The Rega Aria Mk.3

There are so many things to like about the Aria Mk.3 from Rega. This small but capable solid-state MM/MC phono preamplifier does it all.

At the original MSRP of $1,695, Rega’s Aria Mk.3 is one of the best values going in analog. (As is nearly everything Rega makes) However, this slightly pre-owned example at $1,149 should be at the top of your list, if you are searching for a high-performance phono stage that’s reasonably priced – more money for records!

We’ve only reviewed the Mk.2, but the Mk.3 is on the way. Having heard the Mk.3, we can attest that everything that made the Mk.2 great is improved in the new model – and that’s the Rega way. Constant refinement.

The sound is natural and dynamic. Fortunately, the MC side of the Mk.3 has loading adjustments from 70 ohms to 400 ohms – which should cover nearly everything. Should you have one of the Rega MC cartridges, start at the 70 ohm setting and see what you think. Our experience has been that these cartridges are incredible loaded down low…

Aria’s half-width chassis makes it a perfect fit on the shelf for a Rega outboard power supply and speed controller. However, the thing we find the most exciting is the Aria’s ability to handle two turntables. Instead of just a gain switch, there are two seperate inputs – which makes this a fantastic way to plug two turntables into your system. The more you get into vinyl, the more useful this feature becomes.

Finally, the Aria Mk.3, like the Mk.2 has all discrete components in the signal path – no op amps. This is a big part of what makes this compact phono stage sound bigger and more dynamic than you might expect for the price. Definitely a class leader, even at full retail. But this one is a killer bargain.

You can purchase it right here. Just click.