2. amps-preamps
  3. 165322-4660

Raven Audio Nighthawk

So the scuttlbutt on the Raven integrated amps is pretty good. But just how good are they? Are they good when compared to other comparably priced tube integrateds? Or are they better than some heavy hitters?

I currently have a NOSvalves ST-45 amp paired with a Don Sachs Model 2 (latest version) preamp and I am extremely happy with this pairing. With that said, I guess there is nothing really that I'm looking to improve. But since we all know how this game goes, I just wonder how much better (or not) the Blackhawk III would be. Consolidating two pieces down to one chasis is an attractive idea too.

I would love to hear from you if you own a Nighthawk or Blackhawk or have auditioned one against something else. I know they offer a 45 day trial period, but from my calculations if I don't like it it will cost me close to 400.00 out of pocket once the dust settles. So I'd like to go into this with a warm fuzzy that it's pretty darn good.

Oz



128x128ozzy62

Showing 4 responses by rmclain

rmclain
18 posts
 
The only reason I haven’t tried the Raven is the restock fee. I could probably stomach $150 plus shipping on restock, but I cannot do $400 plus shipping, likely $500 total for me.

I also pause as I recently heard a new PrimaLuna Evo at a buddy’s house that just didn’t work to my ears. He ended up returning it after a long burn-in and with multiple speaker set-ups.

My system is comparable, and I fear if they were even vaguely similar that neither would be a good match with my gear.

I’ve been VERY interested in the Raven for a long time, but I’ll stay with a rebuilt Scott in one room and a Conrad Johnson pre with custom monoblocks in the other.
rmclain
18 posts
 
It may be someone learned who has plenty of experience as well. I still think 7% is steep in today’s competitive environment. When you have other outfits like PrimaLuna/Upscale Audio doing returns with no restock, that’s tough to counter. If they are that good, and they seem to have a lot of fans, I’d be willing to bet that a lower restock might increase sales. Just a hunch though.

If you netted even a modest three extra entry level units sold per month, that’s an extra $180,000 gross on a $5k piece, more on higher end stuff. I’m not astute as to the business end of this as some of you are, but it may incentivize some folks.
rmclain
18 posts
 
@Glupson Music Direct is 60 days no restock and Audio Advisor is 30 days no restock. Buyer pays return shipping. PrimaLuna is 60 days, BUT if you return a second item then it is store credit. Sounds like a good policy. MD and AA especially carry a lot of lines and do a lot of volume, it may be easier for them to absorb it. The advantage of PrimaLuna / Upscale Audio is that I can drive there. I’ve gotten tubes from them and been to audio society meet-ups there. Good outfit, and the PrimaLuna’s I’ve seen are built like tanks. Just didn’t work in my buddy’s system for one reason or another.

I’ve heard that Raven’s communication and service is outstanding, but I just can’t pull the trigger if I might be out $500.


rmclain
18 posts
 
Looking forward to an update once Ozzy and Robert get their units. If I can negotiate a lower return fee, I may still go for it.

I love my Fisher and Scott gear, but even restored you have to get service occasionally. Really want a newer more maintenance free piece.
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