1. Home
  2. amps-preamps
  3. 165322-4660

Raven Audio Nighthawk

So the scuttlbutt on the Raven integrated amps is pretty good. But just how good are they? Are they good when compared to other comparably priced tube integrateds? Or are they better than some heavy hitters?

I currently have a NOSvalves ST-45 amp paired with a Don Sachs Model 2 (latest version) preamp and I am extremely happy with this pairing. With that said, I guess there is nothing really that I'm looking to improve. But since we all know how this game goes, I just wonder how much better (or not) the Blackhawk III would be. Consolidating two pieces down to one chasis is an attractive idea too.

I would love to hear from you if you own a Nighthawk or Blackhawk or have auditioned one against something else. I know they offer a 45 day trial period, but from my calculations if I don't like it it will cost me close to 400.00 out of pocket once the dust settles. So I'd like to go into this with a warm fuzzy that it's pretty darn good.

Oz



ozzy62
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Sweet. So nice to be proven right.
A lot of the difference between the amps is their bespoke Raven caps. These types of upgrades are always worth it,
Proving yet again it is possible to figure out what is going on without having to bring it home first.

But, could we tone down the hyperbole? Is it really, "WAAYYY better"? Are you sure it isn’t just way better? Can we get a ruling from Charles or whoever is officiating on hyperbole?

That’s a joke, boy. https://youtu.be/EVAdt5bH2tE?t=8
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62 OP
3,709 posts
 
After a long conversation with James Connell yesterday I have decided to change my order from the Blackhawk to the Osprey.

Oz



lak's avatar
lak
4,817 posts
 
@ozzy62,
Personally I think you would be happy with the Blackhawk but I commend you for the upgrade to the Osprey.
I believe you are going to be even happier ;-)
mesch
3,530 posts
 
+1 Charles, I also am looking forward to your impressions of the Raven integrated vs. your separates.
facten
3,119 posts
 
ozzy62 look forward to your impressions
+2 Charles, it never ends
More to discover