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Alternatives to Rogue Stereo 100

I've been thinking about adding a tube component to my heretofore all SS system.  I've got the opportunity to pick up a new Rogue Stereo 100 power amp for about $1000 off it's normal $3495.  I'm familiar with its reputation, and I'm wondering if there is anything else in that price range ($2500) I should be considering.  I've got an Ayre pre and PMC TB2i speakers, and my sources are VPI turntable and Mytek DAC for all things digital.  PMC's are 90 db sensitivity.  Currently running a Primare SS amp, but I also have an Aragon 8008MKII.  Between the Ayre and the PMCs, my system is probably a little lean, and I'd like to hear what a good tube amp will do.  Mostly classical and acoustic and "audiophile" stuff on this system.  Save the heavy stuff for downstairs.  Appreciate any feedback.
  
Ag insider logo xs@2xeduceus
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educeus OP
26 posts
 
So, lowrider57, you're saying that I need tubes in both pre and power section to get true tubiness, and that putting a Rogue after my Ayre will keep my system fairly neutral...as it is now with a solid state amp?
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
No, I’m saying that the Rogue house sound is not a warm and classic tube sound when compared to brands like McIntosh or PrimaLuna. Your post sounded like you are looking for a "tubey" sounding amp, something warm and not lean.

Rogue is accurate and neutral, but you can always roll in some warmer tubes.
I’m stressing the point that their amps provide pleasant sonics, but they are more neutral than warm. But you will get a full range tube sound from the 100 amp.
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educeus OP
26 posts
 
Understood.  PrimaLuna was definitely on my short list.  Along with Cayin, Cary, Quicksilver and Line Magnetic.  I like the idea of American made gear...which probably pointed me to Rogue in the first place.
mac48025's avatar
mac48025
672 posts
 
You might want to check out Raven Audio. I'm loving their Blackhawk integrated amp and switched the power tubes to RCA black plates to get an even warmer sound. It's only rated at 20 WPC but seems much more powerful and drove some Magnapan 1.7i's with ease. Like you I was looking to add a warmer tube sound and while I enjoyed the Odyssey Candela with Kismet Monoblocks, the Raven integrated amp is giving me the tube sound I enjoy with all the dynamics and revealing sound I could ask for. Raven is great to deal with and their made in the USA products. Good luck in your search. 
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educeus OP
26 posts
 
Thanks, mac48025.  The Raven stuff looks great.  I thought about an integrated...but I've got real money invested in the Ayre, and I'd like to keep it in the chain.  It's great to learn about American companies making solid audio gear at "reasonable" prices.  Unfortunately the power amps at Raven are a bit above my budget right now.  Trying to stay around the $2500 mark.  
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