Rogue Audio Ares II Tube Phono Preamplifier

The Rogue Audio Ares II is an all-tube phono preamplifier with three gain settings, custom Cinemag step-up transformers, and a fully regulated outboard power supply. It handles everything from high-output MM cartridges to low-output MC designs, with internal loading options and subsonic filtering. Designed and hand-built in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania.

Key Features of the Ares II

• All-Tube Signal Path: Pure tube circuit topology using 2 x 12AX7 and 2 x 12AU7 for warm, natural sound
• Three Gain Settings: 40dB, 55dB, and 64dB to accommodate any cartridge output level
• Custom Cinemag Step-Up Transformers: High-quality signal transfer for MC cartridges with minimal noise
• Outboard Power Supply: Fully regulated linear design with toroidal transformer, physically separated from the audio circuitry
• Internal Loading Options: Popular impedance values plus 150pF or 0pF capacitance loading
• Mono Switch: Combines left and right channels for mono pressings
• Subsonic Filtering: Reduces low-frequency rumble to protect speakers
• Timer-Delayed Start: 30-second warm-up sequence minimizes turn-on noise and extends tube life
• Precise RIAA Equalization: Accurate phono curve reproduction across the full frequency range
• Handcrafted in the USA: Heavy 2-ounce copper circuit boards, Teflon/silver-plated hookup wire, machined aluminum faceplate

Tube Circuit Design

The Ares II uses a pure tube signal path with no solid-state devices in the audio circuit. Two 12AX7 tubes handle the initial gain stage, and two 12AU7 tubes manage the output. The tube circuit is flexible enough to accommodate substitutions: replacing the 12AU7s with 12AT7 tubes adds about 9dB of gain, while 12AX7 substitutions add roughly 12dB. This gives you room to experiment with tube rolling and fine-tune the gain structure to your specific cartridge and system without any modifications to the unit itself.

Cartridge Compatibility and Loading

With three gain settings (40dB, 55dB, 64dB) and internal loading options, the Ares II accommodates nearly any cartridge on the market. The 40dB setting handles high-output MM cartridges, 55dB covers high-output MC designs, and 64dB reaches low-output MC cartridges that need serious amplification. Internal loading can be set to popular impedance values, and capacitance loading is selectable between 150pF and 0pF. Whether you're running a Hana ML, a Goldring E3, or a high-end Lyra, the Ares II has the flexibility to get the best from your cartridge without needing external loading boxes or adapters.

Outboard Power Supply

The power supply is fully regulated, linear, and housed in a separate chassis connected by an umbilical cable. This is not a cosmetic choice. Keeping the toroidal transformer and power regulation physically away from the sensitive phono circuitry eliminates the hum and noise that plague phono stages with internal power supplies. The result is a black background that lets you hear detail in your records you may not have noticed before, especially in quiet passages and low-level ambient cues.

Build Quality and Construction

The Ares II reflects the same build standards as Rogue's more expensive components. Heavy 2-ounce copper circuit boards (comparable to what you'd find in the $7,500 Lamm LP2), Teflon/silver-plated internal hookup wire, ultra-heavy-duty gold RCA jacks, and a machined aluminum faceplate. Every unit is individually tested, burned in, and auditioned before shipping. This is not mass production; it's hand assembly with quality control at every step.

"Magnum" Version

The Magnum upgrade takes the Ares II platform and adds premium components in the most critical parts of the signal path. According to Rogue, the Magnum version adds additional gain for very low output cartridges, improves inner detail, and improves accuracy. The upgrades include:

• Cinemag "blue label" step-up transformers: Higher-grade transformers for improved MC performance
• PRP resistors: Precision metal-film resistors in critical signal path locations
• Mundorf Supreme inter-stage coupling caps: Premium capacitors known for transparency and detail
• Cardas internal wiring and RCA jacks: Upgraded throughout for better signal transfer and connection quality

What Changed from the Original Ares

• Redesigned motherboard: Lower noise floor than the original Ares
• Mono switch added: Not available on the original Ares or first-generation Magnum
• Third gain setting: 64dB option for very low output MC cartridges
• Refined RIAA equalization: Tighter accuracy across the frequency range

System Matching

The Ares II pairs naturally with any of the Rogue Audio preamplifiers. The RP-1 is a strong entry point, while the RP-5, RP-7, and RP-9 offer increasing refinement up the line. If you want an integrated solution with a built-in phono stage instead, the Cronus Magnum III includes MM/MC phono capability, though the Ares II offers more gain flexibility and the advantage of a dedicated outboard power supply.

For a solid-state alternative, Rogue also makes the Triton II, which takes a different approach with transistor-based amplification for listeners who prefer that sound.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on trust, not hype. We've carried Rogue Audio for years because their products deliver real value and hold up over time. Every component is designed and built in Pennsylvania, and we're proud to support a manufacturer that shares our commitment to quality. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction.

Specifications