Raven Audio Nighthawk


So the scuttlbutt on the Raven integrated amps is pretty good. But just how good are they? Are they good when compared to other comparably priced tube integrateds? Or are they better than some heavy hitters?

I currently have a NOSvalves ST-45 amp paired with a Don Sachs Model 2 (latest version) preamp and I am extremely happy with this pairing. With that said, I guess there is nothing really that I'm looking to improve. But since we all know how this game goes, I just wonder how much better (or not) the Blackhawk III would be. Consolidating two pieces down to one chasis is an attractive idea too.

I would love to hear from you if you own a Nighthawk or Blackhawk or have auditioned one against something else. I know they offer a 45 day trial period, but from my calculations if I don't like it it will cost me close to 400.00 out of pocket once the dust settles. So I'd like to go into this with a warm fuzzy that it's pretty darn good.

Oz



128x128ozzy62
A lowly RM.9
oz I think I have misjudged you
hoping the Raven is all that you dream
jim
@tomic601 I have owned three RM9s (owned one twice) and one RM9 II. I can say with certainty it is one great design.


I spoke with Raven a few days after receiving the amp and they suggested the amp might have gotten damaged. I did notice the hum came down in volume a couple days latter but a crackle started on the right channel. I updated Raven and questioned them about a possible bad tube or tubes but I have not been contacted back yet for further troubleshooting. I was hoping to avoid all the shipping fees and maybe get lucky with a easy fix. I bought new so I wouldn’t have to tinker to much but I guess I’m learning a lot from all you guys. I have a feeling this will be a fun expensive addiction:) Thanks. 
FYI, to anyone interested. There is a very nice Blackhawk that was just listed on that other audio mart site.
i remember my rm9 back around 2000 with mixed feelings - just beast of an amp... built like a tank and i remember hurting my back moving it... it was so heavy and of course the weight was totally lopsided, and it was also very hard to grip the amp from underneath to move

sounded very nice on proacs though!