2. amps-preamps
  3. 125385-34254

Looking for an upgrate from Cronus Magnum

I live with Cronus Magnum with KT120 tube 100wpc for 2 years. I feel that it has been great for jazz, accoustic and vocal music. However I also listen to rock, pop, R&B, and movie scores. I feel the Cronus lack clarity and punch in the bottom end. My speaker is Salk HT2-TL 87dB efficiency 4ohm impedance.

I am considering the following options with a budget $3500. What is your opinion? If plan B is the better route, which integrated amp you suggest? My speaker is a bit cold and analytic, i want to add some warmth to it. Thanks.

PLAN A
Change the preamp and driver tubes on the Cronus. Cost about $300. Could enhance the clarity over the stock JJ12AU7. But bottom end would still lacking. Get a subwoofer for bottomend $1500

PLAN B
Replace Cronus with one of these SS used:
Krell Vanguard
Pass INT150
ModWright KWI200
MF M6si
Parasound HINT

Current system:
Salksound HT2-TL speaker
Cronus Magnum integrated amplifier
Oppo 105
Morrow Audio MA3 Interconnect and SP2 speaker cables



ucc118

Showing 3 responses by inna

inna
7,132 posts
 
You could try Rogue Pharaoh hybrid integrated, I think it is $3500 new.
inna
7,132 posts
 
I actually consider the Pharoah to replace my trusty Redgum RGi120 solid state integrated in the future. My speakers need iron fist control or they get too loose. I like slightly loose sound, though.
inna
7,132 posts
 
I am not sure that the problem here falls into tube/ss dilemma, in a strict sense of it. Yes, amp/speaker match etc., of course. Really good tube amp will give you great drive and bass with many speakers. Rogue is an audiophile value company, the expectations should be realistic. At this price level, yeah, I think the OP would prefer hybrid or ss. That's why someone said not to bother with tube rolling. Tube Rogue integrated is not up to the task with these speakers with any tubes. No tubes can compensate for class, class that the Rogue does not have.
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