2. amps-preamps
  3. 149696-102538

Rogue audio RP-7 versus PS Audio BHK preamplifier

I have an old Rogue Audio Super Magnum 99 tube preamplifier that I will be replacing in the not too far future. I really liked the sound of the magnum 99 except for the tube hiss. It’s not audible when playing music but still bothers me, particularly when the volume is low. It also constructs the soundstage, an effect that is evident when I connect the external DAC directly to the amplifier. 

from what I read both of these models should be a significant improvement over the magnum 99. I am wondering if anyone who have heard them both has any opinions/thoughts on how they compare.


benjosef1
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,568 posts
 
I had a Rogue RP5 for 2 years and liked it very much.  It was dead quiet.  I wasn’t thrilled with the stock JJ tubes and once I rolled in 4 NOS Mullard tubes which I bought from uncle Kevvy, the sound was just fantastic.  It is a very well made preamp with many internal adjustments for the phono stage.   My only gripe was the cheesy plastic remote. I would have gladly paid $100-150 more for a nice aluminum one. 

I liked it it so much that it could have been my forever preamp and the ONLY reason I sold it was because I went to a McIntosh based system. 
alucard19
372 posts
 
Have you listened to the new Prima Luna EVO 400 preamp, I traded in my 2 year old DiaLogue Premium for the new EVO 400 and it's worth the extra $1,000.00 just call up uncle Kevvy and let him explainit to you then go out and listen to it and you will be able to judge for yourself.
plaw
90 posts
 
I auditioned the RP-7 for a weekend.  Superb!  It absolutely blew away the Parasound I had (I promptly sold it).  I returned the RP-7 when I found an LS27 used - which sounds fantastic, but I think the RP-7 sounded better to be quite honest.  I am happy with LS27 and service has been very responsive.  I have never auditioned the BHK stuff.  The prima luna stuff I have heard is MEH.
bigkidz
3,444 posts
 
@benjosef1 - I can fix the issue with  the Rogue and offer upgrades if you are interested.  I just finished two last week.
benjosef1 OP
11 posts
 
Thanks bigkidz. My mind is pretty set on replacing the super magnum 99 at this time. Although, I am curious about the reliability of Rogue. It worked fine for 10 years but in the past 3-5 years I had to return it 3 times for various malfunctions.

It's another factor on my mind when I consider the two replacement options - the RP-7 versus the BHK preamp from PS Audio
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