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  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
willgolf
939 posts
 
I had a Raven Reflection MK2 at around 68wpc with KT150 tubes in it.  It was probably the equivalent of a 200wpc SS.  It drove Sonus Faber Amati Tradition Homage Speakers with ease. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,046 posts
 
Charles my suggestion based on replacing the B and K amplifier.

There are many competent tube integrated as well. 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi @tomic601, 
I was acknowledging your " oz,  I'm pulling for you to weigh in with reality".
Looking forward to his A/B comparison,  should be insightful and fun.
Charles 
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kingbarbuda
515 posts
 
@millercarbon Agreed. Tube watts are definitely different than SS watts! I am enjoying the Boyuurange A50 Mk3 Psvane 300B tube integrated that Steve Guttenberg reviewed and recommended. This thing makes a nice soundstage with depth and imaging. It’s a bargain. Plus it puts out 7.6 wpc and drives my 89db Magico A3s with no problem. I have never had the volume knob past 12 o’clock. I am not sure I have even had it that far! This little amp has got me wondering if this Boyuurange can do this, what can a Raven Osprey do? 
sryeager
125 posts
 
Thanks for all of your input.  

XS137 - a couple months ago I talked to Musical Concepts/Design and they were doing B&K mods.

i just lept on a chance for an in home trial of a used Rogue Cronus Magnum II this afternoon, and raced up I-5 to snatch it.  At least I can experience tubes without making a purchase.  It’s hooked up, biased, and I’m starting to listen.  No hum or hiss.  Subs are running high level, and I might have to back them off a bit.  Certainly has as much power as the B&K’s 200W.  I haven’t listened enough for a verdict yet.
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