rega belt-drive turntables.
It provides electronic speed selection, user-adjustable fine speed control and Rega's advanced anti-vibration motor circuit within a compact half-width enclosure.
The Neo Mk2 generates the precise electrical waveform required by the turntable motor instead of allowing the motor speed to depend directly on variations in the household mains supply.
It connects to the turntable through the supplied DIN power lead and receives power from the included Rega PS1 AC adaptor.
What Does the Neo Mk2 Do?
A synchronous turntable motor requires a stable alternating electrical signal to rotate at the correct speed.
The Neo Mk2 uses a high-stability crystal and digital signal processing to produce the frequency required for accurate platter rotation.
It also generates a near-sinusoidal balanced 24V AC signal for the motor, helping reduce the influence of fluctuations and distortion within the incoming mains supply.
The resulting benefits can include:
- Electronic selection between 33? and 45 rpm
- Improved rotational speed accuracy
- Improved speed stability
- Reduced motor vibration
- Reduced dependence on mains-frequency variations
- User-adjustable fine speed control
- More consistent turntable operation
Electronic 33? and 45 RPM Speed Selection
The front-panel speed button switches electronically between 33? and 45 rpm.
When 33? rpm is selected, the illuminated Rega logo is red. Selecting 45 rpm changes the illumination to green.
This avoids removing the platter and moving the drive belt each time a different record speed is required.
Keep the Belt in the 33? RPM Position
When using the Neo Mk2, the turntable drive belt must remain on the upper 33? rpm section of the motor pulley.
Speed selection is then handled electronically by the Neo rather than by moving the belt.
High-Stability Crystal and DSP Control
The Neo Mk2 uses the same type of digital signal processing generator developed for the Rega Planar 10 power supply.
A high-stability crystal provides an accurate reference frequency. The digital signal processor divides this reference to create the precise frequency required by the motor at the selected platter speed.
Because this signal is generated internally, the motor is less dependent on changes in the frequency and condition of the incoming mains electricity.
Near-Sinusoidal Motor Drive
The digital signal processor produces a near-sinusoidal waveform which is passed through an efficient motor-drive amplifier.
The resulting bi-phase 24V AC output has distortion below 0.15 per cent and drives the compatible turntable's anti-vibration motor circuit.
Reducing distortion within the motor-drive waveform can help minimise unwanted vibration being transferred from the motor into the turntable plinth, platter and record.
Advanced Anti-Vibration Motor Control
The Neo works with the anti-vibration circuitry fitted to compatible Rega turntables.
This system is intended to reduce the vibration produced by the synchronous motor while retaining the torque required to rotate the platter consistently.
Lower motor vibration can reduce the amount of unwanted mechanical energy reaching the record and cartridge during playback.
User-Adjustable Fine Speed Control
Fine speed adjustment controls are located on the rear panel of the Neo Mk2.
The speed can be altered in increments of 0.01 rpm using the supplied Neo adjustment tool.
Adjustments are made while the turntable is operating at 33? rpm. Any correction made at 33? rpm is then automatically applied when 45 rpm is selected.
Increase the Speed
Turn the rear speed-adjustment control clockwise using the supplied tool.
Decrease the Speed
Turn the rear speed-adjustment control anticlockwise using the supplied tool.
Adjustment Resolution
Each adjustment step changes the platter speed by 0.01 rpm.
How to Adjust the Speed
- Select 33? rpm using the front-panel speed button.
- Press the rear speed-program button once.
- Confirm that the program-mode indicator remains illuminated.
- Measure the turntable speed using a suitable strobe or speed-measuring device.
- Use the supplied adjustment tool to increase or decrease the speed.
- Press the speed-program button again to save the setting and return to normal operation.
When the Neo is operating with a setting different from its factory calibration, the rear program indicator flashes approximately every ten seconds.
Returning to the Factory Setting
The stored speed adjustment can be cleared if required.
- Select 33? rpm.
- Press and hold the rear speed-program button.
- Continue holding it while the program indicator flashes.
- Release the button once the indicator remains permanently illuminated.
- Press the speed-program button once more to complete the reset.
The Neo will then return to its original factory speed setting.
Measuring Turntable Speed
For accurate adjustment, Rega recommends using a stroboscopic measuring system rather than relying solely on the displayed reading from an unverified phone application.
Check the Condition of the Drive Belt
Drive-belt condition affects rotational consistency and should be checked before making fine electronic adjustments.
Rega recommends replacing a drive belt that is five years old or more before attempting precise Neo calibration.
An older belt may have stretched or developed small inconsistencies that prevent the speed from remaining stable enough for an accurate adjustment.
Compatible Rega Turntables
Rega officially lists the Neo Mk2 as compatible with the following turntables:
- Rega P3-24
- Rega RP3
- Rega Planar 3 manufactured from 2016 onwards
- Rega RP6
- Rega P5
- Rega P7
- Rega RP40 Special Edition
- Rega RP8
- Compatible older Rega turntables fitted with the Rega 24V Motor Upgrade Kit
Is Every Rega 24V Turntable Compatible?
No. A 24V motor alone does not guarantee compatibility.
The turntable must also include the correct DIN power connection and compatible motor-control circuitry.
The Planar 1, Planar 1 Plus, Planar 2 and Planar 78 are not listed by Rega as directly compatible with the Neo Mk2 in their standard current form.
Contact Audio T before ordering if you are unsure of the age, motor type or connection fitted to your Rega turntable.
Older Rega Turntables
Some earlier Rega turntables can be made compatible by fitting the approved
Rega 24V Motor Upgrade Kit
.
Rega lists compatible older models for the upgrade kit, including selected P1, P2, P3, Planet and Planar 25 turntables.
Although fitting is relatively straightforward for an experienced engineer, Rega recommends professional installation so that the motor is positioned and adjusted correctly.
Audio T can check whether your turntable is suitable and advise on fitting before the Neo Mk2 is purchased.
Planar 3 RS, Planar 6 and Planar 8 Owners
The Planar 3 RS, Planar 6, Planar 6 RS and Planar 8 are supplied with a Neo Mk2 power supply as part of the complete turntable package.
On these models, the turntable motor and Neo anti-vibration circuitry are individually adjusted and matched during production.
If a replacement power supply is required for one of these turntables, contact Audio T before purchasing a standard standalone Neo so that the correct replacement and matching procedure can be confirmed.
Planar 10 and Naia Compatibility
The Rega Planar 10 and Naia are not designed to use the standalone Neo Mk2.
Both turntables are supplied with their own higher-level dedicated power supplies, which are designed specifically for their motor systems.
Connecting the Neo Mk2
- Switch off the turntable and Neo before making any connections.
- Disconnect the original turntable power adaptor.
- Connect the supplied DIN lead between the turntable and the rear of the Neo.
- Connect the supplied Rega PS1 adaptor to the 24V AC socket on the Neo.
- Place the turntable belt on the 33? rpm section of the motor pulley.
- Switch on the mains supply.
- Press the front-panel power button on the Neo.
- Select 33? or 45 rpm using the front-panel speed button.
Never Connect Two Power Adaptors
The original power adaptor supplied with the turntable is no longer used once the Neo Mk2 has been connected.
Never connect one adaptor directly to the turntable while another is connected to the Neo. Using two power adaptors simultaneously can cause serious damage.
Positioning the Neo Mk2
Position the Neo as far away from the turntable and cartridge as the supplied cables reasonably allow.
This reduces the possibility of electromagnetic hum from the power adaptor or power-supply circuitry being detected by the cartridge.
Place the Neo on a dry, stable and ventilated surface. Do not cover the case or position it where liquid could enter the enclosure.
Rega also offers a compatible 2-metre DIN cable where additional separation between the power supply and turntable is required.
Important Operating Information
Switch Off Before Disconnecting
Do not unplug the turntable DIN lead while the Neo Mk2 is switched on.
Always switch off the Neo before connecting or disconnecting the turntable.
Do Not Operate Without a Turntable Connected
Do not switch on or operate the Neo Mk2 without a compatible turntable connected.
Electrical signals are present on the pins of the DIN connection and shorting them may damage the power supply.
Use the Rega PS1 Adaptor Only
The Neo Mk2 must be used with the supplied Rega PS1 24V AC adaptor.
Do not substitute a third-party DC adaptor or another power supply with apparently similar voltage markings.
Resettable Over-Current Protection
The Neo Mk2 includes resettable fuses within its motor-driver amplifier.
If the protection is activated, the turntable may operate erratically or may not rotate.
Switch the Neo off using its front-panel button for approximately ten seconds before switching it on again.
If the fault continues, disconnect the unit and contact Audio T rather than repeatedly resetting it.
What the Neo Mk2 Does Not Do
No Audio Signal Processing
- Does not connect to the cartridge
- Does not contain a phono stage
- Does not alter cartridge gain or loading
- Does not connect to an amplifier audio input
No Automatic Turntable Operation
- Does not move the tonearm
- Does not lower the stylus
- Does not provide automatic return
- Does not stop the turntable at the end of a record
No 78 RPM Selection
- Provides 33? and 45 rpm operation
- Does not provide electronic 78 rpm playback
- Not designed for the Rega Planar 78
No Universal Turntable Compatibility
- Designed for compatible Rega turntables only
- Requires the correct DIN connection
- Not suitable for unrelated turntable brands
- Compatibility should be confirmed before ordering
Who Is the Rega Neo Mk2 For?
A Good Choice If You:
- Own a compatible Rega Planar 3 from 2016 onwards
- Want electronic 33? and 45 rpm speed selection
- Want improved motor control and speed stability
- Want to reduce motor vibration
- Want user-adjustable fine speed control
- Own a compatible older Rega turntable
- Have fitted an approved Rega 24V motor upgrade
- Want a straightforward turntable upgrade without changing the cartridge or tonearm
Check Another Option If You:
- Own a Planar 1, Planar 1 Plus, Planar 2 or Planar 78
- Own a turntable from another manufacturer
- Do not have the required DIN connection
- Own a Planar 10 or Naia with its dedicated power supply
- Need automatic tonearm operation
- Need 78 rpm electronic speed selection
- Require a phono stage rather than a motor power supply
- Are unsure which motor is fitted to an older Rega turntable
Key Features
- External motor-control power supply for compatible Rega turntables
- Electronic selection between 33? and 45 rpm
- User-adjustable fine speed control
- Speed adjustment in 0.01 rpm steps
- Advanced anti-vibration motor circuit
- High-stability crystal reference
- Digital signal processing waveform generator
- Technology developed from the Rega Planar 10 power supply
- Near-sinusoidal motor-drive waveform
- Bi-phase 24V AC motor output
- Motor-drive signal with less than 0.15 per cent distortion
- Reduced dependence on mains-frequency fluctuations
- Red illumination for 33? rpm
- Green illumination for 45 rpm
- Rear-panel speed-program controls
- Factory-speed reset function
- Resettable over-current protection
- Compact matching Rega enclosure
- Rega PS1 AC adaptor supplied
- Turntable DIN connection cable supplied
- Custom speed-adjustment tool supplied
- Lifetime limited warranty against confirmed manufacturing defects
Technical Specifications
- Product type: External turntable motor power supply and speed controller
- Selectable speeds: 33? and 45 rpm
- Motor output: Bi-phase 24V AC
- Output protection: Resettable fuse
- Speed-control step size: 0.01 rpm
- Power consumption: 7.2W
- Power requirement: Rega PS1 only
- UK PS1 input: 230V AC, 50Hz, 0.07A
- UK PS1 output: 24V AC, 350mA
- Turntable connection: Rega power DIN
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 180 x 50 x 155mm
- Weight: 0.6kg
- Finish: Black
Included Accessories
- Rega Neo Mk2 Turntable Power Supply
- Rega PS1 24V AC power adaptor
- Rega turntable power DIN cable
- Neo fine-speed adjustment tool
- User documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Rega Neo Mk2 do?
It provides electronic speed selection, improved motor control, reduced motor vibration and user-adjustable fine speed correction for compatible Rega turntables.
Is the Neo Mk2 compatible with the current Rega Planar 3?
Yes. Rega lists the Planar 3 manufactured from 2016 onwards as compatible with the Neo Mk2.
Does it work with the Rega Planar 1?
No. The current Planar 1 does not have the compatible DIN power connection required by the Neo Mk2.
Does it work with the Rega Planar 1 Plus?
No. The Planar 1 Plus is not listed as directly compatible with the Neo Mk2.
Does it work with the current Rega Planar 2?
The current Planar 2 is not listed by Rega as directly compatible in its standard form. Contact Audio T before ordering if your turntable has been modified or fitted with a different motor system.
Does it work with the Rega Planar 78?
No. The Neo Mk2 provides 33? and 45 rpm operation and is not intended for the Planar 78.
Does it work with older Rega turntables?
It is directly compatible with several older models, including the P3-24, RP3, RP6, P5, P7, RP40 and RP8. Other older turntables may require the approved Rega 24V Motor Upgrade Kit.
Can Audio T fit the 24V motor upgrade kit?
Contact your local Audio T store to confirm whether your turntable is suitable and whether motor-upgrade installation can be arranged.
Is the Neo Mk2 supplied with the Planar 6?
Yes. The current Planar 6 is supplied with a custom-matched Neo Mk2 power supply as standard.
Is it supplied with the Planar 8?
Yes. The current Planar 8 includes a Neo Mk2 which is individually matched to its motor during production.
Can it be used with the Planar 10 or Naia?
No. The Planar 10 and Naia use their own dedicated reference power supplies.
Does it change speed electronically?
Yes. A front-panel button switches between 33? and 45 rpm without moving the turntable drive belt.
Where should the drive belt be positioned?
Keep the belt on the upper 33? rpm section of the motor pulley. The Neo then changes speed electronically.
Can the speed be adjusted?
Yes. Rear-panel controls allow the speed to be adjusted in precise 0.01 rpm steps.
Do I adjust 33? and 45 rpm separately?
No. Fine adjustment is carried out at 33? rpm and the resulting correction is automatically applied to 45 rpm.
How should I measure the speed?
Rega recommends using its Strobe Kit. A suitable speed-measuring application may also be useful, but phone hardware and calibration can affect the reading.
Should I replace my drive belt before adjusting the speed?
Rega recommends replacing a belt that is five years old or more, as wear and stretching can prevent consistent and accurate adjustment.
Is the original turntable power adaptor still used?
No. Once the Neo is installed, the original turntable adaptor should be disconnected and stored safely.
Can both power adaptors be connected?
No. Connecting an adaptor to the turntable and another to the Neo simultaneously can cause serious damage.
Can I use a different 24V power adaptor?
No. The Neo must be used with the supplied Rega PS1 AC adaptor.
Can the Neo be switched on without a turntable connected?
No. Rega advises against operating it without the compatible turntable connected.
Where should the Neo be positioned?
Position it as far from the turntable and cartridge as the connecting cables allow to reduce the possibility of hum being picked up.
What happens if the protection fuse activates?
Switch the Neo off for approximately ten seconds and then restart it. Contact Audio T if the turntable continues to run erratically or fails to rotate.
Does it include a phono stage?
No. The Neo controls the turntable motor only. A separate phono stage or amplifier with a suitable phono input is still required.
Can Audio T check compatibility?
Yes. Provide your local Audio T store with the turntable model, approximate age and details of any previous motor upgrade so compatibility can be confirmed.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Compatibility advice from experienced Rega specialists
- Help identifying older Rega turntable models and motor systems
- Demonstrations with compatible Rega turntables
- Fine speed-adjustment and Rega Strobe Kit guidance
- Advice on replacement drive belts and turntable servicing
- Help arranging a compatible 24V motor upgrade where appropriate
- Support connecting and positioning the Neo correctly
- Cartridge, phono-stage and wider turntable upgrade advice
- Part exchange available on suitable equipment
- Ongoing support from the UK's oldest independent specialist Hi-Fi retailer
Contact your local Audio T store
to confirm compatibility or discuss whether the Rega Neo Mk2 is the right upgrade for your turntable.