Play music
Rega Fono MC MK4 is a phono stage for low-output MC cartridges, adjustable via rear DIP switches for gain, resistive loading and capacitance.
Fono MC MK4 is designed to realise the potential of low-output moving-coil cartridges, including Rega MC models and many cartridges from other manufacturers. Gain and loading are adjusted from the rear panel, while the fully discrete input stage uses low-noise Linear Systems LSK389 FETs, chosen for their high input impedance and to limit the circuit's influence on cartridge behaviour.
Key features
- Dedicated MC phono stage
- Simple connection and operation
- Rear-panel DIP-switch adjustment
- MUSE operational amplifier in the RIAA equalisation section
- Two selectable gain settings
- Factory setting suitable for Rega MC cartridges
- Latest-generation custom chassis
Low-noise MC input
The input stage uses low-noise LSK389 FETs in a fully discrete configuration. The FETs' high input impedance reduces the loading effect of the circuit on the cartridge and allows signals of only a few microvolts to be handled while maintaining high linearity. The design was developed specifically for low-output MC cartridges and can still adapt to different electrical values through the rear-panel settings.
Adjustable gain and loading
The DIP switches allow selection of resistive and capacitive loading together with two gain levels. The available settings cover a wide range of MC cartridges and include a factory setting dedicated to Rega models. Loading adjustment allows the phono stage to be matched to the cartridge's electrical characteristics without placing controls on the front panel, keeping the external interface simple and repeatable once the correct configuration has been found.
RIAA equalisation and construction
The RIAA section uses a MUSE operational amplifier and polypropylene capacitors in both the signal path and equalisation circuits. The aluminium chassis follows the design language used for Fono MM MK5 and Neo PSU MK2. Internal layout and component choice aim to keep noise low, particularly important with MC cartridges whose output voltage is far lower than that of MM designs, while preserving a simple, dedicated signal path.
