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Starting an Analog front end - Rowland?

Guido (resident Rowland expert) and other Audiogoners –

My current system consists of Wadia 270/27ix, Jeff Rowland 302, Avalon Eidolon’s, and Cardas Golden Reference. I have the Wadia direct into the 302.

I have started to get the itch to add a vinyl set up to my system and would need to add a preamp and phono-pre to the system. I am planning to get a VPI Aries III with a Dynavector cartridge but need help with the preamp and amp set up. I like the midrange and holography of tubes with nice tight solid state bass. My current system does that fairly well, especially with the 302.

My plan was to get a Rowland preamp and phono-pre. I really wanted both the preamp and phono -pre to be in a separate chassis. Since Rowland doesn’t currently make a phono-pre, I think I will try to track down a Cadence on Audiogon. The preamp I am most concerned about because I will likely run both my digital and my analog through it. Right now Rowland has only the Capri and the Criterion and the price is difference is vast between the two. I know that many have raved over the Capri, but I just can’t help but have the feeling that Rowland will release a preamp in the ‘Synergy Iii or Concerto range’ to fit a price point in between the Capri and Criterion.

I realize I may be a bit foolish being concerned over the Capri ‘not being enough preamp due to its price point’, but based on my system as described above, should I go for a used Concerto or Synergy Iii, a Capri, or wait for Rowland to release something new. Also, any news on a new phono-pre in the pipeline at JRDG?

Thanks in advance for any input and advice.

Phil
philb7777

Showing 1 response by dcstep

dcstep
1,518 posts
 
I've been told that Jeff is working on a phono stage that will match with his Critereon line stage. I think this source is reliable and says that he spoke directly about the subject with Jeff and that it would incorporate the power supply advances that he includes in the Criterion. Of course, it's too early to predict a delivery date, but I'd guess that this, if it happens, would be a late 2009 or early 2010 event.

If I were going to buy a Criterion, I'd probably wait for this to complete an all-Rowland system to replace my incredible Continuum 500.

Dave
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