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Supratek or Rogue?

I will be upgrading my system from a Rogue Cronus Magnum integrated amp to a pair of the Rogue M-180 monoblocks and a separate preamp. My budget for the preamp is about $2500 so the obvious contender is the Rogue 99 line stage. However, I have recently found out about Supratek and their Chardonnay line stage. The Chardonnay is absolutely gorgeous and 6 Moons gave it a rave review a while ago. The company has a tremendous reputation and following among audiophiles as well. One of the biggest cons for me is the fact that Supratek has no dealer support in the US (or anywhere else for that matter), and if something goes wrong, you're pretty much on your own. Also, the wait time is at least 2 months, if not 6. I'd like to hear your opinions on the matter and see what you would do if faced with this dilemma.

The rest of my system: VPI Classic turntable, Lyra Delos cartridge, Camelot Technology Lancelot phono preamp, Silverline Audio SR-17.5 speakers.

Thank you.
actusreus
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I owned a Supratek Grange some years back and it was awesome. It did, however, arrive DOA due to a cold solder joint that was easily fixed. Your points about service and repair are important.

That being said, it may not be a bad idea to consider purchasing an inexpensive linestage as a back up should you decide on the Chardonnay. As they say, sh** happens.

IMO
jeffga
89 posts
 
I would buy a Dodd Battery preamp.... my experience is that it will sound better than both the Rogue & Supratek. I have owned all three at different times. Just my opinion. The Audio Valve Eklipse and Aesthetix Calypso are also superior in sonics...again, my experience and opinion (used prices should keep all 3 of my recommendations in your budget),,,FWIW. If you can spend $1k more, get a TRL Dude (new).
ait
480 posts
 
I own a Chenin (Chardonnay plus phono) which I have extensively modded. These preamps are easy to mod due to their point to point wiring. I converted to single 2C22 tubes to replace the series 6SN7s, changed the anode load from resistor to cascoded CCS, changed the cathode bias from bypassed resistor to Schottky diodes, swapped the output caps to 1uF Duelund Cast, swapped the output transformers to Lundahl LL1674, changed the electrolytics in the power supply to Solen PP caps, and bypassed the mute and transformer loading switches. I use a Mullard GZ33 rectifier and Sovtek KT66 regulators.

The preamp sounds awesome now - fast, clear, dynamic, and very musical. I wouldn't swap it for any other preamp I have ever heard.

My point is that as good as it sounded stock, you can take it to a much higher level with some mods. So I was able to start off at a relatively low entry price and progressively move it up the preamp food chain with just some parts and a soldering iron. If you are in the NJ area, PM me and you can stop by for a listen.
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
The Supratek is a classic.There are a couple of talented individuals in the US who can diagnose and repair if the need arises,so I wouldn't let service concerns impact your decision.
audioconnection
1,271 posts
 
You are asking a question that may be answered in a way not serving your best interest.
There are many pre amps out there.
Mark at rogue engineered the M180s to work well with the Rogue 99 pre amp.
You may find many good looking pre amps winning over the harts of the well intended some making the choice on looks first.
Most are eager to recommend their favorite pre amp in their system to you.
But I would ask how many have actully heard the Rogue 180s and Abed a Rogue 99 up against pre amp b in that system?
and then what happened.
Best Johnnyr
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