Since you're open to other brands, consider either Musical Design or Modwright. Simple, customizable, affordable. I recently replaced my Musical Design SP2-B preamp with a new (and higher level of modification) SP2-B. I auditioned the older one in a friends system who was running a Rogue 99 Magnum. He only had to listen for a couple of minutes to hear the difference. He bought my preamp, sold his 99 on Agon, put $500.00 in his pocket, and has a better sounding system. It doesn't look as fancy as it did, but it does sound significantly better.
Rogue Audio 99 or CJ Classic Preamp?
I'd like to upgrade my Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum integrated amp to a separate preamp and amp combo. I know I want the RA M-180 monoblocks, but I'm still undecided as far as the preamp is concerned. It's a trade-in with my dealer who carries RA, CJ and BAT. He recommends the RA Stereo 99 line stage (I already have a separate phono preamp), but the CJ Classic is about $600 less expensive so I'd like to get your opinions on the choice. The Rogue has no doubt an edge over the Classic in many aspects: remote volume control, adjustable gain settings, mono switch, and separate power supply. The Classic, however, has pretty good reviews and I've always wanted to own a CJ.
In the alternative, I'd also consider another brand/tubed preamp in the $2,000 range. The rest of my system: VPI Classic, Lyra Delos cart, Camelot Technologies Lancelot phono preamp, Silverline Audio SR-17.5 speakers. I'd appreciate your opinions and suggestions.
In the alternative, I'd also consider another brand/tubed preamp in the $2,000 range. The rest of my system: VPI Classic, Lyra Delos cart, Camelot Technologies Lancelot phono preamp, Silverline Audio SR-17.5 speakers. I'd appreciate your opinions and suggestions.