Rega AURA MC
Rega phono preamplifier dedicated to moving coil cartridges, three-stage fully balanced Class A architecture, for demanding vinyl playback systems.
Description
The Aura MC is a phono preamplifier from Rega, designed exclusively for moving coil (MC) cartridges. It sits between the turntable's cartridge and the amplifier to amplify and equalise the phono signal before playback, without incorporating any additional functions that could lengthen the signal path.
Its architecture is built around three fully balanced stages operating in Class A. The first stage uses very low-noise FET transistors mounted in parallel, a configuration that avoids any bias current in the cartridge coil and removes coupling components between the cartridge and the input stage, two points that preserve the magnetic geometry of the cartridge and limit signal degradation. The second and third stages, also Class A, handle the RIAA equalisation at low frequency and the shaping of the balanced output. The power supply is likewise balanced, with discreet regulation and a voltage 60% higher than is typically found on this type of preamplifier, with each stage having its own localised power supply. Input loading adjustments (50 to 400 ohms) and capacitive loading adjustments (1000 to 5700 pF), along with two gain options, allow the unit to be precisely matched to the cartridge in use. The Gain, Mute and Mono functions are relay-switched.
The Aura MC is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts equipped with a moving coil cartridge who are seeking a high-end preamplifier entirely dedicated to this purpose, with no compromise from superfluous functions.
Technical specifications
| Input loading | 50 - 100 - 150 - 300 - 400 ohms |
| Capacitive loading | 1000 - 2000 - 3200 - 5700 pF |
| Source impedance | 20 Kohms |
| Input sensitivity (Gain option 1) | 67 µV for 200 mV unbalanced output |
| Input sensitivity (Gain option 2) | 131 µV for 200 mV unbalanced output |
| Max. output level (unbalanced) | 14.5 V RMS |
| Max. output level (balanced) | 29 V RMS |
| Output resistance (unbalanced) | 100 ohms |
| Output resistance (balanced) | 200 ohms |
| Frequency response | 13.5 Hz (-3 dB) to 100 kHz (-0.2 dB) |
| THD | 0.03% at 1 V from 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 435 x 88 x 350 mm |
| Weight | 13 kg |
What to check before buying used
On a phono preamplifier of this calibre, the first check concerns the Gain, Mute and Mono switching relays: a dirty contact can cause dropouts or unwanted level variations. Also check that the input loading and capacitive loading adjustments function correctly, switching cleanly across all the values on offer. Finally, test the balanced and unbalanced outputs separately to rule out any connector or solder joint issues on either stage.
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