Rega AOS MC Phono Preamplifier

The Rega AOS MC is a dedicated high-end phono stage for moving-coil cartridges, bringing technology from Rega's reference model Aura into a compact, fully adjustable chassis. Not an all-rounder, but an MC specialist – built to extract the very last bit from your cartridge.

Why the AOS MC?

Because it makes reference-level technology affordable. The circuit is based on the flagship Aura, runs purely analogue in Class A, and deliberately avoids digital control circuitry in the signal path. Low-noise FET inputs and a solid aluminium chassis that shields the delicate MC signals from interference keep the signal path clean and uncoloured. Four resistance and two capacitance settings let you match it exactly to your cartridge.

What you hear

Realism and calm. A properly set-up MC cartridge sounds open, dynamic and free of coloration through the AOS – the soundstage grows large, fine details emerge without harshness. Matched correctly for load and capacitance, your system plays exactly as the manufacturer intended. That's high-end that adds nothing and takes nothing away.

Who is the AOS MC for? (and who it isn't – straight talk)

For vinyl listeners with a good MC cartridge who want an uncompromising, purely analogue phono stage. Straight talk: it does nothing for MM cartridges – it's a pure MC specialist. If you expect a remote control or a display, this isn't for you either. And it wants to be set up properly: we match load and capacitance exactly to your system before you buy.

Our verdict

The AOS MC is the clever way to get Aura genes for a fraction of the price – a purist that does exactly one thing, but at reference level. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil we set it up to match your cartridge, so it shows its potential from the very start.

Technical specifications

• Type: MC phono preamplifier, purely analogue (Class A)
• Input resistance: 70, 100, 150 & 400 ohms (switchable)
• Input capacitance: 1000 & 4300 pF (switchable)
• Gain: 69.3 dB or 63.5 dB (switchable)
• RIAA accuracy: better than ±0.2 dB (65 Hz – 70 kHz)
• Frequency response: 17.5 Hz (−3 dB) to 100 kHz (−0.2 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): 0.03 %
• Power consumption: 20 W (0.4 W standby, can be disabled)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 220 × 80 × 330 mm
• Weight: 2.9 kg
• Included: Rega AOS MC, power cable, quick start guide

Frequently asked questions

Does the AOS MC only work with Rega cartridges?

No. Out of the box it's tuned ideally for Rega MC cartridges like the Ania or Apheta, but thanks to four resistance and two capacitance settings it suits almost any moving-coil cartridge. Bring us your cartridge's specs and we'll set up the matching for you.

Does the AOS MC also work with MM cartridges?

No. The AOS MC is a pure MC specialist, designed for the tiny signals of moving-coil cartridges. For an MM cartridge you need an MM phono stage like the Rega Fono MM – we'll show you what suits your cartridge.

Does the AOS MC always need to stay switched on?

No. An automatic standby function puts the unit to sleep when there's no signal. If you prefer it to stay permanently at operating temperature, you can disable this via a switch on the rear panel. Either way works, depending on your preference.

Why buy the Rega AOS MC at HD Zürisee?

Because an MC phono stage is only as good as its setup. We match load and capacitance exactly to your cartridge, advise you on the whole chain, and handle the warranty properly as an authorised dealer. In person, on Lake Zurich in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

The AOS MC shows its strengths with a high-quality MC cartridge and a matching turntable. Find more from the analogue range among the Rega components.