I run the RP-1 with nos Telefunken G73R’s , best 12AU7 made . I have nos RCA’s, Silver Seimens , Mullard , Tungsram and a few others . Rogue pushes the Mullards, but they sound veiled and the Telefunkens are fabulous. I run a Schiit Yiggy and a modded Thorens with a Grado cart . By the time I added the tubes , a good power cord and isolation feet , I’m about $2200. The phono section is fair , but the headphone section sucks . I have Audeeze LCD-2’s and tried my buddy’s Seinheisers . I have Zu omens , so my Had Inspire with all nos tubes pairs well. I’m looking at getting a SS amp with more power to run my JBL’s . Considering a Van Alstine as I’m all single ended and have a boutique theme going, complimented with Morrow cables . But this far down the road I’ve maxed out the Rogues potential and wish I’d purchased the RP-5. I hope this helps , Mike .
Tube/Hybrid Tube Preamps Below $2000
I pulled the trigger on a ps audio s300 power amp and the new klh five speakers. I can’t wait to set them up, but I can’t decide on a preamp. I’m new to tubes and separates, and this seems like a good opportunity to add some warmth. At the moment my short list is the rogue audio rp-1 and the van alstine fet valve cf rb. The cfr looks great, but pushes above $2000.
The rp-1 includes a phono stage which is a plus, and rogue seems to have a great reputation. Rogue audio often pairs tubes with class d amps, so it seems pretty safe that it’ll pair with the s300. RA is a PA company which is a plus.
The fet valve seems to have great reviews too, and it uses 4 tubes instead of 2 (this isn’t necessarily an advantage I know). I also like the simplicity and look of the fet valve better than the rp-1.
I was wondering if anyone had experience with either, or even both. Also, any missed options? Is the Doge 7 worth considering? The Doge 8 is just a little too much. I’m not opposed to used, but warranties and return periods are a big advantage. Van Alstine’s in particular seems great
The rp-1 includes a phono stage which is a plus, and rogue seems to have a great reputation. Rogue audio often pairs tubes with class d amps, so it seems pretty safe that it’ll pair with the s300. RA is a PA company which is a plus.
The fet valve seems to have great reviews too, and it uses 4 tubes instead of 2 (this isn’t necessarily an advantage I know). I also like the simplicity and look of the fet valve better than the rp-1.
I was wondering if anyone had experience with either, or even both. Also, any missed options? Is the Doge 7 worth considering? The Doge 8 is just a little too much. I’m not opposed to used, but warranties and return periods are a big advantage. Van Alstine’s in particular seems great