Upgrading my Rouge Cronus 11 to what?


Looking to upgrade my Rogue Cronus integrated to a something like a VAC Sigma 170i IQ  I like is the holographic sound of tubes and the Cronus has some of that but would like more,certainly if there are other options would be open to hear them.

Im running a Yggy dac with some LSA statement bookshelf speakers in a small room 17 x 16 ft and listen mostly to digital with all genres but usually Rock.

I have tried some other SS amps that left me a bit cold like the Devialet 200 so Im a tube guy I guess 

Thanks.

carlukok

Wouldn't say no to a 2 piece setup Im a bit of a loss to choose a pairing but Im open to it. 

My experience with Rogue has been great the only issue in 10 years has been the remote volume recently stopped working.

I currently own an Audio Hungary Qualiton a50i integrated amplifier that I prefer over a number of integrated amps (tube and SS). Soundwise, it sits somewhere between Cronus Magnum (tilts towards SS) and Conrad Johnson (more classical tube sound). I went through a number of amps in the last 3-4 years and the Qualiton was by far the best for my listening preferences.

Quicksilver is another great American company that offers great value.

If you’re not averse to buying Chinese, Line Magnetic gets a lot of respect on these forums.

Recently, I had the opportunity (in fact, the past weekend) of listening to a VAC 200iq (although it’s not an integrated amp). It was phenomenal, although I feel you pay quite a bit more for the pedigree. But something like 170i if bought used can fit the bill nicely.

Finally, don’t forget Rogers High Fidelity -- another American company offering amazing products. I owned their 65v2 (SET integrated amp) and loved it. But recently I heard their KWM-88 integrated amp and was extremely impressed. They can be pricey but you can reach out to the owner to see if they have refurbished units.

 

Thanks for the replies.

The Line Magnetic LM-219ia looks like their owners adore it and is something special! 

Line Magnetic 805 sounds more nuanced and detailed than Cronus II.

 

I have both Cronus II and Line Magnetic 508(old version)

 

Thomas

 

 

 

The Audio Hungary Qualition and Octave V70 SE would be right at the top of my list.  Best of luck.