Rega Elex MK4 Integrated Amplifier

The Elex MK4 is a high-performance stereo integrated amplifier designed to deliver "the purest musical performance" — Rega's own description, and one that reflects the engineering behind it. It delivers 72 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 90 watts into 6 ohms, using a multi-award-winning class A/B power amplifier circuit built on discrete components. It includes an MM phono stage, two digital inputs with an onboard DAC, four line-level inputs, and — importantly for those building a more complex system — both pre-amplifier and record outputs.

The Elex MK4 sits at the point in the Rega range where the architecture starts to support a grown-up system: more sources, more flexibility, and enough power to drive speakers that the amplifiers below it would find challenging. Discrete circuitry throughout, polypropylene capacitors in the signal path, and Sanken output transistors mark it as a product engineered for performance, not specification-sheet point-scoring.

Where the Elex MK4 Sits in the Rega Range

The Elex MK4 sits above the Brio MK7 and below the Elicit MK5 in the Rega amplifier range.

The step up from the Brio involves three things that matter: a fourth line-level input, pre-amplifier and record outputs, and 22 additional watts per channel. The pre-amplifier output is the key addition for anyone who wants to integrate a subwoofer, drive a second zone, or connect the Elex to a more powerful power amplifier. The record output allows a tape deck or recording device to be connected. Neither is available on the Brio.

Above the Elex, the Elicit MK5 introduces a discrete FET-based pre-amplifier section borrowed from the Aethos — a meaningful step in amplifier sophistication — along with 33 additional watts, an Alps volume potentiometer, and a direct input. If you are already running a high-grade source and want the pre-amp quality to match it, the Elicit MK5 is where that conversation starts.

Sound and Performance

The multi-award-winning circuit at the heart of the Elex MK4 has been refined across multiple generations. Class A/B operation means the output stage runs in class A at lower power levels — where most music actually lives — transitioning to class B only at higher outputs. This delivers the warmth and musicality of class A without the heat and inefficiency of a pure class A design.

Discrete circuitry means every active stage uses individual transistors and components chosen for their sonic contribution, rather than packaged integrated circuits. This approach gives Rega's engineers precise control over the behaviour of each stage. Polypropylene capacitors in the signal path are valued for their low dielectric absorption — they do not smear transients in the way that electrolytic capacitors can. Sanken output transistors are well-regarded devices; Rega uses them across the amplifier range because they perform consistently and handle current demands reliably.

The 90-watt output into 6 ohms is particularly relevant for speaker matching. Many loudspeakers have impedances that dip to 6 ohms or below at certain frequencies; an amplifier that can increase its output as impedance drops will maintain dynamics through those dips rather than contracting. The Elex MK4 does this.

The onboard DAC handles coaxial and optical inputs, and the phono stage is competent for mid-level moving magnet use. As with all Rega amplifiers, timing and rhythmic coherence are priorities: the Elex MK4 is musically engaging in a way that holds attention over long listening sessions.

Build Quality and Design

The Elex MK4 uses a new case design that aligns with the current Rega range aesthetic — consistent proportions and finishes across the amplifier, phono stage, and CD player line-up. Thermal cut-out protection prevents damage from sustained overload. The unit is hand-assembled in Rega's Southend-on-Sea facility to the same standards as the rest of the range.

The build quality reflects the engineering inside: this is a product where the component quality and assembly care are evident in how it behaves over years of use. Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects applies.

Connectivity and System Matching

The Elex MK4 provides one MM phono input, four line-level RCA inputs, two digital inputs (one optical, one coaxial), a front-panel headphone socket, a pre-amplifier output, and a record output. This is a comprehensive connectivity set for an integrated amplifier at this price.

The pre-amplifier output allows the Elex MK4 to be used as a pre-amplifier driving a separate power amplifier — useful for listeners who want more power in the future without changing the whole amplifier. The record output allows a recording device or tape deck to monitor the selected source.

The natural turntable partners at this level are the Rega Planar 3 and Planar 6. Both connect directly to the MM phono stage. For moving coil cartridges, an external phono stage — the Rega AOS MC or similar — occupies one of the four line inputs.

At 72–90 watts, the Elex MK4 can drive a wider range of speakers than the Brio, including standmounters and floorstanders with sensitivities in the 84–88dB range. It is capable with moderately demanding loads. Dave or Chris at Martin's can advise on specific speaker pairings.

Technical Specifications

Who Is It For?

The Elex MK4 is for the listener who wants more than the Brio offers — in power, in inputs, or in system flexibility — without stepping into the more serious (and pricier) territory of the Elicit. It suits Planar 3 and Planar 6 owners, those building a system around a streamer and turntable, and anyone who needs pre-amplifier outputs for a subwoofer or future expansion. Listeners who want the FET pre-amp quality from the Aethos at a more accessible price should look at the Elicit MK5.

Buying from Martin's Hi-Fi

Martin's Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968, and the Rega range has been part of what we do for years. We are still family-run — Elizabeth Gould runs the business today — and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

The Elex MK4 is available to hear in our Norwich showroom; call ahead and we will have it set up with a system that makes sense for your sources and speakers. When you get in touch, you will be speaking to Dave or Chris — both experienced hi-fi specialists who can talk you through whether the Elex MK4, or a step further up the range, is the right fit for your system.

Reach them at dave@martinshifi.co.uk, chris@martinshifi.co.uk, info@martinshifi.co.uk, call on 01603 627010, or WhatsApp Dave or Chris directly on 07554 687137 for a quick answer after your purchase. You can read more about who we are and how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY, open six days a week.

Contact: info@martinshifi.co.uk | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY