After creating real excitement at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show, the Rega AOS MC is now officially available to order.
We spoke to plenty of Aria and Planar 6, 8 and 10 owners at the show who were already thinking about their next step. The AOS MC has been designed exactly for that moment. It brings listeners closer to the performance of Rega’s reference AURA MC stage, but at a more accessible level.
If you’re running a moving coil cartridge and want to hear just how much more your vinyl can give, this is a serious upgrade.
Built for Pure Analogue Performance
The AOS MC is a fully adjustable, no-compromise moving coil phono stage. Its circuit design is heavily based on the award-winning AURA, delivering exceptional definition and realism to your records.
This is a true two-stage, all-analogue design. There’s no digital control circuitry in the signal path. The fully aluminium case helps shield the internal electronics from unwanted interference, and Rega has deliberately avoided adding anything that might compromise sound quality.
It also features a self-adjusting servo control system, which compensates for changes in operating temperature to keep performance consistent.
Designed to Work with Your Cartridge
The AOS MC is built to partner a wide range of moving coil cartridges.
Plenty of gain for low output MCs
Adjustable resistive loading from 70 Ω to 400 Ω
Adjustable capacitive loading from 1000 pF to 4300 pF
Input sensitivity adjustable by 6 dB
Automatic standby function, which can be disabled if preferred
Rega uses parallel-connected low noise FET transistors, ensuring there is no bias current flowing in the cartridge coil. This protects the delicate magnetic geometry of the cartridge and keeps the signal path as clean as possible.
All of this adds up to greater clarity, realism and insight from your favourite records.
Price & Availability
The Rega AOS MC is available now at a UK SSP of £1,500.00.
If you’d like to learn more, see it in person, or book a demonstration with your own cartridge, just get in touch. We’d be happy to show you what this new stage can really do.
Vinyl Records vs. Streaming: Why Vinyl Records Stand Out
In this vinyl vs streaming article, we will delve deeper into the world of vinyl records and explore why they hold a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.
What Sales Around the World Are Saying About Vinyl vs Streaming
From 1990 until the early 2000s, CD sales were the predominant format, growing to peak at just over $12.5 billion. Around the early 2000s, digital sales emerged, which gradually increased in proportion over the years.
In the late 2000s, streaming appeared, and its share of total sales grew significantly, surpassing digital sales by the 2010s. Streaming continued to rise steadily, indicating its growing dominance in the music industry.
Cassette sales were modest and declined to almost non-existent levels as the years progressed. Vinyl records also made up a small fraction of sales, but there has been a slight increase in vinyl sales in the most recent years, suggesting a minor resurgence of this format. BBC recently explained this in their UK vinyl sales at the highest level since 1990 article.
Overall, the trend shows a clear shift from physical formats (CDs, cassettes, and vinyl) to digital consumption, with streaming becoming the most significant sales format in the latest years. The decline in overall sales from the peak years suggests a contraction in the market likely due to the transition from physical sales to digital and streaming, which are typically lower in cost.
The Enchantment of Exceptional Sound Quality
One of the foremost reasons for the enduring popularity of vinyl records is the remarkable sound quality they deliver. Vinyl records are renowned for their warm, authentic sound, which stands in stark contrast to the often compressed and digitized audio output of streaming services.
The secret behind this captivating audio experience lies in the analog nature of vinyl. It allows for a wider dynamic range, enabling the capture of subtle nuances in music that might get lost in the transition to digital formats. When you listen to your favorite songs on vinyl, you are treated to a sonic journey that faithfully preserves the artist’s original intentions.
Beyond the exceptional audio quality, vinyl records offer a unique joy in the physical interaction with music. Handling a vinyl album is a ritual celebrated by vinyl enthusiasts. The process of delicately placing the needle on the groove and carefully flipping the record midway through the play engages not just the ears but multiple senses.
As your fingers trace the grooves of a vinyl record, you can feel the texture of the music beneath your fingertips. The tactile sensation of the vinyl surface carries a sense of authenticity and connection to the music that digital formats simply can’t replicate. This tangible engagement creates a profound and lasting bond between the listener and the music.
Nostalgia and the Thrill of Collecting
Vinyl records possess a unique ability to evoke nostalgia. They transport us to a bygone era when physical media was the norm, and the act of playing music involved more than just clicking a button. For many, vinyl represents a bridge to their past, rekindling memories of their first record or the tunes that played in their childhood homes.
Moreover, vinyl records have evolved into highly sought-after collectibles. Rare and limited-edition vinyl releases often command high prices in the market. Collecting vinyl has become a passionate pursuit for enthusiasts, who relish the thrill of hunting for elusive records and expanding their cherished collections.
In addition to the sensory pleasure of handling vinyl, the artwork and packaging of vinyl records add an extra layer of artistic delight. The larger format of vinyl album covers provides ample canvas for intricate and visually stunning designs.
Album covers aren’t just a means of protecting the vinyl; they are genuine pieces of art in their own right. Each cover is a carefully crafted visual representation of the music within. From iconic photographs to elaborate illustrations, album covers are an integral part of the listening experience. Owning a vinyl record isn’t just about having access to music; it’s about possessing a tangible work of art that enhances the overall enjoyment of the music.
Vinyl records create a beautiful synergy between sight and sound. As the needle gracefully glides along the grooves, the album cover is there, providing a visual companion to the auditory journey. It’s a multisensory experience that deepens the appreciation of music.
The artwork on the cover often complements the music within, setting the mood and context for the listener. Whether it’s the psychedelic visuals of a classic rock album or the minimalistic design of an electronic release, the album cover becomes an integral part of the storytelling. This connection between the visual and auditory elements elevates the entire listening experience to an art form.
A Greener Path: Sustainable Vinyl Production
While we celebrate the many virtues of vinyl records, it’s crucial to acknowledge the environmental concerns associated with physical media production. Historically, vinyl production was resource-intensive and generated significant waste. However, the industry is now taking important steps towards sustainability.
The emergence of sustainable vinyl production methods is promising. This includes the use of recycled materials and the adoption of eco-friendly manufacturing processes. These initiatives are aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of vinyl production, aligning it more closely with modern eco-conscious values.
In Conclusion: Vinyl vs Streaming
In conclusion, vinyl records continue to hold their ground in the digital age due to their exceptional sound quality, tangible appeal, the nostalgia they evoke, and the thrill of collecting. While streaming services offer convenience and access to vast music libraries, they cannot replicate the unique charm and multisensory experience that vinyl records provide.
At Audience, we firmly believe that vinyl records are more than just a medium for music; they are cultural artifacts and symbols of the enduring allure of analog technology in our increasingly digital world.
Marking the successful journey of half a century, the 50th Anniversary Planar 3 is more than a product; it’s a saga of relentless dedication towards delivering incomparable performance. A marriage of the latest technology with the timeless design, this turntable is a testament to craftsmanship that screams ‘perfection’.
Exceptional Finish: The Walnut Effect
The 50th Anniversary Planar 3 is swathed in the highly popular walnut effect finish. This isn’t merely a design choice but an artistic statement, manifesting elegance and sophistication that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your space. The walnut effect finish speaks volumes of the effort put in to ensure not only sound excellence but also a visual treat.
Hand Tuned Neo PSU MK2: The Powerhouse
At the heart of the Anniversary Planar 3, we find the meticulously hand-tuned Neo PSU MK2. This piece of artistry not only offers precision and control over the turntable but ensures the unyielding and reliable power supply, allowing the Planar 3 to perform at its optimum level.
Rega Exact Moving Magnet Cartridge: The Soul
Every note that graces your ears is the result of the handmade Rega Exact moving magnet cartridge, a component factory fitted into the 50th Anniversary Planar 3. This remarkable addition signifies the commitment to deliver unparalleled sonic experiences, enriching your music with its unique tonal quality.
Reference Drive Belt and Custom CNC’d Aluminium Drive Pulley: For Absolute Accuracy
The drive system of the 50th Anniversary Planar 3 borrows from the reference-class components of the Planar 6. Equipped with the reference drive belt and a custom CNC’d aluminium drive pulley, it’s designed for accuracy and performance that are second to none. This ensures a sound reproduction that remains true to the original recording, transporting you into a realm of sonic bliss.
Unique Additions: The Aluminium Lid and Plinth Badge
Aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand with the 50th Anniversary Planar 3. It comes adorned with a custom aluminium lid, providing an additional layer of protection, and a plinth badge, serving as a constant reminder of the unmatched quality you possess.
Smoked Dustcover: The Final Touch
No detail is too small when creating a masterpiece. The Anniversary Edition comes complete with a smoked dustcover, providing necessary protection against dust particles, thus prolonging the turntable’s life.
Conclusion
The 50th Anniversary Planar 3 stands out as a celebration of the golden jubilee year with its innovative technology, meticulous design, and exceptional craftsmanship. The new walnut effect finish, combined with unique features like the hand-tuned Neo PSU MK2 and the handmade Rega Exact moving magnet cartridge, makes this turntable the epitome of performance and accuracy. With its custom aluminium lid and plinth badge, along with the smoked dustcover, the Anniversary Edition presents a perfect blend of design, functionality, and durability, reaffirming its status as a class apart.
In celebration of a significant milestone, the 50th anniversary of its founding, Naim has created something truly special for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike. The NAIT 50 is not just a testament to superior engineering and sound quality but also a tribute to a brand that has consistently set the standards in audio technology over the past five decades.
Naim‘s reputation for crafting high-quality audio devices is unrivalled, and the launch of the NAIT 50 amplifier is a perfect representation of the brand’s dedication to excellence. This special anniversary edition combines the hallmark features of Naim’s past models with cutting-edge advancements to deliver an unparalleled audio experience.
The NAIT 50, with its unique blend of design and performance, embodies the progress the brand has made over its rich history. It encapsulates the quintessence of five decades of continuous innovation in audio technology, standing as a tribute to the past, a celebration of the present, and a promise of an even brighter future.
The remarkable journey of Naim, leading to this golden anniversary, is reflected in every facet of the NAIT 50. Every element, from its superb sound quality to its outstanding craftsmanship, is a testament to the 50 years of dedication to creating the finest audio products. This special anniversary edition signifies Naim’s enduring commitment to delivering extraordinary audio experiences. As such, the NAIT 50 amplifier is more than just an audio device; it’s a symbol of a legacy that continues to shape the future of sound.
NAIT 50 Amplifier: A Revolution in Sound Quality
The NAIT 50 amplifier, a high-end audio product, represents the culmination of years of advanced technological developments in the realm of sound engineering. By combining robust design, cutting-edge technology and first-rate sound quality, it encapsulates the artistry of audio creation.
Unrivalled Craftsmanship and Engineering
At the heart of the NAIT 50’s exceptional performance is the product’s superior engineering. Its compact form is crammed with state-of-the-art technology, all meticulously designed to enhance the listening experience. Additionally, its sturdy build quality ensures lasting durability.
Exceptional Sound Clarity
The NAIT 50 offers superior sound fidelity with its advanced technology. Each note is produced with exacting clarity, showcasing the nuanced details of the audio. The depth of the soundstage produced is immersive, creating a powerful and emotive audio experience.
Innovative Design
The NAIT 50 combines cutting-edge design with high functionality. Its compact size belies the power housed within, offering both style and performance. The sleek aesthetic makes it a handsome addition to any sound system or home theatre setup.
High-Calibre Connectivity
Offering versatile connectivity options, the NAIT 50 is equipped with an array of ports for a myriad of audio devices. This allows you to seamlessly integrate the amplifier into your current setup, maximising your audio system’s potential.
Setting Up Your NAIT 50
Setting up your NAIT 50 is a simple process, thanks to the product’s intuitive design. The accompanying instruction manual provides a clear, step-by-step guide, ensuring the setup process is as straightforward as possible.
Unparalleled Performance
The NAIT 50 delivers high performance through its power output, dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio. These features together make it the perfect centrepiece for your audio setup, enhancing your listening experience.
A Sustainable Choice
The NAIT 50 amplifier is designed with sustainability in mind. The eco-friendly manufacturing process and power-efficient design ensure that you can enjoy superior sound quality while reducing your environmental impact.
Expert Customer Support
When you choose the NAIT 50, you’re not just buying an audio product. You’re also gaining access to a world-class support team ready to assist you with any queries or issues you might encounter.
In conclusion, the NAIT 50 represents the pinnacle of audio amplifier technology. Its high performance, innovative design, and superior sound quality set a new standard in the audio industry. This masterpiece of engineering offers an unrivalled audio experience, ensuring you enjoy every note in pristine clarity.
Want to learn more about this product release? Contact us here.
As the age of digitalstreaming continues to dominate the music industry, the BBC is taking a step back in time to honour the humble record store. To celebrate Record Store Day, the BBC has launched a five-part podcast series that pays tribute to the UK’s record shops, their staff, and their loyal customers. Each episode features a trusted guide who takes listeners on a unique tour of their hometown, introducing the legendary characters who keep record stores alive and highlighting the often underrated role they play in UK music.
In recent years, vinyl has experienced a resurgence.
With music aficionados and collectors alike embracing the tactile experience and warm sound that digital music simply cannot replicate. This newfound appreciation for vinyl has breathed new life into record shops, providing them with a niche market that keeps their doors open.
The BBC’s podcast series delves into the world of vinyl, showcasing the vibrant communities that have formed around record stores across the UK. These episodes are not only an exploration of the rich history and cultural significance of record shops but also a celebration of the dedicated individuals who have made it their mission to preserve this iconic facet of the music industry.
Taken on a journey through various UK cities.
Throughout the series, listeners will be taken on a journey through various UK cities, including London, Manchester, Glasgow, and more. In each location, the trusted guide will share their personal experiences and insights into the local music scene, highlighting the distinct characteristics of each city’s record shops.
Listeners can expect to hear captivating stories and anecdotes from passionate record shop owners, staff, and patrons. These tales shed light on the role of record shops as hubs for music lovers to gather, exchange ideas, and discover new artists. With an emphasis on the significance of personal connection and the human element of music consumption, this podcast series serves as a poignant reminder of the value of record stores in an increasingly digital world.
How they have adapted to the changing landscape of the music industry.
As well as delving into the unique histories of these record shops, the series will also explore how they have adapted to the changing landscape of the music industry. From embracing new technologies and online sales to hosting intimate live performances, these businesses have evolved while remaining true to their core values.
The BBC’s five-part podcast series is a love letter to record stores, a nostalgic trip down memory lane for older listeners, and an eye-opening experience for the younger generation who may be unfamiliar with the magic of vinyl. It is a testament to the power of music and the importance of preserving the spaces where it can be enjoyed in its purest form.
In conclusion.
In conclusion, the BBC’s Record Store Day podcast series is a heartwarming tribute to the world of vinyl and the cherished institutions that keep it alive.
By exploring the unique stories and experiences of those involved in the UK’s record shop scene, this series is a compelling reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses and nurturing the communities that they foster.
Don’t miss out on this journey through the rich tapestry of the UK’s record store culture – tune in and rediscover the magic of vinyl.
Vinyl records have been making a comeback in recent years, with sales continuing to rise globally.
The UK has been at the forefront of this vinyl resurgence, with the country’s vinyl manufacturing industry experiencing a significant surge in demand.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the renaissance of vinyl records, the growth of the UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry, and the factors driving this growth.
The Resurgence of Vinyl Records:
Despite the rise of digital music streaming services, vinyl records have continued to maintain their popularity among music enthusiasts.
This can be attributed to the unique listening experience that vinyl records provide. Unlike digital music, vinyl records offer a warm, rich and textured sound that is highly sought after by audiophiles. Additionally, the physicality of vinyl records provides a tactile and visual experience that cannot be replicated by digital music.
These qualities have led to the vinyl record’s continued popularity and resurgence in the music industry.
The Growth of UK’s Vinyl Manufacturing Industry:
The UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with new vinyl pressing plants opening across the country.
This growth has been driven by the high demand for vinyl records, both domestically and internationally. According to the Entertainment Retailers Association, vinyl records accounted for 4.8% of all music sales in the UK in 2022. This is a significant increase from the 2.6% share that vinyl records had in 2016.
The growth in vinyl record sales has created a demand for new and innovative pressing plants, and this demand has been met by the opening of several new vinyl pressing plants in the UK.
Factors Driving Growth in UK’s Vinyl Manufacturing Industry:
There are several factors that have driven the growth of the UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry.
One of the primary factors is the demand for high-quality vinyl records. Vinyl record enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for well-pressed records that offer a superior listening experience. This has created a market for high-end vinyl records that are manufactured to exacting standards.
The UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry has been able to meet this demand by investing in new equipment and technologies that allow for the production of high-quality records.
Conclusion:
The UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the high demand for high-quality vinyl records.
This growth has been facilitated by the opening of new pressing plants, investment in new equipment and technologies, and government support for the industry.
As vinyl records continue to maintain their popularity, the UK’s vinyl manufacturing industry is likely to continue to grow, providing new job opportunities and contributing to the UK’s music industry.
For years, the music industry was thought to be shifting away from physical formats, with digitalstreaming and downloads dominating the market.
However, recent trends have shown that physical music formats are making a comeback, with vinyl records leading the charge. And, as it turns out, Taylor Swift and her loyal fanbase of “Swifties” are at the forefront of this revival.
The Rise of Vinyl Records.
Vinyl records were once considered a thing of the past, with CDs overtaking LP sales in the late 80s and early 90s. However, over the past decade, vinyl records have experienced a surprising resurgence in popularity. In 2021, vinyl album sales rose 23% to £135.6m, surpassing CD sales for the first time since 1987. And, with this trend expected to continue, the classic LP is once again at the forefront of the music industry.
One factor driving this resurgence is the nostalgia factor. Older music fans have been seeking collectible editions of their favorite albums, leading to a vinyl renaissance built largely on classic artists such as the Beatles, David Bowie, and Pink Floyd. However, this trend has since spread to younger generations of fans who appreciate the retro appeal of physical music formats, including cassettes.
Taylor Swift and the Power of Physical Music.
Taylor Swift’s latest album, “Midnights,” has helped push the popularity of vinyl records even further. With 80,000 copies sold in 2022, it has become the best-selling vinyl record of the century in the UK. And, with eight of this year’s top 10 sellers being new albums released in 2022, it’s clear that physical music formats are experiencing a resurgence that extends beyond nostalgia.
The pandemic has also played a role in this trend. With fans unable to attend concerts and events, they have been channeling their spare cash into building up their record collections at home. And, as it turns out, many are discovering the joys of physical music formats, leading to an increase in vinyl and cassette sales.
The Future of Physical Music Formats.
While it’s clear that physical music formats are making a comeback, the question remains: what does the future hold? According to Kim Bayley, the CEO of the Entertainment Retailers Association (ERA), “Will the CD disappear? Of course, its prospects don’t look good right now, but it offers a permanence and robustness and quality which is unique.”
Geoff Taylor, the CEO of music industry trade body the BPI, adds that “In an age of streaming, physical music purchases remain an essential and healthy part of the music market.” And, as the LP marks its 75th anniversary in 2023, it’s evident that vinyl records will continue to play a role in the music industry for years to come.
Conclusion.
The resurgence of vinyl records and physical music formats is a testament to the enduring appeal of physical media. With Taylor Swift and her fanbase leading the charge, it’s clear that physical music formats are here to stay. Whether it’s the nostalgia factor, the desire for a more tangible connection to music, or simply a preference for the quality and robustness of physical media, the revival of vinyl records and other physical music formats is a welcome trend in an industry that has been dominated by digital formats for too long.
A Sustainable Choice
