Rogers Cadet II (1962–1964)
A dual-chassis valve amplifier system from the early 1960s, known for its robust build and modular design.
Overview
The Rogers Cadet II is a dual-chassis valve amplifier system made by Rogers in London between 1962 and 1964. It consists of three separate units: a main amplifier, a control unit, and an optional phono pre-amp. Designed for high-fidelity audio, it uses ECC83 and ECL86 valves and features a selenium rectifier. The system includes a tape socket on the front panel, a mono button for radio, and two front-mounted filters. It was used with speakers like the Denton and is noted for a warm, hummy sound that punches above its weight.
Specifications
| Output (claimed) | 12W output |
| Output (measured example) | 6.5 watts into 15 ohms |
| THD | At 4 watts, THD was around 0.2% |
| Tubes/Valves | ECC83/ECL86 tubes |
| Rectifier type | selenium rectifier |
| Speaker impedance options | several impedence terminals for different speakers |
| Output transformer core material | Not ferrite cored |
Design
The Rogers Cadet II features a dual-chassis construction with internal wiring that is neat and point-to-point, with no PCB or tag board used—components are strung between pillars on the chassis. The phono stage is controlled by an octal plug-in device, allowing selection between ceramic and magnetic types. The front panel includes a light, two filters, and a tape socket. The system’s modular layout—main amp, control unit, and optional phono pre-amp—makes repair and servicing easier. Original units used carbon composition resistors and Mullard valves.
Context
Rogers International, founded in London in 1947 by Jim Rogers, began with public address equipment and moved into hi-fi speakers in the 1950s. The Cadet II was part of the company’s early foray into amplification, preceding its later fame with the BBC LS3/5A monitor. Though the Cadet II is considered rare and desirable today, it was somewhat overlooked in its time. It was succeeded by models like the Cadet III and Cadet V, which drew on its design legacy.
Market
The Rogers Cadet II has seen increasing desirability among vintage audio collectors. Used units have sold for €700 (2023) and £100 (1998). Common issues include disintegrated white plastic push buttons, discolored control unit fronts, drifted or open carbon composition resistors, hum, crackling valve holders, faulty volume controls, and damaged front-mounted DIN tape sockets. The front panel light may require tapping to function. ECL86 valves are no longer in production, with only NOS and used units available at high prices. Capacitor replacement and resistor checks are typical restoration steps, and the circuit diagram (6975-03) is sought after for repairs.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.