Rega Fono MM MK5

The Rega Fono MM MK5 is a dedicated phono preamplifier for moving-magnet cartridges, precisely raising your turntable's weak signal to line level.

It's the logical partner for a Planar 2 or Planar 3, but works well with practically any high-quality MM cartridge – connect it, switch it on, enjoy.

Why the Fono MM MK5?

Instead of a cheap standard chip, Rega uses a discrete input stage built from individual components. This lowers noise and noticeably opens up the soundstage. The RIAA equalisation works with extreme accuracy, so bass and treble sound the way they were cut into the vinyl. The aluminium chassis, in MK5 design, shields against interference and fits visually into the current Rega range.

What you hear

Compared with its predecessor, the biggest gain is in spaciousness – as if someone had cleaned the last streaks off the window. The bass is crisp and controlled, voices feel tangible, and that typically punchy Rega character is simply fun. That's something few phono stages built into an amplifier at this level can match.

Who is the Fono MM MK5 for?

Perfect for anyone with an MM cartridge like the Rega Nd3, Nd5, or an Ortofon 2M. Straight talk: it's a pure moving-magnet specialist. If you're planning to move to a moving-coil (MC) cartridge soon, go straight for the Fono MC MK4 – the MM's gain isn't enough for MC. Small workshop tip: place the external power supply as far as possible from the phono stage and turntable, to keep the background nice and quiet.

Our verdict

When a customer here in Wädenswil asks how to most effectively upgrade their Planar 3, we almost always end up here. The Fono MM MK5 is honestly built, sounds well above its price, and is our reference recommendation for a clean MM chain. Tell us about your system and we'll tell you whether it's right for you.

Technical specifications

• Type: phono preamplifier for moving-magnet (MM) cartridges
• Input sensitivity: 1.7 millivolts for 200 millivolts output voltage
• Input impedance: 47 kilohms in parallel with 100 picofarads
• Maximum input level: 60 millivolts at 1 kilohertz
• Gain: 41.4 decibels at 1 kilohertz
• Output impedance: 200 ohms
• Frequency response: 15 hertz to 100 kilohertz
• RIAA accuracy: better than ±0.2 decibels (100 hertz to 100 kilohertz)
• Power supply: external 24-volt AC power supply (max. 80 milliamps)
• Dimensions: 180 × 45 × 150 mm (W × H × D)
• Weight: 0.65 kg
• Included: Fono MM MK5, external 24-volt power supply, quick start guide

Frequently asked questions

Which input on my amplifier does the Fono MM MK5 connect to?
A free line input (AUX, CD or Tuner). The turntable connects to the Fono MM, and from there to the amplifier. Never use your amplifier's own phono input – otherwise the signal is amplified twice and distorted.

What ground wire do I need?
Rega turntables are usually earthed via the RCA cable, so an extra wire is often not needed. If you use a turntable from another brand, connect its ground wire to the knurled screw on the rear to avoid hum.

What's different about the MK5 compared with its predecessor?
Mainly the new chassis, which visually matches the current Rega range, plus a further-refined choice of components in the output stage. This further lowers distortion and gives a silkier, less fatiguing playback.

Why buy the Fono MM MK5 at HD Zürisee?
Because we don't just sell you a box – we check whether cartridge, turntable and amplifier actually work together. Our experienced team on Lake Zurich advises you in person and sets up the chain properly. Reach us by phone, email or WhatsApp.

Goes well with

Find the right turntable among our turntables, and the right cartridge among the cartridges. More from the brand in the Rega collection.