Justin & Jerry's Hifi Blog [Archive] - Page 3

jandl100

26-01-2012, 06:45

Well ... Parcel Force delivered yesterday. A1 service, really, although most couriers will manage next day with no problem - if you buy 48 with PF that's what you get. I'm sure they deliberately delay them to make this so.

Ooooo - pwiddy lights ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7423.jpg

It works fine.

At first twiddle it's much less simple to set than the 7 band Akai. But I guess added complexity is inevitable with additional frequency bands and slider controls rather than coarser rez level setting by button push.

I'll use it for a few days and see if I settle down with it. But I wouldn't be that surprised if I went back to the Akai.

I played several older LPs yesterday - Turnabout, VOX, Supraphon. You'd need a crowbar to part me from an equaliser/tt setup now. :lol:

jandl100

27-01-2012, 08:58

The insanity continues apace ... and escalates! :eek:

After playing a few LPs with the Yammie equaliser I was getting seriously dis-chuffed with having to tweak so many bloody controls for each LP :steam: ... but I didn't want to do without some of the fine control on the Yammie ... so I've now hooked up the Akai and the Yammie equalisers in series. :lol:

OK OK - so it's totally :mental:

But I'm having a ball of fun. :D

... I think what I really want is a kool looking equaliser like the Akai, with lots of graphic level bars dancing along with the music, but with 10 bands instead of 7. :bulb: That should give me the control I want. As luck would have it, I may have spotted one .... :eyebrows:

YNWaN

27-01-2012, 09:11

OK OK - so it's totally :mental:

Yes, it is :doh::mental:

jandl100

27-01-2012, 09:15

Yes Yes ... but you really do need to hear what can be done with an equaliser and a crappily recorded LP with good music residing thereon.
I've got quite a few of those in my collection - most "serious" classical (or jazz, blues etc) collectors will have, I reckon.

It really is a revelation. :)

(Don't be like your chum who heaps sneering scorn on things he has never heard ;))

DSJR

27-01-2012, 09:42

jandl100

27-01-2012, 09:58

Well done Jerry. I think too many of us were brainwashed with the whole Linn-Naim ethos back in the day, BUT, the equaliser should be chosen with much care to minimise insertion losses, hence my suggestion for a Klark Teknik unit as used "everywhere" back in the days of analogue studios...

Yup, thanks Dave. :)

I'm really just playing around at the moment finding out what sort of facilities I want.

Too much fiddling with each LP is irritating and counter-productive when it comes to an enjoyable listening experience, but too little and I can't get sufficient control.

Must admit I am surprised at how small the insertion losses seem.
Even with 2 1980's Jap equalisers in series, many LPs are far more enjoyable than without them, and I am sure that applies to quite a significant % of the LPs in my collection ....

.... for me, the music comes first (in classical music terms, the musical interpretation) and my hifi's sole purpose is to make my choice of music sound as best as I can make it. If that means twiddling with a poorly engineered recording, then by thunder, that's what I'll do! :thumbsup:

I've just been looking at Klark Tekniks gear on the 'Bay ... like this (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Klark-Teknik-Graphic-Equalizer-DN-360-Good-working-order-/220940656106?pt=UK_Musical_Instruments_Outboards_E ffects_MJ&hash=item337116ddea) one for example. We are talking £hundreds, and the beasts are covered in controls. I really don't think I want or need to go there.

jandl100

10-02-2012, 11:07

I got tempted by a swap deal and the excellent MF A5 cdp is no longer with me. :(

But this is now in its place ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7481.jpg

... and I have to say that it is even better than the MF :).

A minty Resolution Audio CD50 with a fairly new mech - the predecessor to the current Opus 21 cdp.

Only had a few hours on it so far, but first impressions are very positive indeed.

Marco

10-02-2012, 11:42

Congrats, Jerry. That's one of the best high-end CDPs ever made - superb machine. Enjoy! :cool:

Marco.

jandl100

10-02-2012, 18:03

Drat.
I suspect you are correct, Marco. This is by far the best CDP I have heard.
Another keeper, I suspect. :(
... what with my MBL speakers, my Krell pre, my Parasound power amp and now the RA CD50 my boxswapping options seem to be closing down. :doh: I guess there is room for improvement on the pre-amp front, but at what cost? - the Krell is darn good and synergises wonderfully with the power amp and speakers.

Ali Tait

10-02-2012, 18:09

Best pre I've heard is Nick's two-box affair. Not cheap though!

jandl100

10-02-2012, 18:13

Wassat then, Ali?

I've had a few pre's here over the last little while and taken the Krell on a visit, and it has seen off all comers so far!

I've always got cables and supports to play with. :) ... in fact, a Mark Grant power lead should be winging its way to me as I type this. :drool:

Ali Tait

10-02-2012, 18:24

It's Nick's own design. I certainly haven't heard as many pres as you Jerry, but this is just head and shoulders above anything else I've heard. Quite often the difference between good preamps is pretty subtle, at least at first, but it was just immediately apparent that this was so much better than anything else. Very very good indeed, and if I had the necessary, I'd have one in a heartbeat!

jandl100

11-02-2012, 08:31

Nick? .... which one is that then? :)

MIR !! - more information required. ;)

Dingdong

11-02-2012, 08:46

That'll be Mr Goram (Lurcher) I think.

vinylspinner

11-02-2012, 09:16

jandl100

11-02-2012, 09:19

:scratch:
Is there a thread or some info about this mystery pre?

I bet it doesn't have remote control, which would make it a :nono: for me!

Dingdong

11-02-2012, 09:22

Get a stick and some gaffer tape.
I know what you mean, though. I tend to turn the volume up and down depending on the track. Couldn't buy owt without remote volume control.

Ali Tait

11-02-2012, 11:22

Hi Ali,

Are you talking about Nick's pre that we heard at the last Eggfest? or has he designed an even better one?

If it is indeed the Eggfest amp all I can say is that I have seen it and listened to it and it is very special.

Nigel

It wasn't at the last one, but the one before I think.

Jerry, yes, it's Lurcher you need to speak to. There was no RM on the first one, but I'm sure Nick could add it if you wanted.

Marco

11-02-2012, 22:34

Drat.
I suspect you are correct, Marco.

Hehehe... It's a bad habit I'm trying to kick! :eyebrows:

This is by far the best CDP I have heard.
Another keeper, I suspect. :(
... what with my MBL speakers, my Krell pre, my Parasound power amp and now the RA CD50 my boxswapping options seem to be closing down. :doh: I guess there is room for improvement on the pre-amp front, but at what cost? - the Krell is darn good and synergises wonderfully with the power amp and speakers.

Maybe you're simply reaching the end of a long journey to finding your nirvana? ;)

Marco.

MartinT

11-02-2012, 22:39

Maybe you're simply reaching the end of a long journey to finding your nirvana? ;)

Yep - those were my thoughts too, Jerry. It's no bad thing.

jandl100

12-02-2012, 10:23

Maybe you're simply reaching the end of a long journey to finding your nirvana? ;)

Marco.

The prospect horrifies me, tbh!

It's not something that I want to achieve. I really enjoy trying out different kit.
Nor do I think it's an achievable goal anyway.
In fact, I'm philosophically opposed to the whole concept of 'audio nirvana'. :D

My musical taste is evolving continuously, as new music comes along, and that places ever-changing demands on the playback system.
I'm afraid I just do not believe in an audio system that plays all music equally well. :nono: I've never heard one and I don't expect I ever will.

Mmmm ... the speakers are here for the long term, sure, but everything else is subject to change.
While I deeply lurv my Parasound A21 power amp, mayhap a pair of JC1 monoblocks will come along? Or maybe something else entirely will tempt me?
I don't feel the Krell KRC-3 is my ultimate pre, either, great though it sounds.

And the tt rig may well have a chance to catch up with the rest of my system, enjoyable though it is at the moment.

And there's always cables ... a Mark Grant power cable arrived yesterday along with a new set of balanced interconnects .... I haven't tried them out yet.

:hmm:

No, I'm afraid the box-swapping will continue, irksome though some folks seem to find it! :eyebrows:

synsei

12-02-2012, 16:24

MartinT

12-02-2012, 17:23

Well, in that case "the journey is better than the arrival". Keep it up and keep us informed :)

jandl100

14-02-2012, 09:26

Well, I've had a few more days and a lot more playing hours now with my new Resolution Audio CD50 cdp. So it's time for a more informed view of the beastie.

Here it is again. :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7481.jpg

It is simply astonishing.

I've had a few (well, OK, a lot!) of CDPs and DACs pass thru my system over the years. Of the one's I have enjoyed, some have been cheap & cheerful but surprisingly fine, others much more expensive and bloody marvellous. Some owned, some loaned, some just passing thru with a visitor to Jerry Towers.
But after a week or so with this wee beastie, I can confidently say that I have NEVER heard such good CD playback.

I'm having trouble getting my head round quite how good this player is, and in what ways it excels.
I think the ability on which everything else builds is in the way it separates out everything that's going on in the music, there's an uncanny clarity and lack of confusion in the imaging. Yes, I've had 'great imaging' before, and my speakers are good at presenting this, but the RA CD50 is simply 3 steps up on anything else I have heard.
When this sort of clarity is achieved the insight into the music is hugely enhanced.

Tonally it's good; bass is deep and very taut, treble is extended and pure, the mids nice and open.

Oh yes ... the dynamics. How could I forget the dynamics? That's the next best thing after the amazingly lucid imaging. They are just so free and unconstrained. The system really just lets go of the music with the CD50 at the front.

I just find it hard to believe how good this sounds - it amazes me with every disc I put on.

Damn, I really am running out of things to box-swap. :(

synsei

14-02-2012, 09:42

I don't know whether to congratulate you on such a wonderful find, or commiserate with you because you're running out of swap options Jerry :eyebrows: :D

MartinT

14-02-2012, 10:11

Nice thoughts, Jerry. You make me really want to hear it, especially as I would love to compare it against my Ayre player.

jandl100

15-02-2012, 16:18

Barry

15-02-2012, 16:42

Well, this is quite interesting ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7496.jpg

A Decca London Gold.

I thought it was about time I tried one. :D

Having viewed the fora postings on this I find that some feel the Pioneer PL71 is a good match (hi, Richard!), others (of course) differ (hi, Dave!).

I started off at the Decca-recommended 1.5g but soon wandered up the scale ... 1.8g so far, and quite tempted to go higher.

Any thoughts / recommendations on setup etc? :)

I have a return option on this, and so far the openness and speed are beguiling, but it seems rather forward and excitable on more complex material. Not sure I can live with it as it is now.

Ah - Someone else being seduced by the siren call of a Decca cartridge!

Deccas of that vintage were cantankerous beasts, suffering from appalling workmanship, quality control and sample variability.

However with some TLC they can be tamed and allowed to reveal their unique strengths that put them in a class of their own; approached by no other cartridge that I know of.

First I wouldn't go much beyond 2.0g in tracking weight.

I believe most Deccas benefit from some form of damping. So I would try pushing some Blutak in between the top of the cartridge and the plastic bracket.

You might like to experiment with the loading. Some find reducing the loading to 33 kOhm helps. With my sample, depending on the preamp used, I found adding a considerable capacitance (1000pF) was necessary to tame that over lively top end.

Deccas need the most fastidious of care take with installation and setup: VTA, azimuth and tracking force.

Please persevere with the Decca Jerry. For years mine lay unused because for all their strengths, I just could not put up with the 'edge of your seat' anxiety waiting for the cartridge to 'fall over' and misbehave at any time! Encouraged by Dave (DSJR), I dug them out and went to some trouble to set them up. I'm so glad I did - now I have a Decca permanently set up on one of my decks.

I wouldn't say it's the most neutral of cartridges, but the sense of presence, air, its speed and attack are astounding. I've never had so much fun with any other cartridge!

Regards

jandl100

15-02-2012, 16:53

jandl100

15-02-2012, 17:07

First I wouldn't go much beyond 2.0g in tracking weight.

I tried 2.5g and the cart bottomed out.
2g seems to track best! :thumbsup:

I believe most Deccas benefit from some form of damping. So I would try pushing some Blutak in between the top of the cartridge and the plastic bracket.

OK - I'll try that later.

You might like to experiment with the loading. Some find reducing the loading to 33 kOhm helps. With my sample, depending on the preamp used, I found adding a considerable capacitance (1000pF) was necessary to tame that over lively top end.

I've a Trichord Dino so my options are restricted .. it does either 100pF or 1.1nF (for the MC settings) and loading is 47Kohms or 1Kohm or less.

Barry

15-02-2012, 17:09

Thanks Barry!

I'm a bit concerned about the condition - but it may just be the Decca Way!

There's very little clearance between tha bottom of the cart and the LP. Looking at the cart edge-on all that can be seen poking out is the actual diamond itself - is that the way it should be?

See if you can see what I mean from this photo - a lot less tham 1mm between cart bottom and LP ...
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7497.jpg

Yes that is quite normal. In fact the clearence is so small (about 0.5mm) that you might have trouble with 'sleeping policeman' shaped warps: the cartridge might ground, or bottom out.

You could try slightly raising the back of the arm, but be careful this does not affect the tonal balance. In not having any cantilever to speak of, all adjustments have a far greater effect than they would with a conventional cantilevered cartridge.

Your records need to be flat and scrupulously clean - even then you will probably have to clean the stylus after each play, if not each side!

I notice you have only used one of the return connections. I found I had to connect the two returns together so as to not troubled by hum.

Regards

DSJR

15-02-2012, 17:15

That one needs some internal fettling. Mine has at least 1mm clearance and barely needs 1.5g to track properly. The internals can get pushed up into the body, reducing clearance and, if it's an old one, will definitely need to be returned to Presence Audio for checking and adjustment...

P.S. Which Dave said the PL71 arm wouldn't work? if that was aimed at me, I must protest as I used mine in the R200 with similar headshell (and extra mass too) for over two years with excellent results...

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q8/DSJR_photos/DSCF1438.jpg

jandl100

15-02-2012, 17:20

That one needs some internal fettling. Mine has at least 1mm clearance and barely needs 1.5g to track properly. The internals can get pushed up into the body, reducing clearance and, if it's an old one, will definitely need to be returned to Presence Audio for checking and adjustment...

Ah, thanks Dave. :(

In that case it's going back - I paid enough for it to be in decent nick. :rolleyes:

DSJR

15-02-2012, 17:58

Put it this way, in its second life (in the mid 90's and as a Microscanner), like many, it developed a sort of "buzzing" coloration on sustained piano and guitar notes. This was one of the things that caused Max Townshend to go over to the Dynavector 17D IIRC. Mine was put away in disgrace for over ten years and before funds ran out, I sent it to be serviced via Mike at Moth Marketing. The bill was well under £100 and in my case (because I'd been peeking further - ahem!), involved a new lateral coil, the top maget to be re-glued in position and a full cleanout and re-alignment. It came back better than ever and was sounding swell last I used it (the TD125 is now gone, but I've kept the R200).

jandl100

15-02-2012, 18:01

I've returned to my Zu103 with a sense of relief.

OK, so it hasn't (quite) got the Decca's speed and openness, but it ain't bad, it ain't bad at all ... and it's a much easier listen.

Plug & play - that's the way I like 'em. :)

Marco

15-02-2012, 18:13

It is simply astonishing.

I've had a few (well, OK, a lot!) of CDPs and DACs pass thru my system over the years. Of the one's I have enjoyed, some have been cheap & cheerful but surprisingly fine, others much more expensive and bloody marvellous. Some owned, some loaned, some just passing thru with a visitor to Jerry Towers.
But after a week or so with this wee beastie, I can confidently say that I have NEVER heard such good CD playback.

I'm having trouble getting my head round quite how good this player is, and in what ways it excels.
I think the ability on which everything else builds is in the way it separates out everything that's going on in the music, there's an uncanny clarity and lack of confusion in the imaging. Yes, I've had 'great imaging' before, and my speakers are good at presenting this, but the RA CD50 is simply 3 steps up on anything else I have heard.
When this sort of clarity is achieved the insight into the music is hugely enhanced.

Tonally it's good; bass is deep and very taut, treble is extended and pure, the mids nice and open.

Oh yes ... the dynamics. How could I forget the dynamics? That's the next best thing after the amazingly lucid imaging. They are just so free and unconstrained. The system really just lets go of the music with the CD50 at the front.

I just find it hard to believe how good this sounds - it amazes me with every disc I put on.

Damn, I really am running out of things to box-swap.

Excellent stuff, Jerry! What did I tell you? ;)

The CD50 is a veritable example of one of the 'proper' CDPs I often refer to when CD was in its heyday, such as what I've been talking about on the Audio Note thread.

I can tell you that it would give my Sony a run for its money, as they both share a similar musical presentation. Everything is 'right' about how the RA CD50 handles music. It should put a big smile on your face every time you hit the 'Play' button: genuine 'no compromise' digital repay at its absolute best!

CDPs are just not made like that anymore. I can tell you quite categorically Jerry that if you let the CD50 go, you'll likely never find another CDP to better it. Enjoy! :cool:

Marco.

jandl100

15-02-2012, 18:21

CDPs are just not made like that anymore. I can tell you quite categorically Jerry that if you let the CD50 go, you'll likely never find another CDP to better it. Enjoy! :cool:

Marco.

Yup, the more I listen the more I agree with you.
Damn. :eyebrows:

I didn't particularly mention the treble in my main posting, but it's just so bloody natural. It reminds me a lot of the treble of the early top Focal Utopia beryllium tweeters. (No, not the more recent mid-range Utopias which screech).

It's a keeper. :doh: or :carrot: depending on whether I've got my boxswapper's hat on!

Go along to Stu's room (chelsea on AOS, russ abbott on the Wam) - I'm loaning him the CD50 to use in his system at Scalford. :)

Marco

15-02-2012, 18:24

Nice one, Jerry - I'll defo be checking it out. The CD50 was one where they got the recipe 'just right'. That doesn't happen so often!

Marco.

DSJR

15-02-2012, 20:45

I wonder if the Zu 103 can have its tip tweaked with a better diamond profile? We need to find someone who's done it to a 103, leaving the lower compliance, but fitting a line tip or similar...

Dingdong

15-02-2012, 20:48

Hasn't Dom done 103's? Maybe not Zu ones though.

jandl100

16-02-2012, 06:59

I wonder if the Zu 103 can have its tip tweaked with a better diamond profile? We need to find someone who's done it to a 103, leaving the lower compliance, but fitting a line tip or similar...

:whistle:

Yep, mine has been retipped with an elliptical profile by a German company. :)

John

16-02-2012, 07:48

My retip 103 and cantelever upgrade by Dom gives it almost Decca like speed and aliveness Well worth a try

jandl100

21-02-2012, 08:24

Herewith my 2nd system, based in my conservatory. Great for kicking back in a greener environment!

One of a pair of Usher X-719 speakers and, underneath the blanket box, a Mini-T amp and a Marantz CD63 fitted with a Ten Audio valve output stage.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7521.jpg

It sounds bloody good, actually! :)

jandl100

21-02-2012, 08:57

Just to keep things up to date, I had a couple of forum friend visitors over yesterday, so all is tidy and dusted! -here's a pic just taken of my main system in my "cluttered Man Cave" as it has been called :eyebrows:....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7520.jpg

Marco

21-02-2012, 09:46

Looks great, Jerry - and very homely :)

I love rooms with 'stuff' in them, which clearly evoke the personality of the people who use them. I believe that 'lived in' is the term. That's what a home should be all about. Our house is the same, as is my 'man cave'. And a wee bit of dust is healthy!

I can't stand the clinically bland, near sterile, 'statements in magnolia', devoid of personality that some people like; where rooms have been modelled on the latest 'me too' fashions of interior design (approved by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen), and where you feel guilty disturbing someone's plumped-up (colour co-ordinated and very carefully positioned) cushions from Habitat! ;)

Clean, but relaxing, comfy and cosy is the way.....

I think ya gets where I'm coming from :eyebrows:

Marco.

panos_adgr

21-02-2012, 10:47

jandl100

21-02-2012, 13:20

Yeah, thanks Marco. I like my room very much the way it is!

"relaxing, comfy and cosy" is exactly right! :thumbsup:

I, too, have real problems with "clinically bland, near sterile" environments. Mind you, I've seen a few pics on AOS with exactly that kind of room! :lol:

jandl100

21-02-2012, 13:22

Very very nice system! I've never had the luck to audition any pair of MBL loudspeakers or gear, in the past... But I've heard the best. It's a pitty I don't have the ability to come around for an audition... I wish, musically, the best!;)

Thanks ! Yes, MBL speakers are very very special. :thumbsup:

I guess it is a bit far to come over for the evening from Greece! But you would be very welcome if you chose to do so. :)

panos_adgr

21-02-2012, 14:01

Thanks ! Yes, MBL speakers are very very special. :thumbsup:

I guess it is a bit far to come over for the evening from Greece! But you would be very welcome if you chose to do so. :)

Thank very much for the warm reply! Our hobby is nice to be shared, the truth is. Very nice room and very warm space!:)

I bet that listening is an experience combined with the landscape of your place!
Thank you for the invitation any way! You are also welcome!;)

Tarzan

21-02-2012, 14:48

Alex_UK

21-02-2012, 23:36

I, too, have real problems with "clinically bland, near sterile" environments. Mind you, I've seen a few pics on AOS with exactly that kind of room! :lol:

Lilac ones? :lol:

Looks great, Jerry and I love the minimalist "hidden" conservatory system - mini T's are great for that (mine is hidden behind a decorative plate in the dining room!)

jandl100

22-02-2012, 06:49

Jerry,very nice home and system, those white objects on the floor are audiophile bowls and thus cost a heap of wonga.

Thanks Andy & Alex. Yeah, it's a nice place to live.

Those are biscuit bowls for the cats - empty, so as to fine tune the acoustics of the room, of course! :eyebrows: .... I must get around to topping them up. :)

If you look carefully at that pic, you can see bits of two cats - Wotty (with a plastic cone/collar on as he has an injured face) and Stinker.

southall-1998

27-02-2012, 12:15

Jerry,

One day try the Sony Playstation 1 out as a CD Player. Make sure and go for the model SCPH 1002.

I must warn you, they are very smooth sounding and don't have huge detail.

jandl100

27-02-2012, 13:00

... I must warn you, they are very smooth sounding and don't have huge detail.

Thanks Shane, but you've managed to put me off it already! ;)
I do like to hear what is going on in a recording.

jandl100

11-03-2012, 09:13

Just a pic to keep this system blog up to date ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/PSAudioPPP.jpg

.... comments on this wee beastie are to be found on MartinT's mains regenerator thread.

OK, perhaps a quick summary ...
It's a PS Audio Power Plant Premier 'mains regenerator'.
Useful but quite small incremental sound quality improvements are to be heard with small power-draw items - i.e. my CDP and pre-amp.
Major improvement on my 250wpc Parasound A21 amp.

Nice piece of kit. It's staying. :)

jandl100

21-05-2012, 07:18

Ye gods, this is my first update here for over 2 months.
How embarassing for a box-swapper. :o

So, time for a change, eh?
[Sorry Anthony. ;) ... I can't 'elp it, guv. It's an affliction, innit, mate. :eyebrows:]

I was enjoying that damn Krell KRC-3 pre-amp too much. I can't be 'avin' with that. :nono: Out it goes. And in comes a NuForce P8 pre-amp.
It's a real tiny-tot after the architectural magnificence of the Krell ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7741.jpg

And here its is on its tod, driving my Parasound A21 power amp ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/NuForceP8Halo21.jpg

I wasn't too sure about its sound to start with - more in the way of sheeny hifi compared to the musical sophistication of the Krell. But after a bit of cable fiddling it's settling in well. The main change has been from moving on from Audio Friendly mains cable to some LAT AC-2. The AF's are enjoyably a bit forward, which matched well with the Krell, the LAT more neutral.

Yep, my initial concerns have been largely addressed and the sound is now interestingly different from the Krell rather than inferior. The Krell has a way of projecting the full dynamic envelope of the music that the NuForce can't quite match - 'magnificent' would be my 1-Word-Review of the Krell, I think - whereas the NuForce tends to surgically dissect the musical strands and presents a more upfront view of the music. I even put the NuForce up for sale soon after I got it - our relationship did not start well! But I'm happy with it now -- or until the next pre that takes my fancy comes along! :lol:

Both are great pre-amps, to be honest, I just fancied a change after 6 months with the Krell, and the NuForce has certainly given me that. :)

jandl100

21-05-2012, 08:28

Well Jerry, long may your box swapping fetish continue in my opinion. I've learnt more about this subject from reading your thread than from any hifi magazine. My only regret is that I haven't enjoyed the aural side of your efforts, although your wonderfully descriptive write ups compensate to a degree. Thanks bud... :cool:

Hey, I never did acknowledge or thank you for that post, Dave. :doh:

Many thanks - really! It's great to be able to share the journey! :cool:

MartinT

21-05-2012, 08:36

Jerry, I have a hunch that a Pass preamp would suit your Parasound rather well. Have you ever come across one?

jandl100

21-05-2012, 08:41

Hi Martin - I've not had a Pass pre, but I did home dem a Pass Aleph 3 power amp - the one that prompted Stereophile to create an A+ performance category.

Urgh :zzz: It was of the smooth persuasion - a whole layer of rez was missing from the darn thing! That was when I had my very revealing and hi-rez Avantgarde Uno speakers.
It's kind of put me off the brand. :scratch: But I'd be happy to give one a go if it came along and offered itself. :)

MartinT

21-05-2012, 08:43

I think the Alephs are a different kettle of fish.

You would never categorise my XP-20 as smooth and sleep inducing!

Marco

21-05-2012, 11:21

Ha - yes, could you not tell by how often I was falling asleep on Saturday, after edging up the volume on the remote control, every time we heard something more musically spectacular, from the tonearm cable changes we were doing?

Oh yes, definitely sleep-inducing... (might not work quite as expected, though, in an advert for Valium) :D

Marco.

MartinT

21-05-2012, 12:27

You like that remote control ;)

Marco

21-05-2012, 15:29

I lurves it more than you'll ever know... :eyebrows:

Marco.

jandl100

21-05-2012, 17:09

What did Marco get up to with that remote?
You didn't leave him alone with it, did you, Martin?

If you did, I suggest you give it a thorough clean with a strong antiseptic. :lol:

MartinT

21-05-2012, 17:29

Hmm, I think it was its metallic beauty, the rounded corners, the long thin profile, the...

<disconnected>

jandl100

22-05-2012, 08:57

Oooo, heck - this is rather nice ... :drool:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7749.jpg

... although only on loan for a review. :(

MartinT

22-05-2012, 09:41

Absolutor? Good grief, Terminator meets preamp?

jandl100

13-07-2012, 09:11

Well, there have been a few changes recently so I thought I'd update this system blog.

MBL speakers are still here, of course, and providing a nicely transparent window on to the rest of the system, and - most importantly - the music. Well over 2 years since I got the MBLs and I am still madly, deeply in love with them. :)

It's coming up to 1 year with the Parasound power amp, too.

Sigh - what's a boxswapper to do? :scratch:

... change everything else, of course! :lol:

So here's "The Rack" as of this morning ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7861.jpg

The big Parasound bottom, right.

New Morgan 500 valve pre-amp above it. That arrived yesterday, from Martin Howlindawg in rainswept Ireland. Thanks, Martin. :thumbsup:
I had this very item before, sold it to Martin, who promptly found that the mains transformer was not up to par. Damn :doh: - I never did hear it at its best. Well, now I have. Cor. Stunning resolution in the mids - it just latches on to every dynamic change and micro-inflection. Especially now that I have replaced the stock Golden Dragons with a pair of TAD 12AX7 and a pair of Amperex 12AU7. The bass isn't quite as taut as the XTC Pre-1 that is now 'resting' but it's way more than good enough. Maybe some more tube-rolling can improve things further? The Morgan pre is not for the faint of heart or for those who want to wallow in an enveloping wash of sound. This pre puts you front/centre. Wonderful - I love it so far.

Top left is a Pioneer PD-S505 stable platter CDP used as a transport into my new DAC. I do love those Pioneers stable platters as transports - they knock the spots off most other transports, imho.
Below that is my Arcam DV29 DVD player for SciFi blockbuster movies, classical concert DVDs and Gilbert & Sullivan operettas on DVD and VHS tape.

Bottom left, my Beresford Bushmaster DAC is powered by an S-Booster linear PSU supplied by Mark Grant and they both sit atop the PowerInspired AG1500 mains regenerator that feeds the whole shebang.

You know, the system don't sound half bad. In fact, it's the best I've heard, imho.:)

Effem

13-07-2012, 09:41

It's coming up to 1 year with the Parasound power amp, too.

Only because you won't risk having a hernia lugging it out :lol:

jandl100

13-07-2012, 09:46

Only because you won't risk having a hernia lugging it out :lol:

Hi Frank! :)

... actually it's an easy carry and I've taken it round to several mates to try it in their systems. :partytime:

It's only 27Kg and has some chunky carry-handles at the rear. :)

howlindawg

13-07-2012, 10:04

Great to hear that you're enjoying the Morgan Jerry.
I'd agree with pretty much every word you wrote about it.
I'm bewildered as to why the brand isn't better known and respected in the UK.

While it was in my system I also tried an Audio Note M1 and Croft Micro 25 and it was the Morgan that stayed put.

MartinT

13-07-2012, 13:02

So when are you going to bring the Parasound round to my place, Jerry, for a shootout against the Chord? :)

Effem

13-07-2012, 15:02

Hi Frank! :)

... actually it's an easy carry and I've taken it round to several mates to try it in their systems. :partytime:

It's only 27Kg and has some chunky carry-handles at the rear. :)

A mere lightweight then Jerry :)

Remember that big MF Trivista 2 box integrated I had? Now THAT was hernia inducing! :lol:

MartinT

13-07-2012, 15:08

My Sony SCD-1 SACD player was 26kg!

jandl100

13-07-2012, 15:12

The heaviest amp I've ever had was a MF F18 power amp. 53Kg. :doh: Jeez-us. I promised myself I'd never do that again.

So when are you going to bring the Parasound round to my place, Jerry, for a shootout against the Chord? :)

What an interesting idea. Hmm. :hmm: Basingstoke - that's do-able ..... about 2 hrs each way. :hmm:

Amp/speaker matching is a lot to do with synergy, of course, as well as absolute quality. It would be interesting if you could bring the Chord along to the lovely Forest of Dean as well! :thumbsup:

MartinT

13-07-2012, 15:16

I have family in Malvern and could co-ordinate my actions, would love to hear your system. Agreed that the results will be very system dependent, but hey it would be fun.

Marco

13-07-2012, 16:42

Now that's a bake-off I'd also like to attend (providing that it's sometime after August)! :)

Marco.

MartinT

13-07-2012, 18:27

Sounds like a plan :)

Marco

13-07-2012, 21:24

Awesome... I could bring my copper amp (and Croft) down to provide a thermionic option? We already know that they work very well with your speakers :)

Marco.

Marco

15-07-2012, 23:50

Jerry, what's your view on our suggestion? :)

Marco.

MartinT

16-07-2012, 06:17

I think we should keep it to power amps as we need to keep focus. Would be a great comparison, though.

jandl100

16-07-2012, 06:42

Yup, OK -- although I must admit I had more in mind a relaxed sesh with mainly classical moozik, rather than a power-amp shootout! :)

MartinT

16-07-2012, 08:27

Sounds fine to me, Jerry. Too much equipment always gets in the way of music.

Marco

16-07-2012, 11:52

jandl100

17-07-2012, 07:17

I'll go along with what you guys want, but I thought that is was essentially a power amp 'shootout' between the Parasound and the Chord?

Therefore, one more amp in the equation shouldn't hurt... I'd have thought that a 'thermionic upstart', sandwiched in between two 'brutish sand-boy powerhouses' would've been an interesting comparison! ;)

I'm also perfectly willing to listen to mostly classical music, as long as there's plenty of Shosty! Are you bringing your graphic equaliser, Jerry? :eyebrows:

Marco.

Yup, yup - I understand where you are coming from. :)

My point really is that I have tried a whole bundle (well over 20) of different amps with my MBL speakers and have settled on the Parasound amp as the best (by far) synergistic partner for them.

I feel sure that Martin has done something similar for his Usher/Chord combo.

As such, it's not really a 'shoot out' that Martin and I were considering - more of a "I wonder how the Parasound jells with the Ushers".
Which is why I suggested a return visit by Martin to my humble abode to try out his Chord amp in my system.

So, as I see it, no marks will be awarded. No "best amp" will be proclaimed. So in that sense I don't see it as a shoot-out.

But yes, I am sure that lots of Shosty can be played - and who knows, maybe we can interest you in other by-ways of classical music -- I am quite well known for coming in from far left field in that regard. :eyebrows:

So .... after August, is it, for Marco?
If so, shall we set a date to meet at Martin's place in September? :thumbsup:

MartinT

17-07-2012, 08:34

Agreed, Jerry, we know they are both good amps. I'm just curious as to how the Parasound will sound with the Ushers. It seems very good value for what it is and John Curl is a well respected designer.

Saturdays of 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th are free at the moment.

jandl100

17-07-2012, 08:43

Saturdays of 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th are free at the moment.

I see that the "National" Whittlebury Hall hifi show is on 22-23 Sept - so probably best to avoid that weekend, as I might want to shufty along.

How about Sept 8th?

MartinT

17-07-2012, 09:07

That's good for me - I've put it in my calendar.

Marco

17-07-2012, 09:51

Hi Jerry,

September 8th is cool with me :)

I hear where you're coming from, but you're misunderstanding me. I wasn't thinking of a 'shootout' either, or there being an award for the "best amp", perish the thought... It'd be a chillax'd music sesh and social gathering, primarily, as it always is at Martin's place.

I just thought that, purely from a curiosity factor, it would be too good an opportunity to miss to hear how a valve amp stacks up against two top-notch SS powerhouses - not with a view to awarding a "best amp" (how could one, anyway, there are too many variables), but purely as an interesting exercise to report on the forum.

I'm sure that a lot of members woud be interested in that. However, if you're dead against it, then we'll leave it.

In any case, I'll come armed with a wad of classical albums on vinyl - who knows, perhaps some you've not heard before? :cool:

Marco.

jandl100

17-07-2012, 09:56

Hey, yup - I didn't mean to come over as negative.
Fine, bring the valve jobbie along - it would be interesting. :)

It will be nice to spend a few hours with you guys!

MartinT

17-07-2012, 13:06

If you're bringing your amp, Marco, you'll need a 1m single-ended interconnect. As you know, my system is all balanced XLR. Jerry - as I remember, the Parasound takes balanced in?

jandl100

17-07-2012, 16:20

Yup, the Para can take balanced - I can also bring along some 'interesting' RCA cables ... :whistle:

And, yes, Marco -- I do believe I will bring along my graphic equaliser and some LPs to show it merits. ;)

Alex_UK

17-07-2012, 16:51

And, yes, Marco -- I do believe I will bring along my graphic equaliser

:lol:

Nice one Jerry! ("Oooh you are awful!" ;))

Marco

17-07-2012, 18:22

Nice one, Jerry. I'll look forward to greeting you and your graphic equaliser! :eyebrows:

If you're bringing your amp, Marco, you'll need a 1m single-ended interconnect.

Do you mean a 1m pair? I don't need to bring the Croft then, do I? :)

Marco.

jandl100

27-07-2012, 07:01

A pile of pre-amps's at Jerry Towers !! :D

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7888.jpg

From the top ... a Morgan 500 valve pre-amp, a Bent Audio NOH TVC passive and a XTC Pre-1 solid stater.
All very, very nice. Which one to keep? .... I'll keep 'em all for now. :)

The Bent Audio Transformer Volume Control passive pre is the latest addition. Collected from Paul 'Ganders' of the Wigwam a couple of days ago. Thanks Paul! :thumbsup:

Let's have a closer look at the TVC ....

Central volume control, the knobs at either end set the input for each channel - an unusual arrangement. Remote control of volume, driven by a very neat pulley and belt arrangement ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7891.jpg

Isn't that sweet! :)

Inside are twin Stevens and Billington transformers and , I dare say, a rat's nest of wires! -- although I haven't yet peeked.
At the rear, a load of RCA and XLR input/output options ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7887.jpg

Ok -- all hooked up --

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7877.jpg

The sound .... I rate all 3 of these pre-amps highly, but they do give their own take on the musical event.
There's a relaxed naturalness to this S&B TVC pre that I don't think I get from the active devices. The music just kind of flows out in an unforced way. Tonality seems spot-on in the mids, treble is a tad on the smooth side - I use a very transparent but slightly bright Belkin interconnect and all is well with the world. (Cable unbelievers can ignore that bit ;)) - but there is not a trace of harshness or aggression - it really is a hi-rez pleasure. The bass is astonishing in its power, weight, definition and slam; that is not what I was expecting from a passive pre! It has to be the best bass I have heard from a pre-amp.
Imaging is excellent, although I feel not quite as 3D in terms of depth as I get from the XTC, or from my old Krell KRC-3, for that matter. The solid staters seem to give the best soundstage depth -- hmm, whowouldathunkit? Not me! Well, actually, I already knew that the Krell and XTC excelled in this department.
Dynamics seem pretty much unconstrained - but TVC passives are know for this trait - unlike some regular resistive passives.
Detail resolution is of the highest, but it's just there, it doesn't force itself upon you.

Oh, I haven't mentioned gain. Is a passive pre enough with my 83dB/W speakers? I am surprised, and I still haven't got my head around this, but yes, there is more gain than I need. Which I find immensely puzzling. :scratch: Fans of Eddy Louiss' "Blues for Klook" will know this as an astinishingly dynamic and fast track which is cut at an amazingly low level. Ya needs loads of gain to give it the welly it deserves, you really do. But, perhaps thanks to the +6dB gain switches on the TVC, I can flex the walls and rattle the windows no problem - as loud as I have ever played it - and I play it LOUD!! And there are still a few notches on the volume that I dare not even try. Baffling.

Anyway, that's an initial impression after just a couple of days. :)

MartinT

27-07-2012, 07:25

Do you mean a 1m pair? I don't need to bring the Croft then, do I? :)

Yes and no ;)

Marco

27-07-2012, 09:57

Lol - what does that mean exactly? :)

Marco.

jandl100

27-07-2012, 10:01

Hi guys - I think there is a case to be made for use of the PM system. ;) It's a shame to let such an excellent facility go to waste for errrr, private communications!

Marco

27-07-2012, 10:15

Lol... I didn't consider the exchange as in need of being private, but whatever. All I need to know is what to bring, so either PM me the info or spit it out here! :)

Marco.

jandl100

27-07-2012, 10:29

Well, no, it's not "private" - but I do feel that it is f*cking up the thread! :lol:

A place for everything and everything in its place. tidy, that's me .... NOT!

MartinT

27-07-2012, 10:41

Lol - what does that mean exactly? :)

Yes to the interconnect, no we don't need the preamp.
Sorry to muck up your thread, Jerry :)

Marco

27-07-2012, 10:57

Lol... Jerry has never quite 'embraced' the joys of AoS thread-drift! See it as a free bump... :eyebrows:

Anyway, info noted. The thread-drift can be rubbed out if you wish, sire?

Marco.

jandl100

28-07-2012, 06:52

Nah - that's fine.

I'm OK with AOS thread drift - it just seemed you two guys were planning your personal diaries on someone else's thread.:)

Marco

28-07-2012, 08:29

Coolio - soz about that :)

Marco.

jandl100

19-08-2012, 07:43

Pre-amp update --

The XTC solid state pre is sold. Good but definitely a step-down from the Bent Audio TVC passive and Morgan Audio 500 valve pre.

At the moment, the TVC is "resting" and I am very much enjoying the musical insight of the Morgan valve pre.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7919.jpg
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7917.jpg

The innards will certainly mean more to the technically-minded than they do to me :scratch: ... but that transformer seems very generously sized for a pre-amp!
It uses two ecc83 and two ecc82 valves.
In the photo are RCA ecc82 and CVC ecc83 ... hmm, not ideal for some reason. But in situ now are TAD 12AX7 (ecc83 equivalent) which I like for their openness and purity of sound, and Amperex 12AU7A (ecc82) which I like for their hint of 'valvey' warmth of tone and natural musicality. A very nice combination - the music sounds very spacious yet focussed, detailed, articulate and fluid. Love it!

Perhaps I'll bring it along to the meetup with Martin and Marco?

Marco

20-08-2012, 08:23

Please do, Jerry :)

Marco.

sq225917

20-08-2012, 09:31

That looks nice Jerry, how would you characterise the sound?

jandl100

20-08-2012, 09:48

A little on the cool and lean side, Si.
You recall the XTC pre? - nice sound, but the Morgan has better rez in the mids and top, not as deep or solid bass (although it's not bad, it's just that the XTC was particularly good in the bass, imo), the XTC was def a bit warmer and fuller sounding. The Morgan is better focussed, really quite excellent, actually..
The Morgan suits my tastes better. It's kind of a lean, mean detail machine. :)
I've done a fair bit of tube rolling, and that seems to affect the soundstaging/spaciousness more than anything else. Really works well with my TAD/Amperex toobs!

Rare Bird

20-08-2012, 11:22

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7917.jpg

The innards will certainly mean more to the technically-minded than they do to me :scratch: ...

Four big juicy Ansar Polyprops there :eyebrows:

jandl100

20-08-2012, 17:29

Four big juicy Ansar Polyprops there :eyebrows:

Is that a good thing? :scratch: I'm pretty much totally clueless when it comes to the techy side of things!

Does it look like decent components have been used?

MartinT

20-08-2012, 18:11

Ansars are very good in valve circuits.

jandl100

05-09-2012, 07:52

New pre-amp at Jerry Towers! :dance:

This fine looking (if slightly scuffed) item arrived yesterday ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7959.jpg

A Restek Consens pre-amp.
A small but reasonably hefty offboard PSU and a very hefty metal remote handset comes with it, too.

I've fancied trying something from this German manufacturer for quite a few years, and with my current obsession with pre-amps I just couldn't resist when it came along on eBay. :doh:

1st impressions are very favourable indeed. Very articulate, detailed and dynamic. Precise but not etched. Excellent 3D imaging, too - very focussed and images hang in a very convincing way between and behind the speakers. Real bass wallop! :eek: This sounds very "high end" - a sophisticated sound, perhaps a tad brightly lit - certainly not dull & boring! - very enjoyable so far. And this pre allows my power amp to be fed with balanced cables, which it definitely seems to prefer.
Very pleased. :)

The Grand Wazoo

05-09-2012, 07:56

I heard a Challenger integrated and some pricey pre/power amps some years ago & was very impressed with them.

nat8808

09-09-2012, 02:15

jandl100

09-09-2012, 07:03

Hi Nat.

Yup, I like the Restek a lot. :) It's currently doing the biz in my system and the pre-amp boxswap bug has abated for now. I've been through quite a number over the last 2 years or so. I guess the best of them have been the Krell KRC-3, Morgan Audio 500 valve pre, MF A1 FBP and this Restek.

Others have included Bent Audio NOH TVC, XTC Pre-1, Cyrus vs, NuForce P8, Audiolab 8000Q, Acurus RL11. The Cyrus and the Audiolab were a bit naff, tbh, -- the Cyrus being quite a low-rez and smoothed over device and the Audiolab being a bit forward, thin and unsophisticated; a dynamic clean sound, though -- but the others were all to a high standard, imo, they just didn't gell that well in the context of my system/taste.

The Restek does the music thing very well - subtle but with balls and hi-rez as well. And the imaging really is good, too, with the music just hanging naturally between and behind the speakers in a very convincing fashion.
And the dang thing has a Mono facility :thumbsup: - that's really useful for some solo piano recordings especially, where you sometimes seem to be sitting inside the piano itself on some recordings with a 30 foot wide piano, and others where the L/R balance is skewed or wanders around. It would be nice if it had a balance control, like the Krell did, but hey I guess you can't have everything!

I'm having a meet-up at MartinT's place this weekend with Marco, as Martin is curious as to how my Parasound A21 power amp would sound in his system. I'll take the Restek pre along as well.

I'm certainly now curious about trying other Restek kit and I'll be keeping my eyes open .... :eek:
I've read that Trigon are the new Restek. Although the Restek brand seems to be up and going again. :scratch: -- I'm not really sure what is going on there!

jandl100

21-09-2012, 08:30

Ha ha !!!! :eyebrows: -- it's "irritate the purists" time again at Jerry Towers. :D

Thanks to falcoron I now have a Behringer digital equaliser hooked up between my secondary sources and the Restek pre-amp.
So that's turntable, cassette, minidisc and VHS player can all now benefit from superb tone controls, stereo width adjustment, L/R balance.

Perfecto Mundo !! :eek:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8015_zpse16d9227.jpg

julesd68

21-09-2012, 08:44

Thanks to falcoron I now have a Behringer digital equaliser hooked up between my secondary sources and the Restek pre-amp.

I think that's a flogging offence Jerry! :spank:

wiicrackpot

21-09-2012, 08:51

I think that's a flogging offence Jerry! :spank:
:lol:

Very nice Jerry, tell me this, what exactly does these Behringer Eq things do?, for example can it do the work of the crossover in a speaker say for smoothing out the shouty mid or zingy hf energy from some horn speakers?, if it's so can you just bypass the speaker crossovers. :scratch:

Together with a valve buffer, thats the two most puzzling things for me.

jandl100

21-09-2012, 08:57

Ooo - yeah!! Spanky time. :eek:

:lol:

Very nice Jerry, tell me this, what exactly does these Behringer Eq things do?, for example can it do the work of the crossover in a speaker say for smoothing out the shoutyness of mid/hf from some horn speakers?, if it's so can you just bypass the speaker crossovers. :scratch:

Together with a valve buffer, thats the two most puzzling things for me.

Behringer do kit that is better suited to the x-over application than the DEQ2496.

The DEQ2496 I have is basically a glorified and very flexible tone control, with less precise control over x-over points and rates of attenuation etc.
--- at least, I think it has. I've never tried to use it in that role. Ron tried to use it in his OB speaker DIY project, and failed - which is why he sold it to me. I just want to use it for the reasons already specified .... viz. tonal manipulation, stereo width, L/R balance. :thumbsup:

wiicrackpot

21-09-2012, 09:01

I see, so another way of noise shaping to your room and your pallette then, lovely thing to look at if i may say.

jandl100

21-09-2012, 09:11

Well, I want to use it for improving the sound of old classical LPs - they can be very wayward tonally - often bright, also often dull. The Behringer will sort those issues with a couple of twiddles on the controls.

Also a lot of older LPs have skewed stereo imaging - leaning strongly toward left or right, so a balance control is good for those.

And some piano recordings, especially, have you seated inside the piano - the image is the full width between the speakers! Not realistic. So the Behringer allows the stereo width to be adjusted - made narrower (or wider).

A really neat bit of kit if you want to bugger around with that sort of thing.

For the many LPs that are OK, just turn the Behringer off and it takes it completely out of circuit.

And it's great to watch the display change with the music! :eyebrows: :cool:

Barry

21-09-2012, 17:08

And some piano recordings, especially, have you seated inside the piano - the image is the full width between the speakers! Not realistic. So the Behringer allows the stereo width to be adjusted - made narrower (or wider).

I often find it is difficult to discern the orientation of the piano: are the bass keys on the left or the right of the soundstage? Or to put it another way, is the pianist facing you or has his/her back to you?

Probably depends on how the piano is miked up, especially if multi-miked. have you found the Behringer to help in this, or does it not bother you?

Regards

jandl100

21-09-2012, 17:10

Barry

21-09-2012, 17:18

I can't say that it bothers me. After all, in a concert hall with the piano side-on, it's really a point source anyway and dominated by the reverberant field. I prefer a narrow piano on audio playback and I'll use the Behringer to achieve this on my piano LPs.

Agreed the piano is side-on in the concert hall, but I rarely listen on bore-sight. I like to sit close by, on one side, so I can see the pianist's hands - and want this illusion at home on my system.

I do get it with some recordings, but not all.

MartinT

21-09-2012, 22:51

Funnily enough, I have always preferred right-of-centre seating for orchestral works so rarely get to see the pianist's hands.

nat8808

02-10-2012, 02:09

Funnily enough, I like to listen to pianos with my head inside the lid - not often you get to do that though in real life unless some sound guy is letting you place the mics on stage during a rehearsal!

So hearing it like that on a record is good sometimes..

jandl100

22-10-2012, 16:14

The latest addition to my ongoing hifi menagerie ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8187.jpg

Only just unpacked it and plumbed it in.

Cor. :drool: - it don't 'alf sound good! :eek:

MartinT

22-10-2012, 16:27

Interesting, Jerry. Different philosophy from Ayre. McCormack drives a video display to allow perfect control of DVD-A etc. discs. Ayre eschew any video output, using combinations of controls (not entirely successfully) in order to select menu-driven discs.

Both are based on Pioneer drives.

jandl100

22-10-2012, 20:24

Me & the missus have just watched a DVD-Video of Gilbert & Sullivan's HMS Pinafore and Trial by Jury thru the McCormack.
Excellent sound & visuals! :)
http://i43.tower.com/images/mm107003571/gilbert-sullivan-h-m-s-pinafore-trial-by-hobson-warlow-dvd-cover-art.jpg

jandl100

31-10-2012, 07:11

New turntable, chez-J! :carrot:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8221.jpg

A refurbed Mitsubishi DP-EC10.
Direct drive. :)
Fully automatic. ;)
Weighs in at a decent 12Kg, so not a plasticy lightweight. :nono:
Not a good match for my Resomat :( -- sounds better with the heavy rubber mat it comes with. Will try other mats and see what happens.
Sounds good once the heavy clamp in the pic is used :thumbsup:, a bit lacking in sonic weight and imaging solidity otherwise.

Better or as good as my Pioneer PL-71? :scratch:
-- close. Not better, but maybe close enough -- I do like the auto functions! :eyebrows:

Tarzan

31-10-2012, 08:35

Very nice Jerry, how does the ZU103 perform on it? There is something really cool about those ole Japanese D/Ds:)

jandl100

31-10-2012, 08:46

--- There is something really cool about those ole Japanese D/Ds :)

Yep - I am madly, deeply in lurv with them!

--- Very nice Jerry, how does the ZU103 perform on it?

The Zu103 seems to work nicely. Those Jap arms are very mc-friendly.
I've a DV10X5 on loan to a friend - it will be interesting to see how that gets on in the Mitsu - I rather suspect it will be a fine thing indeed.

Tarzan

31-10-2012, 09:38

Good show!:)

stupinder

31-10-2012, 10:39

Looks very nice indeed, Jerry.

hoopsontoast

13-11-2012, 08:12

Jerry, any pics of this Restek then ;)

jandl100

13-11-2012, 08:23

You missed it, Rob!! ....

New pre-amp at Jerry Towers! :dance:

This fine looking (if slightly scuffed) item arrived yesterday ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF7959.jpg

A Restek Consens pre-amp.
A small but reasonably hefty offboard PSU and a very hefty metal remote handset comes with it, too.

I've fancied trying something from this German manufacturer for quite a few years, and with my current obsession with pre-amps I just couldn't resist when it came along on eBay. :doh:

1st impressions are very favourable indeed. Very articulate, detailed and dynamic. Precise but not etched. Excellent 3D imaging, too - very focussed and images hang in a very convincing way between and behind the speakers. Real bass wallop! :eek: This sounds very "high end" - a sophisticated sound, perhaps a tad brightly lit - certainly not dull & boring! - very enjoyable so far.
Very pleased. :)

I've shown you mine, now you show me yours. :D

--- Oo , hang on - just peeked at your system pics ...
Cor. Lovely. :thumbsup: You like it?

hoopsontoast

13-11-2012, 08:27

Doh, my bad, had only looked on the current page!
Plenty of pics in my system blog ;)

jandl100

17-11-2012, 08:10

Some interesting speaker cables arrived at Jerry Towers yesterday .....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/AbbeyRoadspkrcables1.jpg

Abbey Road cables by Moving Air. Quite expensive new, I think, in excess of £800. Needless to say, I got them rather cheaper than that on fleaBay. :)

A hybrid copper/silver conductor layout ....
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/AbbeyRoadspkrcables2.jpg

A very clean and and transparent sound. Maybe too clean for me? :scratch:
I need to get quite a few more hours in the listening chair with these, some adjustment time is definitely needed!

Marco

17-11-2012, 10:05

Abbey Road cables by Moving Air. Quite expensive new, I think, in excess of £800.

Jeez, looking a the (very basic) construction of that stuff and cheapo connectors... £800? They've got a fooking cheek! :mental:

Good job you paid a lot less for it (and I hope it was a LOT less!) ;)

Anyway, hope it hits the spot!

Marco.

jandl100

18-11-2012, 08:32

Jeez, looking a the (very basic) construction of that stuff and cheapo connectors... £800? They've got a fooking cheek! :mental:

Good job you paid a lot less for it (and I hope it was a LOT less!) ;)

Anyway, hope it hits the spot!

Marco.

:lol:

Actually, it's quite nicely constructed. Gentle spiral winding within a thick transparent sheath, and the conductor wires look pretty cool to me! - they look better 'in the flesh' than they do in the photo, maybe!

Ooo, nice - I'm really getting into the sound of these cables - a bit of cable tweaking is needed or the system as a whole sounds a bit too stark and lean. But swapping in a home made Furukawa FP-3TS20 power cord with Furutech copper plug to replace my Acoustic Zen Tsunami+ power cord into my Parasound A21 amp, and all is well with the world. Less forward but still retaining the remarkable transparency of the Abbey Road cables. :cool:

Hmm -- looks like my Cable Talk 3 speaker cables have at last met their match! We'll see how it goes ....

MartinT

19-11-2012, 03:01

But swapping in a home made Furukawa FP-3TS20 power cord with Furutech copper plug to replace my Acoustic Zen Tsunami+ power cord into my Parasound A21 amp, and all is well with the world.

Did you get rid of your Nordost power cable, Jerry?

jandl100

19-11-2012, 06:38

Noooo! - I still like it a lot - transparency, detail, 'staging -- all 'check!'.
I'm not into the bass thing as much as you. And it sounds really fab into my phonostage and as an option into the McCormack disc spinner where nottalotta current grunt is need anyway.

Actually, the combo of Nordost/McCormack is a bit too much with the Abbey Road speaker cables - a bit too slammy and forward for my delicate sensibilities! I'm using a PS Audio cable into the McC at the moment - a bit more laidback!

... as you have probably deduced by now, I'm quite heavily into the mains cable thing at the moment! :mental::eek:

jandl100

19-11-2012, 07:46

New turntable, chez-J! :carrot:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8221.jpg

A refurbed Mitsubishi DP-EC10.
Direct drive. :)
Fully automatic. ;)

Whoa !!! :eek: - transformation time, BIG time!

As I have aluded to elsewhere, I've found the Mitsu to be very sensitive to the mat being used.

Original stiff rubber Mitsu mat; Pretty Good :) - my old fave with the PL-71, the Reso-mat; Bad :(.

An Origin Live mat (link (http://www.turntable-kits.com/turntable-mat-platter-mats.htm)) has been in-situ for a week or so and does provide a modest but worthwhile improvement in perceived frequency extension and clarity.

But perusing eBay, as one does, I came across a turntable mat legend from a decade or three ago - the French 'Dumpa' mat. link (http://www.soundfountain.com/amb/ttmat.html). Very floppy and lossy rubber type material, and kinda sticky - you have to peel the LP off of the mat! Apparently, the Dumpa is easier to detach from the LP than its predecessor designs, though! Hmm, that must have been a real bastard to use.
Loathed by many for its reported deadening effect on the music, I thought I'd have an eBay-dump on the Dumpa anyway and won it.
It arrived a couple of days ago, and it has absolutely transformed the playback from the Mitsu tt. With the Dumpa installed, it is easily besting my old Pioneer PL-71 in terms of in-the-room palpability, and musical presence and pizzaz.
I'd guess that it has to be a synergistic energy-coupling-damping thing with the Mitsu platter, but this is just jaw-droppingly good. :D

Whodathawtit? Not me!

I've a Sound Hifi 'Herbie Mat' on the way, which follows a similarly lossy approach to LP support - I can hardly wait to compare it to the Dumpa! :)

DSJR

19-11-2012, 08:05

The Herbies mat in Techie thickness often works with another type plonked on top. Will be interesting to see your findings...

MartinT

19-11-2012, 08:49

It must be synergy. The Herbies mat worked very well with the stock Technics platter, but not the Mike New or Funk platters.

Have you got a piccy of the Dumpa? I feel compelled to see what it looks like!

jandl100

19-11-2012, 08:57

Have you got a piccy of the Dumpa? I feel compelled to see what it looks like!

We are a sad bunch, aren't we! :lol:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8269.jpg

Oops - it's upside down - you can't really see the writing without the camera flash!
And without flash, the mat looks dark purpley grey.

MartinT

19-11-2012, 09:01

It certainly looks like everything sticks to it :eek:

jandl100

19-11-2012, 09:15

It certainly looks like everything sticks to it :eek:

Yes, that's certainly an issue with the design.

It'll need fairly frequent washing with slightly soapy water to keep it acceptably clean!

The Herbie Mat has similar issues.

The Black Adder

19-11-2012, 22:01

Jeez, looking a the (very basic) construction of that stuff and cheapo connectors... £800? They've got a fooking cheek! :mental:

Good job you paid a lot less for it (and I hope it was a LOT less!) ;)

Anyway, hope it hits the spot!

Marco.

Very divided opinions on the Abbey Road speaker cables I find. I would love to own some just because it's got Abbey Road on em... but I'd be torn if I didn't like them... lol - I would want George Martin to pop through the speakers and tell me if it sounds ok for that price... lol

Glad you didn't pay RRP Jerry regardless.. they are well expensive.

Marco

19-11-2012, 23:18

Have you got a piccy of the Dumpa?

There's an obvious answer there, but I'm not saying anything! :D

Marco.

jandl100

25-11-2012, 07:58

On loan from a friend ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8290.jpg

A 2-box Kinshaw Perception phonostage.
Oops, this kind of shows up my much-loved Trichord Dino / NCPSU. :eek:

Very good clarity, definition, imaging, bass control. Highly resolved top end; not sweet, but I suspect accurate. :drool:
Hmm. The Dino/NC ain't chopped liver by any means, it's a very fine piece of kit and has been my fave for quite a while, but the Kinshaw does seems to do it that little bit better. Just slotting it into my system instead of the Dino, it was a bit tonally stark, but a bit of cable fiddling (in comes my old fave the Hitachi LCOFC ;)) and this is a very fine music maker indeed.

Only a couple of days in my system so far, but I can see me enjoying this loaner for a fair old while. :)

---- and whilst I'm here, I may as well point out the Marantz CD63 in the photo ---- no ordinary CD63, that. :nono: It's got a valve output stage and that transforms this decent budget player into a gen-you-ine piece of audiophilia, imho. No, it doesn't really do BIG scale music, and the remote control doesn't work for some reason :scratch:, but by gum it delivers the goods on smaller scale tunes. Snuggling up to some female vocalists via the valved Marantz can be a spine-tingling experience! :kiss: :eyebrows:

diceman

26-11-2012, 11:10

Glad you are enjoying it Jerry (and in stereo!).
I have the matching pre-amp and DAC as well (bought new and mint). The DAC I think is bloody good for an old 18 bit jobbie. The Pre-amp I found a bit stark compared to a valve pre but it may be up your street more than mine.

The phono stage was a late addition a couple of years ago and was a very large step up from a Michell Iso/Hera in my system.

jandl100

26-11-2012, 11:14

Yep - it took me a while to get the internal jumpers sorted - it arrived playing in mono!

Mmm ... must admit I might like to try more Kinshaw kit, the phonostage is ticking my boxes at the moment! :)

And many thanks for the loan, JP!

belloire

26-11-2012, 16:09

have you tried an NVA phono stage Jerry? if so how did it compare to the Dino?

jandl100

26-11-2012, 17:41

Rare Bird

26-11-2012, 19:41

A 2-box Kinshaw Perception phonostage.

I bid for Kingshaw Perception stage early this yaer but lost out :(

I have a pair of Hitachi LCOFC leads if they are the right ones mine are a coffee colour from the 80's??

DSJR

26-11-2012, 21:09

Hi Darren - RD did send me a NVA Phono2 to try out, but it arrived a bit battered so was almost certainly not representative. We didn't try again.

I like the Dino a lot with a NC PSU, but not with any of the other Trichord PSUs.

Oh come on Jerry, ask your friend RD to send you another so you can shill it on here. You never know, he may give you a "mates rates" discount :lol:

jandl100

26-11-2012, 22:12

jandl100

26-11-2012, 22:22

I have a pair of Hitachi LCOFC leads if they are the right ones mine are a coffee colour from the 80's??

These are my Hitachi cables --

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Hitachii-ccables.jpg

I've got quite a few pairs - they come up now and again new on ebay for about £5 - a really good cable, a bit smooth and cumfy up top, nice open mids, and surprisingly powerful and controlled bass; ... and handy at being 1.5m long. I've several pairs in use at the moment for secondary sources (minidisc, cassette) and also for matching the Kinshaw's slightly upfront presentation with the rest of my system. I like them a lot. :)

DSJR

27-11-2012, 13:16

Ha ha - naughty, Dave :lol: -- I'll not get involved in inter-forum squabbles except to say that ----> my experience of doing business with NVA / RD is that of exemplary and scrupulous customer service.

And 'mates discounts' were not asked for, offered, or received. ;)

:peace:

Who's squabbling?

It's just that you've not used any in the time I've known of you, so bearing in mind you're a member there, why not try some and let us know what you think of them. I mean, I'm hardly likely these days to put them at the top of my Christmas lists now, am I?

jandl100

27-11-2012, 14:03

Well, if NVA wishes to send me a phonostage to 'ave a go with, for my personal delectation and for those who wish to read my thoughts about them here on AOS and on the Subjectivist forum, then I would be very receptive to the idea.

I recall with pleasure and respect the NVA A80 monoblocks I bought - and I kept them for longer than most equipment - they were very fine sounding amps indeed. :thumbsup:

belloire

27-11-2012, 16:44

haha, i'm loving my (MM) NVA Phono2. had a trichord dino with (avondale) NCPSU for a while and i'm not sure it was better or worse really. just wondered :)

jandl100

27-11-2012, 16:50

Hey - wot?

Did I know that, Darren? :scratch:

I had an Avondale PSU with my Dino before I got the NCPSU. The Avondale was great with the Dino, but imo the NCPSU was a little bit better.

belloire

28-11-2012, 14:11

i think the Avondale was originally yours (maybe the dino too?)

think i got it from dicy on the wam.......

jandl100

30-11-2012, 08:16

Aha! - yep, right. That explains it, Darren. :) I still have the Dino, but sold the Avondale once I got the NCPSU -- quite possibly to dicy ... :scratch:
Who did you sell the Avondale/Dino on to, if I may ask? ... I'm just curious to track these things!

nat8808

30-11-2012, 14:24

Out of interest, what kind of valve stage is in the 63?

Basically, I mean, like whether it's Lampizator or some other easy to follow DIY thing? I wouldn't have any clue if you told me the technical name of the topology..

jandl100

30-11-2012, 15:27

ha! - I have no idea.

I'll be putting it up for sale soon, and I'll take some internal pics for that - perhaps the more tech-savvy AOSers will be able to enlighten us!

nat8808

30-11-2012, 17:48

Did you buy it from the forums? - I'll watch out for the pics.

I'm always interested to hear of people's opinions of valve output stages ala Lampizator - have lined up a few things to tinker with but not started any yet.

Obviously it hasn't blown away the Bushmaster or McCormack... but then it is still a 63 underneath.

jandl100

30-11-2012, 19:13

I got it on eBay.

No, not blown away the McC or BM, it's somewhat more limited in what it does well - kind of similar to EE Minimax valved CDP and DAC in that way - doesn't really swing the big stuff, but very good at smaller scale music.

jandl100

06-12-2012, 12:30

Yomanze

07-12-2012, 14:08

Hi Jerry, how how have you settled in with the Pioneer DV-737? Tried anything else up alongside it recently?

jandl100

07-12-2012, 16:18

Hi Jerry, how how have you settled in with the Pioneer DV-737? Tried anything else up alongside it recently?

The latest addition to my ongoing hifi menagerie ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8187.jpg

Only just unpacked it and plumbed it in.

Cor. :drool: - it don't 'alf sound good! :eek:

;)

Yomanze

11-12-2012, 12:25

Tried it as a transport though Jerry? :P

jandl100

11-12-2012, 15:27

Tried it as a transport though Jerry? :P

Yep! - into my wonderful Beresford Bushmaster DAC.

The BM is very very good -- the DAC in the McCormack is even better! :eek:

jandl100

15-12-2012, 10:45

WooHoo - latest arrival Chez-Jerry ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8336.jpg

An amazingly cute Alchemist Kraken APD6A MKII amp.
Really quite small - but dense and perfectly formed. Rather like me, in fact! :lol:
Separate smallish PSU box.

Mmm - sounds good - clear and precise, a little etch at the top end, I fancy, but that just highlights the detail a bit in a lot of music. :eyebrows:
Nice 3D depth to the imaging.

No, I'll be keeping my Parasound :rolleyes: but I've fancied trying an Alchemist amp for years now.

I'll enjoy it for a bit and then move it on, methinks.

Ali Tait

15-12-2012, 17:05

Always liked the look of them Jerry. Class A if memory serves?

jandl100

15-12-2012, 17:58

Class A? - yep, I can believe that - those heatsink fins get bloody hot after an hour or so! :eek:

Ali Tait

15-12-2012, 18:54

What's the power output?

jandl100

15-12-2012, 18:58

55wpc, I think

It sounds pretty powerful, actually.

MartinT

15-12-2012, 19:25

I doubt if it's class A all the way - 55Wpc would be 110W at less than 50% efficiency, so let's call it just under 300W. You would sure know if it was pumping that out as heat, and well before an hour was up.

chelsea

16-12-2012, 14:01

Thought they were about 15-20 watt class a.

Effem

16-12-2012, 14:24

If you look on the Alchemist fan's website you will find the specs

http://www.alchemisthifi.info/ranges/kraken/alchemist_kraken_apd6_integrated_amplifier.htm

jandl100

16-12-2012, 15:08

Aha - thanks Frank - so 55wpc or maybe a bit more.

They claim class A, but as Martin says, that doesn't seem right for full output!

Many tranny class A amps of my experience have a sound a bit on the soft, cumfy side - not so this little cutie! :nono:

Ali Tait

16-12-2012, 15:36

No way all of that will be class A, the heatsinks are not big enough!

Probably be like the big old MF A370, where the first approx 6w is class A.

Ali Tait

16-12-2012, 15:44

Contrast with this, which shows 55w output, probably all of which is class A.

http://www.alchemisthifi.info/ranges/the_alchemist/the_alchemist_mono_power_amplifier.htm

jandl100

23-12-2012, 06:41

Well, this speculative eBay purchase has proven to be a major shock.

Only had it a few days, but my beloved Parasound A21 is now "resting". :eyebrows:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8341.jpg

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8340.jpg

I haven't tried it yet on any BIG music, but small to medium scale is delivered with an uncanny in-the-room presence which is most beguiling - not to mention musically involving.

It came with 2x Mullard ecc83 fitted and stock Chinese 6SN7 and KT88 valves.

The Mullards were immediately swapped out for Amperex 7025 - a more immediate sound that is more to my liking.

The 6SN7 toobs then got replaced by 2x Ken Rad and 2 nice Russkies from my spares drawer. I'm on the look out for 2 more Ken Rads. ;)

A quad of PSVane KT88 are now on order from Ian at Alium Audio.

I can't really believe how good this sounds with the MBLs - simply yummy. :drool:

I understand that Anthony of Tube Distinctions can further enhance these amps .... :) .... it's not often that this box-swapper considers having mods done, but mighty fine though it sounds already, I am confident there is more to be had!

Oh - it's a Yaqin MC100B integrated if you can't see from the pix.
I much prefer it in its high powered UltraLinear mode, compared to the Triode mode. In Triode, the bass is decidedly soggy. But there is decent grip and control in UL.

Halo Hal - my beloved big Parasound Halo A21 tranny amp is staying - I know how much I enjoy that - but I feel that much enjoyment is to be had from the Yaqin as well. :thumbsup:

MartinT

23-12-2012, 07:45

Shock horror, Jerry. Respect for the Yaquin, as it must be good to rival your excellent Parasound.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 07:49

Yes, I was shocked and horrored as well, Martin!
I bought the Yaqin as it looked so pretty and was not that far off 'chumpo change', really.

A lot of kit passes thru Jerry Towers without making much of a sonic impact, and I fully expected the Yaqin to do the same. But well, ya gotta try things!

So imagine my befuddlement when the dang thing starts making bee-yootiful music! :scratch:

Marco

23-12-2012, 08:05

Lol, Jerry, I'll comment more when I've woken up properly, but the amp you've just bought is what started me on the road to thermionic joy, outperfoming my (then) ECS solid-state monoblocks, eventually ending up in the purchase of my gorgeous Copper amp.....

Yes, Anthony can modify the Yaqins to a serious degree, creating spectacular sonic results, but even in standard form, they sound very good, due primarily to their dual-mono design and use of high-quality transformers.

*HOWEVER*, BEWARE, as MC-100s, despite claims to the contrary, are NOT rated properly for UK mains, even when stated by ebay sellers as being the case!! Therefore, I would advise against using the amp for long periods of time, and NEVER leaving it switched on unattended, until a suitable step-down (bucking) transformer is used.

Seriously, mate, mine caught fire and went up in flames, when I wasn't using it with a step-down transformer, so BE VERY CAREFUL!!!

Marco.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 08:30

Thanks Marco.

That was almost a useful post! :lol:

.... until a suitable step-down (bucking) transformer is used.

So where do I get me one of these, then?

The Yaqin is rated at 220V, as you know, and I'm feeding it 230V from a regenerator, so maybe not at so great a risk as from the 240-250V often encountered from the UK mains direct?

MartinT

23-12-2012, 08:54

My incoming mains is often at 250-252V but my P10 outputs exactly 240V. If your regenerator outputs 230V you are probably safe enough (all equipment must have some tolerance). However, do heed Marco's warning not to leave it switched on unattended.

Marco

23-12-2012, 13:06

Hi Jerry,

Thanks Marco. That was almost a useful post! :lol:

So where do I get me one of these, then?

Any of the good DIY guys here, such as Nick (lurcher), Ali Tait, Leo, Reid Malenfant, or even Anthony TD, would build you one. £100 should cover it. Basically, it steps down the UK voltage to 110V, which the amp was originally dsigned to used with.

The Yaqin is rated at 220V...

Trust me, it's BOLLOCKS, and simply a marketing exercise, designed to make them sell to UK buyers. The transformers may be rated for 220V, but the internal components, such as caps and resistors aren't, and so can't handle the over-voltage in the circuit for any length of time. That's what happened to my Yaqin.

One minute I was happily listening to music, and next minute there was a squealing noise... When I looked round the black capacitors in between the green-covered transformers were bulging out like someone's eyeballs, you see in horror films, and then the amp caught fire!! :eek:

Fortunately I was only a few feet away, so ran over and hit the off switch before anything more 'spectacular' happened, whilst gagging with the acrid stench of melted caps! :spew:

Luckily, Anthony managed to fix the amp, make it safe, and also perform a few tweaks, so the amp ended up sounding superb, but I can't stress enough:

THE YAQIN IS NOT SAFE FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF USE, ON UK MAINS, WITHOUT A STEP-DOWN TRANSFORMER.

you know, and I'm feeding it 230V from a regenerator, so maybe not at so great a risk as from the 240-250V often encountered from the UK mains direct?

The 10V won't make much of a difference, as the circuit is still at danger from the effects of over-voltage, which it was never properly designed to handle!

Be very careful. I can only pass onto you the practical experience I've had using that amp - and others I know have experienced a similar thing.

Marco.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 13:16

Err - so you're saying it's really a 110V mains voltage amplifier? :scratch:

That doesn't really make sense to me.

Surely the whole shebang would simply go phut as soon as it was plugged into 230V ... :scratch:

Are there any electrically competent folks here who would care to comment?

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 13:24

No, like a lot of Chinese stuff, the transformers are rated for 220v, which means on our mains components in the amp can be subject to over voltage. Given the poor quality of some of them, the result can be what happened to Marco. I have also had the mains transformer go on a Chinese amp. It did last several years though.

I'd be inclined to follow Maro's advice. Either change the mains trannie for a properly rated one, or use a bucking transformer to get the voltage down.

It's a lottery with the things. The amp could be fine for years, but why take the chance?

jandl100

23-12-2012, 13:33

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 13:46

Bid on this Jerry. All you need to do is put an IEC on the output to plug into the amp. Set the voltage before you plug it in to the amp.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Zenith-6-Amp-240-Volt-Variac-With-Case-Included-For-Sale-Due-To-Retirement-/350676357695?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Suppl ies_ET&hash=item51a5f0923f

jandl100

23-12-2012, 14:01

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:06

Ignore the numbers on the dial. Just use a multimeter to set 220v on the output by twiddling the dial, measured on the output lead. Then plug into the amp.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 14:13

Ignore the numbers on the dial. Just use a multimeter to set 220v on the output by twiddling the dial, measured on the output lead. Then plug into the amp.

Ummmm .... I'm not sure I feel safe meddling around with 100s of volts. :doh:

Yep, I've got a mutlimeter and I am quite happy sticking the probes into the holes provided on the Yaqin to check the bias - but fookin' around with bare wires at 200+V .... :nono:

Or am I being a wuss? :mental:

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:18

Is it a captive mains lead on the amp or an IEC?

jandl100

23-12-2012, 14:18

IEC

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:24

Ok, if you're happy fitting an IEC plug to the output lead on the variac, you can them measure voltage by sticking the probes from the multimeter in the slots of the IEC plug, so no bare wires.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 14:27

Aha! - OK --- yup, I'm happy with that.

I can manage to fit a plug or IEC connector. ;)

So the probes go into a live slot and the earth slot?

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:30

Live and neutral slots.

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:30

I'd probably set it to 210v to give the amp an easier time.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 14:31

Live and neutral slots.

:lol:

OK!

-- and 210V it is.

Ali Tait

23-12-2012, 14:36

Live and earth will give the same reading :-)

Marco

23-12-2012, 16:01

Nice one, Jerry. Better being safe than sorry, mate. Once you fit the step-down transformer, you'll be comfortable in the knowledge that the amp is safe.

Returning to things of a hi-fi nature, you've got yourself a smashing valve amp there - in fact one of the best I've heard, and it costs peanuts! :eyebrows:

Btw, are you using it just as an integrated amp, or as a power amp, from which to fit a separate preamp? If you didn't know, you can do both, and fitting a high-quality preamp to the input sockets, on the front panel, massively improves the Yaqin's performance! ;)

Marco.

jandl100

23-12-2012, 19:21

Yep - I'm using it with my lovely Restek pre-amp - :thumbsup:

nat8808

28-12-2012, 03:15

For the sake of curiosity, is the problem with Yaquin that although the transformer is of course for 220v, the caps aren't rated much higher than that and fail early? Often you see caps rated at 640v etc for valve amps but perhaps they scrimped and gone for 250v ones?

if that was the case, I'd get the mods done and the caps uprated whilst there..

jandl100

28-12-2012, 07:20

I've just won a Variac transformer on eBay - so I should soon be in a position to set the voltage to 210V and use the Yaqin safely.

The eBay seller I bought the Yaqin amp from claimed the 'coupling caps' had been updated to Mundorfs -- although quite what that means is unclear to a complete technical numpty like me. :scratch: :lol:

But yes, Nat, the sound quality I have heard from the Yaqin amp so far is excellent to say the least, so I reckon I'll be looking to spend a few £££ and get it suitably upgraded.
Is Anthony @ Tube Distinctions my man for this? :)
-- he's not too far away from me, over t'border.

John

28-12-2012, 08:04

Anthony or Nick (Lurcher) are both ideal for this work
Anthony be a lot closer

Marco

28-12-2012, 09:42

Nice one, Jerry.

Simply because Anthony has modified a few of these before, and that he's nearer, I'd recommend him for the job. Best to email him through the contact page on his website, as he's not always on here to read PMs:

http://www.tubedistinctions.co.uk/contact_info.htm

And yes, I'd get him to mod the amp at the same time as him doing the step-down transformer - trust me, you'll LOVE the results! ;)

Marco.

jandl100

28-12-2012, 10:16

Yep, thanks Marco.

the Variac traffo is a standalone device, so that should be OK.

But I'll get in contact with Anthony in the Noo Year and sort an update out.

jandl100

13-01-2013, 13:29

:)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8425.jpg

Ali Tait

13-01-2013, 13:33

Very nice Jerry, how does it sound?

jandl100

13-01-2013, 13:44

17wpc -- so the first concern was power .....

a) plenty of power
b) only just plugged it in! - but 1st impressions of sq are very favourable.

Going from the sublime 250wpc Parasound to the differently sublime 17wpc Viva 300 B amp ... :scratch: :eyebrows:

Marco

13-01-2013, 14:11

How does it compare with the Yaqin, Jerry? That's what I'd like to know... :)

Marco.

jandl100

13-01-2013, 14:21

How does it compare with the Yaqin, Jerry? That's what I'd like to know... :)

Marco.

Me, too.

Time will tell.

It's not even early days yet, it's barely early hours! More like early minutes. :)

Initial impression? -- very enjoyable. :cool:

Rowlf

13-01-2013, 14:28

Congrats Jerry. Absolutely beautiful looking Viva! Looking forward to hearing more of your review after the amp has settled down.

Looks really heavy too and it must have been some exercise for you.

jandl100

13-01-2013, 14:35

Looks really heavy too and it must have been some exercise for you.

Yep - getting on for 70lb, I think.

But no problem - I'm used to lugging heavy hifi around! http://yoursmiles.org/psmile/strong/p1009.gif (http://yoursmiles.org/p-strong.php)

I will have to figure out where to permanently house it - it's too tall for my normal shelves ... :scratch:

jandl100

14-01-2013, 08:03

Viva amp update .... :)

The amp is a Viva Audio 300p integrated amp. It has a push-pull pair of 300B valves on each channel giving a specced 17wpc.
A 12AX7 and 6SN7 complete the valve line-up.
It's quite a heavy beast at 68lb or so, and is reputed to have excellent quality transformers.

It has 4 inputs plus a Direct input which bypasses the pre-amp section and allows use as a power amp.,

Hmm. There really does seem to be a "300B magic" - a lovely natural midrange tonality with a real sense of 3D presence. The challenge would appear to be to fettle the overall system so that the bass and treble don't get left too far behind! :lol:

As delivered, the valves are 4x EH 300B, a Tung-Sol 6SN7 and a Mullard ecc83.

The EH 300B seem to be a well thought of valve - interesting comparative review here (http://www.hificollective.co.uk/valves/300b_review.html).
As 300B valves are expensive to fool around with - especially when 4 are needed! - I'll stick with those for now.

My first inclination was to swap out the Mullard ecc83, as I generally find them a bit over-smooth and laidback. To hand were Amperex 7025 and a Tung-Sol 12AX7. To my surprise, I find that the Mullard works best in the Viva! -- hey, maybe Nick at the Emporium knows what he is doing after all! :eyebrows: The Viva has a tendency to shout a bit with the other valves. I have a TAD 12AX7 on order - that will be interesting to try.

I've played around a bit with the 6SN7, but that is still ongoing and I will report back later - I have KenRad, a nice unnamed Soviet, and EH (non-gold pin) to play with vs the supplied Tung-Sol.

By the end of the evening's listening everything was sounding very nice but a bit vague. So out of curiosity I dug out a pair of Nordost Enchantress speaker cables that I bought on eBay a couple of months ago, but had never got around to trying!
Whoa, yeah. Good synergy - everything just kind of tightened up and came to more dynamic life. Way to go, as our American cousins say.

I'm much looking forward to today's listening, once swmbo hoists herself out of bed! :D

jandl100

14-01-2013, 10:55

Well, come the morning and the Mullard ecc83 is too smooth and laid back - must have been that it suited late night listening.

Valve rolling to suit the time of day - whatever next. :scratch:
A Tung-Sol 12AX7 has injected a bit of daylight sparkle :thumbsup: - I reckon a TAD will be spot-on!

stupinder

14-01-2013, 11:39

Stunning looking bit of kit, Jerry!!!

jandl100

14-01-2013, 12:05

Yeah! - it's impressive, isn't it, Stu - and it's coming along quite nicely now - the key to happiness with 300B valves (well, this 300B amp anyway, and for my tastes in musical presentation) seems to be to inject a bit of PRaT by careful choice of supporting valves! :dance:

Sovereign

14-01-2013, 16:20

How does it compare with the Yaqin, Jerry? That's what I'd like to know... :)

Marco.
Come on Jerry, stop quacking around, how does it sound compared to the Yaquin?:)

Ali Tait

14-01-2013, 19:19

Are the EH's the Gold Grid ones Jerry? If not, the GG's are a fair bit better than the standard ones IMHO.

glenann

14-01-2013, 19:31

Come on Jerry, stop quacking around, how does it sound compared to the Yaquin?:)

+1

jandl100

15-01-2013, 00:19

Come on Jerry, stop quacking around, how does it sound compared to the Yaquin?:)

Hmm ... nah ... I'm not rushing into that question.

They are sufficiently different, and the Viva sound very valve dependent, that it's not a question with an easy answer.

I'd say that the Viva is not a Marco amp, though! ... it's not particularly interested in pinning me to the back wall, at least with my speakers, but it does other things very well indeed and is enjoyable and interesting to listen to (which most amps are not).

I'll play around with the Viva for a few more days - maybe investigate EH Gold Grid 300B valves (I'm pretty sure mine are just the standard EH) - anyone know the cheapest/best source for the EHGG? ... maybe even a loaner set? :whistle:

I certainly am happy enough listening to the Viva at the moment, with the Yacky and the Parasound 'resting'. ;)

jandl100

15-01-2013, 00:34

These won't break the bank - any opinions?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300B-Billington-Gold-Special-Edition-Tube-Matched-pairs-/170970492955?pt=UK_Sound_Vision_Valves_Vacuum_Tube s&hash=item27cea2b01b

stupinder

15-01-2013, 09:02

These won't break the bank - any opinions?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300B-Billington-Gold-Special-Edition-Tube-Matched-pairs-/170970492955?pt=UK_Sound_Vision_Valves_Vacuum_Tube s&hash=item27cea2b01b
.
EH300B GGs available for 138 quid new for a matched pair here http://www.hotroxuk.com/electro-harmonix-300b-gold-grid.html Very happy with the EHs in my amp but sadly I need a matched quad:doh:

jandl100

15-01-2013, 09:05

Yeah, thanks Stu - I'd already spotted the HotRox offer - but £276+ (I need a quad, too) for an unknown improvement ---- dunno ---- :scratch:

I reckon I might be better off optimising the ecc83 and 6SN7 toobs to start with ..... :scratch: :scratch: .... much cheaper! :D

stupinder

15-01-2013, 09:09

jandl100

15-01-2013, 09:14

Nah - those Billington Gold 300B are starting at £100 for a quad! http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/170970492955?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649
They look a bit "different", don't they!

But there's next to no info about them on t'internet .... :scratch: .... just a waste of £100? I think they retail at £300 a quad.

stupinder

15-01-2013, 09:14

I have both Sylvania and EH 6SN7s for my amp - prefer the Sylvanias.

stupinder

15-01-2013, 09:16

Nah - those Billington Gold 300B are starting at £100 for a quad!

But there's next to no info about them on t'internet .... :scratch: .... just a waste of £100? I think they retail at £300 a quad.
The box on the Billingtons looks like an EH box!

jandl100

15-01-2013, 09:16

I have both Sylvania and EH 6SN7s for my amp - prefer the Sylvanias.

Why?

I need specifics, man!! :doh: :lol:

Which EH - Gold or standard?

jandl100

15-01-2013, 09:17

The box on the Billingtons looks like an EH box!

Yep -it is, you're right.

But the valves don't look like standard 300B - they are quite a strange shape!

stupinder

15-01-2013, 09:20

Why?

I need specifics, man!! :doh: :lol:

Which EH - Gold or standard?
It's over 2 years since I took the EH out of the amp and I can't remember that far back:rolleyes:. I did at the time do lots of switching between the two sets of valves and never bothered putting the EH back in again. I'll have a play tomorrow and report back.

jandl100

15-01-2013, 10:04

Hmmm :scratch:

I'm not sure now which type of EH 300B I have.

Looking at pics on t'web (http://www.google.co.uk/search?q=eh+300b&hl=en&tbo=u&rlz=1T4DSGQ_en___GB480&tbm=isch&source=univ&sa=X&ei=xSb1ULCoMemY0QWR24FI&ved=0CEoQsAQ&biw=1366&bih=634) the standard EH 300B has black lettering, whereas mine are kind of gold-ish .....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF8428.jpg

So do I have EH Gold Grid 300B valves already? :scratch:

Sovereign

15-01-2013, 10:27

Hmm ... nah ... I'm not rushing into that question.

They are sufficiently different, and the Viva sound very valve dependent, that it's not a question with an easy answer.

I know I'm just interested in your findings, ;)

jandl100

15-01-2013, 10:48

I know I'm just interested in your findings, ;)

The Viva wants to be much more laid back and relaxed than the Yaqin amp - but while some folks would fall madly deeply in love with that sound, it isn't what I want.

I need a bit of pep in the music to keep me interested -- pizzaz, I generally call it -- and, as luck would have it, the Sovtek 6SN7 I have just slipped into the Viva's sockets is the best yet in that regard. Woo! :eek:

... I reckon you can fine tune the Viva to give pretty much any sound presentation you want just by swapping around the ecc83 and 6SN7 valves!

But if you want an interim verdict, and a huge over-simplification, the Yaqin majors on Big & Bold, the Viva does delicacy and subtle insight.
The Yaqin does the 3D imaging thing better, especially with the Sovtek 6SN7 and Tung-Sol 12AX7.

I guess, with my speakers (probably around 88dB/W in-room) the Yaqin with its extra power is the better overall match for a wide range of music, but the Viva has subtleties that are very beguiling indeed!

Which to use?
At the moment, I dunno - why choose, though? I can have both! :D

But much more listening and fooling around with valves and ancillaries is needed to get the best out of the Viva, I feel sure.

Dingdong

15-01-2013, 11:00

Erm, nice display of your wireless key there Jerry.

jandl100

15-01-2013, 11:04

Erm, nice display of your wireless key there Jerry.

Oops. Well spotted! :doh:

Sorted - new photo now in place!

Sovereign

15-01-2013, 11:14

Nice one, thanks very much. What upgrades were carried out to your Yaquin before you bought it?

The Viva wants to be much more laid back and relaxed than the Yaqin amp - but while some folks would fall madly deeply in love with that sound, it isn't what I want.

I need a bit of pep in the music to keep me interested -- pizzaz, I generally call it -- and, as luck would have it, the Sovtek 6SN7 I have just slipped into the Viva's sockets is the best yet in that regard. Woo! :eek:

... I reckon you can fine tune the Viva to give pretty much any sound presentation you want just by swapping around the ecc83 and 6SN7 valves!

But if you want an interim verdict, and a huge over-simplification, the Yaqin majors on Big & Bold, the Viva does delicacy and subtle insight.
The Yaqin does the 3D imaging thing better, especially with the Sovtek 6SN7 and Tung-Sol 12AX7.

I guess, with my speakers (probably around 88dB/W in-room) the Yaqin with its extra power is the better overall match for a wide range of music, but the Viva has subtleties that are very beguiling indeed!

Which to use?
At the moment, I dunno - why choose, though? I can have both! :D

But much more listening and fooling around with valves and ancillaries is needed to get the best out of the Viva, I feel sure.

Dingdong

15-01-2013, 11:27

Oops. Well spotted! :doh:

Sorted - new photo now in place!

You can never be too careful.

There was a post on another forum about an ebayer selling a dress. She didn't notice the image of her in the mirror without any pants on. :lol:

Ali Tait

15-01-2013, 11:30

The front end valves often make more of a difference than the power valves.

stupinder

15-01-2013, 11:44

Marco

15-01-2013, 23:00

Hi Jerry.

I'd say that the Viva is not a Marco amp, though! ... it's not particularly interested in pinning me to the back wall, at least with my speakers, but it does other things very well indeed and is enjoyable and interesting to listen to (which most amps are not).

Lol!

The problem for me is that I like recorded music, reproduced through a hi-fi system to, as far as possible (and I mean as far as possible) sound like REAL music, i.e. such as is heard, un-amplified, when played by musicians using real instruments. I also demand that a system can play loudly, cleanly, as let's face it, when an orchestra is in full flow, or a rock concert is jumping, the sound is visceral and has serious gravitas, and so if you want the sound produced to approach being lifelike at home, you need a system that can reproduce, as closely as possible, the 'physicality' of that live experience, to the same degree as it portrays the more subtle (and equally valuable) subtleties of live music....

With enough attention to detail, in terms of component choice, the synergy achieved therein between those components, and the optimal set-up of them thereof, it *can* be done, and with less overall financial expenditure than perhaps one would imagine!

I don't 'do' components or systems which are imbued with too much of a 'sonic signature', or that roll-off transients and limit resolution, in order to make things sound 'nice', and for me single-ended 300B valve amps simply add too much of their own 'character' to proceedings, in order for what I've described above to become anything like a reality! Coloured and euphonic sounding? You betcha! :exactly:

Yes, as you've noted, the midrange is gorgeous, but that's only achieved by adding unacceptable (for me) coloration, through the high levels of distortion that 300Bs produce, to the rest of the frequency range, which is also important! I guess it depends a lot on what music you listen to, and for some, that gorgeously creamy and mellifluous sounding midrange would complement the vast majority of their music collection, but not mine, as it's WAY too diverse! :nono:

I once heard a World Audio Design push-pull 300B amp, belonging to Greg, at one of the meets, and that was superb - undoubtedly the best 300B amp I've ever heard, so 300Bs can have 'balls' too, but would I swap it for my copper amp? Nope, not a chance!

I'll be interested in what you think of the Yaqin, compared with the Viva. The former, although far from perfect, is much more to my taste, with its vibrant, peppy and exuberant sound, if a little rough around the edges, which never fails to put a smile on your face, no matter what music you feed it. It has BALLS, baby... 300B SEs, in comparison, have marshmallows!! ;)

Marco.