Ddelisle911
First, the Romulus has a recommended break-in of 400 hours, but after the 50-hour mark (of playing), mine opened up and started to shine. First, the sound is rich and full (a bit more so than my analog). I would not say it is 'phat', but it leans in that direction (with the factory tubes). Overall sonics are very pleasing, and it does sound remarkably analog in its reproducton (no hint of digital sonic traits). Second, instruments are reproduced faithfully (more easily said than done in many systems). Piano sounds like piano; saxophone sounds like sax; cymbals sound like cymbals. Those instruments are tests for me. Next, imaging is exemplary. Huge, wide and deep soundstage, with good placement of images (although not pinpoint). Here is where I proceed with caution, as these categories are picky, delicate, subjective and my unit is still not fully broken-in. And, I strongly suspect that swapping with NOS tubes would change or eliminate any concerns (but I have not tried that yet until full break-in).... My analog rig and the rest of my system are so very good that these items only present themselves with repeated, critical A/B listening.......Macrodynamics are very good (but not a 10). But they are realistic, and I have heard digital rigs that do rate a 10 in dynamics, but they are over the top and are not realistic. Microdynamics are excellent(but not a 10). Air and space between instruments are also quite good (but not a 10). Now, please understand that these are very, very picky points which would definitely change with different tubes. Even if they remained, the Romulus would still be my choice, as it is sooooo nice to hear playing. It is only that the rest of my system is so on-target that these minor things are noticed IF I listen for them! I hope to expand on these preliminary results in a few months and after trying some NOS tubes. This is just my attempt to help you make your decision.
My System: Tyler Woodmere speakers; CODA 15.0 Amp; Purity Audio Designs Ultra GT Preamp; SOTA Cosmos Vacuum TT; Graham Phantom Supreme Tonearm; ZYX Universe Cartridge; CODA 06P Phono Preamp; Purist Proteus Provectus Tonearm Cable; Purist Venustas Interconnects and Speaker Wires.
