British turntable specialist, Rega, has surprised us by launching its Aya floorstanding loudspeakers. This 2.5-way, band pass design is apparently the result of over ten years of research and development and now joins the Kyte standmounters (used in Rega System One) in the brand's loudspeaker line-up.

Reacting to the rising cost of the more traditional MDF cabinets with real wood veneers, Rega has instead opted for glass-reinforced cement (GRC) for the Aya's cabinet material.

While Rega's Aya might not be the first loudspeaker to feature cement as part of its cabinet make-up, as the material should offer a rigid enclosure. However, the downside to some other cement cabinets is you might have to have some sturdy flooring as their weight could render them impractical.

However, Rega tells us that, thanks to the glass fibres in GRC, the resulting weight of the speakers is reduced to 14.1kg each while still benefitting from – and even “increasing” – the initial structural integrity. Furthermore, Rega states, “This technique creates the perfect loudspeaker enclosure that enhances performance whilst offering exceptional value for money.”

The 2.5-way Aya also features a “band pass” acoustic filter within its 87.1 x 25.8 x 21.5cm (HxWxD) enclosure design alongside a front port. The clever enclosure is outfitted with Rega's ZRR tweeter, a 5-inch (12.7cm) MX-125 bass/mid driver, and a 7-inch (17.8cm) RR7.8 bass driver. Rega says the Aya have a sensitivity of 89.5db into 6 ohms.

The Rega Aya speakers are available in the UK for £1,499 in a steel grey finish. As part of Rega's sustainability initiative, the Aya floorstanders don't come with grilles, but they are available as an optional extra, costing £80 per pair.

Local pricing and availability has not yet been confirmed.

Visit Rega for more information