Rogue Audio
Rogue Audio Ares II Tube Phono Preamplifier
Best tube preamp for audiophiles seeking rich, high-fidelity vinyl playback.
Elevate your vinyl experience with the Rogue Audio Ares II Tube Phono Preamplifier. This ultra-high performance, low-noise unit is meticulously engineered to enhance your listening sessions, seamlessly accommodating all MC and MM cartridges for unparalleled clarity and sonic richness. Featuring a pure tube circuit, custom Cinemag transformers, and precise RIAA equalization, the Ares II offers superior sound reproduction. Its robust, regulated outboard power supply ensures consistent performance, while the timer-delayed start and subsonic filter provide a quiet, rumble-free experience. Crafted in the USA with premium components, it's the ultimate upgrade for any audiophile seeking exceptional fidelity.
$2395.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
36
/ 466
#36 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-65%
Below average
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
/ Vacuum Tube
Who it's for
- Vinyl collectors using diverse moving magnet or moving coil cartridges
- Listeners demanding a silent background and dynamic, stable power delivery
- Audiophiles seeking a warm, classic, and detailed analog sound
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an entry-level audio solution
- Listeners preferring a low-maintenance, set-and-forget audio system
- Owners with limited shelf space for bulky audio equipment
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Pure tube circuitry delivers an incredibly rich and lifelike soundstage.
Cartridge Versatility
Seamlessly handles both MM and MC cartridges with adjustable gain settings.
Build Integrity
Heavy-duty construction and premium internal components ensure lasting audiophile performance.
Noise Floor
Outboard power supply and subsonic filtering keep background interference remarkably low.
Signal Precision
Custom Cinemag transformers provide exceptional accuracy for delicate analog signals.
Operational Stability
Timer-delayed start protects your equipment while ensuring a quiet startup.
Key Specs
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
Output Connection Types
RCA
Equalization Curve Support
RIAA
Subsonic Filter
Yes
Power Supply Type
External
Mono Switch
Yes
Cartridge Type Support
Moving Magnet (MM), Moving Coil (MC)
Maximum Gain
64 dB
Features
- Ultra-high performance tube phono preamplifier
- Handles all MC and MM cartridge types
- Custom Cinemag step-up transformers
- Massive, regulated outboard power supply
- Precise RIAA equalization
- Timer-delayed start for quiet operation
- Subsonic filtering removes unwanted rumble
- Designed and built in the USA
What customers say
Customers widely regard the Rogue Audio Ares II as an endgame phono stage due to its exceptional sound quality. The presentation is consistently described as warm, rich, and musical, yet highly detailed and dynamic. Reviewers frequently note significant improvements in soundstage depth and an organic, engaging musical delivery that breathes new life into records. The tube design imparts a desirable analog liquidity, making listening immersive and nonfatiguing. Beyond the superb audio performance, the robust build quality and elegant aesthetics earn high praise. While a significant investment, the Ares II is considered outstanding value, often surpassing much costlier units. Many owners enjoy the flexibility of tube rolling to tailor the sound to their preference.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Ares II is designed to accommodate both MM and MC cartridges. It offers three selectable gain settings—40dB, 55dB, and 64dB—to ensure compatibility with a wide range of output levels.
The outboard power supply keeps the massive, regulated toroidal transformer physically separated from the sensitive audio circuitry. This design significantly reduces electromagnetic interference, resulting in a lower noise floor and cleaner signal reproduction.
The built-in subsonic filter is designed to remove low-frequency rumble caused by warped records or turntable vibrations. By filtering out these inaudible frequencies, it prevents your speakers from working unnecessarily and helps maintain clarity in the bass response.
The timer-delayed start protects your audio system by preventing loud pops or surges from reaching your speakers when the unit is first powered on. It allows the vacuum tubes to stabilize before the signal path is fully engaged.
The Ares II provides flexibility with capacitance loading options of either 150 picofarads or zero capacitance. This allows you to fine-tune the electrical environment to better match the specific requirements of your cartridge.
Yes, the unit includes a dedicated mono switch. This is particularly useful for listeners with vintage mono collections, as it helps reduce surface noise and provides a more focused, stable soundstage.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.