Rega Elicit Mk5 Integrated Amplifier

Rega Elicit MK5 Integrated Amplifier

The Rega Elicit MK5 is a high-performance integrated amplifier designed to sit at the heart of a serious hi-fi system. Built and engineered in the UK, it represents a careful balance of power, flexibility and musical integrity, drawing on design elements from Rega’s higher-end models while remaining approachable as a single-box solution.

At its core, the Elicit MK5 uses a Class A/B amplifier design that delivers strong, controlled output with excellent dynamics and grip. It produces 105 watts per channel into 8 ohms, rising to 127 watts into 6 ohms and 162 watts into 4 ohms, making it well suited to driving a wide range of loudspeakers, including more demanding designs. The emphasis is on clarity, timing and musical engagement rather than sheer brute force.

Connectivity is deliberately versatile. The amplifier offers four line-level analogue inputs for sources such as CD players or streamers, alongside a high-quality moving magnet phono stage for direct connection of a turntable. Digital playback is supported via optical and coaxial inputs, feeding Rega’s onboard DAC, which handles resolutions up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. This allows the Elicit MK5 to integrate comfortably into both modern digital systems and traditional analogue setups. Additional features include a pre-out, record loop, direct input and a dedicated headphone output with speaker muting.

Internally, the design reflects Rega’s focus on sound quality and reliability. The preamplifier stage uses discrete FET circuitry derived from the higher-end Aethos amplifier, contributing to low noise and improved transparency. An Alps volume potentiometer ensures smooth, accurate channel balance, while high-quality relays, polypropylene capacitors and Sanken output transistors are used throughout the signal path. The digital section employs a Wolfson S/PDIF receiver and DAC, chosen for musical performance rather than specification chasing.

Physically, the Elicit MK5 is solid and purposeful, with a full-width aluminium case and substantial internal power supply. It measures 432 × 82 × 340 mm and weighs approximately 12.5 kg, reflecting its robust construction. Rega recommends leaving the amplifier powered on during normal use to maintain optimal operating temperature and performance.

Overall, the Rega Elicit MK5 is designed for listeners who want a refined yet powerful integrated amplifier that can handle vinyl, digital sources and loudspeakers with equal confidence. It combines thoughtful engineering, strong real-world performance and long-term reliability into a cohesive, musically focused amplifier that feels rewarding to live with and easy to build a system around.