Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Refined sound, described as a 'gentleman's amplifier' with no excessive bass, mids, or treble
- Massive and expansive soundstage, especially in width—creating a concert-hall-like experience
- High quality build with a modern design, exceeding the quality of stock grade buttons, dials, and connectors
- Good power output with selectable gain settings to drive a variety of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planar magnetics
- Versatile input and output options, including balanced connections and an optional phono stage
Product Considerations
- May not deliver the most incisive or aggressive note delivery, which may be desired for some genres like rock
- Some reviewers noted a slight high-pitched hum or noise with no music playing, more noticeable with IEMs
- Bass definition isn't the absolute best, with some other amps offering sharper attacks in the low end
- The display can be accidentally turned off when adjusting the volume
- Optimal performance requires driving amps with at least 33kohm or higher input impedance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Audio-gd Master-9 and Questyle CMA800R, the RH-5 is similar in neutral tonality and presentation, but more fun than the Master-9 and has a vast soundstage similar to the Questyle monoblocks
Takeaway: The Rogue Audio RH-5 is a versatile headphone amp and preamp that offers a refined sound and a big, open soundstage. It is a great choice for someone who wants a high-quality listening experience with many different headphones, with the ability to use it as a preamplifier too.
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Manufacturer details
- Tube complement: 2 x 12AU7/ECC802 tubes
- Frequency response: 5Hz – 50KHz +/- 1 dB
- THD: <0.05%
- Gain line stage: 3dB/12dB/16dB (selectable)
- Rated output: 3.5W (32Ω)
- Output impedance: <0.1Ω (1KHz)
- Gain phono stage: 43dB, 58dB
- RIAA accuracy: +/- 0.1 dB
- Phono overload: 40mV
- Power consumption on: 31W
- Dimensions: 15"W X 13.5"D X 4"H
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Shipping weight: 23 pounds
- Power requirements: 120/240V – 50/60Hz
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Rogue Audio integrates tubes into hybrid designs using a proprietary "tubeD" topology, incorporating them directly into the output stage and feedback network to shape the Class D sound.
- Rogue prioritizes parts quality and "Made in the USA" manufacturing by utilizing regionally sourced metalwork, top-shelf internal components, and hand-testing each unit before shipment.
Select products
Atlas Magnum III
- Positioning: Positioned as an affordable yet high-performance tube amplifier in Rogue Audio's lineup.
- Description: Features a robust 100 watts per channel of tube power. Includes an Ultralinear/Triode switch, offering flexibility between power and smoothness, which is not available in the more advanced models like the Stereo 100. This makes it ideal for users seeking high-quality sound in medium-sized rooms without breaking the bank, while its compatibility with 4 and 8-ohm speakers ensures broad system compatibility.
Stereo 100
- Positioning: A mid-range offering in Rogue Audio's lineup, providing a balance of power and refinement.
- Description: Delivers 100 watts of tube power with the option to switch between triode and ultralinear modes. Unlike the Atlas Magnum III, it uses KT120 tubes for enhanced power and dynamics. Its high-quality components include Mundorf EVO Oil capacitors.
Medusa
- Positioning: A high-end hybrid amplifier in Rogue Audio's lineup, combining tube and solid-state technologies.
- Description: Stands out with its hybrid design, integrating tube warmth with the power and efficiency of Class D amplification. This unique combination offers a smooth, natural sound with the dynamics of solid-state, setting it apart from the all-tube designs like the Atlas Magnum III and Stereo 100.
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Rogue
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Product Strengths
- Musically engaging and a joy to use
- Terrific sound and superb value
- First-rate design, build, and fit and finish, reflecting the company's dedication to quality
- The amplifier has a level of drive and authority that gives it traits more commonly associated with solid-state designs
- The phono stage is usefully comprehensive with gain settings for both moving-magnet and coil cartridges, together with load adjustment to make partnering MC options simpler
Product Considerations
- The phonostage is sensitive to RF, so take extra care with placement as well as cable dressing to minimize this extraneous noise
- Users will need to remove the amp's top plate to rejigger the wiring at the posts, as well as to change the phono settings
- A bit more additional punch and power would be welcome
- The III does overlay a fine granular texture on the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to a transistor reference Parasound P5 with a phono stage preamplifier and solid-state Sanders power amplifier, could get the detail and width dimension spot on, but not the same sense of stage depth and height
Takeaway: The Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III is a well-built, musically engaging tube amplifier that offers great value and a fun listening experience. With its versatile features and powerful performance, it is a worthy centerpiece for any hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
When we began development of the Pharaoh amplifier we had one overarching goal: The realization of an integrated amplifier that, without compromise, would offer the performance of the finest separates. The new Pharaoh II pushes that performance to an even higher level.
A new amplifier circuit designed around the Hypex N-core amplifier modules increases both power and performance. The preamplifier includes numerous upgrades as well as an improved phono section and an all new hybrid headphone amplifier.
The Pharaoh II uniquely combines solid state power amplification with tube preamplification to deliver amazing dynamics as well as the organic midrange and sweet top end that only a tube amp can provide.
Along with truly outstanding sonics the Pharaoh II boasts numerous features including a tube/MOSFET headphone circuit, mm/mc user adjustable phono, home theater bypass, remote controlled volume with mute, and a processor loop.
The Pharaoh II is truly a "one box" solution to all of your amplifier needs.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Offers higher output power (250Wpc) and a larger, higher-quality power supply compared to the original Pharaoh
- Excellent phono stage performance, described as the best phono stage ever found in an integrated amp
- Delivers a big soundstage with remarkable front-to-back depth
- Combines Class D amplification with a tube front end, offering a balance of power and musicality
- The headphone section has been completely redesigned and is comparable to dedicated headphone amps
Product Considerations
- When using the Pharaoh II in a home theater setup, be careful not to push the unity gain button, as it results in full volume output
- The Phono MC / MM adjustments are located inside of the unit
- It uses JJ tubes, that some users may want to replace with NOS tubes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Pharaoh II is a substantial improvement over the Pharaoh I, offering more transparency, detail, and power
- The Pharaoh II has noticeably better line-input transparency than the Sphinx V3
- Both the Pharaoh II and the LKV Veros PWR+ class-D amplifier played with class-A tone and texture
- The Rogue-Maggie sound was room-expanding, deep, shimmery, and clear—reminding the reviewer of the Pass Labs XA25 amplifier
Takeaway: The Rogue Audio Pharaoh II is a powerful and versatile integrated amplifier that combines the best of tube and solid-state technology, offering a detailed and engaging listening experience. With its improved power, redesigned headphone section, and excellent phono stage, it is a great choice for audiophiles seeking an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box.
And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive set of features including CD player, streamer, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier, phono amplifier, and power amplifier, all in one box
- Sounds very good across digital and analogue inputs, the combination of digital decoding and amplification is exceptionally cohesive
- Has a sturdy, well-built casework that feels every inch of its price tag, and is built to last
- Provides clear, detailed and large, spacious sound with an easy-going presentation, and can be part of an expansive wireless multi-room system
- Incorporates a high-quality ESS Sabre DAC and amplifier based on the Audiolab 6000A design
Product Considerations
- The software interface using DTS Play-Fi is a little slow, and Play-Fi is still not gapless, Play-Fi is not delivering at the same level of user experience as competitor solutions
- Rivals have greater dynamic punch, rhythmic accuracy, and energy
- Some reviewers find that the unit can be a bit sensitive with scratched CDs
- Remote and fascia controls aren't all that responsive
- There is no album art displayed on the screen during streaming
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SA-C600, the Technics may not be as big-scaled, open or reveal as much detail as the Audiolab Omnia, but it's more adept at conveying enthusiasm, rhythmic precision and dynamic punch
- In direct competition with the Cambridge Audio Evo 75, the Audiolab Omnia ties Audiolab styling touches into something that is not slavishly retro and gives away absolutely nothing in terms of feel, solidarity and design
- Compared to the NAD C700, the Audiolab Omnia has functionality they cannot get anywhere near—indeed functionality that leaves everything else under two grand looking rather limited
Takeaway: The Audiolab Omnia is a versatile and well-built all-in-one system that offers a wide range of features and delivers enjoyable sound, making it a great option for those seeking convenience without sacrificing audio quality. It's especially appealing for those who still value CD playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- BluOS integration offers a slick interface with robust functionality, lossless streaming, and great sound quality
- Compact form factor and lightweight design make it easy to place in various settings
- The 5-inch color display shows album art and track information, contributing to a sleek and sophisticated user experience
- HDMI eARC input allows for easy connection to smart TVs for enhanced audio
- A wide array of connectivity options is available, including digital and analog inputs, pre-outs, and a subwoofer output
Product Considerations
- Lacks a phono stage input for direct connection of turntables without a preamp
- Not a touchscreen
- May sound flat or experience coloration at its peak volume levels
- May lack the macro dynamics of a more powerful amplifier—better suited for efficient speakers and smaller rooms
- Some reviewers found it does not pause playback from the main unit, only mutes it
Takeaway: The NAD C 700 is a versatile streaming amplifier with a compact design and a wide range of features, making it a great option for those seeking a simple way to enjoy high-resolution music. Its intuitive BluOS platform and various connectivity options make it a convenient centerpiece for a modern audio setup
Video review
Our take on the brand
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