2. amps-preamps
  3. 125094-1644

The best separates between $2500-3000. Moving on from the original Rogue Sphinx Intg..

I have decided  NOT to upgrade the original  Rogue Sphinx integrated amp to its new version.  Therefore, I would humbly ask for recommendations for  the best separates in the $2500-3000 range. I would prefer the same brand pre-amp and power amp, but will consider mixed brands.

My requirements are basic: at least 150-175 RMS; a simple "quality" remote with a mute switch and smoothly calibrated volume control.  Pre-amp Out ( optional) feature;.  A good headphone stage;  A good to VG phono stage, BUT  CAN forego in favor of a good  phono box.. .

I DON'T WANT OR NEED:  an onboard DAC for streaming audio files  ; processor loops, or subwoofer inputs and outputs HT inputs and outputs;  class D amp

Because of the plethora of new pre-amps with the features I don't want, I might consider older "quality" pre-amps without the bells and whistles. However, I AM NOT interested in  so called   "upgraded" vintage  or refurbished" crap from 20-30 years ago. I recently got burned on a refurbished and marginally upgraded turntable. My mistake.  Thank you for your advice 

  

sunnyjim
sunnyjim OP
884 posts
 
To Lowrider. In reviewing reviews about the ARC150.2, I found out about the ARC 100.2  The reviews on it on the "audioreview" blog praise it to the sky as a "music lover's amp".  There seems to be a very strong consensus about the excellence of this amp's sound quality  So,  I will investigate it and see if one is available either on AG or ebay. It is less power at 100RMS at 8 ohms, but  doubles to 200RMS at 4 ohms.  Let me know if you have heard this amp or know of its reputation   
audioman58's avatar
audioman58
1,219 posts
 
Nelson Pass 1st watt amplifier the new one F7  if you have s efficient loudspeakers these are 25-50 wpc pure class A every year is different. Sonic very hard to best even at 3x thd price Sonicly.

Loudspeakers without question 94 dB 4ohms , loaded Spatial Audio M-3
Hotrod with reference compression driver.
Digital Schiit audio ,Multibit Gungnir , $1300,or their $2300 'flagship


lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
3,018 posts
 
Jim, not familiar with that ARC, but many good user reviews.
I'm sure it would have no trouble driving your speakers. But do some research if you plan on upgrading to Maggies.

BTW, keep checking US AudioMart for used gear. It's grown into a damn good site for affordable HiFi.
sunnyjim OP
884 posts
 
To Lowrider, I  never have  checked with US Audio Mart; probably thinking they were just an "audio" version Craig's list. I will check them out in the near future. 
erik_squires
5,268 posts
 
Audio Research, Parasound, Conrad Johnson and Cary would be on my short list, and not for sounding alike. ;)
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