2. amps-preamps
  3. 125094-1644

The best separates between $2500-3000. Moving on from the original Rogue Sphinx Intg..

I have decided  NOT to upgrade the original  Rogue Sphinx integrated amp to its new version.  Therefore, I would humbly ask for recommendations for  the best separates in the $2500-3000 range. I would prefer the same brand pre-amp and power amp, but will consider mixed brands.

My requirements are basic: at least 150-175 RMS; a simple "quality" remote with a mute switch and smoothly calibrated volume control.  Pre-amp Out ( optional) feature;.  A good headphone stage;  A good to VG phono stage, BUT  CAN forego in favor of a good  phono box.. .

I DON'T WANT OR NEED:  an onboard DAC for streaming audio files  ; processor loops, or subwoofer inputs and outputs HT inputs and outputs;  class D amp

Because of the plethora of new pre-amps with the features I don't want, I might consider older "quality" pre-amps without the bells and whistles. However, I AM NOT interested in  so called   "upgraded" vintage  or refurbished" crap from 20-30 years ago. I recently got burned on a refurbished and marginally upgraded turntable. My mistake.  Thank you for your advice 

  

sunnyjim
sbrownnw
699 posts
 
Try to find the following Audio Refinement (designed by YBA) separates used:

- Audio Refinement Pre5 (great imaging, warmish sound and a lot of inputs plus remote)
- Audio Refinement Multi 2, 3 or 5 (125 wpc 8 ohms / 200 wpc 4 ohms and matches very well with the Pre5)

Very musical combo that I use today and beat out a Rogue Cronus Magnum.
mofojo
2,300 posts
 
I used to own the Sphinx v.1 as well. I thought it was just ok. I liked the pre section a lot more than the power section. 
Found a 3 year old Odyssey Stratos Extreme off ebay for $800 and a used Jolida Fusion preamp for another $800. To put it politely to me it made the Sphinx sound small lifeless and weak. Awesome combo to my ears. I also own an integrated 100wx2 tube amp using KT120 tubes. Although it has it's own set of virtues I would take the Jolida/ Odyssey combo overall any day of the week. It's smooth, fast, tonally accurate "IMO", and slams hard with no fatigue.
bigboltz
55 posts
 
Quicksilver Audio
starboard
25 posts
 
Dehavilland Ultraverve 3 Preamp. $2500 to $3000.......you cant go wrong with this well built and great sounding tube pre. Big tone, strong bass and well detailed.
audioconnection
1,271 posts
 
  ((( My current speakers are Golden Ear Technology 7's, but I am considering for the future, the new Magneplanar .7. which some members claim sound better than the Maggie 1.7r)))
 I would suggest you try to listen with your Sphinx with the Magnepan .7
We have both new and prior Rogue Sphinx units working nicely with the .7s with Cardas.
Best
 JohnnyR
 
 
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