Gator MK2 now in stock

[StanleyB]

I had 50 pieces of the Gator MK2 in stock at 1PM. There are now 42 pieces left. So don't miss out if you are after one of them :).

The MK2 has a lower gain so that it is compatible with some older amps. The headphone output has also been tweaked so that it can make better use of high current opamps. I have tried the THS493s, LM4562NA and AD826. I'll have to desolder my LM4562HA form a different PCB in order to give that a try as well.

[Fi-Wi]

Maybe it's lower gain I need for my headphones. But that would define my Yamaha RX-V1300 as an "older amp". :(

[Filterlab]

I'll have one Stan. I can't find an 'add to cart' link for the Gator on your site, is there a secret handshake?

[StanleyB]

Aah, the handshake :eyebrows:. http://www.homehifi.co.uk/PP/Upgrades_1.html

[Filterlab]

Hehehe, excellent. Bought and paid for. Fanks! :)

[Covenant]

Stan, if you remember, I have a problem with compatability between my Mk 1 Gator and Lightspeed attenuator resulting in distortion. I tried attenuators on the analogue outputs but it didn't help.
Do you think the Mk2 will solve the problem?
Also, just out of interest, why is the AD826 only for European customers (as thats what I use)?

[StanleyB]

Stan, if you remember, I have a problem with compatability between my Mk 1 Gator and Lightspeed attenuator resulting in distortion. I tried attenuators on the analogue outputs but it didn't help.
Do you think the Mk2 will solve the problem?
I have no idea. I don't have a Lightspeed.

[Filterlab]

WOW!

Mine arrived a few minutes ago, it took less than a minute to install (no glue in my DAC), but has completely transformed my 7520 - in one word, incredible. I feel as though I can lean forward and borrow Antonio Forcione's guitar. :)

Incredible upgrade Stan, very well done indeed. Chaps, if you haven't got this board in, don't hesitate, it's stunning!

[Ashmore]

So um, I know i'm well behind here but is the gator only for headphones output or a general upgrade? I already have the rubikons and elna thingys and murata whatnots plus one 826. Does it supersede these or is it a complementary upgrade?

[StanleyB]

The Gator is an upgrade for the TC-7520 and Caiman. It doesn't matter if you listen to speakers or headphones. It won't put hairs on your chest, but it might make your hairs stand up on the back of your neck :).

[brainz2000]

I have an unaltered Caiman.

Is this easy to fit? Does it need soldering?

Which Op amps are recommended?

Does the board come with idiot proof instructions ?

I am very tempted but a bit nervous I might do damage ... Reassure me so I can take the plunge ...

Views appreciated

Thanks

Tim

[quadsugdenman]

Hi Tim

No it is really easy! Stan describes it as 'easiier than frying an egg'. With a little care, a small flat ended screwdriver and the instructions on Stan's website http://www.homehifi.co.uk/others/gatoraid.html
I have managed to modify both my Caimans. The op amp for the Gator board is taken out of the existing Caiman board it replaces (there are two on the existing board- but only one is needed for the new Gator board).
Certainly improves the bass and front to back image
Hope this helps
Regards
Garry ;)

[mike1210]

Will I see an improvement if I already have the MK1 Gator and don't use the headphone output on the Caiman?

[Reid Malenfant]

Will I see an improvement if I already have the MK1 Gator and don't use the headphone output on the Caiman?
Only if you get some distortion due to an overloaded amplifier input ;) If everything is nice,clean & undistorted then you won't need to lower the gain by fitting the MK2 gator..

[LittleTone]

Hi Guys,

I've just ordered a Gator Mk2 from Stan for my 7520 and am just curious; in view of Mark's comments above; what is the ideal amplifier input sensitivity.
My pre-amp has switchable sensitivity and I'm able to select either 125mV @ 33k or 775mV at 50k. I'm currently using the 775mV setting at the moment. Do you think I'm likely to incur any overload distortion with this item ?

Regards
Tony

[StanleyB]

I'm currently using the 775mV setting at the moment. Do you think I'm likely to incur any overload distortion with this item ?

You'll be able to hear if there is overload distortion when you play music. You can of course use the variable output to adjust for a lower gain.

[LittleTone]

Thanks Stan,

Have every confidence its gonna be another brilliant bit of kit. Can't wait !
Regards
Tony

[LittleTone]

Hi Guys

Well I've just fitted the Gator2 to a standard 7520 and a 4562 is now in the HP socket
Sounds GREAT; everythings just fell into place.the HP sounds pretty good to using Grado SR60's;

Well pleased........................Thoroughly recommended

Just a word of thanks to Mr B for providing these mods that we can DIY at very reasonable cost and always sent quickly. Nice One.

Regards
Tony :dance:

[brainz2000]

OK - I have heard enough ....

Order placed

:-)

[Darren Cotter]

Hi,

Having only bought a Gator 1 in the last few days, and not being aware of the existence of the Gator 2, am I missing out on anything?

Regards,

Darren

[Krisbee]

Hi,

Having only bought a Gator 1 in the last few days, and not being aware of the existence of the Gator 2, am I missing out on anything?

Regards,

Darren

Darren,

See #13 and #14 above. I shouldn't think you're missing anything.

[brainz2000]

Installed the Gator - now testing with marc cohn

Initial impressions are breath taking .....

Will I go to bed tonight, or just revisit my top 50 albums for the next few hours ...

(Installation was easy - though the glue takes some shifting ....)

:)

[StanleyB]

Based on some emails that I am receiving, please note that I am only shipping the MK2. The MK1 sold out ages ago. If you want a MK1 you'll have to put a 'wanted' add on AoS for one. I don't have any more to sell.