Tube Preamp with Full Featured Phono (both MM and LOMC with loading options).

Elliot, I only said I would not jump on the Rogue based on the one review that you first quoted, and for the reason given.  If I am interested in an unknown piece of gear and all I have is a review by an unknown reviewer, all I can do after that is to see what system he used to evaluate the piece.  Mr Moon's system is not a knockout, in my opinion, so I would not make a purchasing decision based on what he wrote alone.  If he were otherwise known to me, I might think differently, but he is a total stranger.  Subsequently, you came up with a whole bunch of other citations from more respectable sources and from reviewers with some cache because they work for Stereophile.  In addition, we have the excellent test results from John Atkinson.  That's a whole different kettle of fish.  So yes, the Rogue must be a nice piece.

@lewm 

I know you enough to understand your comments about an unknown reviewer,

however,

I always think about others following discussions, and I didn't think you comment should be the last thing they read about it. 

I was planning similar build until I found a Conrad Johnson CAV50 tube control amp (integrated). Coupled that with a Musical Fidelity V90 LPS phonostage which provided MM/MC option.  I couldn't be happier and while I was purely vinyl I recently ventured into CDs which was a simple addition because of output options of CAV50.  I was totally surprised of the warm sound from CD with he right equipment.

@nhouseconsulting 

That combo of two pieces of equipment might sound great, and within my friend’s budget, thanks for letting me/us know.

However, they add up in size; and the Music Fidelity V90’s MC input is fixed at 100 ohms, therefor best for a LOMC with a 10 ohm coil or a bit less. My friend wants a single unit to fit his limited space with both MM and MC with many loading options, like the Rogue RP-1 or RP-5 discussed above.

Another thing I am noticing on many units, is two phono inputs, however it is limiting if, like this one, the input for MC cannot be used for a MM or HOMC. 

I much prefer flexibility so it’s ready for anything you put on two arms, now and the future.

If you could swinig a few hundred more this preamp is getting great reviews. 

Galion Navy – ThomasAndStereo

Or his less expencive one also getting great reviews. Both look to be well built. 

TS P75 preamp – ThomasAndStereo