2. amps-preamps
  3. 159556-68265

Rogue RP-7 vs MicroZotl. Reference

Need a pre to go with a pair of Odyssey Kismet Reference Monos that Klaus just upgraded.  I currently use a Cary DMS 600 streamer/dac and it really sounds good but usually it’s played at -30 to -20 so probably losing a little resolution ( 3 volts out so the scale goes to +8)
I am integrating a swarm sub system w/2 mono block Dayton 1,000 watt  amps. So need something with at least two unbalanced outs. I had a MicroZotl2.0S but it was a little noisy and too much gain and could never get the volume quite right in my previous room  Also had a MODWRIGHT anniversary pre and Odyssey candela prior.  Tubes are not a must but kinda like them paired with SS amps.  Speakers are Persona 5 ‘s which can be on the brighter side of neutral if not paired well   Budget is 3k   Previously owned is fine. Thanks for the input, I know there is a lot out there. Trying to get something that is current model so can sell at a reasonable loss if it doesn’t work out. 
128x128benzman
noble100's avatar
noble100
2,419 posts
 
Hello big_greg,

     I remember we've had good discussions previously on other threads about the  iTube2 and our mutual use of the Audio Kinesis Swarm DBA system but I forgot the details of your setup.
     I know the  iTube2 is a tube buffer stage but I don't recall exactly why and how you incorporate it into your system.  For benzman and my benefit, could you give a short description again of how and why you utilize it?  
     I was thinking benzman would be able to incorporate his Swarm system simply by connecting it through the Ls 100's left + right unbalanced rca tape outputs, either with or without a couple of rca connector splitters.
     Lastly, I know the LS100 has been discontinued.  I was wondering your opinion on whether he should seek out and buy a used model in very good condition or buy a new version of its replacement model preamp?

Thanks,
   Tim
     
big_greg
6,623 posts
 
Tim,

I am running two interconnects (R / L) from the Main 2 output of the LS 100 to the iTube2. I have two splitters coming out of the iTube2 that go to the 4 subs.

My reason for doing that was reading about the possibility of impedance mismatches with the preamp and subs. I was running all 4 subs from the LS100 with no issues, but thought it would be a relatively inexpensive way to eliminate that potential issue. It certainly hasn't been detrimental and it gives me the option to easily reduce or turn off the volume of the subs if I want to. There's no detectable difference in sound quality (to my ears).

If you can find a good deal on a pre-owned LS 100, I highly recommend it.  I like the sound of the 6SN7 tubes.
melm
1,074 posts
 
I scored a used Rogue RP-7 a couple of months ago and it has lifted the SQ of my system a good many steps beyond an outstanding SS preamp. All over, but particularly at the low end--it has a very substantial power supply beyond what I have seen in other high end preamps. That never hurts..

Extremely flexible for the present and the future. Step attenuators means you can use the balance control without compromising SQ--and I do often, just because it's there, to dial in sound stage. It has extremely small volume steps. Also, two pair of XLR outputs. one of which I really need and 2 pair of XLR inputs, one of which I need. Plus a bunch of RCA ins and outs.

I bought a pair of Mullard/Hammond tubes to dial in the sound I want. It seems that rolling two of the 4 tubes is all you have to do.  The unit has microprocessor control of turn on/off presumably to help tube life.

There are lots of great preamps out there. Just my $.02..
benzman's avatar
benzman OP
407 posts
 
Thanks for the .02 cents. I just never heard one   Great reviews though and it does check the boxes. 
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
974 posts
 
I have an RP-1 with Mullards fronting a Class D power.  I like the RP.
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