Rega Atlas MK2
Overview
Rega has been manufacturing tonearms since 1983. After repeatedly using third-party cartridge scales in its own production workshops, the Southend-on-Sea brand eventually found them unreliable and too fragile. Born from this frustration, the Atlas is the tool Rega initially designed for its own needs. This second version extends the measurement range from 3 to 10 grams and improves sensor stability.
An industrial-grade sensor in a compact enclosure
At the heart of the Atlas MK2 is a full-bridge load cell of the shear beam type. This type of sensor, more expensive than the piezoelectric sensors used in entry-level scales, offers better linearity across the entire measurement range. Claimed accuracy is ± 0.01 gram, with a usable range of 0.5 to 10 grams and an allowable overload of 20 grams.
The sensor incorporates thermal compensation. In practical terms, variations in ambient temperature alter the resistance of the strain gauges and can distort the measurement. The Atlas circuit automatically corrects these drifts, ensuring consistent results regardless of the season or the temperature of the listening room. A dedicated amplification circuit processes the signal before display.
Why the MK2’s extended range matters
The original Atlas went up to 3 grams. This is sufficient for most common MM cartridges, whose tracking force is between 1.5 and 2.5 grams. But some high-end MC cartridges, as well as a few vintage models, require higher tracking forces: 3, or even 4 grams and beyond. With a range extended to 10 grams, the MK2 covers virtually all cartridges on the market, including the most unusual models.
The sensor’s stability and sensitivity have also been reworked compared with the first version. Rega does not detail the exact nature of the modifications made to the circuit, but the stated objective is clear: more stable and more reproducible measurements over time.
Ergonomics designed for repeatability
The Atlas MK2’s design prioritizes measurement consistency. The aluminium front guard, which also serves as an alignment guide, rests against the edge of the turntable platter. The stylus lands in the same place on the receiver every time. It is this mechanical repeatability that makes adjustments to within one hundredth of a gram truly usable: a precise measurement only makes sense if it can be reproduced.
Operation is simple. Remove the platter mat, set the anti-skating to zero, place the Atlas on the platter and align the curved edge of the front guard with the edge of the platter. Switch on the device, reset the display to zero, then lower the tonearm. After around three seconds of stabilisation, the tracking force appears on the screen. The device enters standby after 45 seconds of inactivity and is reactivated by pressing the top button.
Documentation
Technical characteristics
Technical specifications
- Type: electronic tracking force gauge for turntable
- Accuracy: ± 0.01 g
- Measuring range: 0.5 g – 10 g
- Maximum overload: 20 g
- Power supply: 9 V battery (PP3)
- Sensor: full bridge loadcell (shear beam)
- Thermal temperature compensation
- Compatibility: cartridges up to 10 g
Design and manufacturing
- Durable aluminum housing
- Robust construction resistant to shocks and wear
- Integrated precision electronics
- High-stability amplification circuit
- High-stability load sensor (loadcell)
- Integrated mechanical sensor protection
- Front protection for cartridge alignment
- Manufactured and assembled in the United Kingdom
Features
- Ultra-precise tracking force measurement
- Fine adjustment to two decimal places
- Stable and repeatable calibration
- Measurement always taken at the same point for maximum reliability
- Simple interface without complex settings
Performance and key strengths
- Extreme accuracy of ± 0.01 g
- Reliable and repeatable measurement
- Designed for professional and audiophile use
Areas of use
- Adjustment of audiophile turntables
- Optimization of MM and MC phono cartridges
- Installation of high-fidelity analog systems
- Professional use: technicians, record stores, studios
User benefits
- Improves the sound quality of the vinyl system
- Protects records and the cartridge against incorrect tracking pressure
- Optimizes groove tracking
- Reduces mechanical wear
- Enables quick and precise adjustment
Box contents
- 1 × Rega Atlas Tracking Force Gauge MK2
- Multilingual user documentation
Frequently asked questions
Does the Atlas MK2 work with all turntables?
Yes. It sits directly on the platter, regardless of the turntable or tonearm manufacturer. The curved front guard fits the edge of most standard circular platters. It works with both MM and MC cartridges, as long as the tracking force remains within the 0.5 to 10 gram range.
Should the Atlas MK2 be recalibrated before each use?
Simply reset the display to zero (tare) once the device is positioned on the platform. The Atlas MK2 does not require calibration with a reference weight: the load cell retains its factory calibration over time.
Can the Atlas MK2 be used with the platter mat in place?
No. Rega recommends removing the mat (felt, cork, or otherwise) before placing the Atlas on the bare platter. The mat would alter the measurement height and could introduce instability.
Why does tracking force affect sound quality?
Tracking force that is too low causes poor groove tracking: distortion, skipping, and premature record wear. Excessive force presses the stylus into the groove, accelerating wear on both the tip and the vinyl and compressing dynamics. Precise adjustment, to within one hundredth of a gram, makes it possible to find the point at which groove tracking, track stability, and record preservation are at their best.
Does the Atlas MK2 display measurements in grams only?
Yes, the display is in grams, with two decimal places. This is the standard unit used by cartridge manufacturers to indicate the recommended tracking force.
