Rega Isis Reference Series CD Player with USB DAC (Tube Isis Option)
Best reference-grade player for audiophiles seeking ultimate CD playback fidelity.
The Rega Isis Reference Series CD Player, with an optional Tube Isis upgrade, represents the pinnacle of Rega's digital audio engineering. It is meticulously crafted to extract unparalleled detail and musicality from your CDs. Featuring proprietary CD technology, discrete Class A amplifiers, and dual Burr-Brown DACs, it delivers a stunningly natural soundstage. The robust, vibration-resistant aluminum chassis ensures mechanical stability for pristine playback. Hand-built in the UK, the Isis offers reference-grade performance for discerning audiophiles seeking the ultimate CD listening experience.
$8995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 288
#2 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
+95%
Above average
Frequency Response
17200.1
/ Hz - kHz ± dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a rich, warm, and musical analog soundstage
- Digital listeners wanting high-resolution playback through a versatile hub
- Purists prioritizing mechanical stability and reference-grade engineering
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking value-oriented audio components
- Users preferring low-maintenance gear without recurring replacement costs
- Owners with limited vertical clearance in their equipment racks
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Dual mono architecture delivers an exceptionally natural and expansive soundstage.
Build Integrity
CNC-machined aluminum chassis provides superior vibration resistance and mechanical stability.
Disc Tracking
Intelligent Disc Analysis ensures flawless reading of even imperfect media.
Output Versatility
Choice between solid state and valve stages offers distinct sonic signatures.
Digital Integration
Galvanically isolated USB input provides clean, direct streaming for modern setups.
Component Engineering
Discrete Class A circuitry reflects the pinnacle of high-end audio design.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
17 Hz - 20 kHz ±0.1 dB
THD+Noise
< 0.0013%
Digital Sampling Frequency
44.1 kHz
Power Consumption
23 W
Dimensions (W × H × D)
434 × 112 × 350 mm
DAC Chipset
Twin Burr-Brown PCM1794 (Solid State) / Twin Wolfson WM8741 (Valve)
Analogue Stage
Discrete Class A Op-Amps (Solid State) / Valve Differential (5814A & ECC88) (Valve)
USB Input Resolution
16-bit / 44.1kHz - 48kHz
Features
- Proprietary CD technology for superior playback
- Discrete Class A amplifiers for optimized performance
- Dual Burr-Brown DACs in parallel dual mono mode
- Robust CNC-machined aluminum chassis for stability
- Intelligent Disc Analysis system for flawless reading
- Dual Mono Power Architecture for noise isolation
- Galvanically isolated USB input for direct streaming
- Choice of Solid State or Valve output stages
What customers say
Owners overwhelmingly praise the Rega Isis Reference CD Player for its profoundly musical and engaging sound quality. The optional Tube Isis variant is especially lauded for delivering an analog-like warmth, rich timbre, and an expansive, three-dimensional soundstage. Listeners appreciate its ability to reveal subtle recording details without sounding analytical or fatiguing, ensuring enjoyable extended sessions. Beyond its sonic excellence, customers value the robust build quality and elegant design. The integrated USB DAC adds welcome versatility. Despite its premium cost, the consensus is that the Isis offers commensurate value through unparalleled performance and reliability, establishing it as a cornerstone high fidelity component.
Know before you buy
The Solid State version utilizes twin Burr-Brown PCM1794 DACs and discrete Class A op-amps for a precise, analytical sound. The Valve version swaps these for twin Wolfson WM8741 DACs and a valve-based differential output stage, offering a warmer, more organic sonic character.
Yes, the Isis features a galvanically isolated USB input that allows you to stream audio directly from your computer. It supports resolutions up to 16-bit/48kHz, making it a high-quality bridge for your digital music library.
This proprietary system optimizes the laser's focus and tracking for each individual disc. By analyzing the disc's condition in real-time, it ensures the most accurate data retrieval possible, even on discs that might otherwise struggle to play.
Yes, by using separate power supplies for the left and right channels, the design significantly reduces crosstalk and noise interference. This results in a wider, more stable soundstage and improved instrument separation.
The CNC-machined aluminum chassis is primarily functional, designed to provide a rigid, vibration-resistant platform for the internal components. This mechanical stability is crucial for minimizing microphonic interference and ensuring the laser mechanism operates with maximum precision.
The Isis is designed for standard audio CDs and is also compatible with CD-R and CD-RW discs. It is optimized for high-fidelity playback of these formats rather than multi-format media like SACD or DVD-Audio.
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$8995