2. amps-preamps
  3. 123150-541

Opinions Needed!

Here is the scenario: my secondary system consists of a Rogue Cronus Magnum 100wpc tube integrated amp, a pair of Golden Ear Triton Two speakers, a Sony HAPZ1ES Music Server, a Magnum Dynalab MD90 Tuner and a Sony SCD777ES SACD player. I also have all the audiophile approved connectors, power cords and power conditioners. I like the sound of this system very much, but I am not too thrilled with the bass control of the amp to speakers.

I listen to this system at least 8 hours a day, every day of the year. In the 1 1/2 years of ownership of the tube integrated, I have re-tubed the amp twice to the tune of 450.00 each time(some nos tubes and all purchased from Upscale Audio). The cost of the tubes is killing me!

I have been thinking of replacing the Cronus Magnum with a Parasound Halo Integrated Amp which is solid state and 160wpc. I like the idea of tone controls and the generous amount of inputs on the Halo and all the reviews have been glowing. I also like the idea of the built in ESS Dac as my Sony SACD player is getting long in the tooth and could benefit from the newer dac. I am driving to the closest dealer this coming Saturday to audition one and may be bringing one home with me.

If it weren't for the price of re-tubing, I would keep the Cronus Magnum as I can live with the bass not being as controlled as I would like. I think the Halo will be better able to control the bass. My question is, good move or bad move? I know this is a sideways step, but I really can't afford to keep buying tubes!

I doubt I will sell the Cronus Magnum, my plan is to rotate it in and out of the system when I need my tube fix.

Thoughts?

Thanks

stereo5
jond's avatar
jond
6,056 posts
 
As someone said you should not be having to replace the small signal tubes, the 12ax7 and 12au7's twice a year, or even once a year for that matter. Small signal tubes should last a very long time, my own amp uses 3 6SN7's up front, different amp and tube type but still I've had the same 3 tubes in my amp for going on 7 years. You should be able to at least get 2-3 years out of yours, do you have access to a tube tester. Check to see how used up your tubes really are you may find you have a ton of spares on hand now.
samzx12
1,232 posts
 
I agree and not sure why you have to replace tubes so often. Is your bias set properly?  Kevin may charge a little more for his tubes but you can rest assured they are primo tubes as they have been carefully selected, matched and burned in. That is a great piece of mind.
almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Two thoughts regarding the tube life you have been experiencing:

1)If possible, check your line voltage with a **good quality** multimeter. If it is too high it could conceivably be shortening the life of the tubes. If it is out of spec (120 +/- 6 volts in the USA) the power company should take corrective action.  If it is near the upper limit of that range but not out of spec, you may want to consider purchasing a power regenerator rather than (or in addition to) a new amplifier.

2)I wonder if the cryo process to which most of the tubes have been subjected may be reducing their longevity. Not trying to start a debate; I honestly have no knowledge of the answer.

Regards,
-- Al

samzx12
1,232 posts
 
Al always brings up good points and gives great advice.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,464 posts
 
stereo5-

after the demo, report back your listening thoughts/impressions.
Whom is your nearest dealer/retailer?

Happy Listening!
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