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Where to go from Rogue M-150 amps?

I'm curious the hear the responses and opinions on this question. What would a be a good upgrade from the M-150s. I'm not really interested in the factory upgrade to the M-180. I'm currently using my 150s with the Perseus preamp and Vandersteen speakers. Overall, I'm very pleased with them. Great bass authority and control. The mid are good, but could be a little more fleshed out and intimate IMO. The highs and detail is there; however, more air on the top end would be a plus. I'd like to stay tube, but will consider SS. Monoblocks are desired but not an absolute must. The amps must work well with Vandersteens as they are my speaker of choice followed by Magnepan; but I will probably stay with the Vandersteen line for a while.

Thanks!
techguy0192
goldprintaudio's avatar
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goldprintaudio
502 posts
 
Even though you mention that the move from the 150 to 180's does not really interest you, it may be a great option for you. That, along with some tube upgrades, would very likely bring you what you are looking for.

A pair of Rogue Apollos would most likely do the trick also.

Or, if you are really wanting a change in sound, then something like a pair of Cary 805's. These would certainly bring you the "fleshed out and intimate" mids.

***Cary and Rogue Dealer Disclaimer***
donjr
1,335 posts
 
Maybe some nice solid state is the way to go. Everyone needs to go through the paces. I'm close to ready to ditch tubes. I know I might go back to tubes down the road but that's okay by me. I'm a firm believer in change and sometimes tube swapping doesn't satisfy the soul. It's expensive and tiring, especially if your intension is to enjoy music and not tweaking. It might take a little more due diligence, but it might be a nice break for you.

Sorry I can't give you any advice on gear. I'm in your boat and possibly sailing towards Hegel or even Marantz, although I've yet to hear the Marantz.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,541 posts
 
Check out Quicksilver!
chrissain
470 posts
 
I own m180s and every time I try solid state I might gain some overall controll and the ability to play louder but lose the 3d imaging and body that make my system sound more like real music to my ears, so I would bet if you don't want to upgrade your amps you will be looking at other tube amps
techguy0192 OP
4 posts
 
The last pair of amps I owned were Quicksilver Mini-Mite Monos. I sold them before the Vandersteens. They were good, with a very traditional tube sound. The mids were the strongest point. However the M-150 are much better.

I've been considering the following:
Audio Research
Manley
Ayre

I'm not interesting in the 180 upgrade because shipping these things is a giant pain. I do not want to move them until they are being shipped to a new owner or going in as a trade at one of the local hifi shops.
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