Rogue Audio RP-1 Preamplifier

The Rogue Audio RP-1 is a two-tube preamplifier with a built-in MM/MC phono stage, discrete headphone amplifier, and four line-level inputs, all handcrafted in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania. Its compact 15.25-inch chassis fits easily into standard racks while delivering the mu-follower tube topology and RP-X platform technology found throughout Rogue's preamplifier lineup.

Key Features of the Rogue Audio RP-1

• Two-Tube Mu-Follower Design: 2x 12AU7/ECC82 in mu-follower topology delivering 7dB of gain with wide bandwidth (1Hz to 75kHz)
• Built-In MM/MC Phono Stage: Adjustable gain (43dB/58dB) with multiple cartridge loading options and +/-0.1dB RIAA accuracy
• Discrete 1W Headphone Amplifier: Dedicated Class A discrete circuit drives full-size headphones cleanly
• RP-X Platform: Computer-optimized circuit topology with microprocessor-controlled volume, source selection, and balance
• Four Line-Level Inputs: Plus dedicated phono input, two variable outputs, one fixed output, all gold-plated RCA
• Home Theater Bypass: Unity gain mode for seamless integration with surround sound processors
• OLED Display: Defeatable display showing volume, source, and balance information
• Remote Control: 7-button standard remote included (machined metal remote upgrade available)
• Compact Chassis: 15.25" W x 3.2" H x 14.5" D fits tight spaces where full-width components won't
• Handcrafted in the USA: Built in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania with a 3-year warranty

Two-Tube Mu-Follower Circuit

The RP-1 uses two 12AU7/ECC82 tubes arranged in Rogue's signature mu-follower circuit topology. The mu-follower configuration uses one tube as an active load for the other, producing higher gain, lower distortion, and wider bandwidth than conventional tube circuits. In the RP-1, this delivers 7dB of line-stage gain with a frequency response stretching from 1Hz to 75kHz and total harmonic distortion below 0.1%. The 750-ohm output impedance is low enough to drive the vast majority of power amplifiers without difficulty, and slow-start sequencing extends tube life by gently ramping voltage during power-up. The 12AU7 is one of the most widely available signal tubes in production, making tube replacements affordable and tube rolling a straightforward way to fine-tune the RP-1's character.

Built-In MM/MC Phono Stage

At $1,795, the RP-1 is one of the few tube preamplifiers in its class with a full-featured phono stage that handles both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. User-adjustable gain settings of 43dB (MM) and 58dB (MC) accommodate everything from high-output moving magnets to low-output moving coils. Cartridge loading is also user-adjustable, letting you optimize the electrical match for your specific cartridge. RIAA equalization accuracy is +/-0.1dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, and the 40mV overload rating provides generous headroom for hot-output cartridges. For turntable owners building their first serious system, the RP-1's built-in phono stage eliminates the need for a separate component and the extra interconnects and shelf space that come with it. For a dedicated external option with additional loading flexibility and a fully separate power supply, see the Rogue Audio Ares II Phono Preamplifier.

Discrete Headphone Amplifier

The RP-1 includes a dedicated discrete headphone amplifier delivering 1 watt into 32 ohms. This is a separate amplifier circuit, not a resistor-tapped afterthought from the main outputs. It drives full-size planar magnetics and high-impedance dynamic headphones cleanly, with the tube preamp section shaping the signal before the headphone output stage. For a dedicated headphone listening station with balanced outputs and higher power, Rogue builds the RH-5 Headphone Amplifier with 3.5 watts and both single-ended and balanced connections.

Connectivity and Control

The rear panel provides four pairs of gold-plated RCA line-level inputs, one pair of phono inputs, two pairs of variable outputs, and one pair of fixed outputs. The home theater bypass input connects to your surround processor's front channel outputs, passing the signal through at unity gain so volume control stays with your processor during movie watching. The OLED display on the front panel shows volume level, selected source, and balance, and can be switched off entirely. The standard 7-button remote handles volume, mute, source selection, and balance from your listening position. An optional metal remote upgrade adds a machined aluminum body with improved feel and durability.

Compact Chassis, Full-Size Performance

At 15.25 inches wide and just 3.2 inches tall, the RP-1 is significantly more compact than Rogue's full-chassis preamps. The RP-3 through RP-9 all measure 18.5 inches wide and 4.5 inches tall, while the RP-1 fits standard racks, smaller shelves, and tight spaces where those larger components won't. Despite the smaller footprint, the RP-1 shares the same machined aluminum faceplate and knobs, gold-plated connectors, and heavy copper circuit boards found throughout the RP series. At 16 pounds, it's built like a piece of serious audio equipment, not a lightweight compact.

Explore the Full Rogue Audio Preamplifier Series

The RP-1 is the entry point to Rogue Audio's preamplifier lineup. Each step up the series adds capability and refinement:

• RP-3: Full-chassis design with balanced XLR inputs and outputs, MOSFET output buffering for ultra-low output impedance (<10 ohms), and higher gain (10dB RCA, 16dB XLR). Line-level only, no phono stage.
• RP-5 v2: Four-tube mu-follower with Triton II-derived phono stage offering four gain settings, MOSFET-buffered headphone amplifier, and refined volume control with 0.5dB steps.
• RP-7 v2: Four-tube design with balanced XLR (2 in, 2 out), MOSFET output buffering, 14dB gain, 30V maximum output, and metal remote included. Stereophile Class A Recommended.
• RP-9 v2: Flagship with four 6H30P tubes replacing the 12AU7, extending bandwidth to 170kHz. 2W headphone amplifier and machined aluminum remote.

For an all-in-one solution, the Cronus Magnum III combines a 100W tube power amplifier with a preamp section, phono stage, and headphone amplifier in a single chassis.

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.

Rogue Audio RP-1 Specifications