The aesthetic design of the Fono MM was as important as the quality of its electrical capabilities, so it benefits from the same updated aluminium case as the Rega Neo and Fono MC amplifier, giving it a design which offers a familiar feel and moreover brings it in line with its illustrious bigger brothers. An aluminium case has been used, matching that of the Rega TTPSU and Fono MC amplifier, offering a design that feels familiar whilst boasting brand new technologies that will bring this unit level with the rest of the products within the range. Of course, sound quality is the final decider: we'd recommend demoing your new phono preamp with your existing deck and system if possible, to ensure you get the best-sounding performance when spinning your vinyl records.

Rega Fono MM MK3 Phono Preamp Review

Then I put the Blue back on and without taking over the show that enjoyable character in the bass went up a notch. Beating most of its competition, this little black box is adjustable in four increments from 40dB-66dB. But why would we when we could continue to bask in its bold, powerful strokes, tempered by that confident yet delicate handling of timing and dynamics Rega has for so long mastered in its turntables and amplifiers. Despite your explanations, I cannot understand the difference between phono amplifier and phono preamplifier.The new casework is smart enough, though the secret to the Fono MM’s success really comes down to its performance.

phono stages made in England by Rega Award-winning phono stages made in England by Rega

It is about as minimalist as such things get at this level, being a moving magnet-only design with just the basic input and output connections. The presentation is very good indeed, being spacious and cohesive, while the sound is dynamic and the timing spot-on. Which phono stage you need is entirely dependent on what your existing vinyl system is, and your budget. The internals have remained unchanged from the last generation'With only a case change, was a review necessary?If you're on the lookout for a new turntable, check out our pick of the best record players for every budget. It makes a decent fist of conveying the scale and authority of the music and is full of enthusiasm when it comes to thumping out the music’s dramatic dynamic shifts.