2022 Editors' Choice Award - The Absolute Sound
The Smooth Organic Sound of Tubes Plus the Slam and Dynamics of Solid State
Audiophiles are using words like "groundbreaking" and "revolutionary" to describe Rogue Audio's new tube/Class D hybrid amplifier, the DragoN. And rightly so, because the DragoN is a monster in terms of providing a powerful and magical listening experience.
The DragoN combines the very best aspects and benefits of both solid state and vacuum tube technologies in a stereo amp. DragoN's energy-efficient "green" design does not require tube biasing or the other regular maintenance that can be needed with vacuum tube power amplifiers. DragoN boasts the smooth, organic sound that only tubes can provide and combines this with the dynamics and slam of solid-state designs.
"A Truly Splendid Piece of Electronics"
"The DragoN in particular, represents amplification that in its muscular performance and uncommon value should be equally celebrated," notes Neil Gader, The Absolute Sound, January 5, 2021, which honored the DragoN with the magazine's Editors' Choice Award. "Rogue Audio's contributions have been vastly underrated in my view, and the DragoN provides even further and unassailable evidence. Not just another high-powered beast, the DragoN is a truly splendid piece of electronics that can proudly grace any system."
Reviewing DragoN's lower powered sibling, the Hydra, The Absolute Sound magazine's Garrett Hongo reports, "It delivers the sonic goods, is easy to use, and is seemingly bulletproof. Best of all, it produces sound of clarity, strength, and fine resolution in a consistently broad and vivid soundstage."
Proprietary tubeD™ Circuit Topology
The DragoN consists of far more than simply placing a tube circuit in front of a class D output section. Rogue Audio's proprietary tubeD™ circuit topology actually integrates the tube section into the amplifier, yielding the smooth, natural sound that only a tube amp can provide. The tube complement consists of two 12AU7 vacuum tubes. The Class D circuitry uses NCore Hypex modules, known to be among the best amplifiers in the business, with a neutrality that leaves nothing to the imagination.
With almost uncanny accuracy, the DragoN power amp delivers stunning dynamics and transparency without any of the edgy, etched, or grainy sound that often accompanies solid state designs. Factor in its stunning appearance, too, and with the DragoN you can be certain that you are investing in an amplifier that truly represents the very leading edge of audio technology.
Three Massive Power Supplies
To make sure your music gets all the power it needs for crescendos, percussion, and overall true-to-life authenticity, DragoN uses three massive linear power supplies to power its amplifier circuitry. The output power is 300 watts-per-channel at eight ohms and a massive 600 watts-per-channel at four ohms.
A low power standby mode allows critical amplifier sections to remain continuously powered on (if desired), and a slow start feature allows the tubes to warm up gradually to eliminate turn-on noise and greatly extend tube life. Additionally, short circuit protection safeguards your gear.
Additionally, ultra-high-quality parts are used exclusively throughout the design for the highest quality performance and reliability. These components are hand-wired to a heavy, two-ounce copper circuit board. Connections consist of both balanced XLR inputs and single ended RCA inputs, along with heavy-duty gold plated binding posts.
Designed and Hand Built in the USA
The DragoN is entirely designed and hand built in the USA. Each unit is individually fully tested, burned-in, and auditioned, assuring you of great sound right out of the box. It comes with a three-year manufacturer's limited warranty from Rogue Audio (six months on the tubes).
The machined aluminum faceplate is available in either black or silver to compliment the rest of your components and includes an audiophile quality detachable IEC-type AC power cable.
