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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
 
I do use a sub but am happy without it too. I use a REL Storm III crossed over at lowest setting, just gives me a bit more fullness on some material.
Mcfavre4
Thanks.

What amplification are you using?

mcfavre4
85 posts
 
I have recently compared a Naim Nait 5i, Primare I21 and Bryston B60R SST on the A2. I had the Bryston B100SST, Rogue 99 and 3BST within the last year and an ASL 1003 tried briefly. I also own the LFD Mistral. Want to try the Cronus. As far as musicality, the Bryston B60R SST is the unit I listen to the most as I like the imaging, separation and sweetness in combo with the liquid mids on the A2. They are rated at 88DB and play to decent levels on the B60. THe updated B60 does sound bigger and clearer than the original yet has the good musical attributes the 2BLP has. Feel free to e-mail me if you have other questions.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Thanks. I'm interested primarily in relatively low powered tubes (~50 wpc), which is why I asked what you had used.

From what I understand of the RothschildeA2, the Cronus would likely work well.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
agree with philefreak. keep your amp and speakers, and tweek a bit.
arch7 OP
35 posts
 
Thanks again to all who responded.

I know my room is not ideal, but it sounded ok before. I've made a few room-mods. With acousitc material at the tweeter reflection points.

I have a Shunyata Cobra power cord, so I don't think that's a problem.

I'm curious about changing the amp over to 8ohm. Is there anything wrong with running 4ohm speakers at 8ohm? What sonic differences are there? Will they play louder or quieter?

I have spoken with Mark OBrien at Rogue. He's super helpful and recommended some of these tube tweaks I've made. I know this amp is not known for being bright, so it must be the speaker combo or placement or the room too.

Thanks!
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