SKU: 78287894190

Aesthetix Rhea Saturn Series Phono Preamplifier

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Description

Aesthetix Rhea Saturn Series Phono PreamplifierAesthetix Rhea Saturn Series Phono Preamplifier The Aesthetix Rhea is an all tube phono stage, suitable for moving coil and moving magnet cartridges. It offers high maximum gain at 75 dB, making it ideal for low output cartridges. The Rhea broke new ground as the first phono stage with 3 phono inputs, the first with gain and loading settings stored in memory for every input, and the first with full remote control adjustability. Dual mono audio boards

Aesthetix Rhea

Saturn Series Phono Preamplifier

The Aesthetix Rhea is an all-tube phono stage, suitable for moving coil and moving magnet cartridges. It offers high maximum gain at 75 dB, making it ideal for low output cartridges. The Rhea broke new ground as the first phono stage with 3 phono inputs, the first with gain and loading settings stored in memory for every input, and the first with full remote control adjustability. Dual-mono audio boards provide superb channel separation and soundstaging. A cartridge demagnetiser is a built-in convenience that can also be operated by remote control. The all-aluminium chassis is designed for rigidity and acoustic inertness and the brushed anodized panels give it a sophisticated visual presence. The Rhea has enjoyed worldwide acclaim for its sound quality, build quality, flexibility and ease of use.

The Rhea has the following features:

  • Three RCA inputs.
  • Each input has its own gain and loading setting that is saved even when in standby mode or the unit is turned off.
  • Zero feedback.
  • 40-75dB gain maximum, selectable via front panel or remote control.
  • 9 MC loading settings: 75-47,000 ohms, selectable via front panel or remote control.
  • Remote control of gain, loading, input switching, mute, and demagnetizer.
  • Built-in MC cartridge demagnetizer.
  • Two sets of XLR and two sets of RCA outputs per channel.
  • All tube amplification and output (10 tubes total).
  • Full function remote included.

All of this attention to detail has resulted in a phono preamplifier that transcends what is normally expected from an audiophile piece of equipment. The Rhea scales heights that are normally the realm of uber-expensive products and it does it with ease. Sound quality is the prime objective here and the Rhea is a phenomenal achievement. This value for money quality is spoken about in all the audio press and the Rhea has accumulated many awards & accolades. These reasons are why Aesthetix products have developed a passionate following around the world.

Select a Specification to Suit Your Needs

The Rhea is available in 3 versions, depending on the level of specification required.

Rhea

  • Tube linestage using high-grade Rel-Cap polypropylene coupling capacitors.
  • Standard edition.

Rhea Signature Series

  • The Aesthetix Rhea Signature version uses custom-made inter-stage Teflon hybrid coupling capacitors, replacing the polypropylene units, between the 2nd and 3rd, and 3rd and 4th, gain stages (4 total per channel). The change in these capacitors results in higher resolution, extension, less grain and more air.
  • The 2uF coupling capacitor between the 1st and 2nd gain stages is replaced with a 4uF Dynamicap by Peter Moncrief (1 per channel). This change removes grain and provides more openness, while also increasing bass dynamics and slam.
  • The 2uF output coupling capacitors (4 per channel) are also replaced with 4uF Dynamicaps. This change provides more drive, bass extension, resolution and dynamics while also reducing grain.
  • Highly specialized adjustable air-core capacitors, used primarily in the radio-frequency realm, are installed and adjusted to “tweek” each unit to a rigid standard.
  • The five rubber feet are replaced with Harmonic Resolutions Systems’ Nimbus Couplers specially made for Aesthetix (Earlier Signature Saturn pieces did not incorporate this, please contact Aesthetix for this free upgrade if you have an earlier Signature piece without the Nimbus Couplers). This change results in a lower noise floor and more air and space.
  • The cost of these specialized parts alone is about 1/4 the manufacturing cost of a brand new unit!
  • Any tubes that can be bettered by our special stock of graded and matched tubes are replaced. Any other improvements needed to make the unit current are installed, including software updates, etc.
  • A new lens with “SIGNATURE” stenciled is installed. Each Signature unit undergoes rigorous test procedures and listening.

Rhea Eclipse Series

  • Internal changes to the Rhea start with .22uF / 600v Stealth coupling capacitors used between the second and third gain stages, and the third gain stage and output stage. Eight total of these exotic capacitors are used.
  • There are four 2uF / 400v coupling capacitors used in each channel of the output stage of the Rhea. In the Eclipse version, these are replaced with Stealth copper foil 4uF/400v, improving low frequency response. This capacitor is also used between the first and second gain stages.
  • High frequency tuning capacitors are installed and hand-adjusted to tailor the frequency response to a tight .1dB standard (as also found on the Signature version).
  • The high voltage transformer, heater transformer and high voltage choke are all re-installed on isolation mounts. Harmonic Resolutions Systems’ Nimbus Couplers specially made for Aesthetix replace the four rubber feet of standard units (as also found on the Signature version).
  • The new power supply is installed with enhanced ventilation. Additional damping material is added to key chassis points.
  • A single point ground system is used to ground the transformer cases as they are no longer electrically grounded to the chassis via physical contact due to their isolation mounts. All Eclipse Rhea, Calypso and Janus units receive a new power supply, which has been refined by improved trace routing to further reduce extraneous noise.

Awards

Reviews

The Absolute Sound, Robert Harley, 2009

As great a phonostage as the Rhea is, the Signature version is on another level of performance. Yes, it’s nearly twice the price, but the Signature is that much better. If you already own the Rhea, upgrading to the Signature will give you a new perspective on your record collection and favourite music. It did for me..

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Ultra Audio, Peter Roth, 2009

The standard Rhea deserves the accolades it has received over the years and continues to prove a value leader. That it now marks the beginning of an upgrade path makes it a fantastic musical investment. Which takes us to the Rhea Signature, shining brighter than Saturn itself on a clear night. The Rhea Signature has elevated my system’s ability to transfix and transport me, and is well worth the surcharge, if you can swing it. I have no need to consult an astrologer to know the future. It is here: The Rhea Signature has become my reference system’s new phono preamplifier.

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Stereophile, Paul Bolin, 2003

The Rhea tells a striking amount of musical and sonic truth and is, in terms of sound alone, intensely lovable. Did I notice the difference when the Steelhead or Io Signature went back in the system? Sure. But the Rhea has enough of all the qualities that make the megabucks competition so special to make it a source of constant musical joy. Not once did I feel that the Rhea short changed any LP I heard through it. That, together with the too-cool-for-school remote functions, multiple inputs, built-in cartridge demagnetizer (for those of that persuasion), and first-class presentation, make it worthy of a wildly enthusiastic recommendation. This one, cats and kittens, is killer good.

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Product Specification

Item Phono Preamplifier
Inputs 3 discrete phono inputs with RCA (SE)
Outputs 2 RCA (SE) and 2 XLR (balanced)
Gain Settings 8 total; 75, 68, 62, 56, 50, 44, 38 dB, and off (selectable for each input)
Load Settings 9 total: 47 K ohms, 10K, 5K, 2.5K, 1K, 500 ohms, 250, 125, and 75 ohms (selectable for each input)
Output Impedance 1K ohms RCA (SE), 600 ohms XLR (balanced)
Front Panel Controls Phono input, mute, gain, loading, demagnetiser and standby
Remote Controls Phono input, mute, gain, loading, demagnetiser and standby
Frequency Response ±0.25 dB, 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Signal to Noise Measured at 70 dB minimum A-weighted (ref 1 mV input, 75 dB gain setting)
Recommended Load 10 k ohms or greater
Tubes (per channel) V1 & V2 (12AX7LP-factory graded low noise), V3 & V4 (12AX7 or equivalent) and V5 (6922)
Power Consumption 20 watts standby, 100 watts active
Dimensions 457 (W) x 111 (H) x 457 (D) mm including jacks
Weight 18.2 kg
Finish Black or Silver
Warranty 3 years, non-transferable.
Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 78287894190

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4.1 ★★★★★
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Darcie Reads A Lot
Whiting, US
★★★★★ 5
Unexpectedly emotional and packed with action!
Format: Kindle
Why do I suddenly want nothing more than a tiny wyvern to snuggle with?! It’s adorable and I absolutely love all of those moments! Wings of Stars was everything I’ve come expect from this powerful author duo. The fact that it’s written by two different people is completely transparent to the reader and they’ve brought us another world and characters that we’re all emotionally connected to and fully invested in! The injustice that we see from Alfemir in the many forms in which it comes is infuriating and makes me desperate for the conclusion of the story so they can all get what’s coming to them! I love all the guys right now, with one exception, and if you’re read it, you know exactly who I’m talking about. Bastian is hilarious - he was the comedic relief through an otherwise quite serious story. My heart bleeds for him and I can’t wait to see how he progresses through the series. Parts of Wings of Stars were unexpectedly emotional and of course I was left with my jaw on the floor at that cliffhanger! Next, please!
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Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2025
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josh portwood
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Niz !!!
Format: Kindle
First, let me say that I love both of these authors. I have been hooked by both ever since I discovered their writings, and I follow their social media groups closely. This book did not disappoint. Sure, there are several questions that I have, a couple of times I went huh (which I won't get into because I do not want to offer any spoilers) and I hated the cliff hanger lol, but I cannot lie and say I didn't love the book, because I did. The twist on angels was new and fresh, even though that is part of my questions. The beginning and ending were the better parts, the middle was needed but sorta bogged a little. Kieran was confusing but relatable. Niz is BY FAR the best character of the book, love NIZ. For me, Bastian is a close second, always loved the crazy ones. The other men were good, but Steele gets on my nerves and as of right now, IMO, he doesn't belong, but we will see how that goes. I have lots of questions, but this was an excellent start to a new series and I cannot wait for the next book. Highly recommend
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Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2024
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shark
Houston, US
★★★★★ 4
fallen destiny? more like destined to fall in love
Format: Kindle
Kieran is an angel, but she doesn't have an affinity. Nothing angers her father more. If she doesn't find an affinity soon she will be cast to earth & have her wings removed. But she has the choice to become a fallen angel, wings turn black, & live her life on edge. Towards the end of the book things start to make sense. Gabe’s nickname for Kieran, Steele’a hatred, Bastian’s belief that Kieran is powerful. This book ended literally during a war? As one of her friends was injured, and admitted a bit secret? Talk about cliff hanger. The next book comes out August 5th.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2024
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Caylee T.
Pawtucket, US
★★★★★ 5
Well holy moly!
Format: Kindle
Holy moly that story definitely had me hooked! Kieran was definitely a character that I immediately adored. She has obviously had to deal with a butt load of too high expectations from her father (who is 🤬).. She has been helpless when it came to finding out her affinity with so many years of no answers & perceived failure. When Ronan, gives her a small inkling of hope that she be a Beast Tamer, she jumps into it. But again she doesn’t seem to fit. But when she runs into Gabe again, she ends up helping him & rethinking her life in Alfemir. And when the opportunity comes she decides leaving is the best option. But when Ronan demands he comes with her & then the random appearance of Bastian, she is feeling very overwhelmed. After she chooses to fall with them, they land on earth exactly where Gabe is located only to run into Steele who is a person that I was finding hard to like. After training, she eventually finds out she does have an affinity & it’s one that no longer exist & is incredibly powerful but also has a prophecy attached to it. I feel incredibly bad for her on she learns about the prophecy & Steele’s connection with it too. But that ending, with the battle scene & Niz….yeah definitely was not expecting that but hello I am all here for it too! Absolutely amazing start of a series & I for sure will be waiting for the next one to come out. Amazing job!
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Reviewed in the United States on September 26, 2024
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BobbiJo- SpicyBookswBB
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
So good!
Format: Kindle
Wings of Stars was a fantastic first book to a new series. It grabbed me in its clutches within the first chapter and kept ahold of me. This new world of M Sinclair and RL Caulder’s is all about angels and mythical creatures. It’s full of drama from all points. From Kieran’s awful home life to keeping the stars alive and everything in between. Kieran is our FMC and despite everything she keeps her spirit and defiance. Keeping to their norm, there is a group of guys for our FMC but they definitely aren’t established yet, and not fully cemented yet into being a group rather than her choosing between them. Ronan is so sweet and gives off Daddy vibes Gabe is also sweet and wants the best of everything for Kieran and will defend her against anyone Bastian is slightly unhinged but I loved him immediately Steele is a jerk… just as you find redeeming qualities, he screws up again… but yet I still want him to redeem himself. There’s another one… but if I gave his name I would be spoiling a plot twist so you will just have to find out yourself… but you’ll love him as much as I do. This is a slow burn but the little bit of spice we do get is hot, especially with the dirty talk.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2024

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