Rega Fono Mini A2D

Rega Fono Mini A2D

The Rega Fono Mini A2D is a compact moving magnet phono stage with a built-in USB interface — the entry point to Rega's phono stage range, and one that does considerably more than its price and size suggest. The circuit is based directly on Rega's Fono MM, a design with a strong reputation in its own right, which means the Fono Mini A2D inherits genuine engineering pedigree rather than a simplified approximation of it. For anyone connecting a turntable to a system that lacks a built-in phono stage, or wanting to transfer a vinyl collection to digital files, this is a well-considered starting point.

MM Phono Stage

The Fono Mini A2D is compatible with all moving magnet cartridges — the most common type found on entry and mid-level turntables, including Rega's own Carbon MM Cartridge and the Rega Nd5 Moving Magnet Cartridge. The phono stage applies the RIAA equalisation curve that all vinyl replay requires, recovering the correct tonal balance from the cartridge's output and passing a line-level signal to the amplifier. The input loading of 47kΩ with 100pF is the standard specification for moving magnet cartridges, and the signal-to-noise ratio of 78dBA referenced to 5mV is a respectable figure at this price point.

USB Interface and Analogue-to-Digital Conversion

The A2D designation refers to the Fono Mini's analogue-to-digital capability. A USB output allows the unit to connect directly to a PC or Mac, transferring vinyl to digital audio files without requiring a separate audio interface. The conversion operates at 16-bit, 44.1kHz — standard CD resolution — with a maximum sample rate of 48kHz. A front-panel level control adjusts the output when recording, allowing the user to set the optimal recording level before committing a side to disk. Rega recommend using a digital audio editor such as Audacity, which is freely available, to monitor levels and manage the resulting files.

Compact and Practical

The Fono Mini A2D's custom case measures 102 × 30 × 125mm — small enough to sit unobtrusively alongside a turntable or beneath a component on a shelf. The gain level is adjustable to optimise recording quality when transferring vinyl to a computer. Power is supplied via a 24V AC adaptor at 85mA. Rega back the unit with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.

Who Is It For?

The Fono Mini A2D suits anyone setting up a turntable for the first time who needs a phono stage without spending unnecessarily, and anyone with a vinyl collection they want to archive digitally without investing in a separate audio interface. It is a natural partner for Rega's entry turntables, and its USB functionality makes it genuinely useful beyond straightforward vinyl replay. Those who already own a capable phono stage and want to move up should look at the Rega Fono MM MK5; those starting from scratch will find the Fono Mini A2D a sensible, honest beginning.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968. Elizabeth Gould runs the business today, and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind. We can demonstrate the Fono Mini A2D alongside Rega turntables at our Norwich showroom, and advise on the right phono stage for your cartridge and system. When you get in touch, you'll be speaking with Dave, Chris, and our Product Links specialists — experienced specialists who can advise on this product and your whole system.

Contact us at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins Hi-Fi page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.

Technical Specifications