Upgrading the "original " Rogue Sphinx integrated amp to the new version 2 (v-2)??
I have the original Rogue "Sphinx" integrated amp which was introduced approx. 4 years ago. There are upgrades now available for $400.00 plus round trip shipping. The upgrades focus on headphone output level; increasing output level of phono stage, and general noise floor reduction, Has any original Rogue. Sphinx owner had these upgrades done?? and is it WORTH IT, THAT IS, demonstrates a noticeable improvement in sound quality. especially noise floor
I ask because the upgrades with shipping will cost $600 from Rogue's factory in Pennsylvania to the West Coast ( they will not pay for return shipping). It is a nice integrated amp, but no classic. I have considered taking that $600 and adding maybe $1100, and buying something new or used mint that is superior in sound quality for around $1800-$2000. Must have a excellent phono stage that can do both MM/MC, and be 100-150 RMS. All suggestions and recommendation are welcomed. Thank you
I was referring to a review that I had read of the Sphinx V1 in which the reviewer raved about the preamp section of the Rogue. So I assume there is a preamp out. He claimed that the preamp was the strength of the amp and that the power section was grainy compared to the amp he hooked it up to. I'll see if I can find the specific review. Best, Scott |
From dagogo.com: "Still, if you only use the Sphinx as an integrated amp you will have no idea how good the preamp and phono stage are. The preamp and phono stage of the Sphinx are the reason to buy it, it really is that good. When I came out of its variable outputs into my Wavac EC-300B, I was genuinely shocked. No, it wasn’t in the same league with the Shindo preamps or the Allnic phono stages and line stages. Still, it was darn good." |
image: http://cdn.stereophile.com/images/814rogue.bac.jpg It has two ,one is fixed and one is variable ! |
Speaking with Rogue direct, the phono preamp in the Cronus Magnum (KT120) which I am currently as an amp/linestage is on par with external phono preamps that cost $300-$400. I am not sure of preamp used in the Sphinx. If you are looking for an upgrade, typically you can have a Cronus Magnum used for a few hundred more than a new Sphinx 2. |
