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Which is Better? Musical Fidelty A5 (used) or new Rogue Sphinx?

I currently have an NAD C 375 BEE integrated amp running a pair of BW 804S speakers. Have urge to get new integrated amp. Have considered a used Musical Fidelity A5 (it has lots of power) or a new Rogue Sphinx (not as much power but sweet sound). Listen mainly to classic rock and blues with some classic jazz and little classic country and western music. I also like it on the loud side. Can't decide. Which choice will give me the biggest upgrade over the NAD? I'm counting on some input from the membership.

Thanks

buterrier79
7 responses Add your response
erikt
268 posts
 
My 2cents worth.

I have the A5 Int, and run B&W CDM1NT bookies.

A good pairing; the B&W's respond well to the grip and grunt of the A5.

I too like scare the neighbors from time to time - the A5 has the power to keep it clean.

Let the B&W hate begin.....
sfall
346 posts
 
I can't see the A5 as a good choice. I used to have one. It does have a lot of power, buts a very forward and aggressive sounding amp. It takes the concept of PRAT way to far. All attack and no body. That's the last thing your speakers need. A higher end NAD would probably be a good choice.Also have a look at Marantz or the new Parasound Halo integrated.
erikt
268 posts
 
That’s what makes this hobby so difficult -everyone's 'end result' experience is different.

There isn’t one review of the A5 that describes it as forward or aggressive, nor has it been my experience.

The advantage of either as a used buy will be the ability to flip it back with little/no loss which affords the user to get direct ears on experience.  Both will hold their value in the short term.

Different strokes.
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 

I also have used an A5, and not going to disagree with what sfall heard in his system, however in my system it was not overly forward or aggressive. IMHO, I think the A5 would be a better choice than the Sphinx. The Sphinx is rated for 200 watts into 4 ohms, however Stereophile's measurements found that it clipped at 155 watts. The demanding load of the 804S will be too much for the Sphinx especially since you like to play it loud.

sfall
346 posts
 
Not that it changes anything, but Stereophile has been criticized heavily since the early 90's for having a bias toward MF. They spend a lot of money on advertising.
tbromgard
814 posts
 
I have listened to both and if it were me I would opt for the Rogue. It has a nice phono stage too
sfall
346 posts
 
Cable Company is a Rogue dealer. Why not have them send you a demo?
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