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I've narrowed it down...

So my first venture into tube equipment will be an integrated amp based on the recommendations of this fine group of enthusiasts. I have narrowed the field to the Rogue Audio Tempest III, Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum, the Cayin H-80 and Cary SLI-80.

All of this is based on what I have read and what fits in my budget. The Cary is a little over but for something I think I'll have for a lifetime I'm willing to go a little over...

I will be driving B&W 602S3's until more $$$ are available for something else.

My intent is to listen to vinyl then maybe venture into CD's or digital music. Any feedback or suggestions are appreciated.

Going somewhere to listen to any of these is not an option for me, and room size is undetermined as I am in the process of moving.

Thanks.
botit
goldprintaudio's avatar
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goldprintaudio
502 posts
 
I'm a dealer for both Rogue and Cary. The Rogue and Cary pieces are each very nice integrateds that are very flexible but certainly have different sonic characteristics b/t the brands.

Do you have any particular questions on them?

As you probably already know, the Cronus Magnum will have an on-board phono stage where as the other 2 will require a phono stage purchase.

Taylor
www.goldprintaudio.com
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Mike makes a good point.I prefer tube amplifiers, BUT be certain your speakers will be 'compatible' or you`ll be disappointed and likely blame the tube amp.
unsound
7,329 posts
 
I agree with Mike, B&W's seem to work better with ss.
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
"for something I think I'll have for a lifetime"

I have told myself this before but it did not happen...

The first thing I thought when I read your post is that the amps may not suit the speakers, being a tube guy myself I would buy one of the amps and get rid of the B&Ws when you can - but that is just me.

good luck and take your time and do a little research in the archives is my advice
botit OP
25 posts
 
what is it that makes one speaker sound better on ss and another on tubes? Is this an experience item or are there specs I can look at?
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