Aesthetix Rhea - Manual (Page 2)

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Rhea Phono Stage. The Rhea is a groundbreaking audio
component which combines sonic quality, innovative features and build quality with
lineage directly traceable to the reference Io phono stage. Rhea contains solid state
circuitry but all of its amplification is achieved using vacuum tubes, with enough gain for
the lowest output moving coils.
Rhea’s advanced microprocessor-based control circuitry is fully inactive when not in use
i.e. when not receiving a command from the user, resulting in no ill effects on sound
quality. Each of its three inputs can be selected on the front panel, and each input can
have its own gain and loading setting. Unique among any audio product, the Rhea
contains a built in demagnetizer which allows the user to demagnetize any time with just
the touch of a button.
The massive power supply consists of a high voltage transformer, heater transformer, and
high voltage choke. All of the magnetics are shielded by a stainless steel transformer
cover that also performs double duty as the structural truss. The high voltage power
supply is regulated with a discrete transistor based regulator. The low voltage solid state
power supplies are discretely regulated.
Only the highest quality components are used in the Rhea, including Roederstein
resistors, RelCap film capacitors, Mercury Magnetics transformers and Nichicon audio
grade electrolytic capacitors.
We hope you enjoy many years of music using the Rhea phonostage.
PLACEMENT
Rhea should be located away from possible sources of hum such as power cords, power
transformers and the like.
Ventilation is critical for reliability. It should not be located on top of any heat source
such as a power amplifier. If it is positioned within an enclosed space then fans may be
warranted. All air vents must remain unobstructed. A minimum of 4 inches of space
above Rhea is required.
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