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Dedicated Vinyl system next upgrade?

Hi. I love my system. I really do. I love vinyl and listen to vinyl nearly exclusively via “appointment listening”. I do Sometimes stream and listen while I walk or while working but I love just sitting and listening to my stereo. I believe I’ve arrived regarding finally achieving a great set up and have experienced that vinyl “magic” that audiophiles obsess over. I understand that limitations exist and a great stereo will reveal the quality of a recording - good or bad. The law a diminishing returns regarding  upgrading is something I’m mindful of. I don’t have endless funds to spend on upgrades. My question is - what should I consider upgrading next? Should I ditch the integrated amp considering I’m using an external phono stage? Or should I go with a better integrated amp? Or should I look at a better cartridge? Do I upgrade my turntable or just the tonearm? Do I upgrade the power cable on my amp? 
Here’s what I’m currently working with - and thanks for your thoughts/suggestions! 

Clear Audio Concept Turntable
W/ Hana SL cartridge 

Herron Audio VTPH-2a Phono Stage

Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II integrated power amplifier 

Kimber Kable speaker wire and interconnects (I forget which model - an entry lever set - nothing crazy) 

Bowers and Wilkins 805 D3 stand mount loud speakers

Set of two stereo REL S/510 subs

paulgardner
paulgardner OP
183 posts
 
@thehorn thanks for the post! 
Would upgrading the capacitors require me sending the amp in or is that something I could do on my own?

Regarding the tubes - I have already rolled the small tubes to a Brimer NOS and some Gold Lions. These replaced the stock JJs. I have not touched the larger power tubes. I’ve been told those don’t affect the sound as much as the small tubes, more specifically the preamp tube. Thoughts?
Thanks so much!
Paul
drewmb1's avatar
drewmb1
67 posts
 
Regarding the isolation base, buy with the option to return if not pleased
thehorn
111 posts
 
Paul wrote: Would upgrading the capacitors require me sending the amp in or is that something I could do on my own?

I don’t know Paul. If you’re an electronics Tech and know your way around a sodering gun, built Heath Kits, and are in the Instrumentation Dept at work, I’d say ya. Other wise I’d look around for a VERT REPUTABLE Tech.

Good move on the tubes, I believe that Amp uses 1 12Au7, 2 12Ax7’s, and KT88, or KT120 power tubes. I also believe Tung-sol is the only company that makes Kt120’s, so that limits that, but I could be wrong.

There’s now a KT150, and I have to admit I don’t know if you can use them in your Rogue (check with Rogue), or if they’re grainy. But the KT150 "should" give your amp more slam, the caps more grace.

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glissando
35 posts
 
Would upgrading the capacitors require me sending the amp in or is that something I could do on my own?
If you're asking then I'd suggest you're not qualified to do the upgrade. It's something you could research and do or you could just find a tech in your area. Accidentally shorting a couple of fully charge power Caps can be dangerous the you and the amp.
IF you're seriously considering this why not contact Mark and ask him if he's offering any updates to your amp. He's a pretty knowledgeable guy.

https://www.dagogo.com/an-interview-with-mark-obrien-of-rogue-audio/

http://rogueaudio.com/FAQ.htm


jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
@paulgardner

Would upgrading the capacitors require me sending the amp in or is that something I could do on my own?

+1000

if you are asking this question, you already know the answer....
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