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Rogue Audio Pharaoh II Integrated Amplifier
When we began development of the Pharaoh amplifier we had one overarching goal: The realization of an integrated amplifier that, without compromise, would offer the performance of the finest separates. The new Pharaoh II pushes that performance to an even higher level.
A new amplifier circuit designed around the Hypex N-core amplifier modules increases both power and performance. The preamplifier includes numerous upgrades as well as an improved phono section and an all new hybrid headphone amplifier.
The Pharaoh II uniquely combines solid state power amplification with tube preamplification to deliver amazing dynamics as well as the organic midrange and sweet top end that only a tube amp can provide.
Along with truly outstanding sonics the Pharaoh II boasts numerous features including a tube/MOSFET headphone circuit, mm/mc user adjustable phono, home theater bypass, remote controlled volume with mute, and a processor loop. The Pharaoh II is truly a "one box" solution to all of your amplifier needs.
From a technical standpoint, the all important preamplifier section utilizes a pair of long plate 12AU7 tubes configured in a mu-follower topology. Large coupling caps and a host of exotic parts ensure that the audio signal is preserved perfectly during this critical stage of amplification.
A huge linear power supply is then used to deliver energy to the solid state power amplifier section. Designed around the highly regarded Hypex N-CORE OEM modules, the amplifiers provide seemingly unlimited power and dynamics.
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Rogue Audio Pharaoh II — Hybrid power and musicality
The Rogue Audio Pharaoh II Integrated Amplifier pairs a tube mu-follower preamp with a Hypex Ncore Class D output stage to deliver a powerful yet musical presentation. Reviewers praise its transparent, three-dimensional soundstage, with exceptional bass control (250 Wpc/8Ω, damping factor >1000) and explosive dynamics. As Positive Feedback observed, imaging is expansive and immersive; Audiophilepure highlighted the pristine, relaxed headphone performance. The build blends robust, hand-built US construction with premium parts (Mundorf EVO caps, massive linear supplies) and practical ergonomics. Connectivity covers balanced XLR, MM/MC phono with adjustable loading and a tube-driven headphone amp, though the remote is intentionally simple. Ideal for listeners seeking an end‑game analog-centric integrated with power, control, and a warm-but-detailed tube flavor—excellent value at its price point.
Pros
- Immense, controlled power and bass authority (250 Wpc/8Ω, 400 Wpc/4Ω) that drives demanding speakers without strain.
- Expansive, three-dimensional soundstage and precise imaging that places instruments with remarkable depth and focus.
- Hybrid tube front-end delivers transparent, musical midrange and a pleasing tube-like sheen; headphone section performs at a high level with both open and closed designs.
- Robust, hand-built construction and premium parts (Mundorf EVO caps, large linear supplies) that support long-term reliability and sonic consistency.
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Cons
- Remote control is deliberately basic (volume and mute only), offering no source navigation or advanced functions.
- The bypass/unity-gain behavior requires care—engaging unity gain can produce full output unexpectedly, so users should watch the control when switching modes.
Sound Quality
92/100
Dynamics
92/100
Given the high power rating (250 WPC @ 8 Ω, 400 WPC @ 4 Ω) and reported damping factor >1000, reviewers note 'explosive dynamics' and strong bass control (Positive Feedback). Comments about effortless control and the amp not running out of steam support a top-tier dynamics score for its topology and power class.
Soundstage Imaging
93/100
Multiple reviewers praise a very large, 3D soundstage with excellent front-to-back depth and pinpoint imaging — 'total immersion' and 'spotlighting every instrument' (Positive Feedback). Audiophilepure similarly notes space and detail with an appealing tube-like presentation, supporting excellent imaging performance.
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Build Quality
91/100
Physical build and parts are high quality: heavy metal casing, brushed aluminum finish, Mundorf EVO coupling caps, massive linear power supplies and hand-built US construction are cited. Reviewers describe intuitive, robust fit-and-finish and practical design choices, indicating strong overall build.
Features Connectivity
89/100
Feature set is well balanced for an audiophile integrated: three pairs of line inputs, MM/MC phono with adjustable loading (40/60 dB), balanced XLR inputs, tube-driven 1/4" headphone jack, and usable as a preamplifier; remote offers basic volume/mute only. No built-in DAC/streaming or digital inputs limits this from reaching the very top band, but the inclusion of high-end analog features (MM/MC, adjustable loading, XLR) makes it feature-rich for its class.
Value for Money
91/100
At $3,995 reviewers explicitly praise value: Positive Feedback calls its 'performance, convenience, and value... hard to pass up' and Audiophilepure hails near‑perfect sound in context. Given the sound, power, and build described, reviewers present a clear case that the unit justifies its price in its market segment.
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