I had the Medusa in my system on audition and it was excellent in its way. Specifically, it offered the ultimate in transparency and threw open an expansive and deep 3D soundstage. But, it’s a decidedly “white wine” and neutral sounding amp that doesn’t project a lot of meat on the bones or heft you’d expect from a component that employs tubes. I mention this because if you like what you hear from the likes of an amp like the AH Qualition it may leave you a little cold although I never swapped warmer-sounding tubes in the Medusa so maybe you could try that with the Pharaoh ll if it comes across similarly to you at first. Just a somewhat related experience FWIW and be interested in what you think.
Jumped the shark. ???
Been a tube guy that dabbles in Class D. Found a deal today on a Open Box Rogue Audio Pharaoh II and said what the heck lets give a class A/D Hybrid a shot for shits and giggles. Will be traveling next week when it arrives but I will have the following week to play. Have 5 different sets of speakers to play with, QLN Sonora, Sonus faber Sonnetto II, Sonner allegro unum speakers, Raven Audio CeLest Towers. Dynaudio Heritage Special.
Other Integrated to compare against, Audio Hungary X200 Qualiton, Simaudio 600i V2. Cyrus One, Heed Audio Elixer.
Let you know what we think in a few weeks.
Showing 2 responses by soix
@jerryg123 Thanks for the info on the updated Pharaoh. Despite the Medusa using their older design and being firmly in the “white wine” sound category, it was still one of the better amps I’ve had in my system so the Pharaoh with all its improvements may be quite special and love to hear your thoughts once it’s burned in. |