Rogue Audio
Rogue Audio Ares II Magnum Tube Phono Preamplifier
Best tube phono preamp for discerning vinyl enthusiasts seeking ultimate clarity.
Elevate your vinyl experience with the Rogue Audio Ares II Magnum Tube Phono Preamplifier. This ultra-high performance, low-noise unit is engineered for exceptional playback, effortlessly handling low, medium, and high-output MC and MM cartridges. The Magnum version offers enhanced gain for delicate cartridges, superior inner detail, and remarkable accuracy. Featuring premium components like Cinemag transformers and Mundorf caps, it delivers a truly captivating audio experience for discerning audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of analog sound.
$2995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
86
/ 466
#86 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-56%
Below average
Dimensions
1795.5
/ " W x " D x " H
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking rich, holographic, and musical sound quality
- Vinyl enthusiasts using diverse, high-end phono cartridges
- Listeners prioritizing long-term reliability and premium component quality
Who should skip it
- Users wanting a low-maintenance, set-and-forget audio system
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level phono solutions
- Owners with limited shelf space or compact equipment racks
Performance breakdown
Cartridge Versatility
Effortlessly handles everything from high-output MM to demanding low-output MC cartridges.
Sonic Detail
Magnum upgrades reveal subtle textures and inner details in familiar vinyl pressings.
Noise Floor
Outboard power supply ensures a dead-quiet background for pristine analog playback.
Build Integrity
Heavy-duty construction and premium internal components reflect serious American engineering standards.
Gain Flexibility
Three distinct gain settings provide precise matching for diverse turntable setups.
Signal Purity
Precision RIAA equalization and subsonic filtering maintain absolute signal integrity throughout.
Key Specs
Dimensions
17" W x 9" D x 5.5" H
Weight
21 lbs
Gain Settings
40dB, 55dB, 64dB
Cartridge Support
Low, Medium, High Output MC and MM
Power Supply
Massive fully regulated outboard toroidal transformer
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
Equalization Curve Support
RIAA
Internal capacitance loading
150 Picofarads or 0
Features
- Enhanced gain for low-output cartridges
- Improved inner detail and accuracy
- Premium components for superior sound
- Supports all MC and MM cartridge types
- Massive, regulated outboard power supply
- Timer-delayed start for quiet operation
- Subsonic filtering for cleaner bass
- Precision RIAA equalization
What customers say
Audiophiles overwhelmingly praise the Rogue Audio Ares II Magnum for its exceptional sound quality, describing it as a transformative upgrade for vinyl. Users consistently highlight the rich, warm, and incredibly detailed soundstage, noting deep bass, natural midrange, and airy highs. The organic musicality and emotional engagement provided by the tube design are frequently mentioned. Beyond performance, owners appreciate the robust, premium build quality that conveys durability. While a significant purchase, the consensus is that this phono preamplifier offers outstanding value, often surpassing more expensive units. Its ability to elevate the listening experience makes it a highly satisfying component for serious analog enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
Yes, it is designed to handle all cartridge types, including low, medium, and high-output moving coil (MC) and moving magnet (MM) cartridges.
The unit offers three selectable gain settings—40dB, 55dB, and 64dB—allowing you to match the output level of your cartridge to your system's requirements.
The massive, fully regulated outboard power supply keeps the transformer away from the sensitive phono circuitry, which significantly reduces noise and interference for a cleaner, quieter signal.
Yes, the Ares II Magnum includes a dedicated mono switch, which is ideal for correctly playing back vintage mono recordings.
The subsonic filter removes ultra-low frequency vibrations, such as those caused by warped records or turntable rumble, which helps protect your speakers and cleans up the bass response.
The timer-delayed start ensures the vacuum tubes reach a stable operating temperature before the signal path is fully engaged, preventing unwanted pops or noise when you first turn the unit on.
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