Jeff Rowland Model 1

Came across this little beauty at a used stereo store. Should I pick it up? I am on a strict budget just starting a new system. The seller wants 900 bucks. Any thoughts on this amp?

jeffvegas10-31-2019 12:51am

Showing 5 responses by bigkidz

bigkidz Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,325 posts 11-01-2019 at 01:19am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Plenty of used amps for $1500 that will compete. Like already stated, good little amp, warm and musical, no game changer. $900 is the max for a great condition one. The amp uses modules so if it breaks a local tech cannot repair it. An old HK Citation 16 to my ears is a much better amp in direct comparison but the JR will be a little sweeter in the mids. Happy Listening.
bigkidz Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,325 posts 11-01-2019 at 01:32pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete @daveyf - my opinion is different versus the HK. I own them now along with many other vintage amps such as the HK XXs which are a level above many current SS amps today. While the JR was musical if it has issues a local tech would need to buy the modules to get it repaired. How do I know this? I repair all audio components besides manufacturing my own line of components. Your opinion matters also but my experience is simply different. Does not mean I don't think it is a good little amp, it is. I know the JR goes for $900 used but I usually find vintage gear at estate sales for a lot less. Happy Listening
bigkidz Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,325 posts 11-01-2019 at 05:21pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete @jeffvegasHere Here is another person who buys and sells vintage gear that I emailed today to ask the same question: Hard to remember I sold both of them a year or two ago. Got $1000 for the Rowland, $750 for the H/K. The Rowland wins hands down in looks. It also may have a little bigger soundstage but difficult to work on and repair. The HK was tough to beat for overall bass and musicality. Also easier to upgrade and work on. I hope this is helpful.
bigkidz Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,325 posts 11-01-2019 at 09:56pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete @daveyf The HK circuit can be worked on by anyone with an electronics background. The JR needs the modules. When I sent mine back, it came back to me as non-working and I had to send it back again. I have no skin in this game other then my own experience. I have personally met JR and he is a nice guy. To me both amps are great for the used prices. I can upgrade the HK easier that the JR but that is just me, the OP may do what ever he feels he wants to do as all of this is just the opinion of each of us and I don't think he can go wrong either way. Happy Listening.
bigkidz Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 3,325 posts 11-07-2019 at 10:56pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Having been repairing Counterpoint hybrid power amps that used MOSFETS and converting them to bi-polar transistors, my experience finds the MOSFETS are very musical but do not measure up in dynamics, clarity and frequency extension compared to the same amps I rebuild with Mosfets. Same goes for the Class A amps I build. BUT it does come down t the design and implementation. Happy Listening.

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