Justin & Jerry's Hifi Blog

[diceman]

Oh bugger. :(
If you can't get it to work maybe Justin can send one of his spares, assuming he hasn't taken a hammer to them yet! I'm sure it can be tweaked back to shape OK. I've got a spare valve base somewhere i'll use to check it before fitting to the amp.

[User211]

IMHO going active is the next stage. I appreciate the buggeration in finding 4 bloody good matching monoblock amps but having heard how good a najda active dsp sounds it's where I'd be heading.TBH I have thought about it quite a bit.

[Ali Tait]

IMHO going active is the next stage. I appreciate the buggeration in finding 4 bloody good matching monoblock amps but having heard how good a najda active dsp sounds it's where I'd be heading.

I use a miniDSP 4x10HD to very good effect to my lugs. I don't think it's strictly necessary to use matching amps, I use a variety and match gain with the DSP..

[User211]

MiniDSP 2x4 HD might be fun to play with. Might order one. Never know til you try. Not too pricey and I have 4 monos in the room anyway.

The passive crossover should be bloody hard to beat though is my hope when the foo is in. Just waiting for the custom made Jantzen inductors, more Pass resistors and Alumen caps to turn up.

[User211]

And low and behold...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170721/52ba65bfd86f26f42a44461ae1662963.jpg

[Macca]

Is this the foo then? I have no idea what I am looking at. Components recovered after the Roswell saucer crash?

[diceman]

MiniDSP 2x4 HD might be fun to play with. Might order one. Never know til you try. Not too pricey and I have 4 monos in the room anyway.

The passive crossover should be bloody hard to beat though is my hope when the foo is in. Just waiting for the custom made Jantzen inductors, more Pass resistors and Alumen caps to turn up.

Iv not heard a minidsp. It I did have the chance to listen to speedy Steves horns in his house before he moved. The integration and even frequency response was astounding, it was easily a couple of leagues above his show performances. Once you have full control of time alignment, crossover freq and shape as well as allowing some minor room correction (only knock out the big peaks imho) it just sounds right, slight warmth/valvey-ness can be added if you so desire at the change of a setting.

My own budget play with a Behringer and 3 x a500s beat hundreds of hours of passive crossover design within 1 hour! It's the way I will be going but does limit box swapping a lot as the pre and dac are all in the najda and amp swapping becomes a difficult process with2/3 matching amps. Whilst I have used different amps I never found they totally integrated if the crossover was in the mid-range, it may be easier with the 500hz? Of the apogees. I've not tried yet.

[User211]

Yo Macca yes that is the foo.

Diceman - what I really don't like about the MiniDSP is the A/D and D/A process between the pre an power amps to enable the fucking around. And the dissimilar power amps I'd have to use. Time alignment is not an issue with a Duetta as it is excellent anyway. I do use digital processing in the form of rapidly on-the-fly GUI driven PEQ. In fact I'm cutting the 8-9K region now as I listen by a couple of DB. But it is all done without the A/D D/A intervention i.e. before the digital input hits the DAC. Good I think.

Those Jantzen inductors use lovely looking copper with silver plated tags. Much better looking than the Monocor ones I am using now. They are also massively larger and heavier than the Monocor for the same inductance (can that really be a good thing?). I've got some pretty huge Mundorfs in the crossovers too but by looks alone the Jantzens look better. Danish quality I guess.

Will wire the foo up tomoz. I will say though the Monocor stuff is brilliant for the money. Such cheapness actually sounds great right now as I am listening on some of the best speakers I have ever heard LOL.That said I did swap in a couple of original Apogee Ohmites recently to replace a couple of Monocor resistors and they are better. Still they are cheap too.

Curious as to what will happen with the foo.

Sorry Jezzer but sure you won't mind too much.

That said I completely agree the flexibility to mess around with an active solution is unparalled JP.

And a word to Ali - still have really fond memories of your OBs. Outstanding for the cost. Were you using the MiniDSP then?

[User211]

New crossover is lush, sweet, spacious, detailed and very listenable in the mids and highs, which is where the mods were.

Breathed a sigh of relief it doesn't suck and there's no "wait for the caps to break in after 400 hours they'll be OK" BS to live with.

Credit where credit is due to Humble Homemade Hi-Fi (http://www.humblehomemadehifi.com/) for the Jantzen Alumen Z-Cap recommendation cos they obviously are really seriously good. As are the Path's and Jantzen coils. It all works really well together.

It's Monacor nor Monocor BTW soz about that. Good cheap stuff but not in this league. Very useful for working out if the balance is correct when prototyping.

Normal service now resumes on Jerry's thread:D

[jandl100]

https://i.imgur.com/xgU2otz.jpg

[Ali Tait]

Yo Macca yes that is the foo.

Diceman - what I really don't like about the MiniDSP is the A/D and D/A process between the pre an power amps to enable the fucking around. And the dissimilar power amps I'd have to use. Time alignment is not an issue with a Duetta as it is excellent anyway. I do use digital processing in the form of rapidly on-the-fly GUI driven PEQ. In fact I'm cutting the 8-9K region now as I listen by a couple of DB. But it is all done without the A/D D/A intervention i.e. before the digital input hits the DAC. Good I think.

Those Jantzen inductors use lovely looking copper with silver plated tags. Much better looking than the Monocor ones I am using now. They are also massively larger and heavier than the Monocor for the same inductance (can that really be a good thing?). I've got some pretty huge Mundorfs in the crossovers too but by looks alone the Jantzens look better. Danish quality I guess.

Will wire the foo up tomoz. I will say though the Monocor stuff is brilliant for the money. Such cheapness actually sounds great right now as I am listening on some of the best speakers I have ever heard LOL.That said I did swap in a couple of original Apogee Ohmites recently to replace a couple of Monocor resistors and they are better. Still they are cheap too.

Curious as to what will happen with the foo.

Sorry Jezzer but sure you won't mind too much.

That said I completely agree the flexibility to mess around with an active solution is unparalled JP.

And a word to Ali - still have really fond memories of your OBs. Outstanding for the cost. Were you using the MiniDSP then?

Sorry, missed this, yes was using the 2x4 MiniDSP then. The OB's are now four way and I use the 4x10HD. The speakers now sound considerably better than they did when you heard them.

[User211]

https://i.imgur.com/xgU2otz.jpg

Saw the original post before the strange 4am editing LOL.

Looks very cool Jerry.

[jandl100]

;)

[diceman]

An all in 1! Whilst the wadia kit sounds damn good I'd be amazed if it betters your puresiund/pass setup.

[jandl100]

New headphones.

I dearly love the Fostex T50RPiii that Lawrence(001) recommended.
The best 'phones I had owned, and far from the most expensive.

So I just couldn't resist when these Fostex Reference 'phones came along. :)
Arrived today, and I am deeply in love.
Hugely immersive, fast and powerful.

https://i.imgur.com/w2BqxsD.jpg

[jandl100]

New amp to play with.
I fancied going back to valves, at least as an option, my favourite power valve is the el84, and this used but minty amp on eBay from a high end Italian dealership rather took my fancy.
By LA Audio, I'd never heard of them. Taiwanese. They make quite a few amps ... http://www.laaudio.com.tw/products.php?id=30&uid=&lang=en
According to the website they've been around for nearly 30 years.

Mine is the LA-30.
4x el84 and 2x ecc81.
There's a good heft to it, quite like a Leak Stereo 20 funnily enough! I've had two of those, and loved them. Similar size, weight, shape.

It came with stock valves branded LA Audio ... so I have no idea what they are!

The sound is good, nicely vibrant, if a bit laidback at the moment for my upfront tastes. So I've ordered a full set of JJ valves for it - I almost always get on with JJs.

https://i.imgur.com/1xqN7DT.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Ys0EYVK.jpg

[jandl100]

All my electronics options in one shot ...

https://i.imgur.com/g0aWIdD.jpg

Wadia 151 "all in one" PowerDAC. Inputs digital signal, outputs to speaker cables.

Cambridge Audio 851D DAC/pre-amp.
Pass Labs X150 power amp.
LA Audio LA-30 el84 integrated.

Oh, and an Arcam DV29 disc spinner, quite a posh player back in its day. I also have an out of shot Pioneer DV737 for use as a CDT.

[Ali Tait]

Very bling Jerry!

[Firebottle]

Ooh, I like that LA amp Jerry, looks fantastic.

:clap:

[jandl100]

Gold knobs, gloss black paint job, chrome chassis.

Blingy? Me? :D

[Marco]

I'm sayin' nuffin! :doh:

;)

Marco.

[User211]

The JJ EL84 is a really nice sounding EL84 I think - quite a lot nicer than Russian jobbies, but more prone to failure unfortunately. Much better than their KT88 in the general scheme of things, which I really wasn't keen on.

17 Watts though...:rolleyes::scratch::mental::ner::doh::lol :;)

[jandl100]

17 Watts though...:rolleyes::scratch::mental::ner::doh::lol :;)

That's at a quoted 1.5% distortion - I'd wager it's more like a Stereo 20's 10wpc at 0.1%.

That's plenty, though. :violin: :exactly: :ner:


.

[struth]

Looks very nice Jerry. Not heard of this LA Audio, unless its an offshoot of the PA company.

[jandl100]

A pair of Brimar 6060 Yellow T (ecc81 / 12AT7 equivalent) have arrived and been installed in the el84 amp ....

https://i.imgur.com/TsyNiTE.jpg

Interesting comparison with the JJ 12AT7.
The JJs are more focussed, the Brimar more expansive and enveloping.
Which is best? :scratch:
Both are good!
More dynamic subtlety with the Brimars, I think, and a bit more tonal lushness.
They probably need to get a few hours on them.
It's no hardship to listen with them. Yum. :)

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/pMMAAOSwKE9Z2mvh/s-l1600.jpg

[Firebottle]

Good one Jerry :)

[User211]

I've got a Brimar with that yellow T on it. I think I hate it purely because I think the yellow T looks crap.

[jandl100]

:)
I know what you mean.

But swapping back to the JJs .... :nono: .... the Yellow Ts are the new top choice. :thumbsup:

They aren't so much "more expansive and enveloping" as simply showing more of the recorded acoustic space. On further listening, the focus of the JJs is still there, just set within a more detailed spatial context.
Nice. :)

[jandl100]

Hmm ... Airlink balanced transformers do work rather well. :)

https://i.imgur.com/8I3Fn7m.jpg

Buzzed like hell in a 4 or 5 second cycle before I put the DC blocker (black box) in before it - now nicely silent!

It just makes everything sound that important bit more natural. Less etch (although I hadn't realised before that it was etched) with more natural presence. Somehow subtlely more solid sounding. Difficult to quite put my finger on the improvements - but a very decent vfm upgrade.

[Yomanze]

I had one for a few years. I took it out and wasn’t missing much (YNWAN and his friend misterdog that I sold it to did report a worthwhile overall upgrade). However, I did have DC on my mains like you obviously do Jerry. In some homes a DC blocker is required. In my old house it sounded like my HiFi does in the evening, or ‘on a good day’ as they say. I suspect the noise floor is lowered and the grounding improved. The changes are from an ‘overall’ perspective with balanced mains, and well worth trying, but for me too bulky and more subtle in my new home compared to my old one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[TheMooN]

I canna find any model that looks like the one in your system Jerry, is this an AirlinkTransformers.com product , your units spec ?

[jandl100]

Yes, it's an Airlink.
500VA.

My amp is 120W max consumption, my DAC/pre about 40W, so should be well within the unit's capability.
It could probably supply my big Pass amp as well, that maxes out at 600W consumption but I don't get anywhere near that!

I'm sure a bigger one would be even better, but this was a cheap way (eBay!) to have a play. :)

[BilliumB]

Jerry

I was wondering which cables took over from your Atratus 3s?

Cheers Bill

[jandl100]

Jerry

I was wondering which cables took over from your Atratus 3s?

Cheers Bill

Hi Bill

Some rather nice silver and gold Siltech SQ-28 Classic G5.

I'm using balanced cables at the moment. :)

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/fCwAAOSw6ShZTWKP/s-l1600.jpg

[jandl100]

.... is this an AirlinkTransformers.com product , your units spec ?

Hera ya go, Roger

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/WaMAAOSwR2RZ6yr1/s-l1600.jpg

[TheMooN]

Ahhhh, Thanks for that Jerry, I was looking at models elsewhere as I need a fair bit more horsepower than yours, a nice size if your requirements are catered for :)

[jandl100]

I got it used on eBay, and the grille is different to current models so I suspect it is a previous gen model.

[BilliumB]

Ah.

[jandl100]

Paul(f-2007) kindly gifted me a pair of Mullard ecc81.
They arrived today.

I have to now confess that I am not usually a big fan of Mullard valves, oft referring to them as Dullards. :whistle:

But, my goodness, you never can tell.

shock horror
quelle surprise


The Mullard ecc81 are supa dupa in LAddy (aka LA Audio A-30) - my gosh. Focused and dynamic. Superb rez.
Hoodathunkit? Not me.

Easily the best sound I have so far got out of the little el84 amp. Luvverly.

Not Dullard at all.

Thanks Paul. :thumbsup:

[Firebottle]

Maybe you are thinking of ECC83's, '81's are completely different animals.

Glad they are really working for you :D

[jandl100]

Mm, no - just my general experience of Dullards Mullards has not been a good one.
These are a happy exception, though.

[User211]

So I'll defo pack the Mullard CV4024s then for a cross compare. That's a damned good valve so be interesting if the older ones you have are better.

Let me brainwash you with Watford valves claims on the CV4024: https://www.watfordvalves.com/product_detail.asp?id=630

[jandl100]

:yay:

ECM albums have appeared on Spotify.

:yay:

https://open.spotify.com/album/2tj0tuTb2McJP5CEFiRHGv

[jandl100]

Let me brainwash you with Watford valves claims on the CV4024: https://www.watfordvalves.com/product_detail.asp?id=630

"This is certainly the best Mullard ECC81 ever made"

Hmm, interesting!

[paulf-2007]

Paul(f-2007) kindly gifted me a pair of Mullard ecc81.
They arrived today.

I have to now confess that I am not usually a big fan of Mullard valves, oft referring to them as Dullards. :whistle:

But, my goodness, you never can tell.

shock horror
quelle surprise


The Mullard ecc81 are supa dupa in LAddy (aka LA Audio A-30) - my gosh. Focused and dynamic. Superb rez.
Hoodathunkit? Not me.

Easily the best sound I have so far got out of the little el84 amp. Luvverly.

Not Dullard at all.

Thanks Paul. :thumbsup:thats good to hear Jerry, I bought them by mistake, didn't check which valves were in my phono stage. So I never got to try them and had no idea if they were any good. The ecc 82 and 83 I used were fantastic. I am tempted to try some 403B western electric in my headphone amp.

[jandl100]

So I'll defo pack the Mullard CV4024s then for a cross compare. That's a damned good valve so be interesting if the older ones you have are better.

Let me brainwash you with Watford valves claims on the CV4024: https://www.watfordvalves.com/product_detail.asp?id=630

Justin - your PM box is filled to burstin'.

The valves have arrived, yesterday actually - ta! - I'll have a play over the next week or two, if that's oK.

[User211]

OK Jerry have fun rolling.

[jandl100]

OK Jerry have fun rolling.

Yup, will do.

https://i.imgur.com/uzYpUV1.gif

[User211]

Watch it all...:)

https://youtu.be/RnBaO0GismE

[Firebottle]

FAKE FAKE FAKE

Bunch of nutty girls :eek:

[alphaGT]

I guess the pilot had to get a look at them? I know it’s fake, but they did a right good job of it!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[jandl100]

New power amps. :)

https://i.imgur.com/mjvVUPB.jpg

A pair of el84 monoblocks, bottom right - probably around 12wpc. Designed and constructed by Duncan tubehunter of this parish.
Also a final farewell shot of my Pass Labs X150 - about to be delivered to its happy new owner.

Thanks Tony wee tee cee (and Mike(y)b for sending) for the monos, they are sounding bloody brilliant!
I shall swap my fave Reflektor el84 valves in later on and see how they do.

[Macca]

They look very tasty. What's the power output on them?

[jandl100]

I'd guess that you can squeeze 10-12 watts out of them.

[hornucopia]

Always liked the look of those Copper amps (and other things) Plus I like owning equipment that folk have tweaked/designed.
I realise that most of my things are tweaked in some way- it's a bit vampire-ish though? (As I don't do the work myself!)

Thinks; what happens if you suddenly decide "This is IT" Jerry? (Well, you have with speakers.......)


ECM on Spotify? Good, as I shed ALL my LPs last year!

[hornucopia]

Middle age angst is showing?
Watch it all...:)

https://youtu.be/RnBaO0GismE

[tubehunter]

Yes about 12 watts
Each output valve is bias @ around 40ma's

some build pictures

https://s20.postimg.org/pu9qjni5p/IMG_5966_cropped.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/xn0ebmo4p/)

https://s20.postimg.org/xn0ebn3kd/IMG_5982.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/cdcs0sn9l/)

https://s20.postimg.org/z21z0cwxp/IMG_6069.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/5znoxjant/)

Happy Days

[User211]

Middle age angst is showing?

Chris it is the plane we are interested in. Didn't notice anything else.:nono::bum:

Jerry got valves back - after the lady couldn't find them at the PO I left her and came back 1 hour later. Whereupon she had managed it.:mental:;)

[jandl100]

^^ Awesome pics, Duncan. :thumbsup:
Makes me proud to be their new owner.

Over the years the copper has got a bit tarnished in places - any tips for the best way to return them to their burnished glory, folks?

[hornucopia]

er....Brasso?
As also used on phono plugs?


Lead on into 2018.........

[struth]

I had Duncan's copper pre that looked very much the same. I polished it up on occasion with Brasso wadding.(excellent amp bye way and would be nice I think with these mono's)

[jandl100]

I thought I'd check - if it had been called Coppero I would have been more confident. ;)

And you are not wrong - Brasso and some elbow grease and it's coming up right bootiful. :)

[wee tee cee]

take the allen key bolts out the side and go gently with brasso.

The side cheeks i just waxed -but you could use a darker stain to highlight the grain.

lovely wee amps-Duncan did a great job with them.

[jandl100]

take the allen key bolts out the side and go gently with brasso.


OK - undo 4 black allen bolts each side (2 top, 2 bottom) and the wood cheeks pop off?

[wee tee cee]

Naw.....just remove the bolts to polish the copper-do one side at a time.

Mind and dont leave any finger prints.

An old t shirt serves as a fine polishing cloth!

[jandl100]

And the final purchase of 2017 ... another amplifier! :yay:
On its way from the Netherlands. Well, hopefully it will be by tomorrow.
An American solid state classic by John Bongiorno.

You just can't have too many amplifiers. :nono: :D

https://www.123greetingmessage.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Happy-New-Year-2018-Animated-GIF.gif

[Macca]

And the final purchase of 2017 ... another amplifier! :yay:
On its way from the Netherlands. Well, hopefully it will be by tomorrow.
An American solid state classic by John Bongiorno.


Didn't realise he was making amps now. Is he still 'Living On A Prayer'?

[jandl100]

I've no idea if he's still around.
Mine is a refurbed amp from around 1980, I think.

Ah no, he went to join the morning stars 5 years ago (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=113225.0)

[jandl100]

Interesting read about James Bongiorno, actually - http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=113225.0

Sounds like he was a really flamboyant character!

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k42/housteau/P1020730_zpsa31ae6b0.jpg

[Macca]

Ah so he did Sumo and Ampzilla. Always wanted a go on some Sumo amps

[walpurgis]

Always wanted a go on some Sumo amps

Me too. Never had any come my way (yet).

[jandl100]

Boxswap madness. :mental:

Who could guess that my hifi budget is refreshed annually on Jan 1? :eyebrows:

https://i.imgur.com/nYJx5B2.jpg

Firebottle AIR hybrid power amp, atop this a QLS QA100 all digital amp (powerDAC).
To the right atop my longstanding CA Azur 851D DAC/pre is a newly arrived Auralic Vega DAC/pre.
Only 1 new amp still en route now.

Of the 3 new items that arrived today only the Firebottle AIR power amp has so far been plumbed in.
Playing now.
-- it came out of the box very cold - on turn on the L/R imagery was rather strange; a little phasey and biased just a little toward the R channel. Worrying!
And the presentation was a little matter of fact and uninvolving.
It took about 20 minutes to centre up, and settle down. Central image is perfectly centred now (I have to confess to being a bit anal about this!).

Initial impressions (after about a couple of hours of warmed up listening) - it's a damn fine amp!
Tonally rich and vibrant, very detailed and fast. Deep, powerful, controlled room-shaking bass when appropriate - but clean with no extra boom. Extended and realistically smooth top end, perhaps just a little too 'nice'? Maybe there could be just that little bit of extra air up top to advantage.
Well defined imagery in depth as well as lateral, just a little bloomy rather than pinpoint sharp, I think.

Very rhythmically able - my foot tap test track (Loreena McKennitt's Hurricane Beltane Fire Dance) playing now and it's Big Grin time. :D Not the very best I have heard, but bloody good all the same. I suspect that the best toe-tappers tend to be leaner tonally.

I haven't popped the lid so I don't know what make valve is inside - but I have a Siemens on the way to have a bit of a roll with. Top end extension and imaging may well benefit.

Hats off to Alan Firebottle. Without doubt a brilliant amp, imo, very musically convincing. :thumbsup:

[Macca]

Starting to look like a demo room in there Jerry. Thought you might like the AIR, it has a lot of 'rez'.

[jandl100]

Ooo - I do like my rez. :lol:

[hornucopia]

Try Pat Metheny Group 'Straight on red' on Live 'Travels' album.Keep it playing until the drum bit! THEN dance-or shuffle, as we're getting on a bit?

And not sure about 'Budget refreshed'-a bit like Train Companies Price 'adjustments' being euphemism for INCREASE! (-:

You're our hero, of course!

[jandl100]

Actually the total annual funding (hifi + music) has remained static for quite a few years.
It got an effective shot in the arm a couple of years ago when I turned to streaming at £10 a month compared to my previous monthly budget of £50 for CDs. An extra £480 a year for the hifi. :)

And the final arrival from the New Year purchases ...

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/aB8AAOSwAHtaSO7k/s-l1600.jpg

SAE XXXiB (31B) power amp - refurbed and sounding rather splendid.
A James Bongiorno design.
50woc, but with a lot of muscle behind it.

That's probably enough amps to play with .... for now.

[Bigman80]

Boxswap madness. :mental:

Who could guess that my hifi budget is refreshed annually on Jan 1? :eyebrows:

https://i.imgur.com/nYJx5B2.jpg

Firebottle AIR hybrid power amp, atop this a QLS QA100 all digital amp (powerDAC).
To the right atop my longstanding CA Azur 851D DAC/pre is a newly arrived Auralic Vega DAC/pre.
Only 1 new amp still en route now.

Of the 3 new items that arrived today only the Firebottle AIR power amp has so far been plumbed in.
Playing now.
-- it came out of the box very cold - on turn on the L/R imagery was rather strange; a little phasey and biased just a little toward the R channel. Worrying!
And the presentation was a little matter of fact and uninvolving.
It took about 20 minutes to centre up, and settle down. Central image is perfectly centred now (I have to confess to being a bit anal about this!).

Initial impressions (after about a couple of hours of warmed up listening) - it's a damn fine amp!
Tonally rich and vibrant, very detailed and fast. Deep, powerful, controlled room-shaking bass when appropriate - but clean with no extra boom. Extended and realistically smooth top end, perhaps just a little too 'nice'? Maybe there could be just that little bit of extra air up top to advantage.
Well defined imagery in depth as well as lateral, just a little bloomy rather than pinpoint sharp, I think.

Very rhythmically able - my foot tap test track (Loreena McKennitt's Hurricane Beltane Fire Dance) playing now and it's Big Grin time. :D Not the very best I have heard, but bloody good all the same. I suspect that the best toe-tappers tend to be leaner tonally.

I haven't popped the lid so I don't know what make valve is inside - but I have a Siemens on the way to have a bit of a roll with. Top end extension and imaging may well benefit.

Hats off to Alan Firebottle. Without doubt a brilliant amp, imo, very musically convincing. [emoji106]Jerry, I would suggest better valves will yield better results. A pair of new old stock Telefunkens really brought the best out of my Monoblocks.



Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk

[jandl100]

Jerry, I would suggest better valves will yield better results. A pair of new old stock Telefunkens really brought the best out of my Monoblocks.



Coincidentally, I popped the lid on the AIR about half hour ago -- and there was a Valvo pcc85 in there. That ain't chicken feed!
I don't know if that is the original valve that Alan installed or if there has been some valve rolling going on before it got to me.

Whatever, I have just now installed a Siemens pcc85. Nice .....

[Bigman80]

Coincidentally, I popped the lid on the AIR about half hour ago -- and there was a Valvo pcc85 in there. That ain't chicken feed!
I don't know if that is the original valve that Alan installed or if there has been some valve rolling going on before it got to me.

Whatever, I have just now installed a Siemens pcc85. Nice .....Let us know what you think after a bit of siemans valve goodness.

Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk

[jandl100]

Listening now.

The Plan was to sample a few pieces already heard with the Valvo installed.
Scrap that! - I'm listening to the whole of the first piece tried - a 45 minute album.
That probably tells its own story. :)

[Bigman80]

Listening now.

The Plan was to sample a few pieces already heard with the Valvo installed.
Scrap that! - I'm listening to the whole of the first piece tried - a 45 minute album.
That probably tells its own story. :)Good stuff.

Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk

[jandl100]

Right.
Sorted.

My new Tower of Power de jour. Maybe even de month or de 6 months.

Auralic Vega DAC / pre.
Firebottle AIR dual mono hybrid power amp.
And for when I'm feeling even more valvey, Tubehunter el84 monoblocks.

It don't 'alf sound good! :)

http://i.imgur.com/oB9HxLg.jpg (https://imgur.com/oB9HxLg)

Nice warm & fuzzy early morning pic taken in low light - flash did all sorts of nasty things.

I dare say I'll be doing some more toob rolling in all the amps that have them.
And I need to optimise my USB connectivity. And cabling.
And I'll see if my Arkless active buffer is appreciated by the Auralic.
But I'll certainly (?) be happy with this for quite a while.

[Primalsea]

Nice one Jerry, I’m sure this will tde you over for a while...until you get that itch.:)

[Firebottle]

Glad you are liking the AIR Jerry, the Valvo was the original fit.

You may find a smidgen of greater clarity on the low gain setting.
:)

[jandl100]

Glad you are liking the AIR Jerry, the Valvo was the original fit.

You may find a smidgen of greater clarity on the low gain setting.
:)

Original fit? Impressive! Many valve gear makers put the cheapest Chinese tat they can find in their otherwise well thought out gear!

Low gain setting, eh?
Ok, I've not tried that.

[jandl100]

I bought a pair of Siemens pcc85, so I have 1 spare if an AIR owner would like to try it. Drop me a PM.

[User211]

Alan's amps sound best when wearing very brightly coloured trousers.

So always remember to change first, Jerry.

[Firebottle]

Ta Justin, I forgot to put that in the instructions. :)

[jandl100]

I shall have to borrow a pair ...

https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xpfZBORqTfw/WT2qbZs_7NI/AAAAAAAACds/QOi_VSb6UbEGop6o0_J6NVRnJFVd5sWPQCLcB/s640/06a.JPG

[Barry]

I shall have to borrow a pair ...

https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xpfZBORqTfw/WT2qbZs_7NI/AAAAAAAACds/QOi_VSb6UbEGop6o0_J6NVRnJFVd5sWPQCLcB/s640/06a.JPG

And only play stuff by The Bay City Rollers!

[struth]

Either a very tall pair of trousers or very small speakers. Either way I bet the tous are louder

[User211]

I shall have to borrow a pair ...

https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xpfZBORqTfw/WT2qbZs_7NI/AAAAAAAACds/QOi_VSb6UbEGop6o0_J6NVRnJFVd5sWPQCLcB/s640/06a.JPGThat's a tame pair:D

[hornucopia]

Bay City Rollers?
i recall theirs were only 'half-mast'.
reputedly, when asked why their trousers were short, by Pr. Margaret, one replied "We're saving up for the other half".
I was in a Club with Mal Evans (RIP) where those idiots were making a drunken fuss.

Bright clothes? Me-just prior to leaving/retiring......speakers in background, Heathkit Westminsters (?)

[struth]

thats quite a shirt chris :D

[hornucopia]

Paul Smith too! (famous, I believe); bought in Clevedon Charity shop! I tried to brighten up my customer's lives with many 'hawaiian' shirts-plus great music!
Spent quite a lot of time chatting about Flamenco, etc.......or how to make bread.

[jandl100]

Hmm :hmm: - these might well do me for quite a while.
It's the refreshed annual budget - I just can't help myself. :doh:

https://i.imgur.com/p77HwAG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/QO98t2L.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/BElOEcl.jpg

Trigon TRE 50 monoblocks.

[struth]

look classy.. German i take it?

[jandl100]

Ja!
... und sehr gut.

[struth]

awfully good eh...:D

[jandl100]

Jolly spiffing, dontcherknow. :lol:

[alphaGT]

Bay City Rollers?
i recall theirs were only 'half-mast'.
reputedly, when asked why their trousers were short, by Pr. Margaret, one replied "We're saving up for the other half".
I was in a Club with Mal Evans (RIP) where those idiots were making a drunken fuss.

Bright clothes? Me-just prior to leaving/retiring......speakers in background, Heathkit Westminsters (?)



A fair looking lady in the photo with you! Perhaps you know her?

[Barry]

Hmm :hmm: - these might well do me for quite a while.
It's the refreshed annual budget - I just can't help myself. :doh:

https://i.imgur.com/p77HwAG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/QO98t2L.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/BElOEcl.jpg

Trigon TRE 50 monoblocks.

Umm - nice. Monoblock amplifiers having a balanced input - just what I like to use. :)

[Macca]

They have the whole Darth Vader vibe going on. Very cool.

[jandl100]

Trigon grew out of Restek, I believe. Although I am not entirely clear on the relationship.
I used to suspect that Restek became Trigon, but it may be that Trigon was formed by ex-Restek engineers.
I dunno!

I owned a Restek Consens preamp for a couple of years and was very impressed with it, so when these minty Vaderish lovelies came along on eBay, and with my hifi budget newly replenished ... well, it would have been daft not to really! :D

They are a current model, and available new from Audio Emotion in the UK. https://www.audioemotion.co.uk/trigon-tre-50m-mono-power-amplifier-single-monoblock-782-p.asp

[hornucopia]

Alpha GT query...
Know her? I employed her! She was a bit of a poseur.Potential model. Never hurt to employ good looking people, as long as they could do the job properly. I did have a ditzy Saturday girl whose ambition was just 'to be famous'! She was useless! Once had a manager who was a Belly Dancer....... but I was once told I was the only boss (she'd had) that danced while he worked!
The food was good too! Own recipe bread roll with local products/own blend coffee and tea/made our own ingredients.....started in 1979! It still rolls on without me, (though I suspect not as well.)

[alphaGT]

Alpha GT query...
Know her? I employed her! She was a bit of a poseur.Potential model. Never hurt to employ good looking people, as long as they could do the job properly. I did have a ditzy Saturday girl whose ambition was just 'to be famous'! She was useless! Once had a manager who was a Belly Dancer....... but I was once told I was the only boss (she'd had) that danced while he worked!
The food was good too! Own recipe bread roll with local products/own blend coffee and tea/made our own ingredients.....started in 1979! It still rolls on without me, (though I suspect not as well.)

Thanks Chris, it sounds like you really enjoyed your job and miss your profession? I wish I could look back with such fondness. But, I guess I do look back fondly at some of my employees and coworkers, working with good people can make all the difference. And if they are easy on the eye, all the better.

Russell

[User211]

Trigon grew out of Restek, I believe. Although I am not entirely clear on the relationship.
I used to suspect that Restek became Trigon, but it may be that Trigon was formed by ex-Restek engineers.
I dunno!

I owned a Restek Consens preamp for a couple of years and was very impressed with it, so when these minty Vaderish lovelies came along on eBay, and with my hifi budget newly replenished ... well, it would have been daft not to really! :D

They are a current model, and available new from Audio Emotion in the UK. https://www.audioemotion.co.uk/trigon-tre-50m-mono-power-amplifier-single-monoblock-782-p.asp

Probably pretty damned good then like that Restek pre I borrowed off you? I won't let you answer that. We'll just see how long it takes for a change to come along.

I must say in silver they look totally fab in the Audio Emotion shot.

[jandl100]

I must admit I do prefer the silver fascia, too!

[jandl100]

Jerry, I would suggest better valves will yield better results. A pair of new old stock Telefunkens really brought the best out of my Monoblocks.


You are not wrong, Oli!

Recently received a NOS Telefunken EC85 and just yesterday swapped it into my Firebottle AIR power amp.

Yoiks! :wowzer:

The Valvo and Siemens valves were good, but the Tele has taken the AIR to a new level of transparency and dynamics. Clarity! - not everyone wants it, but it does the biz for me. :)
Synergy in spades.

Thanks for the reccie, Oli. :thumbsup:

[Bigman80]

You are not wrong, Oli!

Recently received a NOS Telefunken EC85 and just yesterday swapped it into my Firebottle AIR power amp.

Yoiks! :wowzer:

The Valvo and Siemens valves were good, but the Tele has taken the AIR to a new level of transparency and dynamics. Clarity! - not everyone wants it, but it does the biz for me. :)
Synergy in spades.

Thanks for the reccie, Oli. [emoji106]You're welcome Jerry,

They really bring the transparency and clarity I'm looking for and yes, WOWZER! is the exact reaction I have when I put them in every bit of kit I get.

Money well spent [emoji6]

[User211]

What's cool is the lesser known Teles can be had for little money and are excellent. I got some E280F gold pins years ago and the price seems to still be very reasonable. As for ECC82/ECC83 and S variants forget them and go NOS Tesla

[jandl100]

Just arrived and settling in.

https://i.imgur.com/eLFjmVv.jpg

A Schiit Saga passive/valve pre-amp.
It came with an OTK 6SN7 valve, which I know I like. I have a couple of others around to try at some point; JAN-Philips and Reflektor.
The valve-hybrid and passive outputs are usefully a little different sounding at first blush. The valve output being more immersive, the pure passive more exact and precise.

The User Manual is amusingly down to earth. file:///C:/Users/Pc%20world/Downloads/saga_manual_1_1.pdf
For example ...
2 Remote Light.
This extremely bright light was designed to irritate everyone who carps and moans about the brightness of our LEDs.
Just kidding.
It lights when you use the remote.

:)

[Shovel_Knight]

Looking good!

By the way, OTK is just “quality assurance” in Russian :-)

[jandl100]

By the way, OTK is just “quality assurance” in Russian :-)

:doh: :lol:

Thanks for that!

[jandl100]

OMGosh yes, I just swapped in the Reflektor 6SN7 -- that "OTK" was just cheap stock crap, I suspect.
This is MUCH better! A lot closer to the precision of the passive stage but a lovely (false? ;)) sense of acoustic space. Yum.

[jandl100]

Oh no. :(
The Wife looked at the Saga --- and laughed.
It's the valve poking out the top of the otherwise normal box.
I must admit I find that sort of thing stupid looking, too.

And I haven't even told her the name of the company that makes it yet. :eyebrows:

[walpurgis]

And I haven't even told her the name of the company that makes it yet. :eyebrows:

Shit!! :eek:

[User211]

Get some more shit - the Modi Multibit DAC jobbie Tom lent me is pretty nice.

Do so and no one can say you aren't full of Schitt. An admirable accolade.

[jandl100]

Lots of people say I'm full of shit already. :lol:

[hornucopia]

Lots of people say I'm full of shit already. :lol:

Only the envious ones-or the insecure?
Be true to thyself-just cool.


My MHDT dac has a valve sticking out too.At least my (Headphone use) iDecco valve is just visible through a window.

[User211]

Only the envious ones-or the insecure?
Be true to thyself-just cool.


My MHDT dac has a valve sticking out too.At least my (Headphone use) iDecco valve is just visible through a window.You still got that thing Chris?:) You must be found of it.

[User211]

Lots of people say I'm full of shit already. [emoji38]Anyone who posts on public forums has lovers and haters. Me? I love your exploratory anti-establishment approach.

Fuck the naysayers.

I really do think some cheap gear has merits. But then you do dab in quite pricey stuff now and then. It isn't as if you aren't wise. You most definitely are.

Your speakers are tolerant, though. Whereas mine will spit out anything vaguely compromised.

[walpurgis]

Anyone who posts on public forums has lovers and haters.

Yes. And anybody who gives a toss about negativity is maybe too sensitive for forum involvement.

[hornucopia]

You still got that thing Chris?:) You must be found of it.
I've always had 'that thing'?







Oh, the MHDT....no, it's now a Havana, much upgraded by the Lord-bested a £3K dac-apparently. Happy to be away from upgraditis.

[jandl100]

Your speakers are tolerant, though. Whereas mine will spit out anything vaguely compromised.

Aye, true enough.
Yours are undoubtedly higher rez, but too warts and all for me, and too picky about amplification. I wouldn't swap.
Amp matching is easy with mine - anything 10wpc or above is just fine for me. Even a decent 8wpc Mini-T will do it for most of my music choices.
You can play pretty much any music on the MBLs and they will sound at least good, often downright excellent.
Coming up for 8 years now, with the Mibbles, I think. :eek: And I am still completely happy with them.

[User211]

Aye, true enough.
Yours are undoubtedly higher rez, but too warts and all for me, and too picky about amplification. I wouldn't swap.
Amp matching is easy with mine - anything 10wpc or above is just fine for me. Even a decent 8wpc Mini-T will do it for most of my music choices.
You can play pretty much any music on the MBLs and they will sound at least good, often downright excellent.
Coming up for 8 years now, with the Mibbles, I think. :eek: And I am still completely happy with them.

I pulled the mid range back quite a bit since you last heard them with a crossover mod I came up with. They are now easier but the rez thing will never go away. They are just extremely high rez, no matter where I set the frequency response.

The MBLs are good but they are just too ugly to contemplate ownership. Made by Davros, I reckon.

[hornucopia]

Just found the Havana dac seller's comment (I forget who it was!)

"This very unit convinced me to sell my Esoteric X-03se SACD/CD player. After the upgrades were installed the Havana thrashed the X-03 almost everywhere, with a noticeably more colourful mid and gorgeous top end. The one area that the '03 bettered it was in the bass depth and speed - but not by much (and we're talking about one of the best cd players in it's price range at £6000 here!)

This unique DAC was very extensively upgraded last year by our very own Earl of Sodbury at Wychwood Audionics - with higher spec (lower distortion) DAC chips, Mundorf Supreme caps, power supply upgrades, higher value caps and resistors throughout. I have also fitted a very rare 1950s JW Western Electric 2C51 valve - these alone fetch £40-50 on E-Bay. The valve sounds far nicer than the GE 5670 supplied by MHDT.

The standard Havana is already a highly-reviewed unit - the upgrades have brought superior clarity/insight, superb tonal colour. more detail and noticeably deeper/controlled bass. In fact i've never heard any NOS DAC that does bass like the Havana."

Like Jerry, I've had my speakers for 10 years now. Ocellia Calliope .21 Grandis Signatures, for those who don't know.Lovely organic sound.

[jandl100]

The MBLs are good but they are just too ugly to contemplate ownership. Made by Davros, I reckon.

I know what you mean.
Looks-wise your Aps are Nicki Minaj to my MBLs' Susan Boyle. :D

https://www.gossipcop.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Nicki-Minaj-Serena-Williams-Wedding-570x395.jpg
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f9/Susan_Boyle_Nov_2009.jpg/220px-Susan_Boyle_Nov_2009.jpg

[User211]

I'm not sure Susan doesn't look a bit better, and Niki had better be careful with that razor blade or she'll burst the bags.

Anyway look wot I got.

https://uggeog.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mjTpmKwUjG0fKUblTXFYdAj3Oa_f-n8COsqNDK-VcNhR__O3bS-WikOSXaars8NBra4XwelgUDuAgvIqeDNzJLb7pbZzAvxFp1Xy9 tCdkzhSUKRkkUdA1EeoLuz6gSoObI1mPnTiBSVm6-aWytygMmKGGIMycT2kXRW_1xYwzJqeIbDsg5couynebxd9QJLk q2VSJoIvchrnx387wy98_gw?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

https://twgeog.ch.files.1drv.com/y4m6UnPv6C5nH3-wav36AFOuUsD5Ml-vrJjv9ybUtd4OxVLwkX43Aa3OL2LPGakSHzPBs7orwj1NGm8fC kCaReo8D0qr9kNW8BE0fca8gyFw96MIDDV12PafdNlmqNmj-a7IKTWzQvRY3Wo_qNBncYosZv8vPZTMY8Zqn39MHT-nmVSXR75kToqfVYK76iP7s4dacXRJyyTHn9_x8xOhiHtBQ?wid th=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

[jandl100]

So, waddya reckon?

What's the verdict against the might of the Lampi? And the Schiit?

I liked it, for what it did well.

It looks lost against the rolling vastness of the Lampizator! :lol:

I should have a new DAC turning up next week.

[User211]

So, waddya reckon?

What's the verdict against the might of the Lampi? And the Schiit?

I liked it, for what it did well.

It looks lost against the rolling vastness of the Lampizator! [emoji38]The Schitt and Lampi both have a pretty similar tonal balance as in frequency response. This definitely appears to have a recessed upper mid / treble. I reckon I could measure that if I took an FR plot.

The output is low but I guess that is to preserve battery life. I have to use a lot of preamp gain compared to either of the other two.

It is very, very easy to listen to. The sound just floats out of it in a very likeable, amicable way. Nothing offends. It really does change the nature of the sound of my system in a very pronounced way. I could see people liking it better than the other two options if you like a more relaxing less in your face, dynamic sound.

But if you want some excitement and bombardment with masses of resolution, the Lampi kills it with any triode you care to load into it.

It is actually a better 2nd DAC option in my system than the Schiit because of the huge contrast in sound between it and the Lampi.

You could very definitely accuse it of being a bit boring rather than attention grabbing, and I found my mind drifting away from the music on more than one occasion. But it you want to chill I'd take the Frenchie every single time.

I like it massively for £89. All the above is based on 2 hours with it. But I'm not expecting any surprises.

I ordered the Xiang during Chinese New Year and unless I pay 30 dollars for speedy shipping it won't get here for another 30-40 days. Some lovely little Sylvania 5670 gold pins have arrived that look to be of superb quality. The Western Electrics are still to come.

[jandl100]

I agree - dark sounding. And yes, I bet it's measurable.
But I found it very "solid" with tactile, focused imaging and not boring at all, very enjoyable in fact. Certainly far from the most detailed and dynamic DAC I have heard, though.
In some ways it's a Rega DAC done right. I much preferred it to the Rega, even though it was more extreme in its Rega-ness.
It needs to be partnered sympathetically or the treble rolloff can make it sound dull and uninteresting to my ears.

The XiangSheng is much more of an all rounder, imo.

[User211]

The word solid I can't relate to.

What is a bit disappointing is it arrived with no information, not even a sheet of A4. Nothing about how to recharge it or even a web link. And his website is dire.

I probably have something that will recharge it in the house. Will have a rumage today.

If your system lacks sparkle and is relatively laid back I wouldn't go here. If your system lacks gain (passive user maybe) it'd be a risk too. I am literally using a lot more gain than with the Schitt, which is appreciably lower output than the Lampi.

That said, it is nice and it does deserve the eBay feedback it gets for this money.

[brian2957]

Replace the batteries with two similar rechargeable batteries ( I used Uniross ) and have a listen then Justin .

[User211]

Replace the batteries with two similar rechargeable batteries ( I used Uniross ) and have a listen then Justin .What happens Brian? Gimme a clue.

[jandl100]

What happens Brian? Gimme a clue.

Meltdown - and blows your Apogees up. :eek:

[brian2957]

What happens Brian? Gimme a clue.
More dynamics and detail . Make sure the new batteries are well charged , then have a listen .

[brian2957]

Meltdown - and blows your Apogees up. :eek:

I think I would have to move further away if that happened :lol:

[User211]

I'm going to power it with the world's only net power gain fusion reactor I designed and built yesterday. That should sort it;)

[User211]

I think I would have to move further away if that happened :lol:

I'd still track you down:D

[jandl100]

Justin, yer inbox is full. ;)

[jandl100]

Ancient bitstream DAC.
They don't make 'em like this anymore.

https://i.imgur.com/9hH1XYT.jpg ..

With the recommended John Wright upgrades; power supply mods, black gate capacitors and IEC socket.

[User211]

Initial impressions?

[jandl100]

Initial impressions?

There is more to great sounding digital than the latest gee-whiz technotrick gadgetry.
It sounds great. Another step or 3 up the never-ending upgrade staircase. Really pleased.

[jandl100]

The system needed a little fiddlin' with to get it to play music streaming through my new Meitner DAC. Sorted this morning now that postie is operating again.

Really enjoying my new DAC with streaming - orchestral is the best I have heard by a mile. So much texture and density and definition all the way across the stereo stage, just amazing. I didn't realise this stuff was even on the recordings. I think the modern companies have lost their way with all their high tech digital wizardry - this old fashioned bitstream DAC knocks 'em for 6, imho.

[Macca]

I see the mods involve 'enhancing the power supplies at every opportunity'. I reckon that's your answer as to why it sounds a cut above.

[User211]

The system needed a little fiddlin' with to get it to play music streaming through my new Meitner DAC. Sorted this morning now that postie is operating again.

Really enjoying my new DAC with streaming - orchestral is the best I have heard by a mile. So much texture and density and definition all the way across the stereo stage, just amazing. I didn't realise this stuff was even on the recordings. I think the modern companies have lost their way with all their high tech digital wizardry - this old fashioned bitstream DAC knocks 'em for 6, imho.Nah I reckon not. I reckon there's plenty of contemporary expensive efforts out there that will knock it for six.

Gotta lay down some real $$$ though.

Just being realistic.

Meitner stuff I have heard has been really good, though. Did he really design the entire thing?

[jandl100]

Well, there's a virtually unending supply of DACs out there these days.
Over the last little while I've tried at least 4 modern DACs in the £1-3k range (Chord Hugo2, Auralic Vega, Cambridge 851D and a bit longer a go a NAD M51) and none have impressed in the way that the old-tech Meitner has.

Interestingly the seller of the Meitner messaged me this -- "you could get it upgraded further to the very latest mods done by John wright 2016 version, but will cost you over 900 US dollars plus import tax. I would say its worth it and thats what I have at present."

Hmm, and probably 2-3 months away.
I don't think I'll be doing that.
It is kind of tempting, though.

[jandl100]

--- I have to say, though, that I've enjoyed some cheaper DACs more than their multi-£k brethren - the XiangSheng DAC-01A, SPS DAC3 and recently the DAC in an Audiolab 8200CD. :scratch:

I guess I'm just cheap to please. :D
-- apart from speakers. :eyebrows:

Like with amps (mentioned elsewhere), with DACs I don't at all hear the expected relationship between cost and sound quality. It's more of a scatter diagram than a 1 to 1 relationship.
Hmm, you can include cables in that viewpoint as well.

[lordmortlock]

Have you got a Meitner as well J? Or are you meaning the museatex?

[jandl100]

Just the Museatex - I meant it's a DAC designed by Ed Meitner. I guess they are two distinct brands.

[jandl100]

-- the Museatex speakers look interesting

http://www.museatex.com/panels.jpg

http://www.museatex.com/planar1.htm

Specifications
Melior One
Frequency Response: 45 Hz - 20 KHz (+/- 3dB)
Sensitivity: 86 dB (2.83 V at 1 meter)
Nominal Impedance: 4 ohms resistive
Maximum Amplifier Power: 200 Watts/channel
Minimum Amplifier Power: 4 watts/channel
Type of Speaker: Point Source Planar
Frame: MDF, Mass Loadable
Finish: Lacquer Black
Dimensions: 45"; 3", 22"
Weight: 45 lb.

[User211]

So is it a 100% Meitner design or not? Or dunno? EDIT: Jsut read above. I believe it should be very good then, Jerry:)

I noticed some new Xiangs on eBay today I have not seen before. Have a look-see.

Mine has gone from HK to Lantau Island to ...

https://youtu.be/KrbPlr4Wskc

FedEx shipping madness for you.

[jandl100]

So is it a 100% Meitner design or not? Or dunno? EDIT: Jsut read above. I believe it should be very good then, Jerry:)
.

Yes, I'm pretty sure all of the Meitner and Museatex products were Ed Meitner designs.
Museatex might have come first. Then Meitner, then EMM Labs.

Interesting article here about Museatex and the Melior DAC in particular - http://www.soundbsessive.com/museatex-bitstream-dac/

Brief thread here with some scanned adverts from the time http://www.whatsbestforum.com/showthread.php?834-Museatex-it-was-a-heck-of-a-ride

[User211]

Yes, I'm pretty sure all of the Meitner and Museatex products were Ed Meitner designs.
Museatex might have come first. Then Meitner, then EMM Labs.

Interesting article here about Museatex and the Melior DAC in particular - http://www.soundbsessive.com/museatex-bitstream-dac/

Brief thread here with some scanned adverts from the time http://www.whatsbestforum.com/showthread.php?834-Museatex-it-was-a-heck-of-a-rideWhen I was running ML Ascent/Descent a chap brought his EMM Labs SACD playyer round. Now that was great disc spinner. The best solid state digital I have ever heard (in a system I have owned) to this day I think. Crazy expensive. Knockout good.

AoSer Cyclopse has a Meitner DAC I've heard. He should visit you so you can do compares, just like audiophile nerdy types like us do:)

[jandl100]

Lash-up as of this morning.

https://i.imgur.com/5f8pgBt.jpg

Clockwise, from top left ...
Schiit Saga pre
Museatex Melior DAC
LA Audio A30 el84 integrated (not hooked up)
Trigon TRE50 monoblocks
Arcam DV29 DVDP & CDT
Behringer SRC2496 (downsampler and headphone amp)

[brian2957]

Looking good Jerry . You have a very nice collection of gear there :)

[User211]

Looking good Jerry . You have a very nice collection of gear there :)

I like the LA Porno with its gangsta gold bling.

[montesquieu]

-- the Museatex speakers look interesting

http://www.museatex.com/panels.jpg

http://www.museatex.com/planar1.htm

Specifications
Melior One
Frequency Response: 45 Hz - 20 KHz (+/- 3dB)
Sensitivity: 86 dB (2.83 V at 1 meter)
Nominal Impedance: 4 ohms resistive
Maximum Amplifier Power: 200 Watts/channel
Minimum Amplifier Power: 4 watts/channel
Type of Speaker: Point Source Planar
Frame: MDF, Mass Loadable
Finish: Lacquer Black
Dimensions: 45"; 3", 22"
Weight: 45 lb.

One found buried on the moon, the other one of the moons Saturn I presume ...


https://thumbs.gfycat.com/PastDismalKookaburra-size_restricted.gif

[jandl100]

I like the LA Porno with its gangsta gold bling.

Yeah, it's great.
Marco is jealous - it's a perfect match for his Merc. :lol:

[User211]

Arrived yesterday smokin' hot from HK. For some reason the Bluetooth streamer says "Litter Singer" on it.

https://hhitoq.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mz99wuMnU6-bEGkjf0Z_HGgPhzeCunJNDouNOJ_l8v2l4l9VxgHLhNXOUTbbK FvUFZ9DKX9vnMMD9_XgK1e5Hmf9sTdJqa5xGBUkC_l4Wng5Pq6 n-8B_WQreoNP8UJJrc60FWshc8OvEonRZRHsz93wS75jHNaXWeBm Ntjcyfa9d4axm9j4lK9CU4ENrcMWqFzxsCDJwxeJTnXCekkFFM HA?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

[jandl100]

So ..... tried it yet? - waddya think?

[brian2957]

What is it Justin ( for the hard of thinking , like me :D )

[jandl100]

Argh.
Gar.
Buggery. :steam:

A plug was a bit loose this morning so I pushed it in - KLUNK - everything turned off, must have tripped a safety doo-hickey.
Everything powered up OK -- but the Behringer no longer locks on to any digital input. :(
I need that to downsample my 96KHz streaming to the 48KHz that the vintage Melior DAC tops out at.
Ordered a pro re-sampler on eBay, should be here next week.

In the meantime, a revised lash-up ....

https://i.imgur.com/EIOTKP0.jpg

The return of the Audiolab 8200CD that pre-Melior I had been using as my main system DAC.
Actually, it's very good. It weirdly just kind of hits the spot for me, very listenable. Vastly better imo than an MDAC, which I can't bear to listen to in my main system (strangely it's OK in my lesser 2nd system).
Not as good as the Melior, though.
Drat.

[User211]

So ..... tried it yet? - waddya think?

For the money I think it is outstanding so far. I plugged it in with the stock valves in it, thinking "bound to be shit" but no, it isn't, at least not on this unit. The solid state output might be a tinsy bit cleaner, but it loses the spatiality the valve output has at very little cost, really.

To be flat out honest about it, for my preferences, it poo poos the Frenchie by a mile. The output level is also super healthy about the same as the Lampi. The battery Frenchie's output is definitely too low, I think, and that hampers it.

I think I need to get this DAC to Tom at some stage to see what he thinks. I think it poo poos the Schitt Modi, too.

Needs more playing with and I wonder what effect the Western Electric and Sylvania Gold Brand valves will have on it.

Let me figure it out more over the coming days as it is new and it is time that really sorts opinions out with these things. About a week, really, to really get a solid idea.

[jandl100]

Excellent - I'm not surprised - I kept it as my main DAC for 18 months or so and it saw off well-reviewed competition up to the £2k rrp level imho.
I loved it.

[struth]

For the money I think it is outstanding so far. I plugged it in with the stock valves in it, thinking "bound to be shit" but no, it isn't, at least not on this unit. The solid state output might be a tinsy bit cleaner, but it loses the spatiality the valve output has at very little cost, really.

To be flat out honest about it, for my preferences, it poo poos the Frenchie by a mile. The output level is also super healthy about the same as the Lampi. The battery Frenchie's output is definitely too low, I think, and that hampers it.

I think I need to get this DAC to Tom at some stage to see what he thinks. I think it poo poos the Schitt Modi, too.

Needs more playing with and I wonder what effect the Western Electric and Sylvania Gold Brand valves will have on it.

Let me figure it out more over the coming days as it is new and it is time that really sorts opinions out with these things. About a week, really, to really get a solid idea.

Is that the Chinese dac Justin

[jandl100]

Yes, it's a current version of the XiangSheng DAC-01A.

[brian2957]

Which seller did you both use ?

[struth]

still very happy with my one.

[jandl100]

Justin bought his from China.
There's a seller in Belgium for a good price atm https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_odkw=dac&LH_PrefLoc=3&_sop=10&_osacat=14969&_from=R40&_trksid=p2045573.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.Xdac-01a.TRS0&_nkw=dac-01a&_sacat=14969

I've just bought another one - I need a headphone amp now that the Behringer has died anyway - I sold my first a while back.

[brian2957]

Thanks Jerry , think I'll treat myself :)

Just ordered one too :)

[wee tee cee]

Thats a hellava lot of functionality for not much moola....

Look forward to Brians thoughts on the hpa and dac section.

I loaned Brian my seg and was using my emergency frenchie in my av set up-couldnt get the seg back quick enough!!!

[User211]

I bought this one cos it came with a Bluetooth receiver: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/XiangSheng-DAC-01A-DAC-Headphone-Amplifier-XMOS-U8-USB-Bluetooth-Receiver-Silver/172436267251?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

If you want it quickly you can pay $30 for FedEx and that was quite quick TBH.

There's also DAC-02A which is no good for nobheads. not sure what the difference is apart from that but I haven't analysed it, so not surprising. And DAC-03A which has ELNA caps (good sounding caps from experience) and 192K. But Firebottle doesn't rate the valve output in that one, if I have him right.

[User211]

I have 1 spare WE and 1 Sylvania Gold Brand valves for the Xiang going spare but the snag is they aren't cheap. PM me if interested. I'd need to check but I think they came to around £35 each after import taxes etc.

Or just wait til I tell you which is best:)

https://ttywow.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mLyBcOuMYsJaJDcvaw0GkGyM3DGM0Qo8SiFgHTT2Ezaa55p0 pyo9KKcoSYx_0OISkYmOjzcZfQE0LtriRaRZiRHm2SJLrQr6XL lj5olNZ6A9ZvPTJ7wE-8o64guFvyPXoYAqyqZXOcN-u9sLrQp4LbylI1HpQE36--x2S6QtabEflAY57W5SVnopvsteO-puenoJ-3WFlz2rU6oQ2BRAzFQ?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

[struth]

I have 1 spare WE and 1 Sylvania Gold Brand valves for the Xiang going spare but the snag is they aren't cheap. PM me if interested. I'd need to check but I think they came to around £35 each after import taxes etc.

Or just wait til I tell you which is best:)

https://ttywow.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mLyBcOuMYsJaJDcvaw0GkGyM3DGM0Qo8SiFgHTT2Ezaa55p0 pyo9KKcoSYx_0OISkYmOjzcZfQE0LtriRaRZiRHm2SJLrQr6XL lj5olNZ6A9ZvPTJ7wE-8o64guFvyPXoYAqyqZXOcN-u9sLrQp4LbylI1HpQE36--x2S6QtabEflAY57W5SVnopvsteO-puenoJ-3WFlz2rU6oQ2BRAzFQ?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

Might be interested in valve if its a straight swap into dac. Need a week or two to save up lol

[jandl100]

5670 valves (for the DAC-01A)
- I have RCA, Raytheon, Tesla
I've a feeling I sold my unit with my favoured valve in it - I shall have to check back in this thread to see if I can identify what it was! :scratch:

In fact I have 2 Raytheon - must have come as a pair.
So if you want to try one, Grant, I can pop it in the post. :)

Mind you, in my system I preferred the solid state output.
-- so you can have a play with them all if you want, Grant.

[struth]

5670 valves (for the DAC-01A)
- I have RCA, Raytheon, Tesla
I've a feeling I sold my unit with my favoured valve in it - I shall have to check back in this thread to see if I can identify what it was! :scratch:

In fact I have 2 Raytheon - must have come as a pair.
So if you want to try one, Grant, I can pop it in the post. :)

Mind you, in my system I preferred the solid state output.
-- so you can have a play with them all if you want, Grant.

cheers jerry, if they are plug n play. i use both outputs but be interested to see if it can be bettered.

[jandl100]

cheers jerry, if they are plug n play. i use both outputs but be interested to see if it can be bettered.

Yep, direct replacements, so just plug&play.
I have your address so I'll get them posted,. :)

[struth]

Yep, direct replacements, so just plug&play.
I have your address so I'll get them posted,. :)

cheers mate :)

[jandl100]

5670 valves (for the DAC-01A)
- I have RCA, Raytheon, Tesla
I've a feeling I sold my unit with my favoured valve in it - I shall have to check back in this thread to see if I can identify what it was! :scratch:
.
Damn, no, I can't find any specific reference to tube rolling.
Who the hell did I sell my DAC-01A to anyway? :scratch:

Only reference to the DAC I can find is in this post from my blog.
Back in Jan 2016!
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?1236-New-speakers-and-amps&p=722397#post722397

[User211]

The "Litter Singer" WTF?

Will give it a try and see what the audio quality from phone to DAC is like. TBH I can do it with the Sky box in both my systems but the SQ is shockingly poor. This HAS to be better. Maybe:D

https://f3itoq.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mRhh_wOzLAiLSRUFaSb7hITp5WXWU5xh1MR2Oyme5SwAAfOR fWVZnjGrjg-D7tS3-5A5nY8e4xDPA2Un8ae1r1PDsTb0b9LZQPS8ZH5zk5rjLLdWj6M S_qC2MGbKWFlhkGjoU-CcpWK7ulj7ClujayX2K_2MtkwL3FvdGmj8TV4AzwlYq2Eqh9GT eEiu5E6VRzbEGVJH57cBQ4IFU5Px7sA?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

[struth]

Damn, no, I can't find any specific reference to tube rolling.
Who the hell did I sell my DAC-01A to anyway? :scratch:

Only reference to the DAC I can find is in this post from my blog.
Back in Jan 2016!
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?1236-New-speakers-and-amps&p=722397#post722397

not sure... firebottle?

[User211]

Might be interested in valve if its a straight swap into dac. Need a week or two to save up lol

Looks like Jerry has you covered. I would have thought the Tesla he has will be very good. Me? I just had to own a Western Electric valve. Never had one before.

[jandl100]

I've got Western Electric speaker cables. :ner:

[User211]

I've got Western Electric speaker cables. :ner:

I know. Still using them?

BTW I think they may have meant "Little Singer" but, er, got it wrong:D

[Firebottle]

And DAC-03A which has ELNA caps (good sounding caps from experience) and 192K. But Firebottle doesn't rate the valve output in that one, if I have him right.

No it's the DAC-01A that I have modified, mainly because the valve stage input and output coupling capacitors were polyester.

[Firebottle]

Who the hell did I sell my DAC-01A to anyway? :scratch:

I do believe it was me Jerry.
I've just looked at the original valve and it has 3 horizontal lines on either of a star type of emblem. I assumed it was Chinese.

[struth]

I do believe it was me Jerry.
I've just looked at the original valve and it has 3 horizontal lines on either of a star type of emblem. I assumed it was Chinese.

yay... i was gonna go for it as a back up but didnt have the whereforall

[jandl100]

I do believe it was me Jerry.
I've just looked at the original valve and it has 3 horizontal lines on either of a star type of emblem. I assumed it was Chinese.

Ah, so I sent it to you as per original spec.
Hmm. I shall have to have another rolling adventure!

[User211]

This might be the best one to get if you don't want the Bluetooth: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/XiangSheng-DAC-01-Tube-24Bit-192Khz-USB-Decoders-Headphone-Pre-Amplifier/172692792613?hash=item28354ae525:g:CtAAAOSwJtdaPLP 8

Note it is 192K (irrelevant as far as I am concerned) and reputes to use better parts.

[jandl100]

This might be the best one to get if you don't want the Bluetooth: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/XiangSheng-DAC-01-Tube-24Bit-192Khz-USB-Decoders-Headphone-Pre-Amplifier/172692792613?hash=item28354ae525:g:CtAAAOSwJtdaPLP 8

Note it is 192K (irrelevant as far as I am concerned) and reputes to use better parts.

I just bought this one https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HiFi-XiangSheng-DAC-01A-24Bit-192Khz-DAC-USB-Decoders-Headphone-PreAmplifier-EU/162819402609?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Seems to be the same spec and blurb as the one you linked to.

[User211]

I just bought this one https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HiFi-XiangSheng-DAC-01A-24Bit-192Khz-DAC-USB-Decoders-Headphone-PreAmplifier-EU/162819402609?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Seems to be the same spec and blurb as the one you linked to.

Good price. How in the world can they do it? Let's hope the "better" parts actually sound better.

We need a massive Xiang bake off with all variants present over about 3 days, just to be sure which is best;)

[struth]

Only watch as they are 220v versions

[montesquieu]

Are any of these 240v? Curious.

[struth]

Some are 230v. Might not be an issue I run mine at 230v and not had an issue so far

[User211]

Are any of these 240v? Curious.

Mine says 220-240V but gets fed exactly 230V from mains regen. In house is 246V here.

You can borrow mine when my Lampi comes back. Or for £80 just buy one. Easily worth the punt if it sounds like mine does.

https://gxitoq.ch.files.1drv.com/y4mcDj2lekYmHaiynUnk_RE15EREYRPUEy_FwpqCeGp_1oG0S6 WdfWj-THXH1CgXRYld45rgPqPhP8CjcHJ3pyLr9_voYpre8lFQlh02jr D5Gm7oDOuij0OrezCkU8x9piBQmLbbaSI1KycSFHYvLivY4m1Q UyJ1xPVbOhjYuRcf2ilY7jsJUiD03QE0djJPiX04hjjKv9Zu7e eutdDjqIfrQ?width=5472&height=3080&cropmode=none

[montesquieu]

Worth a punt. Jerry seems to have got the last one at £80 though cheapest I can see now is £106. (Though hardly break the bank at that).

[User211]

Worth a punt. Jerry seems to have got the last one at £80 though cheapest I can see now is £106. (Though hardly break the bank at that).

Yeah when I looked I guarantee you there were zero at £80. Far less choice too now there's loads to choose from. £80 is just loon ball stupidly good.

[montesquieu]

Yeah when I looked I guarantee you there were zero at £80. Far less choice too now there's loads to choose from. £80 is just loon ball stupidly good.

I checked with the seller though £106 ships from Belgium, no extra charges (well, at the moment anyway).

[mikeyb]

Worth a punt. Jerry seems to have got the last one at £80 though cheapest I can see now is £106. (Though hardly break the bank at that).Maybe they were £80 but was it not around £20 postage on top?

[jandl100]

Mine was £80 plus £6 postage from Belgium. :D

-- Supposed to arrive next week. I hope it turns up OK. :popcorn:

[mikeyb]

Mine was £80 plus £6 postage from Belgium. :D

-- Supposed to arrive next week. I hope it turns up OK. :popcorn:[emoji4]

[User211]

Mine was £80 plus £6 postage from Belgium. :D

-- Supposed to arrive next week. I hope it turns up OK. :popcorn:

Let me know. I might start running stacked Xiangs at these prices, just to see how they vary between models...:eyebrows:;)

[brian2957]

Any more impressions to share Justin ?

[User211]

Any more impressions to share Justin ?No been very busy. Good session lined up for tomorrow night though.

Dropped Lampizator off today for upgrades. That's going to be really interesting when it comes back.

So Xiang exclusively for a while.

[brian2957]

Nice one . I look forward to your take on this DAC and any tips you may have for tube rolling .

[User211]

Interestingly although the ad for mine said it only went up to 96KHz, the Chinese manual that came with it says it is actually the 192KHz version seen on some of the other ebay ads.

[User211]

Here we go Brian.

First to note is that the board revision of my DAC is NOT the same as Alan/Jerry's DAC-01A. I know this by looking at the picture in Alan's mod thread (http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?56758-Xiang-Sheng-valve-output-modifications&highlight=xiang+sheng). Alan's mods aside, the layout is definitely different.

The board rev on mine is under the valve, I think it said 2016-09 on it from memory after swapping in the Western Electric valve last night.

The WE valve (pictured earlier in the thread) is cleaner sounding than the stock 6N3. The most prevailing thoughts I had using it for about 4-5 hours last night is here is a valve that knows where everything is. Its placement of stereo images is fabulous, with excellent layering in the z-plane and very clear separation of individual instruments. It is a precise sounding valve if ever there was one. It is unquestionably impressive. I noted the output of the DAC using this valve appeared to be lower than the stock item. But not by a massive amount.

By comparison the stock 6N3 is perceptibly more distorted and fleshed out, but that distortion is quite euphonic in nature. But it is still damned enjoyable. It is quite different to the WE i.e. the sonic signature as whole is notably "not the same".

I'll move onto the Sylvania Gold Brand in due course.

Be careful rolling the valve the base is fragile at best.

[brian2957]

Thanks Justin , looks like I'm going to have a bit of fun with this DAC . I don't have any valves of this type so I'm hoping to narrow down my options before I start messing around with valves . This is much appreciated :)

[User211]

If your Chinese is good you can buy one here (https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a312a.7700824.w4004-15812164887.14.3c6a3d0aWgETQB&id=523149830984)for £48.91 (429 Yuan).

Insane.

[paulf-2007]

If your Chinese is good you can buy one here (https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a312a.7700824.w4004-15812164887.14.3c6a3d0aWgETQB&id=523149830984)for £48.91 (429 Yuan).

Insane.i may get one this summer when I visit my daughter in Beijing.

[paulf-2007]

Which model has Bluetooth

[User211]

Post #2424. Should have raised a separate thread for this DAC. Easily worth some attention.

All credit to Jerry for this one, though. I recommend anyone with an expensive DAC buys this for a reality check.:eyebrows:;) I am not saying you will necessarily prefer it, but I think it provides some serious food for thought and will be a bit of fun in the process. Definitely swap in some high quality valves in your assessment.

[paulf-2007]

Post #2424. Should have raised a separate thread for this DAC. Easily worth some attention.

All credit to Jerry for this one, though. I recommend anyone with an expensive DAC buys this for a reality check.:eyebrows:;)
Thanks Justin, I'm about to look for a Bluetooth receiver as I have a Dac in my main set up I've had for nearly ten tears and sounds great. Also gave a very good Dac in the Najda

[brian2957]

Mines arrived today , delivered by the man at UPS . I bought it from the Belgian seller Jerry recommended and received it within 5 days , which is excellent IMO .

I have been listening to the valve output for the last hour or so and initial impressions are very good indeed .

Valve recommendations anyone ? :)

[montesquieu]

If your Chinese is good you can buy one here (https://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a312a.7700824.w4004-15812164887.14.3c6a3d0aWgETQB&id=523149830984)for £48.91 (429 Yuan).

Insane.

Labelled 110v/220v. I'd be really careful with this one. Most definitely Chinese/HK market. Might work when you get it home, but equally might catch fire. Doubt it would meet UK standards.

Personally I never risk taking home Chinese-market equipment, unless it's something that for example uses a charger or wall wart that you can buy one UK-friendly when you get home. False economy.

Just edited the pic out as I've been told by the wife I interpreted it wrong!

[jandl100]

My DAC-01A arrived today from Belgium as well.
It's labeled as 220-240V.

It's sounding very good - pretty much the same as my recollection of my previous model (which only went up to 96KHz iirc, whereas this one is said to be good for 192KHz - not that that matters to me, but it does imply a later model with maybe a modified circuit).
There is a DAC-01A House Sound!

[montesquieu]

My DAC-01A arrived today from Belgium as well.
It's labeled as 220-240V.

It's sounding very good - pretty much the same as my recollection of my previous model (which only went up to 96KHz iirc, whereas this one is said to be good for 192KHz - not that that matters to me, but it does imply a later model with maybe a modified circuit).
There is a DAC-01A House Sound!

Interesting - yes looking at it this model designation relates to the function set, so there must be a sub-model indicator somewhere that determines the different transformer inside.

Regardless, I definitely wouldn't recommend buying one in China for local delivery.

[struth]

Run mine off 230v. Seems to be happy enough

[montesquieu]

Run mine off 230v. Seems to be happy enough


You also run a regenerator at 230v, so even if you are using a non-export 220v model, it's not so far out of spec. Without a regenerator the UK standard (240v +/- 10%) can see voltages as high as 264v, I don't fancy how a 220v transformer would behave in those circumstances. Actually it's more than a bit irresponsible to be implicitly telling people 220v is OK when for most, it isn't safe.

[Macca]

Running it on too high a voltage will also cause it to fail long before it would normally be expected to.

[struth]

if they are 220 models, and lets face it they could all be, irrelevent of what the label says, then stepping down your voltage would be wise. if you dont leave it on unattended it is less of a risk .. ive ran 220v amp on 240 and it was ok, but i may have been lucky. my other one had a bucker.. much of the mains here is usually now no more than 243, and usually 237. these days. dont know if they have changed anything

[montesquieu]

if they are 220 models, and lets face it they could all be, irrelevent of what the label says, then stepping down your voltage would be wise. if you dont leave it on unattended it is less of a risk .. ive ran 220v amp on 240 and it was ok, but i may have been lucky. my other one had a bucker.. much of the mains here is usually now no more than 243, and usually 237. these days. dont know if they have changed anything

There appear to be some of these labelled 110-220v, and others 220v-240. It would certainly be interesting to see if there are any material differences between the two models or if they are just labelled differently.
differently.

[User211]

Despite what I said earlier, my board review is as pictured below.

Note mains seems to be wired directly into a 110V transformer. How does that work?

Mobile pic soz.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/bd744a377ff3dc17ae273386884c10cf.jpg

[Ali Tait]

It's two 110v windings. Depending on how you wire it, it can do either 110v or 220v.

[tubehunter]

Just wire in series 110v + 110v = 220v

As all board voltages appear to be regulated there is no need for a step down device.

It's really only needed when you have ac heaters etc...

Happy Days

[brian2957]

Can these be used without a 230V regenerator unit , at normal UK voltages ?

[jandl100]

Just wire in series 110v + 110v = 220v

As all board voltages appear to be regulated there is no need for a step down device.

It's really only needed when you have ac heaters etc...

Happy Days

Thanks Duncan.

Happy days.

[User211]

Can these be used without a 230V regenerator unit , at normal UK voltages ?

Yes.

[montesquieu]

Just wire in series 110v + 110v = 220v

As all board voltages appear to be regulated there is no need for a step down device.

It's really only needed when you have ac heaters etc...

Happy Days

Hi Duncan, for the technically challenged, can you elaborate?

Are you saying it doesn't matter that the mains transformer is 220v, because the secondaries are regulated? How does that work?

[User211]

Are you saying it doesn't matter that the mains transformer is 220v, because the secondaries are regulated? How does that work?

I think he is, didn't read what he said earlier and deleted a post as a consequence. Let's see...

[brian2957]

Yes.

Happy days indeed . I was beginning to think I needed to spend hundreds on a regen .

[jandl100]

Curiously, the only component that has ever gone *BANG* on me of its own accord was a Power Inspired AG1500 regenerator. :eek:
Go figure. :D

[montesquieu]

Curiously, the only component that has ever gone BANG on me of its own accord was a Power Inspired AG1500 regenerator. :eek:
Go figure. :D

Obviously can't take the pressure in your gaff of all the chopping and changing ...

[tubehunter]

For example a L7806CV Linear Voltage Regulator

This device will accept a voltage range of 11v to 35v input for a 6v 1.5A output.

Problem is, as the input voltage rises the device will get warmer and will need a heat sink.
Also the rectifier diodes require 0.6v.

So ideally the input needs to be about 3 or 4 volts higher than the required output voltage.

The secondary windings on the pictured transformer show voltages 2x15v, 8v, 7v and another I can't make out.

So adding 10% gives 2x16.5v, 8.8v and 7.7v, I'm pretty sure the voltage regs' can handle that.

Happy Days

[User211]

Curiously, the only component that has ever gone *BANG* on me of its own accord was a Power Inspired AG1500 regenerator. :eek:
Go figure. :D

Mine went bats last week. Then I realised I was overloading it. It is now fine.

I'm tempted to try the DAC-05 BTW at £200 odd. If that is better by 10% it'd easily be worth it.

[montesquieu]

For example a L7806CV Linear Voltage Regulator

This device will accept a voltage range of 11v to 35v input for a 6v 1.5A output.

Problem is, as the input voltage rises the device will get warmer and will need a heat sink.
Also the rectifier diodes require 0.6v.

So ideally the input needs to be about 3 or 4 volts higher than the required output voltage.

The secondary windings on the pictured transformer show voltages 2x15v, 8v, 7v and another I can't make out.

So adding 10% gives 2x16.5v, 8.8v and 7.7v, I'm pretty sure the voltage regs' can handle that.

Happy Days

Thanks Duncan that's helpful.

And no issues with the mains transformer itself running potentially 20% above specified voltage?

[tubehunter]

It’s closer to 10%

220 + 22 = 242

So not really, no

[brian2957]

Thanks for the clarification Duncan :)

[struth]

Are the valve heaters dc regulated too. If so then it should be fine.

[montesquieu]

It’s closer to 10%

220 + 22 = 242

So not really, no

I made worst case possible voltage (obviously without a regenerator) as 240v + 24 = 264.

[User211]

I made worst case possible voltage (obviously without a regenerator) as 240v + 24 = 264.From Wiki:

"In the UK and Australia the nominal supply voltage is 230V +10%/−6% to accommodate the fact that most supplies are in fact still 240V."

So 253V max if in spec. My regen says mine is 246V.

[User211]

From Wiki:

"In the UK and Australia the nominal supply voltage is 230V +10%/−6% to accommodate the fact that most supplies are in fact still 240V."

So 253V max if in spec. My regen says mine is 246V.Been discussing this with a proper hardware engineer today. Without further definitive information it is actually impossible to say whether a higher voltage 253V input will be OK with certainty without more information.

Personally I wouldn't worry unless the unit gets really hot. There's some appreciable heat sinks where the PS hooks up to the mobo and the unit has adequate vent holes above them.

But what do I or he know.

[jandl100]

I got a pair of Reflektor 6n3 valves today (only need one for the 01A but they were sold in pairs).
Anyone with one of these DACs like to try my spare one?

Grant - did my valves turn up ok?

[struth]

I got a pair of Reflektor 6n3 valves today (only need one for the 01A but they were sold in pairs).
Anyone with one of these DACs like to try my spare one?

Grant - did my valves turn up ok?

lol, was just thinking about those and this post appears... no not yet... was going to ask as well, how do you put the vc into the mix for the pre? your one was like that..

[brian2957]

Can I try one of these valves please Jerry ?

[jandl100]

how do you put the vc into the mix for the pre? your one was like that..

Hmm, I seem to recall there is an internal jumper.
Just looked in the manual I got with my new DAC and it doesn't mention it at all!

Mine came with the vc only set to adjust headphone volume, but that's fine for me with my new shitty Schiit Saga preamp.

[jandl100]

Can I try one of these valves please Jerry ?

OK - I have your addy, I'll send it on. :)

[brian2957]

Thanks Jerry :)