Are you basing your opinion of the Rogue without changing the tubes ? FWIT Rogue is not soft and syrupy. A big part of the SQ with Rogue is JJ signal tubes suck ! Period ! Unfortunately you’ll have to pony up for 4 NOS tubes to realize the full potential. While my comment sounds brash and one shouldn’t have to spend $500-$600 on NOS tubes for a new item, that’s the unfortunate fact. I’ve recently moved to the Hera ( discontinued ) from the RP-1. Back when I bought the RP-1 new I tried about half dozen brands of NOS. It’s like Goldie Locks having her porridge just right. On top of that Rogue recommends NOS Mullards which I personally don’t care for. But don’t feel too bad, I just spent $3500 to have my Rogue M-180’s upgraded to DARK statues and now that they are back I’ll need to trash the 3 pairs of signal tubes and install 6 Tekefunkens at a cost of about $900, and buy an Octet of KT -120’s from Upscale currently $1100 delivered. FWIT the fellow I obtained the Rogue gear from went to Bryston and now runs McIntosh. I guess being a tube addict can be a vicious cycle. And please forgive me if I come across as condescending, that’s not my intent. Regards , Mike B.
McIntosh C8 (new) vs C26/2700 (used)
After my prior post (and thank you again to all who helped) I ended up choosing the Rogue Audio RP-7 preamp. While it is well built and crystal clear, I don't think it is the right fit for my system. Music is too bright with vocals frequently bordering on, or crossing over into, harsh. It isn't fully broken in yet, but I don't see it being a long-term resident of my system and anticipate sending it back within its return window.
For a few reasons, I have decided to try a McIntosh tube preamp next. I am looking at a new C8 vs a used C2600 or 2700. I have found surprisingly few reviews of the C8. Anybody have relevant experience or recommendations? I would love a second set of balanced inputs that the C8 is missing, but that isn't an absolute deal breaker.
Appreciate the group expertise!
Current system:
Pro-Ject Carbon Evo (fully upgraded) with Sumiko Wellfleet stylus
ifi Micro iPhono3 Black Label phono preamp
NAD C 658 DAC
Rogue Audio RP-7 preamp (for now)
Parasound A21+ amp
Bowers & Wilkins 803 D3 floor standing speakers