Dear Audiophile Friend:

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for purchasing a Cary Audio Design Rocket 88 R stereo power amplifier. I have spent many, many hours designing and voicing this latest iteration of our very popular Rocket 88. In fact, I have had tremendous fun listening to the new Rocket 88 R during and after the design phase. There are several design projects that stand out to me in the recent past. The three design projects that immediately come to my mind are the new CAD-805 10th Anniversary Edition single ended triode mono bloc power amps, the new V12 R stereo power amp and now the new Rocket 88 R. Designing and releasing the new Rocket 88 R has been a real treat to me and I hope it is for you as well. It combines our superb Cary Audio Design sound and build quality at a surprisingly modest price. We believe it is a truly a ‘Best Buy’ stereo vacuum tube power amplifier!

The basic premise I started with on the Rocket 88 R was to develop a truly linear, wide bandwidth, stereo vacuum tube power amplifier. Also, in direct response to Rocket 88 owner’s comments about input sensitivity we wanted to ‘harmonize’ the input sensitivity level of the amplifier to match other components used in an audio system. I was seeking an amplifier design that would precisely mimic the input signals up stream from the source signals while being more sensitive. In the design, the front end stage EL-84 tubes are used as current sources for the high gain 12BZ7 driver stage and phase inverter tubes, with one used for each channel. (12AX7 or 12AY7 tubes may be substituted for the 12BZ7.) The EL-84’s do not do any of the amplification. They allow the 12BZ7 phase inverters to operate in an equal balanced fashion.

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!

I realize you may think I am rambling but I am just so excited about the Rocket 88 R amplifier. Imagine listening to a compact stereo tube amplifier driving a pair of B &W 801 Nautilus 15” woofer loudspeakers to thunderous levels in both 30-watt Class A triode and 60-watt Class A/B ultra-linear pentode mode. Full speaker control with complete coverage of the frequency extremes is the result of the changes. I just can’t imagine it any better.

Please read the complete operating manual before turning on your amplifier and get ready for the musical time of your life.

Thank you once again for your interest and continued support for Cary Audio Design.

Dennis J. Had

President

Cary Audio Design

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Cary Audio Design CAD 808, Rocket 88 R specifications Dear Audiophile Friend
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CAD 808, Rocket 88 R specifications

Cary Audio Design has long been known for its high-end audio components, and the Rocket 88 R and CAD 808 amplifiers exemplify the brand’s commitment to excellence in audio performance. The Rocket 88 R is a tube amplifier that combines classic design with modern technologies, making it a popular choice among audiophiles who appreciate the warmth and character of tube sound. The CAD 808, on the other hand, is a solid-state powerhouse that brings to the table unparalleled clarity and power, providing a perfect counterpart to its tube-based sibling.

The Rocket 88 R is built around a unique dual mono configuration that allows each channel to operate independently, minimizing crosstalk and enhancing stereo imaging. This amp utilizes a pair of 6550 power tubes, delivering an impressive output of up to 100 watts per channel in push-pull mode. The result is a rich, harmonic sound that brings music to life, allowing listeners to experience their favorite tracks with an emotional depth that only tubes can offer. Additionally, the Rocket 88 R features Cary Audio’s proprietary Ultra-Linear and Triode switching modes, providing audiophiles with the flexibility to choose between a more powerful, dynamic sound or the intimate, lush qualities of triode operation.

The CAD 808 amplifies the experience even further with its advanced solid-state design. Featuring robust power supply and output stages, the CAD 808 is capable of delivering a staggering 200 watts per channel, ensuring that it can drive even the most demanding speakers with ease. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies such as high-current output transistors and a fully discreet output stage, the CAD 808 minimizes distortion and maximizes input sensitivity, resulting in crystal-clear audio reproduction. Its low negative feedback design not only enhances the overall sound quality but also improves the amplifier's transient response, providing listeners with a more dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Both amplifiers boast beautifully crafted chassis with a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. The Rocket 88 R is complemented by its glowing tubes and polished finishes, while the CAD 808 showcases a sleek, contemporary look with a user-friendly interface.

In conclusion, the Cary Audio Design Rocket 88 R and CAD 808 amplifiers stand out as exceptional choices for audio enthusiasts seeking both tube warmth and solid-state clarity. With their unique technologies and remarkable design characteristics, these amplifiers promise to elevate any audio system, ensuring an unforgettable listening experience.
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