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Rogue Cronus too bright

Hi All:
I recently aquired a slightly used Rogue Cronus integrated amp. It's an upgrade from a Jolida 302B. The Cronus is a great amp and is a big improvement in alot of ways over the Jolida, imaging, detail, bass, etc. I do find however that it's a bit too bright for my taste. By that I mean on vocals like Norah Jones some of the high notes leave that wince in my ear that makes me want to turn it down, and it's not loud to begin with. My speakers are Totem Model 1 Signatures (87db) with Analysis Plus Bi-Oval 12 cables. A jolida CD playes and VPI table. Same result from either source. I didn't have this problem with the Jolida. I've upgraded all of the signal tubes in the Cronus. Preamp 12AU7 tube to a Mullard. 12AX7's to RCA long black plates, and other 2 12AU7s to RCA clear tops. Power tubes are stock KT77 from Rogue.

Can anyone offer any thoughts on this? Are these speakers not a good match for this amp? Are my tube choices contributing to the problem? Are there better tubes to try?

Thanks!
arch7
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Check out the new ACI Emerald XL. Minimum impedance is 7 ohms. $650/pair. You'll need a subwoofer, though. I believe an entire ACI package might be available for your $1500 budget. They can be auditioned in-home for 30 days.

Also, though they are beyond your budget, and they're floorstanders, the AV123 Strata Mini look intriguing. They go down to 27Hz, have a nominal impedance of 8 ohms (6 ohm minimum), and they retail for $1995/pair. They can also be auditioned in-home for 30 days.

Finally, if you don't require the full range, used Reference 3a MM De Capo would be worthwhile investigating. 8 ohm nominal. 42Hz-20kHz. Around $1600 - $1800/pair.
mcfavre4
85 posts
 
A superb choice would be the Stone Image Rothschilde A2. Not too well known or marketed but they completly outperform any monitor I have heard under $3000, including the Model One Sigs I once owned. They look similar but are more cohesive, warmer, smoother up top and have better bass definition. I have owned dozens of monitors and these are truly special and a bargain. The company is great to deal with as well - http://stoneimage-audio.com/Index_2.htm - I was skeptical but cooresponded with jimmyr and truly have had no regrets and cannot fault the speakers at all. I use SS now, had used a variety of gear from Naim to Rogue. None sounded bright but they sure show the differences with all amps and sources. The last set of speakers that tried to compare were Merlin TSM Ms. The Merlins are also great but the Rothschilde were the ones I preferred for my room.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
The last set of speakers that tried to compare were Merlin TSM Ms. The Merlins are also great but the Rothschilde were the ones I preferred for my room.
Mcfavre4 (Answers)
Having heard the Merlin TSM, I'd be interested in some quick comments comparing them to the Stone Image Rothschilde A2.
westborn
101 posts
 
Change your power cord. TG Audio, Black Sand, VH
philefreak
416 posts
 
Before running off and buying new speakers. Try some other 12AU7s. The RCA clear tops have never been a favorite of mine. Plus, if the amp has 8 ohm and 4 ohm taps, try the 8 ohm tap. This should soften things a little.
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