Rega Aphelion 2 Cartridge

Rega’s approach to moving coil (MC) cartridge design is fundamentally different, setting new standards in the industry for precision and performance. At the core of this innovation is the Aphelion 2, which features Rega’s proprietary design to achieve an ultra-low mass generator that remains undamped and free from tie wires. This is achieved through the use of a unique rhomboid pivot for the cantilever, powered by an exclusive Neodymium magnet system designed specifically for Rega. This groundbreaking design eliminates the need for conventional tie wires, which are typically responsible for high-frequency resonance (around 8-12 kHz) that requires damping. Instead, the Aphelion 2 uses a precision-engineered, zero-tolerance body, machined from a single piece of high-quality aluminum, ensuring impeccable alignment and stability. The rigorous zero-tolerance approach is critical, especially in ensuring the precise relationship between the pivot pad mounting hole and the magnet mechanism mounting hole.

Conventional MC cartridges rely on a steel suspension system (tie wire), which causes unwanted resonance that is typically damped by foam rubber – a material that deteriorates over time and doesn’t prevent the structure from vibrating or ringing. Moreover, this leads to an imbalanced tonal response, with some cartridges being too bright (under damped) and others too warm and bass-heavy (over damped). Rega’s Aphelion 2 eliminates these issues entirely, creating a cartridge without tie wires or foam dampers. Instead, Rega’s innovative design combines modern materials with the laws of magnetism to deliver high-frequency clarity and tight, controlled bass—characteristics that have become synonymous with Rega’s moving coil cartridges. The result is a cartridge that offers superior clarity, fidelity, and control, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking the ultimate in high-performance vinyl playback.