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Rogue Cronus Magnum II, but I have depth constraints..

Hi all -- I am getting ready to pull the trigger on a Rogue Cronus Magnum II to pair with my KEF LS50 speakers.  I've listened to a number of SS and Tube integrated amps (Hegel H90, McIntosh MA5200, McIntosh MA525, Fezz Titania, Rotel A14 to name a few) and the CM2 was the above and beyond stand-out for my ears.  I had set a $3500-ish max budget for the amp, and the price tag on the CM2 is an added bonus.

Here's the problem.  The Rogue's depth might be an issue.  I have a very well ventilated AV stand, however it has vented enclosures on front and back with an absolute max depth of 18.5 inches.  I believe the Rogue's depth with knobs and inputs is 17.5 inches (I've also seen the depth measured at 17").  Is there any way an inch of wiggle room is acceptable for long term operation?  I'm sure I can make it fit, but it will be snug.

If this won't work, one integrated amp I haven't listened to is the PrimaLuna DiaLogue.  It has a more reasonable footprint for my space.  Any opinions on how it compares sonically to the CM2 before I seek out a listen?  The main thing I've learned in this search is that I want tubes.  It's what's right for me.

I'm currently driving the LS50s with a NAD D3020 via the internal DAC (RPI3+Allo DigiOne+Volumio via Coax) and a Pro-Ject Phono Box S attached to an AT LP3 with Ortofon 2M Red.  I mix up vinyl and digital pretty evenly, with an emphasis on jazz, soul, and indie rock.  I'm satisfied with this setup, but I want to get some more power going before I upgrade the TT.  As you may be able to tell, I'm just starting to get a bit more serious about this again after many years away from audio.

Thanks all -- I've lurked this forum for a while and am constantly impressed by the quality of the advice here.
jphabc54

Showing 7 responses by jphabc54

jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
Thank you sir!  That is a great boost of confidence.  There are tons of vents in the back of my console (which is wood) and it would not be a chore to drill some more holes to prevent the need to overly bend cables.

I'm going to line up a side-by-side with the PrimaLuna at the shop next weekend just to be 100%, but otherwise I need to start shopping for a new standalone DAC..
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
Thanks -- I don't think headroom will be an issue.  We'd discussed 4 inches or so at the shop and that's easily doable.  If you think more is better, I'd welcome the advice.  The shelves inside the console height adjust pretty easily and this will take priority over the rest of the gear in there.
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
Indeed!  I have a side-by-side scheduled for next weekend between the Primaluna and the Rogue.
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
My buddy swears by his Jolida and is definitely pushing that option.  I'm bringing him along to listen to the Primaluna and Rogue this weekend.

The fact that avanti1960 provided me measurements and advice from his own kit within 20 minutes of my original post says a lot about the HIGH quality of advice here.  My sincere thanks to all of you.
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
After all the helpful advice, I didn't want to leave folks hanging.  I did go back for an A/B with the Rogue Cronus Magnum II and the PrimaLuna Prologue (instead of the Dialogue).  Both great sounding amps, but Benny Golson breaking in on the sax in "Moanin'" made the difference.  The PrimaLuna didn't give me the same elation that the Rogue did.

Great local shop here outside D.C. let me bring the Rogue home for a couple hours and it's going to fit great in the space (with a nice cut out in the back of the cabinet for the wires).  Headroom should be no problem as there's over 12" above it.

Ordered it a week ago.  Eagerly, eagerly awaiting its arrival.
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
I got the Cronus Magnum II. I thought the Prologue was great, but I enjoyed the Rogue more when listening to my preferred music styles (jazz/acoustic). I do think female vocals were a shade better on the PrimaLuna, at least on the recordings we went through. I’d like to hear the Dialogue too, but the price difference between the DiaLogue and the CMII left some wiggle room for accessories..
jphabc54 OP
12 posts
 
Yup -- they are still in the basement space in Falls Church City and seem to be very busy.  Hopefully they'll continue to be on the upswing--they are good folks.
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