2. amps-preamps
  3. 165322-4660

Raven Audio Nighthawk

So the scuttlbutt on the Raven integrated amps is pretty good. But just how good are they? Are they good when compared to other comparably priced tube integrateds? Or are they better than some heavy hitters?

I currently have a NOSvalves ST-45 amp paired with a Don Sachs Model 2 (latest version) preamp and I am extremely happy with this pairing. With that said, I guess there is nothing really that I'm looking to improve. But since we all know how this game goes, I just wonder how much better (or not) the Blackhawk III would be. Consolidating two pieces down to one chasis is an attractive idea too.

I would love to hear from you if you own a Nighthawk or Blackhawk or have auditioned one against something else. I know they offer a 45 day trial period, but from my calculations if I don't like it it will cost me close to 400.00 out of pocket once the dust settles. So I'd like to go into this with a warm fuzzy that it's pretty darn good.

Oz



128x128ozzy62
facten
2,885 posts
 
Looks like from the Raven web pages and manual , each of the three versions run 12AT7 & 12AU7 preamp tubes so in that regard NOS is not an option solely for Osprey. The power tubes are 6L6GC which again one would expect the same NOS tubes, if desired ,would be an option in all 3; that is unless the Osprey requires the 7518A variant of the 6L6GC . The Osprey comes with the 7518A variant. The Osprey is autobias, the others are self bias
allears4u
149 posts
 
Millercarbon has caught me at it again...I stand accused of hyperbole! (All in good humour) May I really be honest with you? The Blackhawk is really Waaayyyyy better. Since I've owned both the Nighthawk and Blackhawk I should know! The tone and timbre of the Blackhawk is stunningly beyond Nighthawk. I submit the following experience as evidence.  We've all experienced when a new piece of kit takes the sound quality up a notch where maybe every other piece of media sounds different/better. So far, this upgrade has transformed the quality on EVERY piece This is waaayyy different. I am now eagerly literally going through my entire LP and CD collection (will take a while) and relistening to everything. Each LP and CD (so far) have revealed major improvements. Many of my LP's are not the best recordings, but the Blackhawk has caused me to pull them out and relive afresh old friends in an amazing surprising way. I have yet to be disappointed! Even Antonino Carlos Jobin LP's have thrilled again.   
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62 OP
3,223 posts
 
@robertcropdust I look forward to hearing your opinion.

Oz



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