2. amps-preamps
  3. 149696-102538

Rogue audio RP-7 versus PS Audio BHK preamplifier

I have an old Rogue Audio Super Magnum 99 tube preamplifier that I will be replacing in the not too far future. I really liked the sound of the magnum 99 except for the tube hiss. It’s not audible when playing music but still bothers me, particularly when the volume is low. It also constructs the soundstage, an effect that is evident when I connect the external DAC directly to the amplifier. 

from what I read both of these models should be a significant improvement over the magnum 99. I am wondering if anyone who have heard them both has any opinions/thoughts on how they compare.


benjosef1
buellrider97
387 posts
 
Hi , I have played with the lower level Rogue RP-1. I’ve changed the cord and added isolation dampeners, and placed 2 brass weights on top . I have rolled numerous tubes and prefer medical grade Telefunkens. But depending on which power amp I’m feeding and especially which speaker is in the rotation . When I go to more power with 95db speakers or greater , the hiss is pretty noticeable. I’ve spent more on cabling and tubes than the amp cost . So when I’m running higher power tube amps and 95-98 dB speakers I run a SS pre . YMMV, Cheers Mike B. 
benjosef1 OP
11 posts
 
Thanks Mike. My speakers are Triangle signature delta (high sensitivity) and the Bryston 4B SST is 300W into 8 Ohm, so I think I might have the same hiss you are talking about. I have a low level hiss that is not noticeable when you play music with my current Rogue magnum 99 and I certainly would like not to have it in the new preamp. Others have said that the RP-7 is dead quiet, so not sure. Maybe the tubes in the RP-1 are different? or the fact that it is balanced helps?

Edgar
irrenarzt
21 posts
 
RP-7 is dead quiet, I can attest. 
dynabob
3 posts
 
I bought a year old RP5 last fall and have been very happy with it, afaik it has the factory supplied tubes. It is driving a pair of PS Audio m-700's. to me it's dead quiet and musical. I will say I'm not a fan of the phono section, I use a home built La Pacifica that does a very nice job.
jimbones
256 posts
 
I bought the RP7. When I first turned it on it sounded horrible. After about 50 hours I replaced the JJ tubes with Phillips tubes and OMG what an improvement. The stock tubes are trash. The unit needs about 200 hours of break in. It is leveling off now. I plan on trying some Baldwins and Raytheons. Lets Roll!
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