2. amps-preamps
  3. 157945-143699

Rogue Sphinx or Belles Aria???

I've recently been building up my system over the past year getting into the mid/hi-fi level and have finally reached the point of upgrading my amplifier [currently older Yamaha A-S500]. 
I'm looking for an integrated amp in the ~$2k range [I don't have space or budget for separates] and think I finally have it narrowed down between a Rogue Sphinx v3 and a Belles Aria.  I'm only listening to vinyl so have no need to worry about a DAC.

The Rogue has many positive reviews so think it would be a pretty safe bet and while I can only find one professional Belles Aria reviews the personal reviews in various forums seem to be pretty spectacular and seems to punch above its class so I'm really intrigued. 
Unfortunately, I'm not in the position to demo either of these personally so I'm looking for advice; especially if any one has ever compared side by side.

The rest of my setup is as follows:
B&W 705 stand-mounts
Rega Planar P3 w/ Elys MM
Audioquest Sydney interconnects

I really appreciate any advice...thanks!

dsjs4

Showing 4 responses by twoleftears

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
As good as the Sphinx is, the Belles is the one to go for.  When people get a chance to hear it, they buy it.  Call Johnny Rutan at Audio Connection and see if he doesn't convince you.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
Irony alert!

Just to be painfully clear: b_limo is implying he wants it for himself--i.e. another strong recommendation.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 
One thing at a time.  If you skimp on something now, you'll only regret it later.
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 

I posted this info in another thread, but in summary, my understanding is this: the Virtuoso power amp is finished and available for purchase right now.  The Virtuoso pre-amp is still being finalized but will be available very soon.

My understanding also was that these will be followed by a "blending" of the two into the Virtuoso Integrated (which was supposed to be coming first, but is now last, for a variety of reasons), and only then the Aria Signature integrated.

But perhaps the A.S. has leapt over it in the order of production.  We shall see. I also don't know to what extent the A.S. might use trickle-down from the Virtuoso, or to what extent it is a beefing up of the already excellent Aria line (preamp, stereo amp, monoblocks).

I know at least one member of A'gon has a Virtuoso power, but so far hasn't reported back on impressions.

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