2. amps-preamps
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Opinions Needed!

Here is the scenario: my secondary system consists of a Rogue Cronus Magnum 100wpc tube integrated amp, a pair of Golden Ear Triton Two speakers, a Sony HAPZ1ES Music Server, a Magnum Dynalab MD90 Tuner and a Sony SCD777ES SACD player. I also have all the audiophile approved connectors, power cords and power conditioners. I like the sound of this system very much, but I am not too thrilled with the bass control of the amp to speakers.

I listen to this system at least 8 hours a day, every day of the year. In the 1 1/2 years of ownership of the tube integrated, I have re-tubed the amp twice to the tune of 450.00 each time(some nos tubes and all purchased from Upscale Audio). The cost of the tubes is killing me!

I have been thinking of replacing the Cronus Magnum with a Parasound Halo Integrated Amp which is solid state and 160wpc. I like the idea of tone controls and the generous amount of inputs on the Halo and all the reviews have been glowing. I also like the idea of the built in ESS Dac as my Sony SACD player is getting long in the tooth and could benefit from the newer dac. I am driving to the closest dealer this coming Saturday to audition one and may be bringing one home with me.

If it weren't for the price of re-tubing, I would keep the Cronus Magnum as I can live with the bass not being as controlled as I would like. I think the Halo will be better able to control the bass. My question is, good move or bad move? I know this is a sideways step, but I really can't afford to keep buying tubes!

I doubt I will sell the Cronus Magnum, my plan is to rotate it in and out of the system when I need my tube fix.

Thoughts?

Thanks

128x128stereo5

Showing 2 responses by stereo5

stereo5's avatar
stereo5 OP
6,254 posts
 

I shouldn't have mentioned the bass as it really isn't a big deal.  The main reason is the cost of re-tubing.  Here is the breakdown:

4 Tung Sol KT-120 tubes cryoed                 232.00

2 Mullard reissue 12au7 tubes cryoed          66.00

1 RCA Cleartop 12au7 tube (preamp)          45.00

2 Svetlana 12ax7 tubes  cryoed                    66.00                

TOTAL     409.00

I stand corrected on the price, not 450.00.   The only nos tube is the RCA cleartop and thats only 20.00 more than a decent 12au7 tube.

I tried KT-88, KT-77 and EL-34 output tubes and I liked the KT-120 tubes best.  The sound of my amp totally influences the entire sound of the Triton 2 speakers, even though the woofers are powered.

Yes, this is a lot of use for my secondary system as my computer is in the same room and I work in my office where the system resides.  My main system gets little use, perhaps 2 times a month and only for a few hours.

Not interested in any of the Rogue hybrid amps, not a fan of class D and wouldn't even consider it.  For me it's class a/ab all the way.

I will be trying a loaner in my system but I wanted opinions if I am sacrificing too much for the sake of the cost of the tubes.

stereo5's avatar
stereo5 OP
6,254 posts
 
The dealer is Safe & Sound HQ in Chicopee, Mass.  They are getting a silver unit in at the end of the week.  I will be auditioning the one on the floor and if I like what I hear, I will purchase the silver one.  I have 30 days to change my mind with no monetary loss other than shipping the amp back to them.  I have never been to this dealer before, so this will be a first.  I think they are mostly home theater but they are only 70 miles from me so it isn't too far a drive.
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