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Overview
Solis power amplifier: refined engineering for precision audio
The Solis stereo power amplifier delivers elevated audio performance through meticulous construction and systematic component selection. Each unit is assembled in England and engineered for listeners requiring superior reproduction and mechanical refinement. Every part is chosen for its advantageous sonic attributes, ensuring each recording is presented with heightened clarity and structured detail. This model is designed to maintain consistency across multiple formats and operational conditions. It provides reliable output stability aligned with demanding hi-fi usage.
Amplifier circuit architecture
The Solis implements a fully symmetrical topology featuring a differentially driven, low-distortion, high-linearity common-base voltage amplifier stage. This configuration supplies the required voltage capability to operate various loudspeaker systems with minimal coloration. Twelve Sanken 130-Watt, 15A, high-frequency multi-emitter transistors function within a triple high-current output stage, enabling the amplifier to manage difficult loads efficiently. The cascoded differential input module employs two low-noise, LED-referenced current generators for controlled operation. Feedback parameters are calibrated to deliver a compact and disciplined sound stage, especially at lower frequencies. Additional measures further stabilise heat distribution and enhance long-term reliability.
Power supply structure
The Solis uses two custom 330VA low-noise toroidal transformers manufactured with fully bonded core material to suppress mechanical resonance during adverse mains conditions. Each channel is supported by 40,000μF of Rega K-Power capacitors to ensure adequate current delivery and doubled power into 4Ω loads. All supply sections utilise fast-recovery rectifier diodes to reduce high-frequency switching artifacts and maintain cleaner DC output. The input and driver stages receive regulated symmetrical tracking supplies with low-noise voltage references for consistent performance. This allocation ensures only audio-related circuits receive the dedicated stabilized power. These elements collectively produce reliable continuous output during variable operating scenarios.
Protection and supervisory systems
The Solis incorporates an extensive protection array monitoring speaker DC offsets and amplifier thermal status. This protection system integrates with a supervisory microcontroller managing slow-start, standby, and transformer activation to control in-rush current. The supervision module also performs automatic no-signal standby shutdown to satisfy current Eco regulations. Its dedicated power supply remains galvanically isolated from the audio path to maintain signal integrity. These combined functions provide operational safety while sustaining circuit purity. Further oversight mechanisms stabilize power-up sequencing for consistent system behavior.
Signal path components
The internal signal route employs ICEL polypropylene capacitors, HTR non-inductive resistors, and relay-based switching for controlled operation. Component layout minimizes interference and retains linearity during dynamic signal changes. The arrangement ensures stable processing even under rapid demand shifts. This structure enables coherent transmission between stages for accurate reproduction.
Connection methodology
For domestic systems, unbalanced connections are recommended due to their lower inherent noise compared to balanced alternatives within this amplifier design. The Solis and Mercury circuits operate natively unbalanced, requiring supplementary stages to implement balanced functionality. Balanced networks are typically utilized in professional systems where long cable lengths necessitate noise cancellation. These circuits do not inherently increase quality but provide improved interference rejection in extended cable applications. XLR connectors may offer perceptual mechanical advantages without measurable performance improvement. Additional balanced options remain available for compatibility in studio configurations.
Development history and system integration
The Solis is the result of nearly forty years of Rega amplifier engineering, incorporating design elements originating from the earlier Elicit and Exon architectures. Component selection prioritizes sonic neutrality and stable electrical behaviour. Enhancements to thermal regulation and heatsinking improve operational consistency relative to prior versions. Advanced surface-mount methods refined over the last fifteen years contribute to circuit accuracy. When combined with the Aura phono stage and Mercury pre-amplifier, a fully discrete and symmetrical playback chain is achieved. This configuration ensures coherent system performance from source through output.
All specifications
Physical characteristics
Weight - 24.8 kg
Dimensions (HxWxD) 435 x 140 x 385mm
Technical specifications
Power output - 168W RMS per channel into 8Ω; 168W RMS per channel into 8Ω
THD -Typically 0.015% at 1kHz
Frequency response -15Hz (-0.5dB point) to 30kHz (-0.5dB point)
Input sensitivity - 820mV at 35kΩ (Unbalanced) / 1.64V at 26kΩ )(Balanced)
Maximum power consumption - 500W at 1/8 rated power (42.5 W into 4Ω)
Gain -33.3dB
Power Supply -AC supply 230V / 220V / 120V / 100V nominal ±10%
Inputs/Outputs
Analog inputs - 1x RCA, 1x XLR
Specifications
Accessories
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