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hifi_dave
16-06-2013, 09:47
Hi folks. This is the first post on the Radlett Audio blog, where, from time to time, I will let you know about new and/or interesting products. Might even go into a rant occasionally and have a competition or two.

Come back soon.

hifi_dave
16-06-2013, 10:02
Here we have first pics of the new RFC MC1 step up transformer for MC cartridges and very good it is too.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/023_zps6583ef6a.jpg


I took part in the initial listening tests and placed it high on the list of top notch step-ups. Now slightly improved and tweaked, it's definitely one to beat, up to £2K. Paul(RFC) has put a lot of thought, care and time into this design and it shows. Up against some very expensive step-ups, I find the MC1 is clean, transparent and very dynamic - no sign of the wooly bass which defines some x'mers and it is totally hum free.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/024_zpsf03922f4.jpg



Loading can be specified for your chosen MC cartridge. The MC1 can be returned to RFC if you change the cartridge and require a different load.

The MC1 is a very reasonable £595.

Wakefield Turntables
16-06-2013, 13:04
+1 with these comments. I had the pleasure of trying this piece of kit out and can say that at £595 its a bargain. It certainly out performed some audiotechnica SUT's that I used in a earlier version of my system costing >£1-2K.

DSJR
16-06-2013, 13:52
Come on Dave, where's the Albarry pre-power you've been enjoying this week, the LFD integrated that I suspect few of us know about and THE NEW QUAD STUFF that is still so reasonably priced compared to some boxes out there???????????????????

If you've not drunk too much wine/beer during your Father's Day celebrations, get that camera out pronto :lol:

hifi_dave
16-06-2013, 14:05
I've had a rush of goodies in the past week but thought it best to space them out. However, this is the Albarry AP11 pre-amp.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/001_zpse2422e42.jpg


Resplendent in it's iconic red perspex front panel, the AP11 has an excellent MM phono input. Price is £2495 and works very well with all the power-amps I've used over the years.

Themis
16-06-2013, 14:54
Hi Dave, this blog is a nice idea ! :)

hifi_dave
16-06-2013, 15:55
Glad you think so. Thanks.

Marco
16-06-2013, 17:41
Nice one, Dave. I've made it a Sticky for you! :)

Marco.

hifi_dave
16-06-2013, 18:56
Thank you - I'll wipe it down after.

hifi_dave
19-06-2013, 10:38
The natural partners for the Albarry AP11 pre-amp.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/002-1_zps8e991ec3.jpg



The M608 mono-blocks. A healthy 60 watts each. £2995 inc. Based on the very popular M408 which first saw the light of day back in the early 80's. Now tweaked with some modern components to provide extra power and a cleaner, more dynamic sound but retaining the ease and sweetness of the originals.

Yomanze
19-06-2013, 11:35
Gotta love the Albarry styling. How does the 'house sound' compare with the likes of LFD?

DSJR
19-06-2013, 12:01
Haven't heard the LFD for a few years now, but I found it a little 'cool' with music signals - not that any modern well designed amp should sound any different.....

Next up Dave please - THE QUADS!!!! The new Reference range offers pretty fair value still amongst their peers and the look a bit meaner too I believe.....

Yomanze
19-06-2013, 13:16
Haven't heard the LFD for a few years now, but I found it a little 'cool' with music signals - not that any modern well designed amp should sound any different.....

Next up Dave please - THE QUADS!!!! The new Reference range offers pretty fair value still amongst their peers and the look a bit meaner too I believe.....

Interesting, "cool" is the last word I'd use to describe an LFD amp. I'd say they have a warm balance for sure, but amps like the PA0 can sound bright with a sub-optimal setup.

hifi_dave
19-06-2013, 13:58
I think Dave is thinking back to older LFD. The Integrated IV I have here has a lot more body than previous models.

hifi_dave
19-06-2013, 16:13
Here it is - the new Rega Elicit-r, integrated amp.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/024_zpse9167713.jpg



100 wpc, with loadsa inputs including a very good MM stage. Price is £1598.

In my eagerness to get it up and running, I forgot to remove the protective plastic from the front panel. Now looking forward to the matching Saturn-r, which Rega describe as a DAC with transport. Meaning it has lots of digital inputs.

DSJR
19-06-2013, 17:13
Oh Gawd, a Brio R on steroids :lol: :rofl: and I'm sure it'll sound really great - the way I described the looks, so there'll be little more to add if you know how good a Brio R is in the general scheme of things :)

Reffc
21-06-2013, 23:59
They look great David

hifi_dave
05-07-2013, 09:10
The latest What Hi-Fi has a great 5 star review of the Rega Elicit-r.

DSJR
05-07-2013, 12:21
(Shill :rofl:) - They loved it!!!!!!!!!

hifi_dave
10-07-2013, 11:03
I've got loads of new products in this month and I don't know where to begin.

So, I'll start with a little competition.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/027_zps9362e46c.jpg[/URL]


First one to correctly guess what this is will win two CDs of my choice.

Not you DSJR..:ner:

walpurgis
10-07-2013, 11:09
Is it a cheese and pickle sarnie?

The Grand Wazoo
10-07-2013, 11:13
Spendor D7

Reffc
11-07-2013, 08:52
Blast...I was going to go with Spendor D7 too!

DSJR
11-07-2013, 11:54
I feel another visit, sorry, shill-fest, coming on :rofl:

hifi_dave
11-07-2013, 17:04
It is, indeed, the new Spendor D7 and very good it is too. I've been waiting for quite a while for these and am not disappointed.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/030_zps123e2846.jpg[/URL]


I was expecting this to go on a bit longer but Chris is the winner. Please pm me with your address and I'll get the CDs in't post.

DSJR
11-07-2013, 17:09
I know 'we' here don't often consider these things, but they do look very family/better-half friendly :) Considering their price after the incredible '£10 Wharfedales' I heard just now, they'd better be good :rofl:

Alex_UK
11-07-2013, 17:23
Ooh yes, look forward to hearing these!

hifi_dave
17-07-2013, 16:47
A couple more pics of the D7 - this time they are in focus.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/0820Spendor20D720light20oak_zps7d7142ec.jpg[/URL]



A close up of the drivers showing the LPZ tweeter, which gives excellent dispersion and the almost flat, Kevlar bass driver. Very interesting and effective. They are, also, quite an easy, efficient load at 90 dB, so you don't need a massive amp to drive them.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/1820Spendor20D720close-up20of20drive20units_zps235ab773.jpg


Priced at £3495 in standard cherry, light oak (in the top pic) black ash and dark walnut. £3995 in the Spendor dark or Spendor white.


The D7 in standard

hifi_dave
18-07-2013, 11:51
As part of my Naim NOS sell off, I still have a NAC 282, which has never been used. Supplied with all unused accessories, packing etc, this pre has sat unused in my stock room and now just unpacked to be photographed.

http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/024_zpsdfe5baa6.jpg


The retail price is £4050 but this one is only £2200 and I will ship anywhere in the world.

hifi_dave
03-08-2013, 14:37
This is the Funk F5 revised tonearm.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/026_zps1bb73125.jpg


The F5 is now (slightly) revised and this is the first pic. Not much has changed as I can see, except the tonearm cable and plugs. I believe the slight change was to enable the tonearm to fit the Little Super Deck without touching the lid when shut and this it does.

The LSD with arm at £1100 (black or white) and £1164 with wood trim is a great little deck. Bags of get up and go, clean, dynamic and just good fun.

Oldpinkman
03-08-2013, 17:27
This is the Funk F5 revised tonearm.



The F5 is now (slightly) revised and this is the first pic. Not much has changed as I can see, except the tonearm cable and plugs. I believe the slight change was to enable the tonearm to fit the Little Super Deck without touching the lid when shut and this it does.

The LSD with arm at £1100 (black or white) and £1164 with wood trim is a great little deck. Bags of get up and go, clean, dynamic and just good fun.

I know that arm. Other changes include the far more robust shiny instead of matt finish, and a cueing device which stops at the vertical and so doesn't foul the bearing block, and I take some credit for both. I have also achieved celebrity status by writing to the Oz distributor about setting the deck up - and may yet be a Youtube celebrity demming it. A US review, glowing in all other departments, and I rather feel probably just desperate for a bit of journalistic balance, noted its one shortcoming was the tricky setup. As a shaky handed presbyotic one-eyed bodger, I had managed to set up 2 F5's and an FX3 on a suspended deck (my PT) and offered my accreditation "as set up by Richard ". I might post the text of the email if you are nice to me :)

You may have noticed from other posts I think that arm is quite good. And before anyone says it, yes I accept the charge of bias :cool:

hifi_dave
14-08-2013, 20:17
Just a quickie to let you know that I now stock Sonneteer products. A range of great British amps and a CD player. Pics to follow soon.

hifi_dave
18-08-2013, 09:58
Pics as promised.

http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/026_zps48bf53a0.jpg

This is the Sonneteer Alabaster line level integrated amp, 55 wpc into 8 ohms, priced at £1500. Lovely, insightful, mellow sound with plenty of drive.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/027_zps33c89949.jpg


The Sedley MM and MC phono stage. Plenty of loading options. Sounds clean, dynamic and very quiet. Priced at £550 and there is a version inc USB output at £650. The USB option can be retro-fitted for £200.

Tim
18-08-2013, 11:04
I love the simple clean and symmetric lines of that amp David, very nice indeed. I would have preferred a perhaps subtler approach to the graphics, but that's me. Still love it though :)

MikeMusic
18-08-2013, 14:08
I love the simple clean and symmetric lines of that amp David, very nice indeed. I would have preferred a perhaps subtler approach to the graphics, but that's me. Still love it though :)

I have some black card you can fold over that, almost disapears agaisnt black case

Like the lights on my Naim 82, Whest, Naim 500, HiCaps, Rega Isis........
:)

hifi_dave
18-08-2013, 16:53
I love the simple clean and symmetric lines of that amp David, very nice indeed. I would have preferred a perhaps subtler approach to the graphics, but that's me. Still love it though :)

Typical British Hi-Fi styling and you should see the size of those knobs !!!

Tim
18-08-2013, 17:03
Typical British Hi-Fi styling and you should see the size of those knobs !!!
Reminds me a little of a Lavardin, which I also like.

http://www.sonicflare.com/_lavardin-modelIS-sk-(1).jpg

When (if) I move to Suffolk I might be able to come and have a listen to all your goodies :)

hifi_dave
18-08-2013, 19:45
I can see the similarity.

You are very welcome here. You can join the Essex/Suffolk massive with the lads DSJR and Alex.

MikeMusic
19-08-2013, 07:15
Reminds me a little of a Lavardin, which I also like.

http://www.sonicflare.com/_lavardin-modelIS-sk-(1).jpg

When (if) I move to Suffolk I might be able to come and have a listen to all your goodies :)
Look out for the Rega bug seems dangerous out that way
:)

hifi_dave
19-08-2013, 09:19
Look out for the Rega bug seems dangerous out that way
:)

Too late. I think you'll find that Tim is already a fan.

Tim
19-08-2013, 09:43
Too late. I think you'll find that Tim is already a fan.
Indeed I am, already have a Brio-R and Rega DAC and I was considering a vintage TT in a few years time, but TBH it will also probably be a Rega. I like what they do and how they sound, they just work without fuss and I don't like fuss. My eventual two systems (one TT based and the other file based audio) will be QUAD, Rega and Harbeth :)

MikeMusic
19-08-2013, 09:47
Too late. I think you'll find that Tim is already a fan.

So that's why he's moving to Suffolk !

MikeMusic
19-08-2013, 10:34
Indeed I am, already have a Brio-R and Rega DAC and I was considering a vintage TT in a few years time, but TBH it will also probably be a Rega. I like what they do and how they sound, they just work without fuss and I don't like fuss. My eventual two systems (one TT based and the other file based audio) will be QUAD, Rega and Harbeth :)

Rega seem to do the VFM rather well.
BTW I would consider moving to Dorset.
Why you goin to Suffolk ?
From my brief looks at Suffolk it's flat and boring

Tim
19-08-2013, 11:01
From my brief looks at Suffolk it's flat and boring
Exactly and the more people that think that, the happier I'll be.
Anyway, we seem to be drifting off topic somewhat - sorry David :o

DSJR
19-08-2013, 13:37
Suffolk aint boring I can assure you and it isn't that flat either, although I would say that the vibe where I live is more like Tring used to be in the 1960's before easy access to the M25 ruined the place and pushed once affordable house prices through the roof :(

All I can say now is that when we venture to Bedfordshire to see bro-in-law and boys, we're always glad to return over the 'border.' The air's better too the further east you go ;)

hifi_dave
29-08-2013, 12:42
I've just been listening to the new Rega Saturn-r, DAC/player. It didn't take more than a few seconds to realise that this is a seriously good machine by any standards.

It has several digital inputs including coax, optical and asynchronous HDMI. It employs a new Wolfsson chip in the DAC, revised power supplies and board layout. The price will be £1598 and is expected to be available at the end of September.

DSJR
29-08-2013, 12:48
Any pics?

hifi_dave
29-08-2013, 14:24
Not this time. Flat battery in my camera..:doh:

Andrew B
29-08-2013, 14:34
http://i910.photobucket.com/albums/ac306/cyprusmemory/Aos/image_zps559ebffb.jpg (http://s910.photobucket.com/user/cyprusmemory/media/Aos/image_zps559ebffb.jpg.html)

This is the only reasonable pic I could find. It's something I'd be interested in hearing.

hifi_dave
29-08-2013, 16:37
Close but the one I heard is the final model before production and is better finished with a different button configuration.

Well worth hearing when available.

Reffc
30-09-2013, 12:12
The natural partners for the Albarry AP11 pre-amp.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/002-1_zps8e991ec3.jpg



The M608 mono-blocks. A healthy 60 watts each. £2995 inc. Based on the very popular M408 which first saw the light of day back in the early 80's. Now tweaked with some modern components to provide extra power and a cleaner, more dynamic sound but retaining the ease and sweetness of the originals.

Having recently had some direct contact with Neil (the chap behind Albarry) and after hearing these at Whittlebury, I have to say I'm impressed. Both with Neil as a designer and for his friendly and very helpful attitude. Not least though for the great sounds that were emanating from the Albarry room at Whittlebury. Well made, great sounding amps built buy a guy passionate about what he does.

hifi_dave
01-10-2013, 15:52
That sums it up nicely - great amps made with care by a true gent.

DSJR
01-10-2013, 19:26
Dave, can you post pics of the Quad stuff you have now?

hifi_dave
02-10-2013, 15:23
No but how's this for 25 watts of single ended loveliness ?


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/034_zps904a182f.jpg

and


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps8fa2778a.jpg


The new Audion integrated.

hifi_dave
04-10-2013, 09:24
If only I knew how to post links, there is a rave write up of the superb Spendor D7 in the latest issue of Hi-Fi Critic. Martin Colloms really likes them and their similarity (in some areas) to the venerable BC1.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/0820Spendor20D720light20oak_zps7d7142ec.jpg



I have found them to be crisp, clean and pacey but with a full bodied, solid mid-band which few modern speakers present. They are also easy to drive for those using low powered amps. They are priced at £3495 for the standard finishes.

One demo now at Radlett Audio.

hifi_dave
28-10-2013, 14:40
Been playing with this little beauty for a few weeks.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps0273f5cd.jpg

It's a heretic Copper Star mains distribution block and very good it is too.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/033_zpsb46f326c.jpg

Constructed from layers of Birch ply, the block does look superb. It is star wired using PTFE covered, OFC copper wire and MK sockets. I'm not a fan of spending huge amounts on mains blocks but this one really does the job superbly well. No softening of transients with this one and each socket sounds the same, unlike many blocks where the one nearest the mains entry sounds best. The price is a very reasonable £400 and is available from stock.

e-mail: radlettaudio@hotmail.co.uk

Tel: 01799 599080

hifi_dave
28-10-2013, 20:15
To answer an enquiry - they are available only as a 6 way at this time.

Reffc
31-10-2013, 16:38
I love the looks of these David.

The Black Adder
31-10-2013, 18:47
Indeed... look great, Dave.

hifi_dave
31-10-2013, 21:14
They actually sound (or don't sound) very good indeed. I've tried it up against a couple of very expensive distribution blocks with all manner of widgets inside and the Heretic always sounds cleaner, more dynamic and communicative. I guess it's the well thought out construction and sensible materials.

hifi_dave
04-11-2013, 15:21
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps24f95ab3.jpg (http://s1058.photobucket.com/user/hifi_dave/media/032_zps24f95ab3.jpg.html)

One for Andre, who inspired me to get this Michell Hydraulic Reference out of the loft. I had to battle web and spiders in my brief foray into the dumping ground.

This turntable used to turn all day, every day, 365 days a year for 20 years or so in the window of my shops back in the 80s and early 90s. I did sit with John Michell at one time and calculated how many millions of revolutions it had done and marvelled that a belt had actually lasted for years.

Apart from needing a deep clean, it is in remarkably good condition and still spins for a minute or more given a quick nudge. That's without lubricating it !!!

I will be getting a lid and spend some time with cleaning etc. Might even give it a drop of oil.

synsei
04-11-2013, 17:43
That is a thing of beauty Dave, is the top plate actually blue or is that a protective plastic film?

hifi_dave
04-11-2013, 18:02
It's blue mirrored perspex and I am astounded at how good it still looks after twenty or more years turning in a shop window.

It needs a lid and some rubber pips as the originals have hardened. Other than that, evrything is perfect.

Oh and it needs a new mains lead because the turntable was subjected to a smash and grab raid one night and the dickhead just snapped the lead...:doh: The Police chased the perp and recovered it a few hours later.

synsei
04-11-2013, 18:06
It's blue mirrored perspex and I am astounded at how good it still looks after twenty or more years turning in a shop window.

It needs a lid and some rubber pips as the originals have hardened. Other than that, evrything is perfect.

Oh and it needs a new mains lead because the turntable was subjected to a smash and grab raid one night and the dickhead just snapped the lead...:doh: The Police chased the perp and recovered it a few hours later.

Perhaps it was Alex from A Clockwork Orange wanting his TT back... :lol:

Reffc
06-11-2013, 17:50
Lovely TT. I serviced one of these recently and coincidentally have another coming in for service next week. You don't see them for two decades then three come along at once :doh:

What arm did you have fitted to this David or was it just the TT as a centre-piece?

hifi_dave
06-11-2013, 19:08
It came with a Fluid arm but I acquired a new board, as in the pic, for the window display.

I am actually, considering selling this one as I have far too many goodies and not enough space.

hifi_dave
13-11-2013, 12:09
Some very interesting new products arrived at Radlett Audio yesterday - taking me into the 21st Century.

Here is a tiny section of packaging.

http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps214fd276.jpg (http://s1058.photobucket.com/user/hifi_dave/media/032_zps214fd276.jpg.html)

and here is part of the product.

http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/033_zps7c21cf75.jpg (http://s1058.photobucket.com/user/hifi_dave/media/033_zps7c21cf75.jpg.html)


First to guess what the products are wins 2 x CDs of my choice.

Not you DSJR...:ner:

amsterdam
13-11-2013, 15:12
Devialet something or other.

Will it be One Direction & Miley Cyrus Dave?

brian2957
13-11-2013, 15:57
MP3 / MP4 player . Portable audio system.

hifi_dave
14-11-2013, 09:49
Well, that didn't last long, did it ? Jonathan, please e-mail me with your address and I'll get a couple of CDs into the post.

I really thought it was more difficult than that but it's such a distinctive piece of kit that I struggled to find something to photograph without giving it away. Failed dismally..:doh:

More Devialet pics later.

MCRU
14-11-2013, 10:49
Well, that didn't last long, did it ? Jonathan, please e-mail me with your address and I'll get a couple of CDs into the post.

I really thought it was more difficult than that but it's such a distinctive piece of kit that I struggled to find something to photograph without giving it away. Failed dismally..:doh:

More Devialet pics later.

CD's what are those? :)

amsterdam
14-11-2013, 11:07
Thanks Dave and apologies for spoiling the fun.

Which Devialet models have you received?

hifi_dave
14-11-2013, 11:19
No, you won it fair and square. Very well sussed.

I have the 110 and 170 with the 240 coming next week, I believe.

For me, this is a big step as I really haven't embraced the digital age but these Devialet have completely blown me away. Not only do they sound great and look wonderful but they are easy to use, even for a numpty like me..:rolleyes:

amsterdam
14-11-2013, 12:38
Excellent news Dave.

Was it through Spendor's use of the brand at their facility, that introduced you to Devialet ? I know Phillip Swift is a fan.

hifi_dave
14-11-2013, 12:55
No, it was my old pal Ricardo who persuaded me to take a listen.

As I say, I am a bit of a technophobe and couldn't get on with the Naim streaming stuff I had but the Devialet is very different. Not only does it sound better but is a doddle to use and set up. It works right out of the box, making music within minutes but then there is a huge amount of customising you can do, if you want.

The phono stage can do MM or MC with a range of loads, sensitivity, capacitance, overload margin and even EQ. There is a plethora of inputs which you can programme to be digital or analogue and then other facilities like the volume it switches on at. It can go into standby if not used for a time you set, come on with a message. You can set maximum volume, adjust balance, set input level and so on. All this is easily accomplished via their website and downloaded onto the SD card which comes with. You can even programme a whole pile of SD cards so that every member of the house has a customised system.

I'm having great fun playing around and enjoying the sounds as I play.

hifi_dave
14-11-2013, 17:36
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/036_zps5ad687ea.jpg


The beautiful remote and being wireless, you can point it anywhere and it works.

Newtonaim
15-11-2013, 02:37
The beautiful remote and being wireless, you can point it anywhere and it works.

Wow looks really nice! Is that free streamer offer still going on Dave?

hifi_dave
15-11-2013, 10:11
Yes, the free AIR upgrade is still available but not sure for how much longer.

hifi_dave
15-11-2013, 16:01
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/035_zps3427e322.jpg

It's really difficult to photograph this little beauty and do it justice. It's just over an inch high and the black chrome reflects me with the camera..:doh:

Far better pics at www.devialet.com

hifi_dave
22-11-2013, 10:50
Just in.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/017_zpsd4c4eb0e.jpg

The new Rega Saturn-r CD player/DAC.

A very flexible DAC with a plethora of 192/24 inputs and outputs including USB Asynchronous. A fabulous sounding piece of kit

On demo now and taking orders £1598.

hifi_dave
22-11-2013, 11:08
A better pic. Not so blurry..:)


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/017_zpsd4c4eb0e.jpg


Rega Saturn-r

hifi_dave
26-11-2013, 17:35
Two large boxes were delivered yesterday.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps037fe497.jpg

hifi_dave
27-11-2013, 15:48
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/034_zps46dff07e.jpg

Unpacking.

hifi_dave
02-12-2013, 10:35
The beautiful Martin Logan Electromotion.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/037_zps4c3ed408.jpg

Sorry about the slight lean - it's my wooden leg..:doh:

Reffc
02-12-2013, 11:43
One speaker looks just like a guitar :lol:

Martin Logan Electromotion - ESL by any chance David?

hifi_dave
02-12-2013, 16:03
ESL and sub woof to augment the bass. The ESL does most of the work and the sub woof fills in at the bottom end. This also means the speaker is an easier load than a full range ESL.

Reffc
04-12-2013, 15:34
What's the imaging like David?

hifi_dave
04-12-2013, 16:37
Very good indeed - great prescence.

Trouble is, the right channel always sounds like a guitar..:scratch:

Tim
04-12-2013, 16:57
Ooo look, a Strat in the picture - do you play David?

hifi_dave
04-12-2013, 17:36
If only..:doh:

I bought that around 10 years ago with the intention of learning how to play but have never found the time or inclination to do it. In that time, I have two Nephews who have learnt to play several instruments each and are playing in bands. One of them is making some serious money out of it. I guess you have to be born with the skill.

hifi_dave
06-12-2013, 14:12
Coming soon - the all new Spendor D1.

Pics and info to follow.

hifi_dave
12-12-2013, 10:02
The new Spendor D1 has been announced.

I hope to have a pair here before Christmas and will post pics then but for now there is info at www.spendoraudio.com

Priced at £1795.

hifi_dave
13-12-2013, 14:34
Matching stands are £595 and I will have a pair of the D1 here before Christmas.

DSJR
14-12-2013, 19:13
T'will be interesting to compare with the P3ESR...

Looks as though Spendor are coming well up to date, but with up-to-date prices too sadly.. A shame that a lot of sub £1000 per unit audio appears to be so slow to sell now.....

hifi_dave
15-12-2013, 09:46
Yes, the Spendor D1 will be available for demo against the Harbeth P3ESR. Next week, hopefully.

hifi_dave
20-01-2014, 17:03
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/0120Spendor20D120Spendor20Dark2020stand2020wall_zp s4ea3a090.jpg

The new Spendor D1 with stands.

Yomanze
22-01-2014, 17:15
More speaker stands should be 3 legged. :)

hifi_dave
22-01-2014, 17:28
Like John Wayne.

Or was that big legged..:)

The Barbarian
25-01-2014, 19:58
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/032_zps24f95ab3.jpg

One for Andre, who inspired me to get this Michell Hydraulic Reference out of the loft.[/QUOTE]

:eyebrows: Gis it

hifi_dave
17-02-2014, 11:32
Just a short reminder that I have the full range of Albarry amplifiers and pres on demonstration.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/037.jpg

These are the M608 monoblocks at £2995/pair.

hifi_dave
22-02-2014, 17:13
There is a rave review of the Albarry M1108 mono-blocks in issue 108 of Hi-Fi+ magazine.

I would post a link if I only knew how.

The Grand Wazoo
22-02-2014, 17:57
Here it is Dave

ALBARRY AP11 PREAMP AND M608 MONOBLOCK AMPS (HI-FI+) by Steve Dickinson Jul 16, 2012 (http://www.hifiplus.com/articles/albarry-ap11-preamp-and-m608-monoblock-amps-hi-fi-90/)

hifi_dave
22-02-2014, 18:04
:respect: I am in awe at your computing skills. Thank you..

However, that is the M608 and the one I also can't link to is the M1108 in issue 108. I think it is the latest issue.

The Grand Wazoo
22-02-2014, 19:56
Doh!
Sorry Dave. That was the only Albarry article that came up when I used their search function
I had to scratch around a bit to find it but this is it I think.....

Albarry M1108 power amplifiers by Steve Dickinson (http://www.albarrymusic.com/HIFI+108_Albarry%20LR.pdf)

It's a pdf.

hifi_dave
23-02-2014, 09:48
Brilliant. You the man..:youtheman:

hifi_dave
25-02-2014, 14:07
Albarry AP11 pre-amp.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/001_zpse2422e42.jpg

Priced at £2495 inc excellent internal MM phono stage.

hifi_dave
27-02-2014, 10:15
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/007-4.jpg


Albarry MCA11 moving coil phono stage. One of the very best and quietest around. £500

hifi_dave
02-03-2014, 10:45
A reminder that I do stock the wonderful LFD LE IV Signature.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zps828eb40f.jpg


A very rare beast indeed, in the UK but revered elsewhere in the World, including the USA. Each one lovingly crafted by Dr.Richard Bews and perfected over many years of research to provide a wonderful, rich, solid and natural sound.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/004_zpsbc1eb2bf.jpg


Always on demonstration at Radlett Audio and very well worth a listen if you want an excellent integrated amp.

Tim
02-03-2014, 10:57
Darn you for posting that David, I have always wanted to try one of those with my SHL5's as I understand they go well together :doh:

DSJR
02-03-2014, 15:15
Great pics as always. May I see the Quad streamer? and power amp stuff you have? Oh alright, I know, not gear that wet dreams are made of, but still damned good and hopefully not stupid prices either!

hifi_dave
02-03-2014, 15:48
Darn you for posting that David, I have always wanted to try one of those with my SHL5's as I understand they go well together :doh:

They do indeed - a marriage made in Heaven.

When you have your next day out, we can give it a go.

hifi_dave
13-04-2014, 09:05
Just a quick heads up - the new Rega Elex-r integrated amp will be on demo and in stock here in early June.

Details are a bit sketchy but I should know more and have a pic on Monday. It looks similar to the Elicit-r but is £898. It has an MM phono stage and more power than the Brio-r, 75 wpc I believe.

hifi_dave
18-04-2014, 09:37
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/HK3KXo4NjXYsN--ESj0SFPM2dlc5kU3uzsdFbgLh9D8TxIL0Ev2dc7tWakYZ5uCJm qKsf1tbHZrCJPFHCXwnks_zps21424418.jpg

As promised, a quick pic of the new Rega Elex-r.

hifi_dave
20-04-2014, 09:36
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/rHze9er9cM-lJdrQ2CiEamEUKFrBiijuxanw_233crcI70BZu7zClbBd6UwuQ 2C5G7rWeKTIqvDllgRJc2_ruMnBC0cc1Q1CdKYHlk1tu82CO5T jmK3QnNfoEWxs_zps4d1b5417.jpg


A mini Elicit-r or a grown up Brio-r depending on your point of view.

Dunluce978
23-04-2014, 10:05
OK Dave,

Give us a clue about the new Harbeth to be unveiled at Munich ;)

hifi_dave
23-04-2014, 10:46
I have no more of an idea than you have. Suffice to say that I have already placed my order.

Dunluce978
23-04-2014, 23:46
A few more snippets of info on the Harbeth site, I am wildly guessing it will have a digital component, maybe room correction :)

hifi_dave
24-04-2014, 08:35
Bl**dy well hope not.

Dunluce978
24-04-2014, 08:56
OK Dave, just to settle the nerves a bit maybe it's a Harbeth "Amp" with digital input :sofa:

DSJR
24-04-2014, 16:27
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/rHze9er9cM-lJdrQ2CiEamEUKFrBiijuxanw_233crcI70BZu7zClbBd6UwuQ 2C5G7rWeKTIqvDllgRJc2_ruMnBC0cc1Q1CdKYHlk1tu82CO5T jmK3QnNfoEWxs_zps4d1b5417.jpg


A mini Elicit-r or a grown up Brio-r depending on your point of view.


They weren't going to bother as the Brio R was so good! Can't believe anything anyone tells you these days :lol:

Yomanze
24-04-2014, 16:49
Well that isn't what the finance controllers would have said Dave. :D

On a more serious note some speakers would benefit from the extra power (my Royd RR3s need a lot more than a Brio R) so a good gap to fill with the Elex.

hifi_dave
25-04-2014, 09:50
You have to consider that for most people, the gap between Brio-r at £498 and Elicit-r at £1598 is too large a price difference. That's where the £898 Elex-r fits right in with price and spec.

I'm looking forward to it and have found another shelf in readyness..:)

I'm also eagerly anticipating the matching CD player and valve phono stage, though I won't be holding my breath.

hifi_dave
01-05-2014, 14:02
Devialet have just announced an increase in power output for all current models. The upgrades can be downloaded for free from the Devialet site and increases the output of the various models so that the DV 110 becomes 120 watts, the DV 170 becomes 200 watts and the DV 240 becomes 250 watts.

The Grand Wazoo
01-05-2014, 18:48
That's fascinating Dave, I wonder how you can do that just by manipulating software? Amazing!

Barry
01-05-2014, 22:43
That's fascinating Dave, I wonder how you can do that just by manipulating software? Amazing!

Perhaps the software alters the bias setting.

hifi_dave
09-05-2014, 20:47
I'm not qualified to explain this but there is more about this on the Devialet website www.devialet.com. I believe it is something to do with heat management but don't quote me on that.

hifi_dave
10-05-2014, 14:49
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/037.jpg

Just to let you good folks know that I have the complete Albarry amplifier range on permanent demonstration, including the fabulous M1108 mono-blocks.

Reffc
10-05-2014, 15:01
Should that be "M1108" David?

I heard these on Wednesday and was blown away. Probably the very best sounding amplifiers I've ever heard. Neil Burnett is a design genius. These really do deserve to get far greater coverage than they currently enjoy so anyone close to David should get round there for a listen!

hifi_dave
11-05-2014, 09:52
You are correct and I have now changed it to M1108.

If Neil was in the US, Japan, Italy or Germany etc, he would be worshipped as a Hi-Fi Guru. Unfortunately, in this country, his products are virtually unknown. What a shame but as 95% of his production is exported, it's just the UK missing out.

Yomanze
13-05-2014, 16:28
Same goes for a lot of UK HiFi brands. It's all down to marketing. In any case am glad you stock some of the more esoteric (in the UK) brands. :)

hifi_dave
14-05-2014, 09:21
Such a great pity that some of our great designers have never had the accolades they deserve. Fortunately, for the likes of Albarry, Croft, Notts etc, the vast majority of their production is exported to countries which appreciate their kit.

hifi_dave
14-05-2014, 15:13
Shiny new Rega website www.rega.co.uk

Alex_UK
14-05-2014, 16:41
Shiny new Rega website www.rega.co.uk (http://www.rega.co.uk)

That is shiny and much improved - let's be honest, the old one was (how can I put this politely...) "a bit pants"! :lol:

hifi_dave
14-05-2014, 17:35
Welcome back Alex.

The Avatars are growing nicely.

Alex_UK
14-05-2014, 17:49
Cheers Dave (you have email :)) Actually, I need to update the Avatars...

hifi_dave
14-05-2014, 20:33
Jeepers, they have grown. The little fella looks a handful..:bike:

hifi_dave
07-06-2014, 09:30
I will be the first to have the new Harbeth SHL5 plus on demonstration, sometime around the 21st of this month. Actually, I've had two customers who were too excited to wait and have ordered on spec.

DSJR
07-06-2014, 14:41
Looks as though there may eventually be an update for existing SHL5 owners, or has this now been abandoned?

hifi_dave
07-06-2014, 16:03
It may be possible but not really cost effective as it entails new bass drivers and crossovers.. Not only that but because of their high standards, they won't allow users to do it themselves - the speakers would have to be returned to the factory.

The Barbarian
07-06-2014, 16:07
Dave
I don't understand things like this. Even when the warranty runs out your still not allowed to buy spares to do work yourself?

hifi_dave
07-06-2014, 16:13
Correct. They have standards to meet. They can't guarantee that a speaker performs to spec, if the user or a third party has worked on it. I'm pretty sure though, that they would supply a dealer with spares for an out of warranty product.

hifi_dave
16-06-2014, 12:31
Following the arrival last week of the new Rega Elex-r amplifier, I had an e-mail last night from Rega's Chief Designer, Terry Bateman. He tells me that he is very pleased with his latest creation which has some " good ol' sonic mojo going on ". Not quite sure how that manifests itself but I can confirm that it does soud extremely good.

He also suggested that I take a peek inside and this is what I found.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zpsee00abfa.jpg[/URL]

It's one of Terry's usual cryptic comments - this one concerning the Mullard 510 from 1954. That was my very first amp I constructed back in 1962 and started me on the Hi-Fi trail. Obviously, it's a landmark for Terry.

SLS
08-07-2014, 09:39
Popped over to Dave on Saturday to listen to the updated Harbeth SHL5, now with a "+" on the end.

My preferences are classical, jazz, vocal and some prog. Occasional heavier music limited to Radiohead and Massive Attack.

Imaging, dispersion and detail are really excellent, but the overall sound manages to be slightly laid back so is unlikely to result in fatigue after 3 hours of violin sonatas (not recommended in any event). Nothing soft, flabby or wooly. They won't shake the foundations of your house, but for me that is a good thing.

Perhaps the most important thing - was looking to change speakers because to get the best from my PMC Fact8 (which are very good indeed and very SWMBO-friendly) I had to run them fairly loud. Not an issue domestically, but I don't like hours of loud music. The SHL5+ seem to hold it together at lower volumes. I'll just have to get used to turning the music down, not up.

(For anyone interested, were demo'd with Dave's analogue kit, an EAR 834P phono and my 20W SE 300B-XLS amp. No problem driving them at all.)

Thanks Dave, an easy sell, looking forward to hearing them at home.

Barry
08-07-2014, 19:19
Following the arrival last week of the new Rega Elex-r amplifier, I had an e-mail last night from Rega's Chief Designer, Terry Bateman. He tells me that he is very pleased with his latest creation which has some " good ol' sonic mojo going on ". Not quite sure how that manifests itself but I can confirm that it does soud extremely good.

He also suggested that I take a peek inside and this is what I found.


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zpsee00abfa.jpg

It's one of Terry's usual cryptic comments - this one concerning the Mullard 510 from 1954. That was my very first amp I constructed back in 1962 and started me on the Hi-Fi trail. Obviously, it's a landmark for Terry.

The Mullard 5-10 was my first amplifier. A single amplifier at first ('twas mono in them days), then I built a second for stereo. Happy days!

hifi_dave
08-07-2014, 20:11
When I built my 510, stereo was considered a distraction, a gimmick and not for the serious enthusiast..:)

hifi_dave
12-08-2014, 13:14
Just a quickie.

Pathos Logos III and the brand new Pathos Classic Remix now here.

Pics and information to follow.

hifi_dave
02-10-2014, 15:51
Quad QMP mono-blocks now on permanent demonstration.

More info and pics to follow. Must knuckle down and find time to do this and also the Pathos amps above..:doh:

www.radlettaudio.co.uk

Reffc
09-10-2014, 10:29
Quad QMP mono-blocks now on permanent demonstration.

More info and pics to follow. Must knuckle down and find time to do this and also the Pathos amps above..:doh:

www.radlettaudio.co.uk

Fine sounding current dumping amplifiers these :thumbsup:

Reffc
09-10-2014, 17:53
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/037.jpg

Just to let you good folks know that I have the complete Albarry amplifier range on permanent demonstration, including the fabulous M1108 mono-blocks.

Have you had the chance of an extended listen using the M1108's yet David? What's your verdict?

hifi_dave
10-10-2014, 09:05
Yes, I have the M1108s on demo here.

They build on the strengths of the M608s by being even more solid and at the same time more transparent with greater prescence and grip. They are amongst the best amps I know of and really deserve to be more popular, as they were in the 80s. They are revered in certain markets but get very little attention in the UK. A great pity.

hifi_dave
14-10-2014, 12:03
The new Rega DAC-R will be here at the end of next week. Priced at £548 it has asynchronous USB input and remote control.

Pics and details when they arrive

www.radlettaudio@hotmail.co.uk

hifi_dave
06-12-2014, 18:16
Ayre Acoustics coming soon to Radlett Audio.

walpurgis
06-12-2014, 18:49
Ayre Acoustics coming soon to Radlett Audio.

Very nice Dave. Ayre is beautiful quality. Stunning build!

hifi_dave
07-12-2014, 17:19
The new Rega DAC-R will be here at the end of next week. Priced at £548 it has asynchronous USB input and remote control.

Pics and details when they arrive

www.radlettaudio@hotmail.co.uk


http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/001_zps7b6339e2.jpg[/URL][/IMG]


Correction. This great little DAC is £598 and available now.

hifi_dave
08-12-2014, 12:59
Very nice Dave. Ayre is beautiful quality. Stunning build!

Yes, it's good gear. I stocked Ayre, for a few years, from around 1998 and have many happy customers. One of the reasons I like it, is that they don't keep changing the models and any improvements are retrofittable at reasonable cost.

hifi_dave
15-12-2014, 09:42
Awaiting delivery of my shiny new Sonus Faber Venere speakers..:whistle:

LittleTone
15-12-2014, 12:16
Dave
I demo'd the Venere 2.5 recently at my local dealer. Absolutely fab, best I've heard for a long while.just a pity they are too big for my room, else I would have bought them. Uncanny ability to project the perfect horizontal 3d soundstage. None of the speakers I listened to at the time managed to achieve this

hifi_dave
17-12-2014, 13:16
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/002_zpsa2a76cac.jpg


Some of them are here..

hifi_dave
20-12-2014, 17:26
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/002_zps6744bb2b.jpg


Looking good.

hifi_dave
21-12-2014, 13:44
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zps7faacb02.jpg

hifi_dave
24-12-2014, 14:07
Running in right now with some new electronics.

Sonus Faber Olympica coming here in the New Year.

hifi_dave
25-12-2014, 10:18
A very happy Christmas to any sad souls reading this on Christmas day..:champagne:

Macca
25-12-2014, 10:23
That would be me. Merry Xmas Dave. :)

Eagle owl
25-12-2014, 17:39
Happy Christmas Dave. :)

hifi_dave
26-12-2014, 10:10
I've escaped into the kitchen with my laptop. There's no place to sit in the sitting room or dining room. Everywhere is covered with toys, sweet wrappers, boxes and wrapping paper - looks like a Tsunami has been through..:eek:

hifi_dave
27-12-2014, 14:00
The new Tron Convergence phono stage will be here in the New year. The first in a range of 'affordable' electronics from this high end British manufacturer.

hifi_dave
31-12-2014, 10:21
Wishing you all a very happy, prosperous, productive and relaxing New Year..:champagne:

hifi_dave
09-01-2015, 17:02
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/007_zps2d9c0632.jpg


This is the Venere 1.5 in the lovely Walnut wood finish. Price is £949 in gloss black or gloss white and £1198. Stands are £349.

hifi_dave
14-01-2015, 15:11
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/001_zpsbabd3547.jpg


This is the Venere 2.5, the least expensive of the floor standers at £2498 in the 'Wood' finish and £2198 in Gloss Black or White.

hifi_dave
29-01-2015, 16:37
A heads up, that I have listed several bargains in this section.

I also have a 'Bargain Basement' section on my website with many good buys. If you don't see what you are looking for, it's always worth dropping me an e-mail as I often have more goodies than shown.


www.radlettaudio.co.uk

radlettaudio@hotmail.co.uk

hifi_dave
03-02-2015, 11:21
I now have the new Rega Apheta 2 MC cartridge on demonstration with the award winning RP8 turntable.

Pics to follow.

YNWaN
03-02-2015, 12:58
How does the Apheta 2 compare to the previous model (in terms of sound)?

hifi_dave
03-02-2015, 16:35
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/004_zpskirrfb9r.jpg

The new Rega Apheta 2 MC cartridge £998.

hifi_dave
03-02-2015, 16:37
How does the Apheta 2 compare to the previous model (in terms of sound)?

Similar to the previous model - very fast, clean and informative. The 2 is slightly more refined and sweeter without losing the dynamics.

hifi_dave
16-02-2015, 13:11
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/001_zpscmlyah5w.jpg



Just arrived. Now flexing my muscles to carry them in.

hifi_dave
17-02-2015, 10:03
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/002_zps3hw51fjn.jpg


Beautiful booklets on the story of SF and development of the Olympica range.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/005_zps0wpdg8ow.jpg



Box of spikes and shoes for the stands.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/006_zpsozvjau2z.jpg



The stands echo the style of the 'string' grilles. The speakers bolt to the vestigial top plates.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zpskph2y3sd.jpg


Looking beautiful in Walnut with Maple inserts.

Sovereign
17-02-2015, 11:30
Impressive

hifi_dave
17-02-2015, 22:20
Not often I can say they sound as good as they look but this time it's true.

hifi_dave
18-02-2015, 10:11
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/008_zps40kkqlrv.jpg



Voila - the Sonus Faber Olympica 1 in Walnut.



http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/007_zpsrc5naf11.jpg



Now sounding great and on permanent demonstration.

hifi_dave
18-02-2015, 17:27
The Sonus Faber Olympica 1 is £3998 per pair in Walnut as shown or in a lovely Grey Ash.

Stands are £849 pair.

hifi_dave
03-03-2015, 17:49
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/003_zps0670e289.jpg


The Pathos Classic Remix integrated amplifier.

This lovely little amp is an update on their Classic amplifier which has had great reviews over many years. This little fella produces 70 wpc and is available at £2495 or as the HiDac with built in DAC at £2850.

hifi_dave
07-03-2015, 11:48
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/005_zpsylm8rebv.jpg



This is the Pathos Logos MkII. A hybrid amplifier with plenty of drive and a lovely solid, rich presentation.

Available with their excellent inbuilt HiDAC at £3950 or £3500 without.

hifi_dave
25-07-2015, 11:03
A heads up to all you good AOS folk, to remind you that Radlett Audio is a main dealer for several forum favourites such as Harbeth, Croft, Rega, Nottingham Analogue, EAR, Michell, Sonus Faber, Albarry, Spendor, Sonneteer, Pathos, Krell and Wadia.

www.radlettaudio.co.uk

hifi_dave
26-07-2015, 10:49
Wadia di122 digital audio decoder just arrived at Radlett Audio. The very latest from Wadia.

More info later.

hifi_dave
29-07-2015, 09:29
I've just been using the Wadia di122 as a DAC/pre-amp driving a pair of Quad QMP into Harbeth SHL5+, sounds pretty good.

DSJR
29-07-2015, 09:38
Looking forward to hearing them :)

hifi_dave
30-07-2015, 08:44
Well, you know where I am..:)

hifi_dave
07-01-2017, 14:30
Thinking it's about time I started to up date this 'blog'.

2016 was a good year for Hi-Fi and unexpectedly so since Brexit in June. I have sold more to export market in these few months than I have done in the past 5 years total. Obviously, this is due to the weakness in the Pound, making our goods far more attractive to foreign markets.

New products since June I have stocked include the new P1, P2 and P3 turntables from Rega and just before Christmas I took delivery of their lovely Brio-r (2016) amplifier.

Also new is the Quad Artera Play and Stereo, soon to be joined by their Mono amps. The Quad VA-One valve amp was a very pleasant surprise, offering great value. I also now have the 'speaker of the year' - the Quad Z3, which uses conventional drivers with a ribbon HF. Beautiful.

EAR now have their Acute-4 CD player. An all valve job which is amongst the best I have ever heard.

Croft now have a special edition of the 25RS Line phono stage, using B9A valves and superb components to produce a truly wonderful line level pre-amp.

More to come.

hifi_dave
26-01-2017, 16:24
The Quad Artera Play and Stereo amplifier is getting popular with my customers.

The Play is a very flexible pre-amp/CD player with internal DAC and the Stereo is a 140 wpc current dumping power-amp in the Quad tradition.

Prices are £1399 for the Play and £1499 for the power.

Pics to follow.

julesd68
26-01-2017, 16:32
I love the aesthetics of the power amp - the no-nonsense, almost industrial look takes its cue from the 405-2 ...

Just wondering if you have tried it as a power amp without the matching Quad bits and how it might compare with the old 405-2 sound wise?

http://www.fanthorpes.co.uk/images/www.fanthorpes.co.uk/large/th41450866318QuadArteraStereo.jpg

hifi_dave
27-01-2017, 10:24
Hi Julian.

Yes, it does look rather smart and under-stated. What you can't quite see from that pic is the smoked glass top to the amp. Beautiful in the flesh.

I have used it often with other pres, usually a Croft, which go very well together. This latest Quad improves over the last but still excellent Elite series. I place it up there with some exotic and very expensive, North American amps but at a fraction of the cost.

hifi_dave
13-02-2017, 11:29
I have a NOS Oracle Delphi Mk2. Set up but never used, just packed back in it's box and put into storage.

Anyone interested in buying this at a very reasonable price if I post pics ?

hifi_dave
15-02-2017, 16:38
Luxman is coming to Radlett Audio.

Well, not Luxman, just some of their electronics.

hifi_dave
16-02-2017, 15:30
WTF.

Luxman is here.

walpurgis
16-02-2017, 15:59
WTF.

Luxman is here.

Where's the piccies Dave? :)

hifi_dave
16-02-2017, 17:01
I'll get pics, descriptions and prices posted as soon as I find time and if I can drag myself away from listening to the LA-590AX-2.

I really wasn't prepared to be so impressed with this amp after reading some OK'ish reviews in the mags. I knew it would look and feel good in proper Hi-Fi fashion but the sound is freakin' awesome. I spent two hours listening to CDs I've heard a thousand times before but never quite like this. Totally magic.

walpurgis
16-02-2017, 17:14
Love Luxman gear. It's always been sheer class!

struth
16-02-2017, 17:37
Seen pics of it... 2 BIG meters

hifi_dave
17-02-2017, 13:16
Luvverly meters and just about every facility you could want.

I hope to find time, later, to try the CD player.

hifi_dave
18-02-2017, 11:49
Why is it that high-end Japanese equipment rarely gets the attention it deserves in the UK ? This Luxman gear is right up there with the best available but will barely get a mention in the mags or forums.

The Japanese are every bit as enthusiastic, probably more so, than the British enthusiast and they really know what they are doing but I know, from past experience, that it isn't going to be taken seriously. A great pity as this Luxman gear I now have here on loan is wonderful and the build is incredible. There isn't a company in the UK capable of building such electronics.

Spectral Morn
18-02-2017, 12:00
Why is it that high-end Japanese equipment rarely gets the attention it deserves in the UK ? This Luxman gear is right up there with the best available but will barely get a mention in the mags or forums.

The Japanese are every bit as enthusiastic, probably more so, than the British enthusiast and they really know what they are doing but I know, from past experience, that it isn't going to be taken seriously. A great pity as this Luxman gear I now have here on loan is wonderful and the build is incredible. There isn't a company in the UK capable of building such electronics.

HiFi News review it a lot and + has reviewed Luxman a number of times. I don't read Choice or World so I don't know what they have done.

hifi_dave
18-02-2017, 17:33
Yes, they have but I found it a bit lukewarm. At least they measured the output of the amps and found they all give a lot more than the ratings. The online reviews just blindly quote the published specs, such as 30 wpc for the L-590AXII, when it is actually 125 wpc into 8 ohms.

hifi_dave
18-02-2017, 17:35
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/DSC_0005_zpstsj1nbcn.jpg



The Luxman L-590AXII Class-a amplifier in all it's pristine glory.

JohnJo
18-02-2017, 20:10
Wonderfully coherent and controlled with a most beautiful treble presentation.

Weighs the same as a small car.

struth
18-02-2017, 20:14
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/DSC_0005_zpstsj1nbcn.jpg



The Luxman L-590AXII Class-a amplifier in all it's pristine glory.

thats the one.. lovely thing.

hifi_dave
24-02-2017, 18:32
Sorry for delay but I have just returned from an unexpected 6 day stay in Addenbrookes hospital. Might have been caused by lugging this thing around.

doodoos
24-02-2017, 19:11
Sorry for delay but I have just returned from an unexpected 6 day stay in Addenbrookes hospital. Might have been caused by lugging this thing around.

Hope you are ok Dave. Feb. Seems a bummer month - had a heart attack myself earlier this month. All the best.

hifi_dave
25-02-2017, 13:09
Thank you Robin and hope you are recovering well.

It's amazing how you can be fit and well one day and then struck down with something hideous the next.

MikeMusic
25-02-2017, 15:29
Hope you are ok now Dave.
All the best

hifi_dave
25-02-2017, 17:53
Thanks Mike.

hifinutt
25-02-2017, 18:18
wow , hope you get better soon . yes I read the reviews and it seems a beautiful amp . there is one s/h on pfm right now almost new in Italy !

I would just love to try one in my system . I have a beautiful class A power amp and its as sweet as a nut but always looking at alternatives .

Tim
25-02-2017, 19:50
Sorry to hear you have been in hospital Dave, all the best and take it easy ;)

Sent from my XT1580 using Tapatalk

hifi_dave
26-02-2017, 10:25
Thanks lads. I believe the reason I felt naff was very low blood pressure. In hospital it went down to 59 over 50 for a short while and that wasn't fun. Feeling a lot better this morning after a long sleep and plenty of fluids.

The Luxman gear is far, far better than I was expecting. I know Class-A is supposed to be 'sweet and smooth' but it's the insight, grip and information coming from these units which kept me listening to many favourite LPs and CDs for hours, something I don't often have time to do.

The L-590AXII and 05 CD player were on loan but I have ordered demo stock of these and also the 550AXII Class-A amp.

hifi_dave
22-03-2017, 10:14
Some new items have been added to my 'Bargain Basement' section at www.radlettaudio.co.uk

Please note that these are all lightly used demo items or display and not beaten up s/hand.

hifi_dave
01-04-2017, 09:29
I have just taken delivery of an immaculate EAR 899 integrated amplfier. It has just been serviced and re-valved by EAR, still has the protective plastic film on all chrome services. It is a lovely item which I will be selling on behalf of my customer. So, there will be no profit or VAT making it a bargain.

The retail price is £6105 but this one is only £3500.

If you want a chat about this, please contact me.

hifi_dave
01-04-2017, 10:02
Pics to come.

Eagle owl
02-04-2017, 05:18
Hi Dave,

I've only just read that you were unwell for a while, I do hope you are back to normal now.

All the very best

Geoff. (Eastbourne)

hifi_dave
02-04-2017, 09:08
Hi Geoff. Yes, all OK now thank you.

OD1
04-04-2017, 13:07
Hi Dave,

I've only just read that you were unwell for a while, I do hope you are back to normal now.

All the very best

Geoff. (Eastbourne)

+1 Hope you are feeling better now Dave

Olly

hifi_dave
05-04-2017, 10:58
I'm fine now, thank you Olly.

glenann
07-04-2017, 08:37
Why is it that high-end Japanese equipment rarely gets the attention it deserves in the UK ? This Luxman gear is right up there with the best available but will barely get a mention in the mags or forums.

The Japanese are every bit as enthusiastic, probably more so, than the British enthusiast and they really know what they are doing but I know, from past experience, that it isn't going to be taken seriously. A great pity as this Luxman gear I now have here on loan is wonderful and the build is incredible. There isn't a company in the UK capable of building such electronics.

Now you know what I was getting at Dave when I bought mine for my Harbeth's! Glad you like it and hopefully others will too...

Sorry to hear you've not been well, glad you're back in the listening chair!

hifi_dave
07-04-2017, 18:20
It's not easy to get across to people just how special this Luxman gear is. It might look like other high quality Japanese electronics but the sound is way better than that.

Yes, now up and running again - well, not actually running, more of a saunter.

hifi_dave
12-04-2017, 10:56
Some new items added to my 'Bargain Basement' section.

Worth pointing out that all listings, unless otherwise stated, are very lightly used, as new, demo or display units.


www.radlettaudio.co.uk

Spectral Morn
12-04-2017, 11:18
Bit late in saying I hope you are feeling ok Dave, only just read you were ill.

hifi_dave
12-04-2017, 11:51
Thanks Neil. I've reached that certain age when everything is going wrong..:eek:

hifi_dave
17-04-2017, 09:18
Yesterday, amongst other items, I listed a pair of Leak Mini Sandwich speakers, which might be of interest to AOS members. A sensible offer will secure.

struth
17-04-2017, 09:25
not a bad speaker dave.. eliptical driver if memory serves. lovely

hifi_dave
17-04-2017, 11:36
Yes, an elliptical bass/mid driver and a 'sandwich' tweeter. I lusted after, longed for a pair of Leak Sandwich speakers and was saving like mad for a pair but never managing to put away enough but then along came the Mini Sandwich, which gave me some relief.

Remember the adverts with Harold Leak standing on a Sandwich cone to prove how rigid they were ?

hifi_dave
19-04-2017, 15:28
The new Luxman D-05U CD player now on permanent demonstration.

hifi_dave
21-04-2017, 11:48
I have a Goodmans Maxamp and matching tuner, a pair of Leak Mini Sandwich speakers and a new, in it's box Wharfedale Super 12 RSDD bass driver all finishing in just over a day on E-Bay. I will sell to AOS members and remove from E-Bay if anyone is interested.

hifi_dave
28-04-2017, 14:47
Yesterday, I listed a lovely pair of Tannoy 3LZ speakers on E-Bay. Currently with a bid of £395.

hifi_dave
29-04-2017, 15:48
Luxman L-590AX Mk2, L-550AX Mk2, L-505ux and their CD/DVD player D-05u now on permanent demonstration.

hifi_dave
01-05-2017, 10:51
http://i1058.photobucket.com/albums/t406/hifi_dave/DSC_0004_zps69yjvbnq.jpg



Luxman D-05u and D-06u CD/SACD players.

hifi_dave
14-05-2017, 09:31
Gotta,getta life..:rolleyes:

Over 5000 posts and counting.

rigger67
14-05-2017, 11:17
Gotta,getta life..:rolleyes:

Over 5000 posts and counting.


HAHA !! :lol:

I've got over 8,000 on a Leeds United forum :scratch:

flapland
14-05-2017, 15:08
HAHA !! :lol:

I've got over 8,000 on a Leeds United forum :scratch:

Is that one for every new manager you have had. ;-)

337alant
22-06-2017, 16:30
Hi Dave
Im looking for a Ortofon 2M blue Stylus if you have one please

Alan

hifi_dave
26-06-2017, 17:12
Just replied by PM. Thank you.

To all those who contacted me - I have been out of the country with no internet.

hifi_dave
12-07-2017, 16:16
This afternoon I received the first production model of a new turntable from Michell Engineering.

I would like to post some pics but not sure what is going on with Photobucket, as discussed in another thread.

mikeyb
12-07-2017, 16:22
This afternoon I received the first production model of a new turntable from Michell Engineering.

I would like to post some pics but not sure what is going on with Photobucket, as discussed in another thread.
Use Flickr it's free and much better without all the adverts that photobucket subjects you to.

hifi_dave
15-07-2017, 09:12
Found some spare time yesterday to unpack and assemble the new Michell turntable and the new Spendor A2 speakers. The A2s sound very good indeed, with a full rich sound and good punch, which floor standers of this size usually do not provide.

I have taken some pics and will attempt to load them on to Flickr later, now that PB want hundreds of Pounds to do the job.

hifi_dave
16-07-2017, 09:48
Rega have announced the new Planar-6 turntable. To be available soon(ish).

hifi_dave
17-07-2017, 09:24
The new Michell Orbe SE(R) is up and running and sounding good.

If only I could download some pics..:doh:

hifi_dave
18-07-2017, 16:12
The new Rega Planar-6 with Neo power supply are featured on the Rega website. www.rega.co.uk

hifi_dave
21-07-2017, 09:14
Just received the new Rega Fono MC phono stage and it is truly excellent. Loading, capacitance and gain options on the back panel should cover every MC out there. It is small and quiet, very easy to site and the sound is great.

It has just been reviewed in Hi-Fi Plus magazine along with the new Ania MC cartridge.

Priced at a very reasonable £248

hifi_dave
26-07-2017, 15:40
https://www.flickr.com/photos/157075884@N02/35375786633/in/dateposted-public/

hifi_dave
26-07-2017, 15:43
OK. What am I doing wrong ? I have opened a flickr account, loaded a pic and tried to post here. It copied the address from flickr but no pic appears..:scratch:

hifi_dave
26-07-2017, 15:47
I don't understand.

Macca
26-07-2017, 15:52
Are you posting the 'IMG' link? Other types won't work.

hifi_dave
26-07-2017, 16:08
Sorry to be vague but I'm a complete numpty. I was pleased with myself being able to upload the pic but any technicalities are beyond me. When I right click on the image, there is no "IMG" mentioned.