Rega Aria Mk3 MM/MC Phono Stage

The Rega Aria Mk3 MM/MC Phono Stage is an “all analogue amplifier” with no digital control circuitry. The fully aluminium case screens the internal circuit from any stray RFI signals. Rega’s designers have avoided including any superfluous gadgets as they obstruct the signal path and degrade the sound quality. The Rega Aria incorporates many innovative design ideas including a self-adjusting servo control to keep the MC input circuit at its optimum, compensating for any variations in ambient or operating temperature.

Both stages have their own separate input sockets and input pre-amplifier circuitry. This enabled Rega to design bespoke input circuitry for each cartridge type without compromise. Signal switching is performed at high level and low impedance (via relays) ensuring there is no degradation of the signal.

The MC input uses parallel connected, low noise FET’s (Field Effect Transistor’s) configured as a compound pair. The use of FET transistors ensures there is no bias current flowing in the cartridge coil so as not to upset the delicate magnetic geometry of the cartridge. The MC input has the provision for selecting resistive input loading of 70ohms to 400ohms and capacitive loading of 1000pF to 4200pF. The input sensitivity can be changed by 6dB via the back panel.

The MM input uses low noise, bipolar input transistors also configured as a compound pair. There are two separate power supplies for each channel and further sub-power supplies for each of the low noise input circuits. Nichicon FG electrolytic capacitors have been used in critical positions throughout the power supplies. Polypropylene capacitors have been used in the signal path and equalization networks. Discrete circuitry is used throughout the signal path ensuring full control of the circuit design.

Technical Specification

Maximum output level = 11v RMS
Rated output level = 200mV
Output resistance = 100Ù
Minimum output resistance for a –3dB point at 15Hz = 1K
AC supply 230v & 115v Nominal +/- 10%
230v 20mm Fuse T250mAL
115v 20mm Fuse T500mAL
Power Consumption = 10 Watts
Ambient operating temperature 5 to 35°C
Dimensions: W 218mm x D 315mm (325mm incl. earth nut) x H 78mm

Read our review of the Solidair Dub Star 50 isolation feet designed as an audio upgrade for the following Rega turntables.

Solidair Dub Star 50 – Compatible with:

Rega Planar 1, Rega Planar 1 Plus, Rega RP1
Rega Planar 2
Rega Planar 3, Rega Planar 3 50th Anniversary Edition, Rega RP3, Rega RP40, Rega P3-24, Rega P3
Rega Planar 6, Rega RP6
Rega Planar 8, Rega RP8
Rega Planar 10, Rega RP10
Rega P5
Rega P7
Rega P9
Rega Planar 78, Rega RP78