Rogue Magnum 99 vs Cary SLP-94 Preamp

The Cary is a great product and a great value. Notice, it has been changed very little throughout its existence which would suggest that they got it 'right' the first time. Nothing worse than an 'improvement' every year or two which leaves you thirsting to send it back to the factory every once in a while to get the latest upgrades. Cary 94 and 98 are reliable, beautiful sounding and relatively inexpensive. Very nice units.

Having spoken with the local dealer and having owned several Cary products, if you are buying used, go for the 94 or 98, don't stop to save a few bucks and buy the lesser model. Don't think major improvements have been made to the 2002 model, check the specs. If you buy new, expect to pay 2x or 3x what you can get a perfectly good used pre-amp for. You can also probably find a 94 or 98 with phono! Not a bad phono section either! A reason there may not be a bunch out there on 94 and 98 units is people tend to keep them. They are very musical units. Get yourself a set of good NOS stock tubes from Andy at Vintage Tubes and you are in great shape with a 94 or 98.