REGA Fono MC - Amplifier Manual

Introduction

The Fono MC has been designed to be effective, easy to use, and above all, to reproduce music. The Fono MC 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 was as important as the quality of its electrical capabilities, so it benefits from the same aluminium case as the Rega TTPSU and Fono MM 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. The Fono disk stage is designed to amplify the signal from a moving coil cartridge to a level which can feed into a 200mV line level input on a standard hi-fi amplifier.

Powering up

The Fono MC is turned on by pressing the on-off button located on the front, when the unit is active the Rega logo will glow RED.

We advise you to turn the Fono on first followed by the amplifier. This is because the power surge in the Fono could cause an audible power on "thump" which may distress the speakers.

Method of connection

INPUT: Connect the tonearm leads and earth (if used) to the input socket and to the earth terminal on the back of the Fono.

Input Loading DIP Switch Settings (located on rear panel):
Loading resistance
1 and 2 off = 400Ω
1 on = 100Ω 2 on = 150Ω
1 and 2 ON = 70Ω
Capacitance
3 off = 1000pF
3 on = 4300pF
Gain
4 off = 63.5dB
4 on = 69.5dB

Turntable Earth:
If the turntable or tonearm has a separate signal earth connection, this should be connected to the turntable earth terminal on the back of the unit.

OUTPUT:
Connect the output socket of the Fono to the line input on the amplifier.
Please note: If you have an integrated amplifier with built in phono stage, DO NOT connect the Fono to this input.

Front panel controls

Rear panel connections

Specifications

Input sensitivity (for 200mV output)
4 off = 133uV
4 on = 67uV

Input loading resistance
1 and 2 off = 400Ω
1 on = 100Ω
2 on = 150Ω
1 and 2 on = 70Ω

Input loading capacitance
3 off = 1000pF
3 on = 4300pF

Gain (at 1KHz)
4 off = 63.5dB
4 on = 69.5dB

Maximum input level (at 1KHz)
4 off = 6.7mV
4 on = 3.4mV

Output impedance = 200Ω
Recommended minimum output load resistance = 5K
Frequency response (50KΩ output load) = 13Hz (-3dB) to 100KHz (-0.3dB)
RIAA accuracy (50KΩ output load) = Better than +/-0.2dB 100Hz to 100KHz
Power requirements = 24V AC at 150mA maximum. Only to be used with Rega PS1.

Power supply

Connect the Rega PS1 to the AC socket on the Fono back panel.

Power supply specifications

PS1 (UK)
Input: 230V ~ 50Hz 0.07A
Output: 24V ~ 350MA AC

PS1 (EU - Euro 2 pin)
Input: 230V ~ 50Hz 0.07A
Output: 24V ~ 350MA AC

PS1 (UL - American)
Input: 115-120V ~ 60Hz
Output: 24V ~ 350MA AC
The Rega PS1 and Fono MC amplifier is a class II apparatus.

Important information

Use only with the Rega PS1 power supply.
Never expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Do not open the case covers. There are no user serviceable parts inside.