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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
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....
williewonka
3,082 posts
 
I'm with the guys above that mentioned replacing the cables.

The right Cables will make a huge improvement to any system and without great cables you are not hearing the best possible performance from your components.

I have spent the last 6 years auditioning some very good cables and designing my own DIY cables and have been amazed at the continual improvements I have observed from comparatively simple cable upgrade, so I believe Cables are the best starting place for any upgrade venture

Companies like InAkustic or Nordost make some very fine cables that will improve most any system - there are other companies, but these two companies are what I consider to be leaders in cable architecture/geometry, which is key to cable performance 

If you are interested in a DIY approach then read this current Agon thread...
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/duelund-conversion-to-diy-helix-geometry-cabling

There are postings from some very seasoned Audiogon members.

Regards - Steve 
paulgardner OP
183 posts
 
@williewonka thanks for the post. I have ordered what I’m sure many people here will consider to be an entry lever power cable. I went with the $60 BLE  16mm (10ga.) Hi-End Rhodium Plated Power Cable that a couple people recommended earlier in this thread. I’m sure I will try something from Nordost next. Hopefully the cable I ordered will be better than the stock power cable. We will see! Thanks and yes I agree, lots of great info here. This is a very helpful community. Much appreciated! 
Paul
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