Rega io Integrated Amplifier with MM Phono

Description

MY TAKE: The io is a remarkable value! This is a great way to start building a budget audiophile system or assembling a second system for an office or bedroom. - Galen Carol
 

The all-new io amplifier is designed with every music lover in mind. Simple to set up and operate, the io is designed to integrate seamlessly into any hi-fi system.

The compact size allows it to be used in a variety of systems and delivers performance well beyond its price point. As you would expect, there is a high-quality built-in MM (moving magnet) phono stage, two line-level inputs, a redesigned mini remote control handset, and a high-quality headphone output that is cleverly integrated to deliver optimum performance without compromising the audio circuit.

All of these features combine to deliver a powerful, well balanced musical performance at an incredible price.

The io uses the same power amplifier and phono stage as its larger brother, the multi-award-winning Brio. The io aims to deliver exceptional sound quality in a smaller and more cost-effective package. The class A/B circuit shares its DNA with the rest of Rega’s amplifiers, and as usual, great care has been taken in component selection. Sanken output transistors and an Alps volume potentiometer and a linear power supply that enables output of 30 watts per channel into 8 ohms.

Two line-level inputs and a high quality moving magnet phono input are available as sources. There is a headphone output provided on the front of the unit for powering standard hi-fi headphones; this is driven from the power amplifier stage of the unit through relays to avoid signal degradation when headphones are inserted or the product is muted. A new remote handset is included as well.

REVIEWS -

Tone Audio: "Head of the class: The Rega io is so good, one is tempted to summon up a cauldron full of well-worn audiophile clichés. While it is excellent at first listen, the toughest part of reviewing a component offering such a high level of performance is that it begs being connected to much more expensive ancillaries to experience the depth of its true capabilities. You could grab a pair of budget speakers and a thrift shop turntable and live happily ever after with the io, but like that other legend from the UK, don’t be surprised to see this one in the company of much more expensive components. Watch for the audio forums of 2050 to speak of this amplifier in hushed reverence. Of course, the io is more than worthy of our Exceptional Value Awards for 2020, but even that doesn’t truly explain a product that gets the essence of the music so right. Audiophiles beginning their journey here may be spoiled for a very long time. I need one!" - Tone Audio

The Ear: “The Rega Io is a great little amplifier, it packs a punch that you don’t get from the far more highly featured competition that exists on the market and delivers music that you just want to keep playing” - Jason Kennedy - Editor

HiFi Choice: "From the first bars of music it is clear that the io is something rather special. With any budget amplifier there is always a sense of trepidation when waiting to see what the first notes will bring. While many are fun to listen to, they can be a little over-exuberant at times. This never falls into this trap and, as a result, has the character of something you would expect to be rather more expensive.The smoothness and lack of sibilance, even in lesser recordings, is the real prize here, io has the feel of something much more expensive than its price tag suggests" - Adam Smith

SPECIFICATIONS:

Power outputs at 230/115 V supply voltage: 30 W RMS both channels driven into the rated load of 8 Ω
Input 1 (Phono) input sensitivity 2.1 mV @ 47 kΩ in parallel with 220 pF
Maximum input 1 (Phono) input level 100 mV
Input 2-3 (Line) input sensitivity 210 mV @ 47 kΩ
Maximum input 2-3 (Line) input level 10.25 V

Headphone output: No load 8 V, 32 Ω 1.6 V, 54 Ω 2.4 V, 300 Ω 5.7 V
Source impedance: 109 Ω

Power consumption:
135 W @ 230 V / 220 V / 115 V / 100 V into the rated load of 8 Ω

Frequency response:
Phono: 15 Hz to 40 kHz (-3 dB points) / 27 Hz to 20.5 kHz (-1 dB points)

RIAA accuracy: (100Hz to 10 kHz) ±0.4 dB typically better than ±0.3 dB

Line: 12 Hz (-1 dB points) to 43 kHz (-3 dB points)

Remote control:
Batteries included –2 x AAA Alkaline.

Fuse ratings:
T1.6 AL 250 V: 230 V / 50Hz and 220 V / 60 Hz
T3.15 AL 250 V: 115 V / 60 Hz and 100 V / 50/60 Hz

Weight:
2.9Kg

Dimensions (W x D x H) in mm:
180 x 290 x 68