Rega

{"id":15488779911545,"title":"Rega Mercury Pre Amplifier","handle":"rega-mercury-pre-amplifier","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMercury pre-amplifier: uncompromising audio craftsmanship\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury pre-amplifier was meticulously developed to deliver a truly uncompromised listening experience. Handcrafted to reveal the full potential of your hi-fi setup, it offers an ultra-low noise floor, producing exceptional dynamic range and transparency. Like Rega’s Solis, the Mercury represents the culmination of nearly four decades of solid-state amplifier expertise, combining innovation with refined engineering. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure the most immersive and articulate sound reproduction possible. It’s a device that merges technical precision with musicality, ensuring your system performs at its peak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmplifier circuit design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the signal path, the Mercury utilizes a discrete, differentially driven, fully symmetrical high-linearity common-base voltage amplifier. Each stage employs high-current drive capability with complementary Class A output amplifiers. This symmetrical circuit topology provides both voltage and current to enable the Mercury to perform with minimal distortion. Critical stages use Linear Systems ultra-low noise FET (Field Effect Transistor) transistors in the differential quad pair input stages, the same topology as the Aura MC amplifier. These carefully chosen components ensure remarkable stability, responsiveness, and natural tonal expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePower supply engineering\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury is powered by a generously rated toroidal transformer feeding a linear power supply. This discrete, symmetrical tracking supply employs fast diodes and low-noise voltage references. Each stage contains its own localized capacitance, multiplier supply, and LED-referenced current generators. To maximize headroom, the power supply voltage is 60% higher than in typical pre-amplifiers, allowing for exceptional dynamics and effortless control. This advanced power system ensures consistent performance even under demanding listening conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignal path and volume control\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury’s Alps Blue Velvet RK27 volume control is paired with symmetrical common-base driver circuitry. Balanced inputs and outputs utilize high-quality relays and audio-grade polypropylene capacitors to preserve signal purity. The result is a transparent and lifelike reproduction of your music. The active volume circuit is precise and linear, delivering absolute control without introducing any unwanted coloration. These features combine to make the Mercury exceptionally musical while maintaining analytical accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeadphone amplifier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial attention has been devoted to integrating the headphone output. Functioning like a mini Solis power amplifier, it uses the same symmetrical driver stage, delivering high voltage and current capability. The result is a headphone output that effortlessly drives both low and high impedance headphones with accuracy, power, and clarity. Whether casual listening or critical evaluation, this headphone stage ensures every nuance is faithfully reproduced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital input circuitry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe asynchronous USB input is fully galvanically isolated with its own dedicated power supply. Extensive reclocking of both PCM and DSD data ensures ultra-low jitter, and two high-stability oscillators handle both professional and domestic sample rates. S\/PDIF signals are recovered via a Wolfson receiver with PLL for minimal jitter and precise timing. The PCM and DSD data feed parallel Wolfson DACs, which then connect to the post-DAC symmetrical analogue filter and amplifier stages. Every component is chosen to balance technical and sonic excellence, ensuring a musical yet precise performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProtection and supervisory circuits\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury features comprehensive protection monitoring for both main and headphone outputs. A microcontroller-based slow-start, standby, and power supervision circuit manages the transformer in-rush and monitors no-signal conditions, adhering to modern Eco requirements. The front-panel IPS LCD has a linear DC-adjustable backlight to eliminate noise, isolated from the audio path to preserve signal purity. This careful integration ensures reliability, safety, and longevity without compromising musical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBalanced and unbalanced connections\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor typical domestic use, unbalanced connections are recommended for optimal sound quality. While the Mercury supports balanced XLR connections for studio or professional applications, these additional circuits may introduce minor inherent noise. Balanced connections help cancel interference in long cable runs but do not inherently improve tonal quality for most home listening setups. Rega has included balanced inputs to accommodate studios or user preferences, while ensuring the pre-amplifier excels in its primary domestic role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistory and innovation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury is Rega’s most complex and component-rich product to date, reflecting decades of circuit innovation dating back to the original Elicit amplifier in 1990. Housed in a custom CNC-machined aluminium chassis, it combines robust mechanical integrity with sophisticated electronic design. Every element, from internal circuits to the elegant casework, has been engineered to deliver musicality, precision, and timeless aesthetics. Mercury represents the pinnacle of Rega’s pre-amplifier development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAll specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhysical characteristics\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight -14 kg\u003cbr\u003eDimensions (HxWxD) - 435 × 97 × 380 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTechnical specifications\u003cbr\u003eTHD+N - 0.001% @ 1kHz, 2V unbalanced \/ 4V balanced, 0dB gain (Line) \/ 0.0045% @ 1kHz, 0dBFS, 2V pre-out (DAC)\u003cbr\u003eFrequency response -12Hz to 28kHz (-0.5dB)\u003cbr\u003eMaximum power consumption - 50W\u003cbr\u003ePower Supply -100V \/ 115V \/ 220V \/ 230V AC ±10%\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI\u003cstrong\u003enputs\/Outputs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnalog inputs -1x Balanced XLR, 4x RCA Unbalanced, 1x Record In\u003cbr\u003eDigital inputs - 1x Coaxial, 1x Optical, 1x USB\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnalog outputs - 1x Balanced XLR Pre-Out, 1x RCA Pre-Out, 1x Record Out\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2026-05-04T14:52:07+01:00","created_at":"2026-05-04T14:52:06+01:00","vendor":"Rega","type":"Pre-amplifiers","tags":["Pre-amplifiers","Rega"],"price":695000,"price_min":695000,"price_max":695000,"available":false,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":57210045366649,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":false,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":false,"name":"Rega Mercury Pre Amplifier","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":695000,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":"shopify","barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[],"quantity_rule":{"min":1,"max":null,"increment":1}}],"images":["\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-1-600x600.webp?v=1777902412","\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-2.webp?v=1777902412","\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-3.webp?v=1777902412","\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-4.webp?v=1777902412","\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-5.webp?v=1777902412","\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-6.webp?v=1777902412"],"featured_image":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-1-600x600.webp?v=1777902412","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":68432017621369,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":600,"width":600,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-1-600x600.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":600,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-1-600x600.webp?v=1777902412","width":600},{"alt":null,"id":68432017654137,"position":2,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-2.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-2.webp?v=1777902412","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":68432017686905,"position":3,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-3.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-3.webp?v=1777902412","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":68432017719673,"position":4,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-4.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-4.webp?v=1777902412","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":68432017752441,"position":5,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-5.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-5.webp?v=1777902412","width":1000},{"alt":null,"id":68432017785209,"position":6,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"width":1000,"src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-6.webp?v=1777902412"},"aspect_ratio":1.0,"height":1000,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/james-morrow.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/Rega-Mercury-6.webp?v=1777902412","width":1000}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMercury pre-amplifier: uncompromising audio craftsmanship\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury pre-amplifier was meticulously developed to deliver a truly uncompromised listening experience. Handcrafted to reveal the full potential of your hi-fi setup, it offers an ultra-low noise floor, producing exceptional dynamic range and transparency. Like Rega’s Solis, the Mercury represents the culmination of nearly four decades of solid-state amplifier expertise, combining innovation with refined engineering. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure the most immersive and articulate sound reproduction possible. It’s a device that merges technical precision with musicality, ensuring your system performs at its peak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmplifier circuit design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the signal path, the Mercury utilizes a discrete, differentially driven, fully symmetrical high-linearity common-base voltage amplifier. Each stage employs high-current drive capability with complementary Class A output amplifiers. This symmetrical circuit topology provides both voltage and current to enable the Mercury to perform with minimal distortion. Critical stages use Linear Systems ultra-low noise FET (Field Effect Transistor) transistors in the differential quad pair input stages, the same topology as the Aura MC amplifier. These carefully chosen components ensure remarkable stability, responsiveness, and natural tonal expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePower supply engineering\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury is powered by a generously rated toroidal transformer feeding a linear power supply. This discrete, symmetrical tracking supply employs fast diodes and low-noise voltage references. Each stage contains its own localized capacitance, multiplier supply, and LED-referenced current generators. To maximize headroom, the power supply voltage is 60% higher than in typical pre-amplifiers, allowing for exceptional dynamics and effortless control. This advanced power system ensures consistent performance even under demanding listening conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignal path and volume control\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury’s Alps Blue Velvet RK27 volume control is paired with symmetrical common-base driver circuitry. Balanced inputs and outputs utilize high-quality relays and audio-grade polypropylene capacitors to preserve signal purity. The result is a transparent and lifelike reproduction of your music. The active volume circuit is precise and linear, delivering absolute control without introducing any unwanted coloration. These features combine to make the Mercury exceptionally musical while maintaining analytical accuracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeadphone amplifier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecial attention has been devoted to integrating the headphone output. Functioning like a mini Solis power amplifier, it uses the same symmetrical driver stage, delivering high voltage and current capability. The result is a headphone output that effortlessly drives both low and high impedance headphones with accuracy, power, and clarity. Whether casual listening or critical evaluation, this headphone stage ensures every nuance is faithfully reproduced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital input circuitry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe asynchronous USB input is fully galvanically isolated with its own dedicated power supply. Extensive reclocking of both PCM and DSD data ensures ultra-low jitter, and two high-stability oscillators handle both professional and domestic sample rates. S\/PDIF signals are recovered via a Wolfson receiver with PLL for minimal jitter and precise timing. The PCM and DSD data feed parallel Wolfson DACs, which then connect to the post-DAC symmetrical analogue filter and amplifier stages. Every component is chosen to balance technical and sonic excellence, ensuring a musical yet precise performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProtection and supervisory circuits\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury features comprehensive protection monitoring for both main and headphone outputs. A microcontroller-based slow-start, standby, and power supervision circuit manages the transformer in-rush and monitors no-signal conditions, adhering to modern Eco requirements. The front-panel IPS LCD has a linear DC-adjustable backlight to eliminate noise, isolated from the audio path to preserve signal purity. This careful integration ensures reliability, safety, and longevity without compromising musical performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBalanced and unbalanced connections\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor typical domestic use, unbalanced connections are recommended for optimal sound quality. While the Mercury supports balanced XLR connections for studio or professional applications, these additional circuits may introduce minor inherent noise. Balanced connections help cancel interference in long cable runs but do not inherently improve tonal quality for most home listening setups. Rega has included balanced inputs to accommodate studios or user preferences, while ensuring the pre-amplifier excels in its primary domestic role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistory and innovation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mercury is Rega’s most complex and component-rich product to date, reflecting decades of circuit innovation dating back to the original Elicit amplifier in 1990. Housed in a custom CNC-machined aluminium chassis, it combines robust mechanical integrity with sophisticated electronic design. Every element, from internal circuits to the elegant casework, has been engineered to deliver musicality, precision, and timeless aesthetics. Mercury represents the pinnacle of Rega’s pre-amplifier development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAll specifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhysical characteristics\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight -14 kg\u003cbr\u003eDimensions (HxWxD) - 435 × 97 × 380 mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTechnical specifications\u003cbr\u003eTHD+N - 0.001% @ 1kHz, 2V unbalanced \/ 4V balanced, 0dB gain (Line) \/ 0.0045% @ 1kHz, 0dBFS, 2V pre-out (DAC)\u003cbr\u003eFrequency response -12Hz to 28kHz (-0.5dB)\u003cbr\u003eMaximum power consumption - 50W\u003cbr\u003ePower Supply -100V \/ 115V \/ 220V \/ 230V AC ±10%\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI\u003cstrong\u003enputs\/Outputs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnalog inputs -1x Balanced XLR, 4x RCA Unbalanced, 1x Record In\u003cbr\u003eDigital inputs - 1x Coaxial, 1x Optical, 1x USB\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnalog outputs - 1x Balanced XLR Pre-Out, 1x RCA Pre-Out, 1x Record Out\u003c\/p\u003e"}