Rocket 88R

About the Rocket 88R

The Cary Audio Design Rocket 88R (also known as CAD-808) is a stereo vacuum tube power amplifier designed for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound with tube flexibility. It operates as a linear final amplifier with no pre-gain stage, capable of running in Class A triode mode delivering 30 watts per channel or Class AB ultra-linear mode delivering 60 watts per channel. The amplifier features push-pull balanced circuitry and supports various output tubes including KT-88, EL-34, 6550, KT-66, KT-77, and KT-90, allowing users to tailor the sound. It includes dual 'cat eye' indicator tubes and offers selectable output impedance (4 or 8 ohms). The unit is housed in a black epoxy powder-coated chassis with an anodized aluminum faceplate and weighs approximately 45 pounds. It requires 117 or 240 volts AC power and has a warm-up time of about 3 minutes with a recommended break-in period of 100 hours of music playing time. The amplifier is praised for its rich tonal quality, excellent soundstage, and effortless musical flow.