Rega’s New Stellar Reference Separates: Mercury & Solis Reviewed
Posted by The Sound Organisation on Dec 3rd 2025
Rega just announced two new reference-level electronics – the Mercury pre-amplifier and Solis power amplifier – and the first reviews are impressive. John Darko of Darko Audio has released a preliminary synopsis of the new kit, noting that these may be the British manufacturer’s first true reference separates in many years, and that they draw on Rega's four decades of solid-state amplifier development.
Drawing from Rega's release notes, Darko takes a look at the underlying technology and discusses what excites him most about the new Solis and Mercury.
Engineering DNA & System Overview
Darko describes how the Solis power amplifier is built to deliver serious output: 168 W per channel into 8 ohms, and 305 W into 4 ohms, thanks to twelve Sanken 130 W output transistors configured in a triple high-current output stage. The amplifier is fed by two custom 330 VA toroidal transformers plus large 40,000 µF capacitor banks per channel to ensure stable current delivery during demanding musical passages.
Equally notable is Rega’s claim that although both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs are provided, the company explicitly recommends unbalanced connections for “optimum sound quality”, because the core circuits are unbalanced and converting for balanced operation introduces extra noise/distortion.
Turning to the Mercury pre-amplifier: Darko outlines how this model features fully discrete symmetrical circuitry throughout its signal path. Each stage uses high-current drive capability, complementary Class A output stage amplifiers, and in the digital domain it uses Wolfson DACs, chosen for sonic performance rather than pure specification. The volume control is designed around an Alps Blue Velvet RK27 module, paired with symmetrical driver stages—so instead of simply attenuating the signal, the volume section in fact includes active amplification for better drive capability. Both models are sized and weighted accordingly: Solis at 17.1"×5.5"×15.2" and 55lbs; Mercury at 17.1"×3.8"×15" and 31 lbs.
What Impressed Darko Most
What really stands out to John is how these components go beyond the spec sheet into real-world musical engagement. Darko notes that these separates signal Rega’s intent to play in the highest tier, and he then delves into how the tech stack will influence the listening experience: a low noise floor, high dynamic headroom, and clarity of detail that reveal subtle ambient cues in recordings that might otherwise remain hidden.
Darko furthermore notes that Rega’s decision to keep the core topology unbalanced, counter to contemporary high-end audio trends, appears to be justified by the performance: the lack of extra circuitry for balanced conversion means the signal path remains simpler, cleaner and more transparent.
What This Means For Your System
For audiophile readers and existing Rega owners, there a few clear considerations. First: if your system is already of high quality (good source, speakers, room, cabling), then stepping into Mercury + Solis may unlock meaningful gains—especially in bass control, detail retrieval and sheer musical involvement.
Second: this is a serious investment—not a modest upgrade. The price places these components among the top tier, so buyers should be committed to getting the most out of them.
Third: Rega’s philosophy plays a key role—choosing parts and architectures for pure sonic benefit rather than marketing spec numbers suggests that this gear is for those who value authenticity, listening pleasure and long-term satisfaction.
Finally: for systems that may have plateaued in terms of “sound quality but not excitement”, the review suggests that Mercury and Solis can bring back that sense of engagement—making you feel music rather than just hear it.
In Summary
Rega’s Mercury pre-amplifier and Solis power amplifier aren’t incremental updates but serious reference-class offerings from a brand with deep design roots. With formidable technical credentials and a listening experience that delivers emotion, detail and power in equal measure, the pair makes a strong statement in the high-end separates field.
For audiophiles considering a leap into truly high-end territory will find Rega’s new models well-worth auditioning. From our perspective, there's a lot of desire for bother Solida and the Mercury, and retailers have been snatching up the pre-orders. If you'd like to audition one of both, please find a retailer and inquire; these will be hard-to-find items for the first year or two; making them well-worth a call to your local hi-fi shop!