Rega Fono MM MK2 Phono Stage Black

After much thought I purchased the Fono and a Rega Elys cartridge so that I could again use my 1989 Raga Planar 2 record deck. I have a new Naim Uniti and older but high quality Ruark loudspeakers. My concern was whether the Planar 2 would work effectively in a system that would naturally support and suit a much more sophisticated and expensive deck. Whilst it is true that the sound lacks the ultimate in clarity, it is a delight. For the first time in years I can revisit both my record collection and that I inherited from my parents and enjoy them. Whilst the Rega deck was their entry level model when I purchased it all those years ago, the combination of the deck, the Fono and the Elys cartridge means that the quality of sound is really good, and remarkably, the combination reproduces sound without undue clicks and bumps from records that in some cases date back 20, 30 or even 50 years. I am not expert enough to distinguish how far any individual component contributes to this, but the combination really works, so the Fono is highly recommended on the basis of my experience.

In comparison to my powerful £1000+ valve phono stage this box is amazingly good for a fifth of the cost. If £200 ish is your budget then buy this one. It's got fast dynamic full scale clean sound with tonality is just a little 'warm' of neutral. If the source is bass light upgradeitis will continue because it will show it. Rega cartridges are well suited and with them and other higher output MM carts it feeds preamps very well so they really kick out that lovely vinyl vibe.Also Rega is UK based and make product of excellent value and performance.

Used with a Rega TT PSU MK2 Turntable Power Supply Unit and my new P3 turntable my records sound unbelievable. A significant and clearly audible improvement over my Pro-Ject Debut III se, used with a Phono box S and speedbox S. If I hadn't heard it for myself... Even the Old Lady just sat and said 'Wow' after she heard the difference. They don't (in my opinion) look or feel like a £200 piece of HiFi equipment, the buttons are stiff, but seem to getting easier. Be careful the first few times you turn this unit on, or you'll just poke it off the shelf, it's that light but if you want to hear what the aritists meant you to hear, then by crikey, give them a demo

Good.

Purchased this as my new AV Amp does not have a Phono input. The resulting sound is fantastic. Only just realised how poor the old phono input on my precious AV amp was. buy it you won't be disapointed

It's good phono stage for the price. I compared it to highly recommended Cambridge Audio 651P.Both have very precise RIAA curve but Rega wins far by much better sound detail.Its box has plastic back and front though. Quite ugly assuming its value. It gets mains hum much more than Cambridge. You will need to find suitable place for it far from hum sources.

Superb, a way to upgrade your system at a reasonable price. I was amazed at the difference it made.

Loverly detailed wide sound.Works really well with my Thorens 125 / SME arm and Goldring 1042 cartridge.