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The Ultimate Version of the Ultimate in Vacuum Tube Amplification
The special "Dark" version of Rogue Audio's M-180 monoblocks does what hadn't seemed possible. It upgrades the standard model M-180 so that it sounds even better than before. And that is quite an accomplishment.
The exclusive Dark model features include ultra-premium coupling capacitors, Telefunken and RCA small signal tubes, increased power supply storage – the power supplies are 33% larger – Hex Fred high speed diodes and polypropylene bypass capacitors in the power supplies, Nude Vishay resistors at critical locations in the input circuitry, and Rhodium binding posts from Cardas Audio.
Why a "Dark Version?"
Why do Rogue's special 'amped up' versions of their components sport the label "Dark"? Here's the explanation, according to Ric Mancuso's October 2023 enjoythemusic.com review of the Stereo 100 Dark Amplifier, which includes insights from Rogue Audio's designer Mark O'Brien, who happens to be high-performance car and motorbike enthusiast.
Mark explains, "The term Dark refers to the world of high-performance racing machines. When a car or motorbike is presented to a racing team before modifications, it is delivered in a prime black finish, along with requested tweaked competition parts. So, the 'Dark' connotation is of extremely high performance."
Packed with Power, Grace, and Precision
When you are ready for the ultimate in vacuum tube amplification, look no further than the Rogue Audio M-180 Dark monoblock power amplifiers. They offer power, grace, and precision. Boasting 180 watts of pure tube power, these monoblocks present a soundstage of magnificent full height, width, and depth. They offer the pace and musicality of the M-Series for a riveting performance that will leave you breathless. And along with their profound sonic merits, the monoblocks are aesthetically exquisite amplifiers that will stoically serve as the cornerstones of your system.
"The Rogue M-180 deserves to be at the top of every audiophile's list of amps that deliver high performance in almost every aspect of playback—something I'd say even if they cost $10,000/pair," reports Erick Lichte in Stereophile magazine on the standard model M-180. "The Rogues excelled at throwing a huge, well-defined soundstage with outstanding spatial separation between instruments."
Circuitry Derived from Rogue's Apollo Amps
Using circuitry derived from Rogue Audio's Apollo amplifiers, the M-180 is marked by an exceptional design that places it squarely at the forefront of tube technology with a "slow start" logical turn-on for extended tube life and the ability to externally switch between either ultra-linear or pure triode operation. The highly efficient design also means cool running and greatly extended tube life.
The massive M-180 Dark power supply is 33% larger than the standard model's power supply and is refined and augmented with Hex Fred high speed diodes and polypropylene bypass capacitors. Other refinements include balanced (XLR) and RCA inputs – featuring Nude Vishay resistors at critical locations in the input circuitry – mechanically isolated transformers, matched octets of KT120 output tubes, and separate 4 and 8 ohm taps on the rear. The Dark version boasts Rhodium binding posts from Cardas Audio.
Formidable Tube Complement with Easy Biasing
The M-180 Dark's formidable tube complement consists of 4 x KT120, 2 x12AU7, and x 12AX7 tubes, with matched octets of output tubes. The small signal tubes used in the standard version M-180 have been upgraded to Telefunken and RCA tubes. A slow start feature allows the tubes to warm up gradually to eliminate turn-on noise and greatly extend tube life.
Some people shy away from tube amps because it can be complicated and inconvenient testing and adjusting the bias, which typically requires using a hand-held meter. But this is far from the case with the M-180 Dark, which makes it easy to adjust the bias of the output tubes. In the center of the top plate of the amp is a built-in, easy-to-read meter with switches that lets you choose the tube you want to check out and/or adjust.
The tubes are nicely protected with a welded wire tube cage, which also contributes to the impressive appearance of this amp.
Premium Quality Components Throughout the Build
In keeping with Rogue Audio's "quality by design" philosophy, only the finest components are used in the construction of these remarkable amplifiers. These components are hand-wired to a heavy, two-ounce copper circuit board.
Designed and Hand Built in the USA
The M-180 Dark 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.
