Rega IO
Compact stereo integrated amplifier from Rega, with built-in MM phono input and front-panel headphone output, for a neat small hi-fi system.
Description
The Rega IO is a compact stereo integrated amplifier, designed to power a small-scale hi-fi system without compromising on sound quality. It borrows the amplification architecture and phono stage from the Rega Brio, in a smaller and more affordable format. The unit features a phono input with RIAA correction, allowing a turntable fitted with a moving magnet cartridge to be connected directly, without an external preamplifier.
The amplification circuit operates in class A/B and delivers 30 W RMS per channel into an 8 ohm load. Power comes from a toroidal transformer paired with Sanken output transistors, while volume control is handled by an Alps potentiometer. On the phono side, input sensitivity is 2.1 mV at 47 kΩ in parallel with 220 pF, with RIAA curve tracking accurate to ± 0.4 dB between 100 Hz and 10 kHz, typically better than ± 0.3 dB. Frequency response extends from 12 Hz to 43 kHz on the line inputs, and from 15 Hz to 40 kHz on the phono input.
Connectivity includes a grounded MM phono input, two RCA line inputs, a front-panel 3.5 mm mini-jack headphone output and two pairs of speaker terminals compatible with banana plugs. The headphone output signal is taken directly from the output of the power stage, via relays intended to preserve its integrity. An infrared remote control is supplied for source switching and volume adjustment.
This model is aimed at anyone wanting a compact, straightforward system, paired with a turntable fitted with an MM cartridge, or with desktop or small living-room speakers. Its small size (180 x 290 x 68 mm) and light weight of 2.9 kg make it easy to fit onto a shelf or into a cabinet.
Technical specifications
| Frequency response | 12 Hz (-1 dB) to 43 kHz (-3 dB) [line inputs] / 15 Hz to 40 kHz (-3 dB), 27 Hz to 20.5 kHz (-1 dB) [Phono input] |
| RIAA accuracy | ± 0.4 dB (100 Hz to 10 kHz), typically better than ± 0.3 dB |
| Phono input sensitivity | 2.1 mV @ 47 kΩ in parallel with 220 pF |
| Line input sensitivity | 210 mV @ 47 kΩ |
| Maximum input level (line) | 10.25 V |
| Output power unloaded | 8 V |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 180 x 290 x 68 mm |
| Weight | 2.9 kg |
What to check before buying used
The Alps volume potentiometer can develop crackling at the start of its travel: test across the full range before purchase. Also check for the absence of hum or distortion on the phono stage, which is more heavily used and sensitive to ageing capacitors, as well as the mounting of the toroidal transformer, whose slight hum should remain inaudible while listening. Checking the front-panel headphone output and the cleanliness of the RCA inputs completes the inspection.
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