Rogue Audio M-180 Monoblocks

The Rogue Audio M-180 Monoblocks are all-tube monoblock power amplifiers that deliver 180 watts per channel from four KT120 output tubes in each chassis, with circuit topology derived from Rogue's flagship Apollo amplifiers. With balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs, switchable triode/ultralinear operation, ultra-wide bandwidth output transformers, and a massive high-capacity power supply per monoblock, the M-180s earned Stereophile Class A Recommended Component status as the most capable pure tube amplifiers in Rogue's lineup.

Key Features of the M-180 Monoblocks

• 180 Watts Per Channel: Four KT120 output tubes per monoblock deliver 180W in ultralinear mode, with switchable triode operation for tonal flexibility
• Apollo-Derived Circuit Topology: The M-180's gain stage and output stage are derived directly from Rogue's discontinued flagship Apollo amplifiers
• Balanced XLR and Single-Ended RCA Inputs: True balanced connectivity with heavy-duty gold-plated XLR and RCA connectors
• Ultra-Wide Bandwidth Output Transformers: Custom-wound transformers with 5Hz to 50kHz (±1dB) frequency response, mechanically isolated from the chassis
• Triode/Ultralinear Switching: External switch toggles between 180W ultralinear mode and lower-power triode mode without powering down
• Built-In Bias Meter: Integral bias meter per monoblock for quick, accurate tube biasing
• 4-Ohm and 8-Ohm Output Taps: Selectable impedance matching for optimal power transfer to any loudspeaker
• Stereophile Class A Recommended Component: Recognized among the finest amplifiers regardless of price
• Handcrafted in the USA: Designed and built in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania, with every unit tested, burned in, and auditioned

Apollo-Derived Tube Architecture

The M-180's circuit topology descends directly from Rogue's flagship Apollo amplifiers, which established the company's reputation at the highest end of tube amplifier design. Each monoblock employs four KT120 output tubes in a push-pull configuration, driven by two 12AU7 and one 12AX7 in the gain and phase-splitter stages. The KT120 is a modern beam tetrode with exceptional plate dissipation and linear characteristics, capable of sustained high-power operation with service life typically reaching 3,000 to 5,000 hours. The entire signal path is built on Rogue's signature heavy 2-ounce copper circuit board with precision components and short signal paths, minimizing parasitic effects and keeping the noise floor well below the music.

Triode and Ultralinear Operation

An external switch on each M-180 toggles between ultralinear mode (180 watts, maximum dynamic headroom) and triode mode (reduced power, smoother harmonic structure). Unlike many tube amplifiers that require powering down to change modes, the M-180's switch operates during playback, letting you match the amplifier's character to the music in real time. Ultralinear mode delivers the full authority the M-180 is capable of, with tight bass control and explosive dynamics. Triode mode shifts the emphasis toward midrange liquidity and spatial depth, making it a natural choice for acoustic recordings, vocals, and late-night listening at lower levels.

Power Supply and Output Transformers

Each M-180 monoblock contains a massive high-capacity power supply dedicated entirely to its own output stage, with no power sharing between channels. The energy reserves in each supply are designed to handle sustained low-frequency demands without voltage sag, keeping the output stage in its linear operating region even during the most punishing bass passages. The ultra-wide bandwidth output transformers are custom wound to achieve frequency response from 5Hz to 50kHz (±1dB), well beyond the audible range, ensuring phase accuracy and transient response that approaches the best solid-state designs. These transformers are mechanically isolated from the chassis to prevent vibration from coupling into the signal path.

Balanced Connectivity

Each M-180 accepts both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) connections with heavy-duty gold-plated connectors. The balanced inputs make the M-180 particularly well-suited to monoblock placement near speakers, where long interconnect runs between preamplifier and amplifier benefit from balanced cable's common-mode noise rejection. This setup also allows you to use shorter, higher-quality speaker cables while running longer, less expensive XLR interconnects from your preamp. The RP-7 v2 and RP-9 v2 preamplifiers both offer balanced outputs for a fully balanced Rogue signal path.

"Dark" Version

The M-180 Dark ($9,495/pair) applies Rogue's most comprehensive upgrade package to the already well-specified standard amplifier:

• Enhanced Power Supply: 33% larger power supply with Hex Fred high-speed diodes and polypropylene bypass capacitors for increased energy storage and faster recovery
• Premium Coupling Capacitors: Ultra-premium coupling capacitors in the signal path for maximum transparency
• Upgraded Tube Complement: Premium matched octets of KT120 output tubes and upgraded small-signal tubes from Psvane, Telefunken, or RCA
• Cardas Rhodium Connections: Heavy-duty gold-plated XLR and RCA inputs with Rhodium binding posts from Cardas Audio
• Nude Vishay Resistors: Precision resistors in critical input stages for lower noise and greater signal purity

The 33% power supply increase in the Dark version is the largest of any Rogue Dark upgrade, reflecting the M-180's higher power demands and the benefits of additional energy reserves at this performance level.

Explore the Full Rogue Audio Power Amplifier Lineup

The M-180 Monoblocks are Rogue's flagship pure tube power amplifiers:

• Stereo 100 - 100W pure tube stereo with Mundorf EVO Oil caps and ultra-wide bandwidth transformers. If you want Rogue's tube quality in a single chassis.
• Atlas Magnum III - 100W pure tube stereo at Rogue's most accessible price point. Same KT120 output tubes, same triode/ultralinear flexibility.
• DragoN Monoblocks - 325W hybrid monoblocks with tubeD circuit and Hypex N-Core output. More power, zero maintenance, different sonic character.

Pairing with a Rogue Preamplifier

At the M-180's level, the preamplifier determines the system's character. The RP-7 v2 offers balanced outputs and a tube-regulated power supply that matches the M-180's performance tier, while the flagship RP-9 v2 extracts maximum resolution with its dual-mono topology and premium components. Both preamplifiers use 12AU7 tubes, keeping your tube inventory consistent across the system.

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.

M-180 Monoblock Specifications