Cary Audio CAD-808,Rocket 88 R Version

Cary CAD-808 “Rocket 88, R version” in excellent condition. The “R” version is the last iteration of this amplifier and benefits from increased input sensitivity so that it can be driven by a wider range of sources (1.2 volts for specified output vs. 3 volts). The “R” version is identified by the face plate “R version” and by the 12BZ7 tubes on the input stage. The output power is also increased in the R version.

Prior versions of this amp use a 6922 as the input tube and output is stated at 20W/ 40W. The “R” version delivers 30W class A triode mode and 60W in ultra linear mode. Zero global feedback amp as with most Cary tube products. Per the manual, the input tubes can also be changed to 12AX7 and 12AU7 if you wish to reduce the input sensitivity.

Per Dennis Had in the owner’s manual: “From the first incarnations of this project to the final result it was an intriguing concept, to say the least. We found that changing the input circuit to accept the ‘12 series’ vacuum tubes caused a dramatic drop in total harmonic distortion. Overall circuit dynamics and frequency bandwidth improved with the new driver tubes as well. We have come to the conclusion that the limiting factor in the previous Rocket 88 design was the 6922 tube we used in the front end stage. The ‘12 series’ tubes certainly fixed that!”

This particular unit has 4 upgraded coupling capacitors (by Cary), Jensen copper foil and oil, a $300 upgrade.

Tubes have low hours and are of high quality: a matched quad of GEKT-88 tubes from Upscale Audio, EL84’s are NOS Philips mini watt. The 12BZ7’s are NOS Tung-Sol.

Original double shipping box, manual, biasing cord and power cord included. Tubes will ship in a separate box.