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With six integrated amplifiers in its lineup, Rega has something for everyone. The Rega Elex MK4’s biggest asset is its built-in dac. You can connect both a turntable, CD player and streamer to this amplifier. The power supply is better than in the Io and Brio making the reproduction a lot more balanced. Especially through the analog inputs you get exceptional results. Like the Elicit MK5, the Elex MK4 is not the easiest dance partner. Do not combine this amplifier with a speaker with an overly enthusiastic tweeter. Then it becomes “too much of a good thing.
The KLH Model 5 with its aluminum tweeter, which is warming up here, was just fine, but with our Revels the balance was almost perfect. You can go quite a few ways with this amp but keep in mind. If you have an Io or a Brio, which sound more conversational and rounder, the Rega Elex Mk4 is a serious step forward. Especially in terms of detail and tonality. It really is a serious amplifier that may cause you to start tinkering with the rest of the set. You have been warned.
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Comparing it to a much more expensive integrated amplifier, such as the Moon 600i V2, seems unhelpful at first glance, yet we learn quite a bit. First of all, we never felt inclined to take the Rega out of the system when playing through the analog inputs. Those are really good. The Rega Elex MK4 sounds completely different from the 600i V2 but it stands its ground. The Rega Elex MK4 sounds lighter in the midrange than the 600i V2 but that has its charm.
Especially when we stop comparing we completely understand the Rega’s presentation. You get neither the authority in the bass that makes the Moon so special nor the refinement in the treble, but enough drive and body that your speakers never sound bare. The high is detailed and sparkling and more pronounced than with the Moon. Especially for this reason you have to be a bit careful that it all doesn’t get too punchy. Especially in a lively room like your author’s.