Arcam A19 vs. Rogue Audio Sphinx vs. Creek Evolution 50A

[bracque]

any thoughts?
 
the arcam and rogue are getting great reviews, can't find too many comparisons of the two.
 
thanks.

 

[MLGrado]

Interested in the Arcam A19 as well. 
 
It seems to meet all my needs... nice amp, phono input, and headphone out.
 
My only question, though, is exactly how good the headphone out is?
 
Anyone had a chance to take a listen?

 

[jerick70]

I have both the Arcam A19 and Creek Evo 50A.  For speakers, I prefer the Creek between the two.  I haven't used the headphone out on either amp.  I'll give them a try and let you know what I think in a later post.  
 
Here are a few reasons I prefer the Creek over the Arcam: 
 
(I am listening with KEF LS50s and Monitor Audio Silver RX1 Speakers so your mileage may very)
 
1)   The delivery is more detailed so you hear more nuances in the music. 
2)   Instruments separation is much better.
3)   The bass is more controlled and less boomy.  Some people say the Creek has weak bass. This is true before you let it burn in.  But once it is burned in the bass becomes deep and articulate.   
3)   It is an excellent all around amp.  It tackles classical and acid metal with aplomb.  Or whatever else you want to throw at it.
4)   It has a balanced input.  The Arcam doesn't have this.
5)   It has an easy upgrade path to DAC, Phono stage, and Tuner.  This is all installed into the amp itself so you don't have multiple boxes laying around.  
6)  It has a super cool OLED screen.  It's a big positive change from the older style screens.
7)  It's smaller so it fits on a desk easier.  This is a minor issue because most people will use it differently than I do.
8)  It just feels like Mike Creek put a labor of love into this amp. Build quality is a small bit better.
9)  Component matching is much easier.  The Arcam seems to be very finicky about the kit you match it with.
 
Don't get me wrong the Arcam is a fine amp but the Creek is just that much better. 

 

[jerick70]

I finally got around to comparing the Arcam's and the Creek's headphone amps.  I like the Creek much better.  The Arcam just seems flat.  I'm not sure what Arcam did with the headphone output but it wasn't to my liking.  The Creek isn't going to win any rewards but it sounds OK.