Audio T Verdict
The Rega Elicit MK5 combines the power and control required for an ambitious separates system with enough connectivity to accommodate vinyl, streaming, CD and television sound.
Its 105W-per-channel Class A/B amplifier is joined by an Aethos-derived discrete FET preamplifier, built-in moving magnet phono stage, optical and coaxial digital inputs, four analogue line inputs, headphone output, record loop, variable preamplifier output and Direct input.
It is a substantial step beyond the Elex MK4 and offers more built-in flexibility than the analogue-only Aethos. Speaker and source matching still matter, so we strongly recommend arranging a demonstration with equipment similar to your own system.
Rega Elicit MK5 Integrated Stereo Amplifier
The Rega Elicit MK5 is a high-performance integrated amplifier built around Rega's established Class A/B power amplifier design.
It delivers 105W per channel into 8 ohms, rising to 127W into 6 ohms and 162W into 4 ohms. This gives the amplifier the current delivery and control required for a broad range of high-quality standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
The Elicit MK5 also combines technology from several of Rega's most successful products. Its preamplifier is derived from the Aethos, its digital circuitry draws on Rega's experience with the DAC-R, and its moving magnet phono stage allows a compatible turntable to connect directly.
Powerful Class A/B Amplifier
Rega's Class A/B power amplifier circuit is designed to combine useful output power with low distortion and efficient thermal operation.
The Elicit MK5 produces 105W per channel into an 8-ohm load. Its output rises as loudspeaker impedance falls, reaching 127W into 6 ohms and 162W into 4 ohms.
- 105W per channel into 8 ohms
- 127W per channel into 6 ohms
- 162W per channel into 4 ohms
- Class A/B power amplifier architecture
- High-current Sanken output transistors
- DC-coupled preamplifier and power amplifier outputs
- Power amplifier gain of 31.6dB
Published output figures are only part of system matching. Loudspeaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size and preferred listening level should also be considered.
Quiet Multi-Stage Linear Power Supply
The amplifier is powered by a substantial multi-stage linear power supply designed to provide stable energy for the power amplifier, preamplifier and source circuits.
The supply rails serving the digital and analogue sections are galvanically isolated, helping to prevent electrical noise from the DAC section interfering with analogue playback.
This separation is particularly important when sensitive low-level sources, including turntables, are used alongside digital equipment.
Aethos-Derived Discrete FET Preamplifier
The Elicit MK5 uses the same fundamental discrete FET-based preamplifier design found in the
Rega Aethos
.
The circuit is designed to maintain a clean signal path while providing the gain and control required by the power amplifier.
An Alps motorised volume potentiometer allows the listening level to be adjusted from the front panel or supplied Solaris remote control.
- Discrete FET-based preamplifier circuit
- Motorised Alps volume potentiometer
- High-quality signal switching relays
- Polypropylene capacitors in critical signal positions
- Carefully selected discrete components
Built-In Rega DAC
The Elicit MK5 includes a Rega-designed digital-to-analogue converter for compatible digital source equipment.
The galvanically and optically isolated digital inputs use a Wolfson S/PDIF receiver. Conversion is handled by a Wolfson DAC followed by a Rega-designed discrete line-driver circuit.
One coaxial S/PDIF connection and one optical Toslink connection are provided.
Coaxial Digital Input
Digital input D1 is an isolated 75-ohm coaxial S/PDIF connection.
It can be used with compatible network streamers, CD transports, media players and other digital sources with an RCA coaxial output.
Optical Digital Input
Digital input D2 is an optical Toslink connection.
It is useful for compatible televisions, games consoles, streamers and other equipment where electrical isolation is desirable.
Supported Digital Audio
The internal DAC accepts two-channel PCM audio with bit depths from 16 to 24 bit.
Supported sampling rates include:
- 32kHz
- 44.1kHz
- 48kHz
- 88.2kHz
- 96kHz
- 176.4kHz
- 192kHz
The Elicit MK5 does not include a USB audio input and does not directly decode DSD, Dolby Digital or DTS.
A connected television should normally be configured to output two-channel PCM or stereo audio.
Integrated Moving Magnet Phono Stage
Input 1 is a dedicated moving magnet phono input for connecting a compatible turntable.
The input provides standard loading of 47 kilohms in parallel with 220pF and is suitable for most conventional moving magnet cartridge designs.
A grounding terminal is provided beneath the phono sockets for tonearms that use a separate earth wire. Rega tonearms are normally grounded through the left-channel phono connection and do not usually require an additional earth wire.
Moving Magnet Cartridges
Turntables fitted with compatible Rega Carbon, Nd3, Nd5, Nd7 or Nd9 moving magnet cartridges can connect directly to the Elicit MK5 phono input.
The
Rega Planar 6
with an Nd cartridge is a natural system partner.
Moving Coil Cartridges
A low-output moving coil cartridge requires a suitable external moving coil phono stage.
The
Rega Fono MC Mk4
can connect to one of the Elicit MK5's four line-level inputs.
Four Analogue Line Inputs
Inputs 2 to 5 are conventional analogue line-level RCA connections.
These can be used with equipment such as:
- Network streamers
- CD and SACD players
- External DACs
- Tuners
- Cassette and reel-to-reel decks
- External MM or MC phono stages
- Televisions with an analogue audio output
The line inputs have a sensitivity of 196mV and an input impedance of 10 kilohms.
Separate Record Input and Output
The Elicit MK5 includes a dedicated record input and fixed-level record output for suitable recording equipment.
The record output carries the source selected through the main input selector, including analogue inputs 1 to 5 and digital inputs D1 and D2. Its level is unaffected by the main volume control.
Activating the Record function selects the separate record input and allows the recording device's output to be monitored through the amplifier without changing the source being recorded.
The Record function is selected using the supplied remote control, with an indicator on the front panel confirming when it is active.
Record Output Link
A second fixed-level connection mirrors the main record output.
This can be used with suitable ancillary equipment, including an external headphone amplifier or recording device.
As the signal is not controlled by the Elicit MK5 volume adjustment, connected equipment must provide its own suitable level control where required.
Variable Preamplifier Output
A variable RCA preamplifier output follows the position of the Elicit MK5 volume control.
It can be used to connect additional compatible power amplifiers, active subwoofers or other equipment requiring a controlled line-level signal.
Rega specifies that the preamplifier circuit can drive at least five compatible power amplifiers or sub-bass units. The output is always active.
This is a full-range stereo output rather than a dedicated filtered subwoofer connection. A connected subwoofer must provide its own crossover, phase and level controls.
Direct Input for Home Cinema Integration
The Direct input connects straight to the Elicit MK5 power amplifier, bypassing its internal preamplifier and volume control.
This allows the Elicit MK5 to operate with an external stereo preamplifier or to power the front left and right speakers within a home cinema system.
When used with an AV receiver or processor, source selection and volume are controlled by the connected home cinema equipment.
The Direct function is activated from the supplied remote control. A front-panel indicator confirms when it is selected.
Important Direct Input Warning
The Direct input bypasses the Elicit MK5 volume control. Do not connect a fixed-level source such as a CD player, DAC or streamer directly to this input.
Doing so could immediately drive the amplifier and loudspeakers at maximum output, potentially causing equipment damage or hearing damage.
High-Performance Headphone Output
A full-size 6.35mm headphone socket is positioned on the front panel.
The headphone circuit is designed to drive conventional Hi-Fi headphones across a range of impedances.
Connecting headphones automatically switches off the loudspeaker output through the amplifier's mute relay. This avoids placing additional switching components permanently within the main loudspeaker signal path.
Rega recommends reducing the volume before inserting or removing a headphone plug.
The headphone output has a source impedance of 109 ohms, so the best results are likely to be achieved with conventional full-size Hi-Fi headphones rather than highly sensitive low-impedance earphones.
Solaris System Remote Control
The Rega Solaris system remote control and two AAA batteries are supplied.
The handset provides control of:
- Motorised volume adjustment
- Input selection
- Mute
- Direct input activation
- Record input activation
- Compatible functions on other remote-controlled Rega products
Activating Mute disables the loudspeaker, headphone and variable preamplifier outputs.
Connecting a Streamer
Digital Connection
A compatible streamer can connect through the coaxial or optical input, allowing the Elicit MK5 DAC to perform the conversion.
A streamer such as the
Bluesound Node
can be connected by either method.
Analogue Connection
A streamer can also connect through one of the four analogue line inputs using its own built-in DAC.
Comparing the digital and analogue connections during a demonstration can help establish which conversion stage works best in your system.
Connecting a Television
A compatible television can connect through the optical digital input.
The television should normally be configured to output two-channel PCM or stereo audio rather than Dolby Digital, DTS or another multichannel format.
The Elicit MK5 does not include HDMI ARC or eARC, so its volume cannot normally be controlled by a television remote through the optical connection.
Speaker Matching
Rega specifies compatibility with loudspeakers between 4 and 16 ohms.
The amplifier's 105W output and ability to deliver increasing power into lower impedances make it suitable for a broad selection of standmount and floorstanding designs.
However, continuous high-level use with speakers rated at 6 ohms or below can cause the amplifier to run significantly warmer and may activate its thermal protection.
Loudspeaker sensitivity, minimum impedance, room dimensions, listening distance and preferred volume should all be considered before choosing a system.
Audio T can demonstrate the Elicit MK5 with suitable loudspeakers and may be able to arrange a home demonstration depending on location and equipment availability.
Protection Systems
Thermal Protection
If the internal temperature reaches a potentially damaging level, the amplifier can temporarily disable its loudspeaker output or switch itself off.
Normal operation should resume after the amplifier has been switched off and allowed to cool.
Short-Circuit Protection
Foldback protection limits excessive current if the loudspeaker cable connections are accidentally shorted.
Rega positions this protection circuit outside the main audio signal path.
DC Protection
The preamplifier and power amplifier outputs are DC coupled to minimise the number of capacitors required within the signal path.
A fast protection circuit responds if excessive direct current is detected.
Installation and Ventilation
The sides of the Elicit MK5 case act as heatsinks for the power amplifier and may become hot during extended use.
Leave at least 10cm of clear space around the amplifier and ensure that air can circulate freely around both side panels.
Do not place the amplifier on carpet, rugs, fabric or bedding, and do not stack other Hi-Fi equipment directly on top.
The amplifier should be positioned on a rigid, level shelf and operated within an ambient temperature between approximately 5 and 35 degrees Celsius.
When using the internal phono stage, position the amplifier as far from the turntable cartridge as the tonearm cable reasonably allows. Rega recommends placing the amplifier to the left of the turntable where possible.
Power Management
The Elicit MK5 does not include automatic standby or remote standby functionality.
Rega explains that the amplifier must reach an optimum operating temperature for its bias current to stabilise. Automatic power management has therefore not been included.
The amplifier consumes no power when switched off. Leaving it powered for extended periods will increase electricity consumption.
Elex MK4, Elicit MK5 or Aethos?
Rega Elex MK4
The
Rega Elex MK4
delivers 72W per channel into 8 ohms and includes an MM phono stage, DAC, four line inputs, record output, preamplifier output and headphone socket.
It is the more affordable choice for less demanding speakers and smaller or medium-sized rooms.
Rega Elicit MK5
The Elicit MK5 increases output to 105W per channel and adds an Aethos-derived discrete FET preamplifier, Direct input and more ambitious amplifier circuitry.
It is a strong middle ground for systems requiring substantial power alongside integrated analogue and digital connectivity.
Rega Aethos
The
Rega Aethos
delivers 125W per channel into 8 ohms and uses a more ambitious dual-mono analogue amplifier design.
It does not include a phono stage or DAC and is intended for systems using suitably matched external source components.
Brio MK7 or Elicit MK5?
The
Rega Brio MK7
is a compact half-width amplifier delivering 50W per channel into 8 ohms.
It includes an MM phono stage, DAC, three analogue line inputs and headphone socket, but it does not provide the power, record loop, preamplifier output or Direct input of the Elicit MK5.
The Brio MK7 is better suited to smaller systems and appropriately efficient speakers, while the Elicit MK5 offers greater control and expansion potential.
Who Is the Rega Elicit MK5 For?
A Good Choice If You:
- Want a powerful high-performance integrated amplifier
- Use larger or more demanding loudspeakers
- Use a turntable with a moving magnet cartridge
- Want optical and coaxial digital inputs
- Need four analogue line inputs
- Want a variable preamplifier output
- Need a record loop
- Want a Direct input for home cinema integration
- Want a full-size headphone output
- Prefer separate streaming rather than an all-in-one amplifier
Consider Another Option If You:
- Need built-in network streaming or Bluetooth
- Need HDMI ARC or eARC
- Need a USB audio input
- Use a low-output moving coil cartridge without an external phono stage
- Need automatic or remote standby
- Want two independently switched pairs of loudspeakers
- Need a compact half-width amplifier
- Cannot provide adequate ventilation around both side panels
Key Features
- 105W per channel into 8 ohms
- 127W per channel into 6 ohms
- 162W per channel into 4 ohms
- Class A/B power amplifier circuit
- Quiet multi-stage linear power supply
- Galvanically isolated analogue and digital supply rails
- Aethos-derived discrete FET preamplifier
- Motorised Alps volume potentiometer
- High-current Sanken output transistors
- Integrated moving magnet phono stage
- Four analogue line-level RCA inputs
- Separate record input and fixed-level output
- Additional fixed-level Record Output Link
- Variable preamplifier output
- Direct power amplifier input
- Wolfson S/PDIF receiver and DAC
- One isolated coaxial digital input
- One optical Toslink input
- PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Front-panel 6.35mm headphone socket
- Automatic loudspeaker muting when headphones are connected
- Solaris system remote control included
- Thermal, short-circuit and DC protection
- Custom full-width metal case and side heatsinks
- Lifetime limited warranty against confirmed manufacturing defects
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Rega Elicit MK5?
It delivers 105W per channel into 8 ohms, 127W into 6 ohms and 162W into 4 ohms.
Does the Elicit MK5 include a phono stage?
Yes. Input 1 is a dedicated moving magnet phono input suitable for most conventional MM cartridges.
Can I connect a Rega turntable directly?
Yes, provided it uses a compatible moving magnet cartridge such as a Rega Carbon, Nd3, Nd5, Nd7 or Nd9.
Can I connect a moving coil cartridge?
A low-output moving coil cartridge requires a suitable external moving coil phono stage connected to one of the four line inputs.
Does it include a DAC?
Yes. The built-in Rega DAC provides one coaxial and one optical digital input.
What digital resolutions does it support?
The DAC supports two-channel PCM audio from 16 to 24 bit at sampling rates from 32 to 192kHz.
Does it support DSD?
No. The built-in DAC is designed for PCM digital audio and does not decode DSD directly.
Does it have a USB input?
No. Its digital connections are coaxial S/PDIF and optical Toslink.
Can I connect a television?
Yes, provided the television has a compatible optical output and can be configured to send two-channel PCM audio.
Does it have HDMI ARC or eARC?
No. Television sound is connected through optical audio rather than HDMI.
Does it include Bluetooth or network streaming?
No. A separate network streamer or Bluetooth receiver is required and can connect through an analogue, optical or coaxial input.
How many analogue inputs does it have?
It has one moving magnet phono input, four standard line inputs and a separate record input.
What is the Direct input?
The Direct input bypasses the Elicit MK5 preamplifier and volume control, allowing an AV receiver, processor or external preamplifier to control the power amplifier directly.
Can I connect a CD player to the Direct input?
No. A fixed-level source connected to the Direct input could drive the amplifier and speakers at maximum output. Use one of the four normal line inputs instead.
Can it be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. The Direct input allows the Elicit MK5 to power the front left and right loudspeakers while a compatible AV receiver or processor controls the volume.
Does it have a headphone socket?
Yes. A full-size 6.35mm headphone socket is positioned on the front panel. Connecting headphones automatically disables the loudspeaker output.
Can I connect an active subwoofer?
Yes, provided the subwoofer has a suitable line-level input and its own crossover and level controls. It can connect to the variable preamplifier output.
Does it have a dedicated subwoofer output?
No. The preamplifier output is a full-range stereo connection rather than a filtered subwoofer output.
Can I add another power amplifier?
Yes. The variable preamplifier output can feed compatible external power amplifiers and is always active.
Does it have a record output?
Yes. It includes a separate record input and fixed-level record output, plus an additional Record Output Link.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. The Rega Solaris system remote control and two AAA batteries are supplied.
Does it have automatic standby?
No. Rega has not included automatic power management because the amplifier requires an optimum operating temperature for its bias current to stabilise.
Can it power 4-ohm loudspeakers?
Yes. Rega specifies compatibility with speakers between 4 and 16 ohms. Sustained high-volume use with loads of 6 ohms or less may cause the amplifier to become considerably warmer and activate its thermal protection.
How much ventilation does it require?
Leave at least 10cm of space around the amplifier, particularly beside the side heatsinks. Do not stack equipment directly on top or place it on carpet or fabric.
Can I arrange a demonstration?
Yes. Contact your local Audio T store to hear the Elicit MK5 with suitable turntables, streamers and loudspeakers.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Specialist advice from experienced in-store teams
- Help matching the amplifier with suitable loudspeakers
- Turntable and moving magnet cartridge compatibility advice
- Moving coil phono stage guidance
- Streamer and digital-source setup support
- Help connecting a compatible television through optical audio
- Direct input and home cinema setup guidance
- Advice on active subwoofer and power amplifier connections
- Demonstrations available through selected Audio T stores
- Home demonstrations may be available depending on location and system requirements
- Part exchange available on suitable equipment
- Ongoing support from the UK's oldest independent specialist Hi-Fi retailer
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss whether the Rega Elicit MK5 is the right amplifier for your system.