Rega Brio MK7 Integrated Amplifier – First Look
All Image Credit: Rega
Rega has announced the release of the hand made Rega Brio MK7 integrated amplifier, the latest iteration in its popular Brio series. This seventh-generation model introduces several enhancements, including a built-in digital-to-analogue converter (DAC).
The Rega Brio MK7 integrated amplifier is housed in a compact, custom half-width black aluminum case, that is slightly deeper than previous models accommodating the new DAC section. According to Rega, the PCB layout has been fully upgraded to handle higher specifications for all critical parts. A second raw power supply is implemented to provide further isolation between output stage and the driver stage/line and phono amplifiers, improving the isolation between high and low level signal stages of the amplifier. Higher specification MUSES operational amplifiers have been used in the line, DAC and phono amplifier.
The Rega Brio MK7 integrated power amplifier is Class A/B and delivers 50 watts per channel into 8Ω and 72 watts per channel into 6Ω. The amplifiers are short-circuit protected using fold-back short circuit protection which protects the output stage from excessive currents. This protection circuit is not placed in the audio signal path and therefore does not affect sound quality. The amplifier’s compact, custom half-width aluminum casing contributing to effective heat dissipation promoting reliability during extended use. If the amplifier reaches a temperature liable to cause internal electronic damage, the thermal protection system will first disable the speaker output, indicated by the MUTE led on the front panel illuminating and the input LED indicator turning off. If the over-temperature condition continues, the unit will turn itself off.
The addition of an onboard DAC expands the Brio’s analog connectivity by providing two digital inputs, one optical and and coaxial. Both inputs support sampling rates of; 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192KHz with 16 to 24 word support. Distortion for the DAC is quoted as being typically 0.005% at 1KHz.
Control is available using the Brio’s front panel buttons and knob and the included mini hand-held IR remote.
Rear panel connectivity includes; 1 x stereo unbalanced RCA RIAA MM phono, 3 x stereo unbalanced RCA line level inputs, and 1 x coaxial and 1 x optical S/PDIF digital inputs. Speaker connectivity is supported on a pair of binding posts, with a front panel 3.5mm headphone port for personal listening sessions without compromising the main speaker output.
Features At A Glance:
- Integrated Rega moving magnet phono stage
- Rega DAC with two digital inputs
- Headphone socket
- Custom mini system remote control
- Custom designed case
- Standby and auto standby functionality
- 50 W into 8 Ω & 72 W into 6 Ω
- Short circuit protection
- Thermal cut-out
- Lifetime warranty against manufacture defects
Specifications:
- Power Output:
- 50 W per channel into 8 Ω
- 73 W per channel into 6 Ω
- Analog inputs:
- 1 x Stereo phono MM – RCA
- 3 x line level – RCA
- Digital Inputs:
- 1 x S/PDIF Isolated 0.5V 75Ω Co-axial
- 1 x S/PDIF Optical Toslink
- Supported sampling rates: 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192kHz
- THD+Noise digital inputs (A-weighted): Typically 0.005% at 1kHz
- Frequency response bandwidth (at 80W into 8Ω):
- Phono input: 15Hz (-3dB) to 40kHz (-3dB)
- RIAA accuracy Better than ±0.5dB 100Hz to 20kHz
- Line inputs: 12Hz (-1dB) to 43kHz (-3dB)
- Phono input: 15Hz (-3dB) to 40kHz (-3dB)
- Power Consumption: 200 W
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 216 x 79 x 365mm (8.5 x 3.1 x 14.4in)
- Weight: 4.9kg (10.8lbs)
MSRP:
- US: $1,095.00
- UK: £799.00
- EU: €920.00
For more information visit the Rega web site.
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