By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech
For half a century, Rega has carved its own path in the world of audio, marching to the beat of its own drum. With an unwavering commitment to unique design and a loyal customer base that swears by the "Rega house sound," the British manufacturer has defied conventions and created a vast product lineup that's anything but ordinary.
Rega's offerings include iconic products like the Planar 3 turntable, ELEX MK4 integrated amplifier, Saturn MKIII CD player, FONO MK4 and MKV MM and MC phono preamplifiers, and the exceptional AETHOS integrated amplifier. These are not your run-of-the-mill audio components; they're quirky, affordable, reliable, and, most importantly, they offer a listening experience that's engaging and lively.
A Soft Spot for Rega CD Players
Rega has a knack for making products that stand the test of time, and this sentiment holds true for their CD players. The original Rega Planet, which graced the audio scene over two decades ago, was one of the first audio components to catch the attention of enthusiasts and reviewers alike. Today, it still thrives in systems, delivering musical bliss to listeners.
However, when it comes to loudspeakers, Rega has often been overshadowed by its electronic counterparts and turntables. While the market recognized the excellence of Rega's electronics and turntables, loudspeakers from other brands were often chosen to complete audio setups. But that hasn't deterred Rega's visionary founder, Roy Gandy, and his team.
A Decade in the Making: The Rega AYA
For the past decade, Rega has been quietly working on something special—the Rega AYA loudspeakers. These speakers aren't just the result of a few late-night brainstorming sessions; they represent a decade of trials, development, and the relentless pursuit of audio perfection.
The AYA loudspeakers embody Rega's commitment to excellence. They feature Rega-designed handmade drivers, including the ZRR high-frequency tweeter and a meticulously crafted crossover. Every aspect of these speakers has been fine-tuned to deliver the best possible performance, promising to breathe life into your music.
The Unique Design of the AYA
One look at the AYA loudspeakers, and you'll know they're not your run-of-the-mill speakers. Housed in a unique cabinet molded from GRC (glass reinforced cement), these speakers combine innovation and aesthetics. The use of glass fibers in the construction reduces weight while enhancing structural integrity, resulting in a 2.5-way bandpass design that stands out in the crowd.
The Rega AYA loudspeakers don't just look unique; they sound unique too. With a combination of the innovative enclosure and driver configuration, they offer a tight and accurate bass response, Rega's signature midrange excellence, and detailed highs. It's the kind of sound that makes music come alive.
Key Features in a Nutshell
- Custom GRC cabinet (glass reinforced cement)
- 2.5-way system with a unique bandpass design
- Rega-designed ZRR high-frequency unit
- Handmade MX-125 Bass mid driver (5")
- Handmade RR7.8 Bass driver (7")
- Grilles available as an optional extra, attached magnetically for convenience
Pricing and Availability
The Rega AYA loudspeakers are priced at £1499 per pair in the UK, and they're expected to land in the United States with a price range of approximately $1,800 to $2,000 USD. These speakers are not just a product; they're a testament to Rega's dedication to pushing the boundaries and delivering exceptional audio experiences.
While Rega has not disclosed specific frequency response details yet, their track record suggests that the AYA loudspeakers are poised to live up to the brand's legacy of creating products that stand out in the world of audio. Keep an eye out for these speakers if you're seeking a blend of tradition and innovation in your home audio setup.