Solid, punchy and exciting presentation ; Good phono stage and DAC module ; Meaty bass

Plasticky feel to controls ; Difficult to make subtle volume adjustments when using headphones ; No USB input

The Rega Brio Mk7 may have jumped up a price class, but its excellent sound and handy list of features put it among the leaders

Detail, precision and dynamics in spades ; Agile and rhythmic presentation ; Excellent build ; Good headphone output

No digital inputs

An incredibly talented amplifier in every way, this is the best Brio yet

Superbly lively and involving sound quality ; Excellent phono stage and headphone amp ; Compact and well made

Rivals do more ; No direct input selection ; Ground terminal oddly located

Stylish design; excellent phono stage; easy listening performance

Limited specification; no remote

Superbly lively and involving sound quality ; Excellent phono stage and headphone amp ; Compact and well made

Rivals do more ; No direct input selection ; Ground terminal oddly located

The ultimate suitability of the Rega will come down to exactly what you need from your amp. If you are building a system from scratch, a device that will negate the need for sources like the will be more immediately appealing than the Brio which needs...