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Rogue Audio RP-7V2 Tube Options

Greetings,

I just purchased a new Rogue Audio RP-7V2 preamplifier and Parasound JC5 amplifier. It is my first real effort into separates after owning many integrated amplifiers through the years. The combination will be driving my Focal Kanta No.3 speakers.

The preamp shipped with stock JJ tubes, but it seems there are many 12AU7 tube options to potentially consider.

Does anyone have a favorite 12AU7 tube for Rogue Audio preamps?

I appreciate your suggestions.

jpipes
jpipes OP
31 posts
 

Thank you so much for these recommendations!

avanti1960
1,744 posts
 

@jpipes 

I must be an outlier user of the RP-7 (original) because I tried many expensive NOS 12AU7 tubes and it simply never responded well.  The stock JJ tubes always sounded best.  

Unfortunately having also owned the JC5 amp I am guessing you have a very dark overall sound with that system because the RP-7 and JC-5 are already on the super smooth side of the fence. 

I have also heard that (but never owned) the new Genelax tubes are very good.  FYI bottom line you may regret spending a lot for NOS tubes and I do not see a need to. New tubes have come a long way. 

Assuming you want to at least try to improve detail give the Yugoslavian E.I. tubes a shot- not to expensive either.  

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,885 posts
 

Brimar CV4003 from Upscale Audio were amazing in RP1 when I had that preamp. I also liked Gold Lions. Excellent tubes. 

jpipes OP
31 posts
 

@avanti1960 

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I think the Focal Kanta speakers help balance the tone from the preamp and amp. Overall I am pleased with the combination.

 

@genoa 

Thank you for this recommendation.  I contacted Brent, and will probably go this direction-appreciate the tip!

 

Thank you all and happy holidays!

genoa
10 posts
 

Glad to hear. Let me know how it works out.

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