Rogue Sphinx....good match with Merlin TSM?

Which version of the Billie do you have? I understand the Mk II version was quite an improvement over the Mk I. It also added a remote. There is a MkIII coming out next month, but price is over $3k.

What sound characteristics/improvements are you looking for, and what’s your budget and are you looking for new or used?

Which Denon are you suggesting? Also, aren’t Denons SS amps. Everything I’ve read and heard suggests Merlins excel with tubes. I’m not against SS, but that seems to be the consensus. Frankly, too many of the integrated the amps have....well....too many tubes. I like it simple/

Hi -

I have the Version II of the Billie amp. Would never go $3K for the amp, so version III is a non-starter.

As for the Denon, the one that caught my eye was the PMA - 1700 NE. Quite frankly, I have been a bit frustrated with the hybrid amps and really didn’t want to go for $3K for a second system. Note: I usually buy new. I also wanted built in phono, if I could get it.

Rich

Amazon has the Denon on sale for $300 or so off.

https://www.soundstageaccess.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1217-denon-pma-1700ne-integrated-amplifier-dac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnO2cBQ4hy4&t=357s

I should add I have used the Rogue with 2 sets of speakers … the Golden Ear BRX and the Zu Audio Omen Monitors. Both sets of speakers, price wise, almost equal to the amps.

In both set-ups, the quality of the recording trumped all. Neither amp was particularly forgiving of the recorded source.

Rich