Is the Rogue Sphinx v3 more similar to the Pharaoh or Pharaoh II?


I own both the Rogue Sphinx v3 and the Pharaoh (original version). I seem to be getting better sound from the Sphinx v3 than with the Pharaoh. The Sphinx v3 seems to be smoother and have a better tonal balance, and the Pharaoh seems to be more hard and bright sounding.

My speakers are GoldenEar BRX monitors, and I got a slightly better tonal balance by trying some Emotiva B2+ monitors on the Pharaoh. I am going to try some tube rolling (got some Sylvania's and RCA clear tops to try on the Pharaoh).

Does the Pharaoh II upgrade make the Pharaoh sound warmer or smoother than the original version? Rogue quoted me $2000 for the Pharaoh II upgrade because they replace nearly all the insides of the amplifier. Would I be better off trying the ELAC Carina speakers instead? (I have had good results with Andrew Jones-designed speakers in a variety of systems and rooms.)

Ag insider logo xs@2xjonathan_dunn

My local dealer setup a Sphinx v3 with the Mofi Sourcepoint 10's, Andrew Jones' new speaker. Sound was amazing. In general I like the Sphinx v3 better than the Pharaoh, which I assume he has the newest one. 

Move up to a much better speaker. You'll not be satisfied with small incremental steps. Upgrade and upgrade a big step, you'll thank me later. Your V3 is fine for now.