Jeff Rowland amps, any coments?

I've owned a Model 1 since '93 and am very happy with it. On first listening it seemed laid back, even reticent but with time it simply disappeared to let the music shine thru. It's lonely so I'm looking for a second so I can run them bridged in mono.

Yeah, I have a comment: I wish I could afford one! I would love to get the Concentra integrated. One day possibly. JR is some of the finest audio gear in the world at any price. My recommendation: Like Nike says: Just Do It!

The 12s went back to factory because of failure of the switching power supplies on one and noise from the switching power supplies on the other. The 8 doesn't use switching power supplies.

I've used Rowland gear for over ten years. Old original Coherence One preamp and Model 7 monoblocs. Very very good sound and completely bulletproof. My preamp and amps have been on (the preamp doesn't even have an "on/off" switch) for over ten years and have performed beautifully and without complaint. Can't say anything first hand about the "new" generation of stuff from Rowland, but their reputation is first rate.

I don't think you can go wrong if you like the sound...

i've had a jrdg 8ti (upgraded) for >9 years. the only "repair" that's ever been needed is the replacement of bulbs in the power switch. they're built like tanks and last as long as redwoods. well, "redwoods" may be a bit of hyperbole but you get my drift.

What happened to your Model 12s that caused you to send them back for repair? I am considering a Rowland 8Ti so any information about reliability is appreciated.

I have been using Rowland electronics for over ten years and in my opinion Rowland cannot be beat at the longevity in the enjoyment it brings as well as the emotional response it elicits from the music. I does all the normal audiophile things superbly, and then goes one step further to capture the true magic of music.

I don't agree with the Cardas recommendation. I have had tremendous success with Stealth Cables. In my opinion, Rowland and Stealth is a match made in heaven as they are both true to the music in all critical areas.

I am currently using the Rowland Model 112, which is a tremendous amp for the price (or for any price), while I wait for my Model 12s to return from the factory for repair. Rowland electronics are generally extremely reliable, so don't read anything in to the fact that my amps are back at the factory.

One of the most musical and better build pieces of electronic gear around.If you look hard you can find some amps. that do certain things better, but you will be hard pressed to find one that does every thing so good. Models 8(not sure about the others) have a very usefull gain switch which is very usefull with Wadia(or other front end that has digital volume control) in driving the amp. directly.They go very well with XLO or JPS cabling.

Recommended. I own their intergrated Concentra amp and it sounds like music (Meridian 508.20 CD player and ProAc 2.5 speakers). I suggest you listen to a Jeff Rowland amp. Bring your best CD's and enjoy the music. cheers..

Be prepared to be seduced, romanced and then you will eventually marry it. At first you might not be sure, should I commit or should I continue to look around. But you will come back and you will stay with them. I own an 'old Model 5 and the Consummate Pre Amp' and I have stayed faithfull for nearly 9 years now. ( hey come to think of it longer than my own marriage , yea I got the audio equipment ) Also great company, great people and usually good dealers. Oh, and by the way they also love music and isn't that why we all listen and then buy !

Yo Tireguy, the best way that I can describe the sound of a Rowland is that it has no sound. They don't sound warm or dry or lean or anything...they sound like music. I will say that they sound better when you are driving them with a Jeff Rowland preamp. Build quality is up at the top of the scale. They will reveal any problems that the rest of your system has but they will deliver magic if none are present. The biggest problem with Rowland is that Stereo-pile hasn't reviewed any of their newer generation amps(M2,M6,M12,M112,M8TiHC,) or they would be on a 2 year wait like Harleys. If you get one, remember you have to feed them Cardas cable or they pout.

That's a little like asking what you think of Michelin. What is it you care about?