Rogue 66 or AES pre?

Hi David, The conversion went ok. I told him that you David "tube rush" refered me to him. When I was talking to him, he seemed distant at times. I then mentioned that I have been shopping around for either a 66 or 99 and trying to find the best deal. He asked the best deal I've received and then I told him. He just said that there was no way he could swing a deal because the Rogue equipment is in big demand. My best offer so far for the 99 Magnum lsr was $1849. and is apparently a 3 month old demo unit w/ nos tubes. Wow, what a deal $150. off full retail! Seems like you got a killer deal because you help with his business and are a friend.I appreciate the help though,thanks. I've since received a e-mail from a gentlemen that will sell his 3 month old 66 lsr for $850.. Sounded like a good deal to me. What do you think? Later on, what can I expect from a Magnum version of the 66 compared to the stock form? The dilema I've been in is, how much of a change for the better would the Rogue 66 be in my system? I see it this way, when I receive the 66 and if it works well, I've saved spending another 1k. that could be spent elsewhere! And if it doesn't work well, sell the 66 and look into a 99.

Brad-sorry about you being unable to negotiate a decent discount.I bought my 99 about 1 1/2 years ago and I guess the current demand is keeping the prices near retail.If I were you I would post a "wanted"for a used 99.The 66 is a very good preamp,the 99 a KILLER preamp.Wait for a used 99 to come along.I saw one a few weeks ago on audiogon for $1400.Get a 99 and invest another $100 or so in some smokin NOS tubes and you will have a top notch preamp.

I think I'll try the 66 first and if I don't like, turn around and sell. If I happen to like w/ my system, I'll get the magnum version. Right now, I'm really ready to get a different(especially tube) pre in my system. Hoping the 66 will work for me as I'd be saving $550.-1k. Crossing my fingers!!

Brad-excellent plan! I bet you end up keeping the 66 for a very long time.I saw a review in Audiomusings where the 66 was put up against the very popular and solid Stereophile class A Audible Illusions MOD 3A.To make a long story short,the reviewer preferred the 66 over the 3A
You have to keep us updated!! Good luck! Dave a.k.a. "Tube Rush"

I'm a bit late to the party but I just wanted to second the vote for the Rogue 66. I've had mine for a little over a year and it's a great preamp. Benefits from a tube roll, as stated above, but an exellent preamp even with stock tubes. Terrific bang for the buck. I much prefer it to the AI pre. Good luck!