Rogers Cadet III Phono Stage

[jkeny]

I just rescued this amp from a recycling centre. It's the integrated version with control unit & amplifier in 1 case (wooden - will post pics when I get a chance).

I don't know if it works yet but I wondered how its phono stage was rated in the grand scheme of things (the EL86 tubes were considered low noise & high gain I think). I need a phono preamp/amp & thought this would be a good place to start.

I am a solid state guy but always wanted to experiment with & hear a tube amp. So this is a perfect free intro (if I don't have to replace tubes - I know 40 yr old caps should be tested & probably replaced).

Before I spend any money on this is it worthwhile?

John

[kevinkr]

Should be a perfect amplifier to learn on.

Given the age of the amplifier expect to replace all of the electrolytics.

Someone here probably has the schematic as well.

I just found this very useful link to a cadet website. The manual includes the schematic:

http://www.btinternet.com/~a.d.richa...det/cadet.html


edit: add link to website

[jkeny]

Got the schematic from the net thanks Kevin - just wondered if anybody had a view on the quality of the phono - I will probably reanimate an old thread on the Cadet to query existing owners of this amp.

John

[kevinkr]

Hi John,
It's a very basic design, but seems like a good point to start. Once you fix this neat little amp up you will have a better understanding of tube (valve) designs and might be ready to tackle a design of your own.

Just be sure to familiarize yourself with good safe practice which you can find right here in tubes.

Must have been posting simultaneously.

[jkeny]

Thanks for the advice Kevin - will heed your warnings

John

[poynton]

Hi.

I've had a couple of these little amps although I did not use the phono section as I am totally CD based.

They go loud enough for most people in the domestic environment ( using QUAD11 ) but do run out of power when pushed hard , as you would expect.

The sound quality is average and the ones I had tended to be a little noisy - hiss and hum.

Having said that, they have a great following. Well worth the effort getting it going again especially if the front panel is in good condition.

I sold mine at the Tunbridge Audiojumble - no problems.

Andy