If Rega was to continue with its promise to deliver exceptional performance and value for money, the ever-increasing cost of real wood veneered MDF cabinets meant that there was no choice but to investigate other options. After a decade of trials and development, the AYA loudspeakers are now housed in a unique, UK-manufactured cabinet moulded from glass-reinforced cement. The glass fibres used in the construction reduce the weight while increasing the structural integrity of this 2.5-way bandpass enclosure.

This technique creates an ideal loudspeaker enclosure that enhances performance while offering exceptional value for money. The process of moulding the AYA loudspeaker cabinets was developed in collaboration with a UK-based company best known for bespoke concrete furniture and installations.

Rega enthusiasts will recognize that the company has always questioned the marketing and science surrounding turntables. Through experiments and research, Rega has been able to debunk many commonly held beliefs and apply real engineering to produce world-class sound quality at sensible prices.

However, the loudspeaker market differs significantly, as it is grounded in a valid scientific and engineering discipline, leading to hundreds of competitors in the marketplace. The success of many loudspeakers often depends on powerful marketing, substantial advertising budgets (of which Rega spends none), and financial inducements to retailers. With the funds that most loudspeaker companies allocate to marketing, Rega has instead invested in research and development to achieve a unique cabinet construction.

Loudspeaker grilles are available as an optional extra and will be supplied separately. To keep costs as low as possible and avoid unnecessary waste, Rega has chosen not to include the grilles as standard, as the majority of customers choose not to use them. These grilles are simply attached by magnet to the front plate screws to prevent damage to the cone or tweeter. They are covered in high-quality speaker cloth material, minimizing any impact a fitted grille may have. Images of the grille are available in the gallery section.

Similar to real wood, GRC has its own characteristics. Each cabinet will be uniquely different due to the manufacturing process. Variations in shade and small pinholes in the cement may occur and are an expected part of the design. Concrete inherently has marks, swirls, patterns, and imperfections as a result of the casting and finishing process, features that make it both unique and appealing.

Technical Specifications of the Rega AYA Floorstanding Speaker