Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Utterly lucid sound across the entire frequency spectrum with extremely low noise level
  • Neutral sound without much tube coloration
  • Unforced dynamics with full, clear bass, good rhythm and pace, and microdynamics
  • Mid-range is an absolute delight, described as sound grace and velvet caress
  • Produces a natural timbric and harmonic disposition, making reproduced sounds realistic

Product Considerations

  • Volume knob needs to be turned higher compared to other preamps, due to Leben not making SET amps, rather higher-powered PP amps
  • Variable output is not as good as the fixed output
  • In the most intense moments, orchestral pieces suffer from minor confusion
  • Bass is solid, not very dynamic and sculpted, typically tube-like, with a first octave just hinted
  • High frequencies are a bit descending, although concrete and pleasantly liquid

Takeaway: The RS-100 offers a lucid and natural sound, making it a valuable addition to any audio setup. It is a great choice for anyone who values musicality and wants to experience their favorite songs with an involving sound.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

RS-100

reviews

[{"title":"Review: Leben RS28CX and RS-100 Preamplifiers","link":"https://cheaptubeaudio.blogspot.com/2011/09/review-leben-rs28cx-and-rs-100.html","source":"Doctorjohn Cheaptubeaudio: Audio Reviews and More","datePublished":"2011"},{"title":"Leben RS-100 preamp","link":"https://www.remusic.it/EN/Leben-RS-100-preamp-ae7d5f00","source":"Remusic","datePublished":"2012"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Tube compliment: 2 x 6CG7 (G.E.) or 12AU7A(for RS-100U), 1 x 6X5GT (Sylvania)
  • Gain: 23dB
  • Max. Output: 52V (Variable) & 0V - 52V(fixed)
  • Output Impedance: 600 Ohms
  • Residual Noise: 0.08mV
  • Power Consumption: 23W
  • Weight: 7.5 kg
  • Dimensions: 390(W) x 230(D) x 142(H) mm (Incl. Side-panels & Legs)
The line Amplifier Circuit consists of special selected Dual-Triode Tube 6CG7(General Electric/USA) by SRPP system to improve high-frequecy range of the sound, and can supply a strong signal of 52V to the power amplifier.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • The brand's amplifiers are often described as having a "tube-like" sound, characterized by warmth, richness, and a relaxed presentation, yet still delivering clarity and detail.
  • Leben products, designed with careful consideration of total musical balance, are intended for "music lovers" and prioritize listener relaxation and enjoyment.
  • Leben integrated amplifiers have an uncanny ability to work with a diverse range of speakers.

RS-30EQ PHONO PREAMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A dedicated phono preamplifier with a CR-type equalizer focused on precise tone control.
  • Description: Uses a high-quality Orient-Core power transformer and GE 12AT7A tubes to achieve a stable, low-noise equalization setup. Compared to other models, its simple design and lower power consumption make it a good choice for smaller rooms and budgets, with functionality tailored for accurate phono playback.

CS-300F PRE-MAIN AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A compact tube pre-main amplifier designed for clear audio signal preparation.
  • Description: Uses GE JAN-6197 and a premium Japanese 17EW8 driver tube to deliver clean amplification in a small, efficient unit. Relative to the RS-30EQ, it offers additional pre-main functionality while maintaining a straightforward tube sound, suiting users with modest space and budget constraints.

CS-600 PRE-MAIN AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A versatile tube pre-main amplifier featuring dual tube options and extended controls.
  • Description: Provides selectable output tubes (6L6GC or EL34) and multiple input options along with a power amp bypass to tailor the sound and impedance for various setups. Compared to the CS-300F, its extra functions and tube switching give users more flexibility and technical refinement.

CS-1000P STEREO POWER AMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A high-power tube stereo amplifier built for large audio systems.
  • Description: Uses pentode circuit designs with KT120 tubes and a newly developed Orient-Core output transformer for wide frequency response and robust amplification. When compared to pre-main units like the CS-600, its advanced circuitry and higher power output accommodate larger rooms and higher-end setups.

RS-28CX PREMIUM PREAMPLIFIER

  • Positioning: A flagship premium tube preamplifier aimed at achieving refined signal quality.
  • Description: Features a CR-type equalizer with GE 12AT7 tubes, an independent power supply, and a dual triode 6CG7 SRPP design that ensures a clean, high-voltage output. In contrast to the CS-1000P, its superior build and technical sophistication address the needs of users with the highest performance demands.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
2
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
276
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
1995

Our take on the brand

Leben is a hifi brand known for its hand-built amplifiers that use rare vacuum tubes like the NOS GE JAN 6197 and 17EW8, which create a distinctive sound signature. Their amplifiers require unusually long run-in times of up to 600 hours and offer unique tube-swapping flexibility, allowing users to fine-tune their sound to their preferences.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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Leben

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Gold Note
PH-5
999
999
/
4
Reviews
Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Offers a versatile range of adjustments, including nine input impedance choices and four gain options, to match various cartridges
  • Offers three different equalization curves (RIAA, Decca London, and American Columbia), unusual for phono stages in its price range
  • Produces a clean, smooth, lucid, and well-balanced sound that is uncolored and neutral, allowing for greater transparency and speed
  • Musical, smooth, coherent and dynamic, with a very good pace, rhythm, and timing
  • Touchscreen interface is easy and intuitive to use

Product Considerations

  • Moving magnet capacitance is set at 220pF and is not adjustable
  • Some reviewers express concern about potential RF interference from the digital display affecting the analog circuitry, particularly with sensitive MC cartridges
  • Instrumental images may be smaller than with other phono stages
  • May sound a little weightless compared to significantly more expensive phono preamps
  • Reviewers note the forthcoming PSU-5 power supply

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to a similarly priced phono stage, the Gold Note PH-5 provided greater insights into how Miles Davis played each note, and was more full-bodied and dynamic
  • The Pathos In the Groove was more spacious and shapely sounding but lacked the PH-5's sense of control and smoothness
  • Compared to the Gold Note PH-10, there's a remarkably similar sound, with a tad more weight to recordings played through the more expensive PH-10
  • The PH-5 sounds closer to the GrandiNote Celio MK IV—a bit richer, smoother, and more saturated—whereas the ESE Lab Nibiru is more about speed, precision, and transparency

Takeaway: The Gold Note PH-5 is a versatile phono stage that sounds musical and natural. It provides many options to adjust the sound, and it is an affordable way to get great performance from vinyl records.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
ADCOM
GFP-915
999
999
/
3
Reviews
ADCOM is a hifi brand that pioneered high-current amplifier designs with their GFA-1 model in 1979, and their Nelson Pass-designed GFA-555 became a milestone in budget amplifiers. The brand caters to audiophiles who prefer physical media, offering features like phono stages for vinyl enthusiasts, while maintaining a trade-in program for older ADCOM gear that reflects their commitment to product longevity.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Straightforward, high-quality preamp that does everything asked of it, very well
  • Includes tone control knobs for bass and treble to personalize the listening experience
  • Allows turntable users to switch between moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) modes
  • Features seven source audio inputs, a front-panel 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.1, optical and USB inputs, as well as a phono stage for turntables

Product Considerations

  • Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, while present, is not super high resolution compared with Wi-Fi and may not appeal to those seeking a more robust streaming experience
  • Has no balanced inputs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Against Rotel's RC-1572 MKII, the Adcom GFP-915 wins in many audiophile categories, such as a lower reported total harmonic distortion and noise floor
  • The Schiit Freya S stereo preamp at $599 is another solid, no-frills audiophile option that can compare to the Adcom GFP-915
  • The NAD C 3050 integrated amp's HDMI switching, internal DAC, Bluetooth 5.4 and phono stage might sway one to spend a few hundred more dollars than the Adcom

Takeaway: The Adcom GFP-915 is a traditional stereo preamp that delivers quality performance and offers a range of useful features for audiophiles. It is a worthwhile option for those seeking a simple and effective way to manage audio sources and volume control.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADCOM is a hifi brand that pioneered high-current amplifier designs with their GFA-1 model in 1979, and their Nelson Pass-designed GFA-555 became a milestone in budget amplifiers. The brand caters to audiophiles who prefer physical media, offering features like phono stages for vinyl enthusiasts, while maintaining a trade-in program for older ADCOM gear that reflects their commitment to product longevity.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Schiit
Kara F
799
799
/
3
Reviews
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Features a fully discreet headphone amplifier built-in that sounds good
  • Offers flexibility with passive, low gain, and high gain settings, not commonly found at its price point
  • Build quality feels good, with a nice textured black finish
  • Features a precise 128-step attenuator for accurate left-right balance, unusual for a $699 preamplifier
  • Features a metal remote with volume, mute, and input selection

Product Considerations

  • One reviewer experienced the Kara going into protection mode and muting the sound when adjusting the volume quickly—requiring a power cycle to resolve
  • One reviewer said they prefer the RCA input and output sound
  • XLR inputs for stereo mode are not available

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Schiit Freya S: It replaces the Freya S and has significant upgrades, including a headphone jack and a more powerful power transformer
  • Vs Pass Labs HPA1: The Pass Labs is a better-sounding pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier overall, but is significantly more expensive

Takeaway: The Kara preamplifier offers great flexibility with gain options and a good-sounding headphone amplifier. It's a well-built component that could be a good addition to an audio setup, especially if clarity is valued.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Pro-Ject
Phono Box DS3 B
799
799
/
3
Reviews
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Balanced connections improve sound, though stellar audio is available via RCA inputs
  • Tighter and continuous control over load impedance via a potentiometer control
  • Discrete circuit design offers a more neutral sound than integrated circuits
  • Two turntables can be connected at once, one with XLRs and one with RCAs
  • Expanded soundstage and individual instrument placement both horizontally and vertically

Product Considerations

  • Turntable with XLR outputs needed to experience its best features
  • More expensive if balanced connection features are not being used
  • Tube box will push coloration into the mix, so tubes need careful system matching
  • Balanced outputs and moving coil cartridge are needed to reveal the sort of detail that vinyl aficionados champion

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs NAD Phono Preamp PP-1: Allows for markedly more detail and separation between instruments
  • Vs Phono Box S3 B: Integrates all the technology from the SB3 and adds in a few extra features, as well as a potentiometer
  • Vs Projects Tubebox DS3: The sound is far more clear, and the weighted treble and upper spectrum sound more pronounced

Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Phono Box DS3 B unlocks the potential of a turntable, enhancing the listening experience with more dynamics, details, and soundstage. It's a versatile phono preamp with remarkably neutral and detailed sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Fosi
BOX X5
139
/
Released
2024
Fosi Audio BOX X5 Mini Phono Preamp supports MM and MC cartridges, provides 4-level gain adjustment, and provides RIAA equalization accuracy. Supporting MM/MC cartridges, BOX X5 is compatible with most turntables, along with 4 adjustable gain levels of 38/48/56/66 dB. It utilizes high-precision capacitors and resistors, ensuring minimal noise for audio purity.
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Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good sound quality, warm with lows and highs present, and a quiet noise floor
  • Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
  • Adjustable gain settings to match different cartridge output levels
  • Metal construction for durability and shielding
  • Offers DIY upgradeability with a socketed op-amp that can be swapped to change the sound signature

Product Considerations

  • The ground post is positioned close to the power input, which can be inconvenient
  • To power it off, one must press and hold the power button instead of pressing it quickly to turn it on, which is not intuitive
  • Lacks a headphone jack
  • Does not have a subsonic filter or capacitive loading switch

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Schiit Audio phono preamp, the Fosi Audio Box X5 is on par or better than the Schiit Audio phono preamp generation one version

Takeaway: The Fosi Audio Box X5 is a great value phono preamp that provides good sound quality and versatile features for both MM and MC cartridges. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a built-in preamp or start with their first turntable.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN Phono 3
249
/
Released
2024
For record lovers, new and old. The ZEN Phono 3 redefines what your turntable can do. Its intelligent subsonic filter corrects warped LPs, while an ultra-quiet noise floor and adaptable loading options unlock a new level of clarity from your cartridge.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • A very low noise floor, even with high gain settings for moving coil cartridges
  • Various gain settings for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, making it versatile
  • An 'intelligent' subsonic filter effectively reduces rumble without negatively impacting bass frequencies
  • A balanced 4.4mm output, which is uncommon in phono stages at this price point
  • Impressive sound quality for its price, including a wide soundstage and good dynamics

Product Considerations

  • Large diameter RCA plugs may not fit due to the small chassis
  • The number of load settings is stated inconsistently across sources, with some stating four and others stating three
  • Connecting RCA and balance output together simultaneously to two different amplifiers can result in noticeable humming noise
  • One reviewer mentioned a 'clinical' sound that might pair better with warmer cartridges, though this was addressed by changing the setup

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The ZEN Phono 3 has a wider soundstage and better dynamics than the iFi Zenfone Stage
  • The ZEN Phono 3 has deeper bass than the Accuphase AD-60, but slightly less clarity and definition in the bass region
  • The ZEN Phono 3 delivers a larger, beefier—and more rhythmic sound than the built-in phono stage in the U-Turn Orbit Special
  • The ZEN Phono 3 produces significantly less noise than the Musical Fidelity M5SI phono stage

Takeaway: The ZEN Phono 3 is a valuable phono stage that provides a clean and dynamic sound, along with features typically found in more expensive units. It is especially useful for those looking to upgrade from a basic phono stage or for vinyl enthusiasts who want to explore different cartridge types.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Schiit
Skoll
399
/
Released
2023
Skoll is the highest performance, most flexible, least expensive balanced phono preamp available today. Put it in your system, sit down in your chair, and adjust everything with the included remote control. You'll give up nothing to the big-boy phono preamps out there—while keeping a much fatter wallet!
Check Amazon
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a full feature set including balanced XLR inputs and outputs, typically found in more expensive units
  • Provides remote control functionality for adjusting gain, loading, and filters from the listening position
  • Delivers detailed, clean, and modern sound reproduction, with good transient clarity and precision, and quiet backgrounds
  • Offers versatile settings for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
  • Improves system sound, adding clarity and a warmer feel compared to budget options

Product Considerations

  • Some users experienced a static or buzzing noise in the left channel, with inconsistent severity
  • The initial balanced input tests revealed D.C. issues, causing speaker drivers to alarmingly suck in and out
  • The unit's physical aesthetics are not particularly eye-popping or luxurious
  • The tiny silkscreened letters and icons associated with the front panel LEDs might be difficult to read
  • May not be ideal for systems already on the lean side, as it might not add warmth

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Schiit Manny, the Skoll is much quieter
  • Vs Michael Yee PFE1, the Skoll has less hum and more hiss
  • Vs Fosi Audio Box X4, the Skoll has better clarity

Takeaway: The Schiit Skoll is a versatile and feature-rich phono preamp that delivers impressive sound quality and customization options. It can be a great upgrade to get more enjoyment out of vinyl records.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Pro-Ject
Phono Box S3 B
499
/
Released
2022
The Phono Box S3 B is an entry-level phono preamplifier that offers a fully balanced design in a neat, small package. We've packed this tiny chassis to the brim with high-end features. One of those is our new True Balanced Connection. At Pro-Ject, balanced connections were exclusive to our RS range of products until now. The Phono Box S3 B brings those features to an incredible new entry level.
Check Amazon
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • True balanced connections reduce noise and increase detail, dynamics, and musicality
  • Settings are easily adjustable on the front panel, including impedance, capacitance, and gain
  • Well-made metal chassis is compatible with both MM and MC cartridges
  • Discrete circuits are used in its gain stages, which Pro-Ject believes delivers the best sound
  • Offers both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs and outputs

Product Considerations

  • Balanced cables are required for optimal performance if using balanced connections
  • Relay switching causes a time lag when switching impedance, capacitance, or gain

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Lehmannaudio Black Cube had more power in the low end, while the Pro-Ject tended toward a drier character

Takeaway: The Phono Box S3 B is a well-designed phono stage offering balanced connections, making it a great choice for those wanting to upgrade their vinyl listening experience. The adjustable settings and solid build quality make it a versatile and worthwhile addition to any system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Rega
Fono MM MK5
277
/
Released
2021
The Fono MM MK5 phono stage has been designed to be effective, easy to use and above all, to reproduce music. The Fono MM MK5 uses a fully discrete, cascaded, complementary amplifier input stage, a configuration designed to optimise the performance of your moving magnet cartridge.
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Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Cohesive, lively, and musical performance
  • Expressive dynamics and good insight
  • Strong rhythmic drive
  • Quality of build and finish is perfectly fine for the money
  • Adds some warmth to the sound, along with vitality—with the right cartridge

Product Considerations

  • Only cosmetic changes over the previous generation
  • Only compatible with moving magnet cartridges
  • Treble could be a bit sweeter
  • The review mentioned a feel of a cheap Chinese amp, and the power button feeling cheap
  • Matching well with the right cartridge is critical to get the best sound

Takeaway: The Rega Fono MM Mk5 offers a strong and engaging performance for the price, making music sound lively and fun. It's a great choice if one wants to enhance their vinyl listening experience with a moving magnet cartridge.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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