Cary SLP98 preamp and Rogue 100 dark amp or Cronus 3


I have a Cary SLP98p preamp in my closet.

I am using a Rogue Cronus 3 integrated amp right now.

I have a chance to get a good deal on a Rogue 100 that has been upgraded to the dark version power amp.

i am trying to decide if I want to use the stereo 100 dark with my Cary preamp or send my Rogue Cronus 3 in to upgrade to dark for $1400.00.

Would the separates be considerably better than the upgraded Cronus 3 dark integrated.

i would probably prefer the integrated space wise on my rack and for convenience.

I am using Magnepan .7 speakers or Falcon ls3/5 gold badge speakers right now.

thanks for any help.

 

 

dylanfan

Call Rogue and ask them directly. Either Nick or Bill ( I can’t remember ) has the ST-100 Dark and paired it with smaller Megapans and absolutely loves it. I have a Rogue RP-1 paired with a small SS amp and a Hera paired with M-180 Dark’s driving Tekton DI’s. Going to separates is more costly plus added Interconnects and power cords , but worth it. My Rogue RP-1 sports a pair of Tekefunken G-73r’s , Morrow level 5 interconnects and Level 4 power cord. It’s also sitting on Isolation pods. I have as much into the add ons as the cost of the unit. My point being it’s that good. The only issue is tube availability and current cost. I really like KT-120’s and I think they make a noticeable difference for my classic rock in the bass category. The Stereo 100 is a step up and I’ve heard great things about the Dark version. I think you’d be pleased with the investment. Also since the 100 is balanced , consider a balanced Pre. Happy Hunting , Mike B. 

Thanks Mike. I have some kt120s and some kt88s I can use in it. 
I really like my Cary preamp too. The Rogue Cronus sounds more solid state than I expected it to. I am thinking the stereo 100 with the Cary more tune sounding preamp might be the way to go for now.

Woops got carried away. Get the 100 Dark, pair it with the Cary. If the 100 has Psvane KT-88’s give it a try and then try Tung Sol KT-120’s, save the Psvane for other speakers or spares. If  the  Dark upgrade came with JJ’s , get rid of them and substitute NOS input tubes. For 12AU7’s I’m a Tekefunken fan. American NOS 12AU7’s will pair well and are less expensive   If it has the new production Tung Sol gold pin 5751’s in the 12AX7 slot, they’re actually pretty good.