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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
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
 
 
meerzistar
232 posts
 
You can find very good deals on Exposure amps, 2010S2, but your looking for more power so I will suggest the 3010S3, class A preamps and mono blocks or dual channel power amps to back them up. No frills, nothing but the music. I wont say you will have to spend a lot to better them. That may or may not be true. Try to better them first. Thats where the answer will be found.  
avanti1960
1,532 posts
 
The Pharaoh sounds much better than the Sphinx.  I could not tolerate the edge to the Sphinx sound.  
The Pharaoh has gobs of power and just does not stop.  The bass drive and control is extreme.  
buellrider97's avatar
buellrider97
434 posts
 
Hi , I purchased a Rogue RP-1. I removed the JJ 12AU7's (crap), and picked up NOS Mullard, RCA black plates and Telefunken Tecktronix . The Telle's are great and for the price the RCA's are nice . The headphone out is not tube , but it  is nice with quality headphones . I'm running a low powered SET, but am considering a Bryston 4BSST2, or the new one . I will have to run unbalanced , as the RP-1 , only comes that way . I have played with a Modwright KWI 200 and a Bryston . They are both high for your budget . The Bryston would make your Maggie's sing . The Rogue is mm/mc compatible too . Happy listening , Mike.
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