Rega Fono MC Mk4 Phono Stage
The Fono MC Mk4 has been designed to be effective, easy to use, and above all, to reproduce music. The Fono MC Mk4 uses the Linear Systems low noise LSK389 FET in an all discrete input stage where low noise and linearity are vitally important to get the best from an MC cartridge. Because of the high input impedance of FET, the loading effects of the amplifier circuit are minuscule and do not affect the performance of the cartridge.
A MUSE operational amplifier is used in the RIAA equalization amplifier. Polypropylene capacitors have been used in the signal path and in the RIAA equalization circuits. There is selectable input loading for both resistance and capacitance along with two different gain settings located on the back panel making the Fono MC compatible with most low output MC cartridges.
The aesthetic design of the Fono MC Mk4 was as important as the quality of its electrical capabilities, so it benefits from the same aluminium case as the Rega Neo and Fono MM Mk5 amplifier, giving it a design which offers a familiar feel and moreover brings it in line with its illustrious bigger brothers. The new Fono MC circuit resulted from the design work carried out on the Aria phono amplifier.
Technical Specifications
Output Impedance: 200 O
Recommended Minimum Output Load Resistance: 5 k
Frequency Response (50 kO Output Load): 13 Hz (-3 dB) to 100 kHz (-0.3 dB)
RIAA Accuracy (50 kO Output Load): Better than ±0.2 dB 100 Hz to 100 kHz
Power Requirements: 24 V AC at 150 mA maximum
Load settings for adjustable MC stages
Input Sensitivity (for 200 mV Output): 4 off = 133 uV / 4 on = 67 uV
Input Loading Resistance: 1 and 2 off = 400 O / 1 on = 100 O / 2 on = 150 O / 1 and 2 on = 70 O
Input Loading Capacitance: 3 off = 1000 pF / 3 on = 4300 pF / Gain (at 1 kHz) / 4 off = 63.5 dB / 4 on = 69.5 dB
Maximum Input Level (at 1 kHz): 4 off = 6.7 mV / 4 on = 3.4 mV
Factory settings for all Rega MC cartridges: Impedance 100 O / Capacitance 1000 pF / Gain Setting High