Aronov Audio 60 watts per channel integrated amp under $2000 used. Natural, extended range performance with special ability to allow best possible bass of any tube amp in this price category. Dual volume controls optimize sound quality, and soundstaging, but an inconvenience in the service of great sound. Be warned that tubes done right become addicting, and you'll become a believer in the adage that tube watts are mightier than transistor watts. |
FWIW, I got a good deal on the Cary SLI-80 signature, about a year ago. I decided to give it a try, and man, it is the best looking, most quality-exuding piece I'fe ever owned. IT is beautifully made, that is for sure. I put the Rogue in the corner, and just listened to the cary for a while. I documented the whole affair in a thread here. If you don't feel like reading it, the Cary, even with $500 worth of NOS tubes, some, the best or certainly within the top 5 tubes of their type, ever made, still wouldn't out "real" the Rogue. I WANTED to love the Cary, its so damn pretty, but in the end, the rogue won out. Next, I had Unison SR-1, very pretty. GREAT sound, for a hybrid. THe sound is almost tubelike, the bass is a bit flabby, and there is a bit of Solidstate haze on the top end, but for the money, a damn fine amp. The Cary's major flaw, lack of depth of soundstage, and lack of a believable illusion that the sound wasn't coming from the speakers, was a strength of the Unison. It had a great stage, but, with that slight SS haze, the ROgue wins again. Anyway, I realize people are biased toward what they own. But, since I've owned all 3 of these, I think that I'm not quite as biased as someone who hasn't. The Rogue, at least in my system, was the best, and surprisingly, not the most expensive. IF you can live with a 2-D soundstage, the Cary will never fail to elicit a "wow" from a friend upon seeing it. Plus, tehy are another small company that has good customer service. Try to listen to the Rogue if you can, it just might save you some cash. You should try to listen to one. |
