Rogue Audio two new integrateds Great or Same old?


Rogue has recently introduced two new integrated amps. The "Sphinx" which is 100RMS and a hybrid amp with a phono stage. This sells for $1395 including a cheap looking remote. The "Pharoah" is the other and is 175RMS with phono stage, but may be all tubes Rogue is now shipping to dealers and retail is $3495. Rogue has definitely gone Egyptian!!

Has anyone heard either integrated amp?? If so, what my the Pharoah worth almost 3X more than the little brother.Seems to have few features like an I-pod input and theater bypass, etc, that jack the price at least $500. Therefore I think the price point is wrong. $2795 seems more reasonable and competitive with products like the Creek Destiny II $2795) and Krell S300i($2500) and the new Musical Fidelity IA's.... Thanks, Jimmy
sunnyjim

Showing 4 responses by goldprintaudio

I've been very impressed with my Pharaoh demo unit so far. Still have a few more hours to put on it before it's fully broken in, but it sounds very, very good.

***Rogue dealer disclaimer***
As Donjr mentions, the Cronus Mag is an incredible value (as is the Sphinx). The Pharaoh is very impressive so far, and I am sure will get better as it has a few more hours on it.

I guess it really comes down to your specific power requirements and if you want to go full blown tubes (Cronus) or hybrid.

And to Donjr's earlier question, the Pharaoh really does not run hot at all.
Still very impressed. If you have had a chance to hear the Rogue Medusa, you will have a good idea as to the sound.
My Rogue dealer disclaimer is to let everyone know that I am a Rogue dealer (so of course I am biased). It's common courtesy on Audiogon to inform others if you are a dealer posting about products that you sell.

With that said, the Pharaoh is quite a great integrated. Bass is very nice and controlled. Top end is detailed, but not harsh. I have been very impressed with the Hypex amp modules that are used on this, the Sphinx and the Hydra/Medusa. Good power and sound.

Cronus gives you a little more of the tube mid-range bloom that a lot of people (including myself) like.