2. amps-preamps
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Upgrading the "original " Rogue Sphinx integrated amp to the new version 2 (v-2)??

I have the original Rogue "Sphinx" integrated amp which was introduced approx. 4 years ago. There are upgrades now available for $400.00 plus round trip shipping. The upgrades focus on headphone output level;  increasing output level of phono stage, and general noise floor reduction,  Has any original  Rogue. Sphinx owner had these upgrades done?? and is it WORTH IT, THAT IS, demonstrates a noticeable improvement in sound quality. especially noise floor

I ask because the upgrades with  shipping will cost $600 from Rogue's factory in Pennsylvania to the West Coast ( they will not pay for return shipping).  It is a nice integrated amp, but no classic. I have considered taking that $600 and adding maybe $1100, and buying something new or used mint that is superior in sound quality for around $1800-$2000. Must have a excellent phono stage that can do both MM/MC, and be 100-150 RMS.   All suggestions and recommendation are welcomed.   Thank you

sunnyjim
mesch
3,480 posts
 
If one uses the Sphinx as a preamp, does it serve as an all tube unit? If so I might be inclined to try that approach,driving a SS amp and keeping the Sphinx a while longer with little additional depreciation. 

That said, regarding the original question as to the value of the version 2 over the original, I believe one would have to compare within their own system, given that the sonic signature of both units would likely be similar. Still think a lot of the perceived value in the V2 would depend on the need for the addition gain in the headphone amp and the phonostage.


sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 

Mesch, And as you noted, the need for upgrade would be based on the addition in the headphone and phono stage.   That is convenient plus the lower noise floor, but not exactly an improvement in sound. Unless, we want to argue that a lower noise will make a "big difference" in the overall sound. However, I don't believe the upgrades are worth  $500 which includes  shipping


BTW, for those who asked before or confirmed the feature, the output on the Rogue v1 is solely for a subwoofer and has NO application as a pre-amp out.  

devilboy
1,176 posts
 
I had the original and didn’t care for the sound. Plus, it malfunctioned badly. I may have had a lemon, who knows.
If I were you, for the money you’re talking, I’d try the Job INTegrated.
It replaced $10,000 worth of stuff in my system and sounds just as good and in some ways, better.
devilboy
1,176 posts
 
Another thing, the Clones 25i I had smoked the sphinx in truthful tone and natural sound. I would take that over the sphinx in a heartbeat.
But that’s me. And that's half the price of the Job, and a fraction of the price of the sphinx.
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
To  Devilboy:  God bless, but I have never heard of either of these companies. Do you think they will still be in business in 5 years??   But, I will check them out on AG's directory.
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