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
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Agree yogiboy, particularly from 15 feet away. Certainly can’t generalized about tube amplifiers and hum. I have 3 tube power amplifiers and all are quiet. I’d give Raven a call and let them provide guidance before sending the amplifier back..
Charles
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
13,022 posts
 
A lowly RM.9
oz I think I have misjudged you
hoping the Raven is all that you dream
jim
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62 OP
3,223 posts
 
@tomic601 I have owned three RM9s (owned one twice) and one RM9 II. I can say with certainty it is one great design.


robertcropdust
20 posts
 
I spoke with Raven a few days after receiving the amp and they suggested the amp might have gotten damaged. I did notice the hum came down in volume a couple days latter but a crackle started on the right channel. I updated Raven and questioned them about a possible bad tube or tubes but I have not been contacted back yet for further troubleshooting. I was hoping to avoid all the shipping fees and maybe get lucky with a easy fix. I bought new so I wouldn’t have to tinker to much but I guess I’m learning a lot from all you guys. I have a feeling this will be a fun expensive addiction:) Thanks. 
falconquest's avatar
falconquest
1,108 posts
 
FYI, to anyone interested. There is a very nice Blackhawk that was just listed on that other audio mart site.
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