Justin & Jerry's Hifi Blog [Archive] - Page 8

jandl100

08-09-2016, 15:24

Talking of root veg that 'Carrot' didn't last long ;)

True.
The Carrot was an unfortunate victim of circumstance.
It really is a very fine amp and deserved a longer stay, but when the Black Turnip power amp came available I just couldn't resist trying it paired with the Black Turnip pre-amp I've had for a while and greatly enjoyed - the power amps don't come along very often at all, especially in Minty condition.
That's the way it goes with box-swapping sometimes.

Roy S

08-09-2016, 15:54

That's the way it goes with box-swapping sometimes.

Very true. I've had the Quad Elites in the main system for an unusually long period of time now & am itching to try something else but know I'd struggle to better them.

User211

08-09-2016, 18:43

What lessons is dem power meters telling you about how much power the MBLs need to do loud?

jandl100

08-09-2016, 19:14

What lessons is dem power meters telling you about how much power the MBLs need to do loud?

0.1 - 1 Watt for typical decent volumes.
10 Watts max for most big classical stuff played at suitable levels
~25 Watts for Dream Theater "at 11" ... I can't even imagine getting close to peak power.

As well as the power meters there are DC and Heat (thermal) warning lights. I can't foresee them ever coming on.

User211

08-09-2016, 19:18

I seem to remember Blues For Klook using some power. Try that at 11 and I bet you see the needles move quite a bit more in places.

jandl100

08-09-2016, 19:19

I seem to remember Blues For Klook using some power. Try that at 11 and I bet you see the needles move quite a bit more in places.

Good plan - but that will have to wait til tomorrow.

User211

08-09-2016, 19:44

Silly power. I'm freaked, as you should able to tell from the erratic camera movement!:lol:

Sound is duff on this one the camera mic is freaked too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1Ycded7AMw

jandl100

08-09-2016, 19:52

Listening now to a Bach organ recital .... sustained full-range chords quite loud and the needles are sitting around 1 to 3W pretty consistently.
Most of it is at less than 0.1W.

I've always said the MBLs are easy to drive. :)

User211

08-09-2016, 20:53

I'm not believing nuffin' guv til I see the video evidence with a decent SPL meter:nono:;)

jandl100

08-09-2016, 20:55

Don't hold your breath. ;)

User211

08-09-2016, 20:58

dantheman91

09-09-2016, 11:42

I can see the appeal in the philips gear gerry looks superb so much so ive just bought an FE 960 on ebay....love the green lights looks funky has 7 inputs....:eek:

User211

10-09-2016, 11:42

http://i1101.photobucket.com/albums/g436/User_211/DSC02709_zps5sjdnr9w.jpg

These thing have shocked me a bit. They completely change the sound of the Furutech cable I am using. Very smooth mids and highs, whilst still retaining sufficient bite.

The effect is greater (or at least on a par) than a triode roll in the DAC. Madness. I've decided I really seriously like them, more to be ordered.

I might get the test mic out and cross compare the Cardas with Furutech I/C I have with these. Something is measurably going on here. Good experiment. Same Furutech cable, different connectors.

brian2957

10-09-2016, 12:44

Got a link please Justin . I like trying new cables and plugs :D

TazSob

10-09-2016, 13:00

Got a link please Justin . I like trying new cables and plugs :D

+1

User211

10-09-2016, 13:02

Could try this dude. My seller got an ebay ban for some reason. These are branded and cost about eight pounds more than I paid if you include P&P.

Obviously can't guarantee you will like the results you get in your system, but they work in mine, for me:) The quality is lovely for the cash.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/mpp24-4x-RCA-Rhodium-Carbon-Fiber-Plug-9mm-Cable-Phono-Copper-Connector-HiFi-/261590888327?hash=item3ce8082f87:g:zgkAAOSwrx5UXKz F

User211

10-09-2016, 13:18

Just placed an order with the link I supplied above. Fingers crossed:)

brian2957

10-09-2016, 17:56

Thanks Justin .

jandl100

14-09-2016, 08:18

Second system update.

I've had these little Klegg 103 Symphony speakers for a few months now and I have been very impressed.
Surprisingly large scale, neutral, dynamic, detailed, nicely focused sound.
With the assistance of a Jamo Sub 200 subwoofer to add a bit of lowest end authority - they have very good bass without this, but the sub just adds that soupcon of extra whoomph.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Klegg%20103%20Symphony%20speakers_zpswwbffbwe.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Klegg%20103%20Symphony%20speakers_zpswwbffbwe.jpg. html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Klegg%20S103%20speakers%201_zps2heemfg1.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Klegg%20S103%20speakers%201_zps2heemfg1.jpg.html)

I'm particularly curious about the tweeter used, I don't recall seeing it before and it really is a great sounding unit.

The Kleggies started out on low IKEA stands, to keep them out of the way visually.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Klegg%20and%20Maggie%20speakers_zpswu5o2ogz.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Klegg%20and%20Maggie%20speakers_zpswu5o2ogz.jpg.ht ml)

... an interesting change from the 5'6" high Maggies! :eyebrows:
Sonically very different also, as might be expected. I enjoy the Maggies enormously, but it's great to be speaker-swapping again after 6 years of the MBLs in my main system!

But after a while I felt that the low-down positioning was holding them back, and a quick trial on some dining room chairs confirmed that.

Not wanting to spend vast sums, I thought I'd try some ordinary stools to raise them up a bit. Once again from IKEA!
They looked ridiculous standing upright :doh: but on their sides they have an alien-like insectoid appeal. The wife likes them a lot like this and thinks they are about to start walking across the room ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Klegg%20103%20Symphony%20speakers%202_zps57pk5yt7. jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Klegg%20103%20Symphony%20speakers%202_zps57pk5yt7. jpg.html)

Not everyone's cup of tea, I'd wager - but they sound really good now! :thumbsup:

brian2957

14-09-2016, 08:27

These look interesting Jerry , love the finish . Wonder what they'll sound like when used with a proper stand . Appear to be unavailable through the usual outlets though .

jandl100

14-09-2016, 08:35

These look interesting Jerry , love the finish . Wonder what they'll sound like when used with a proper stand . Appear to be unavailable through the usual outlets though .

Yep, no longer available.

I think Klegg were mainly into cheaper AV speaker - you know, the eggs on sticks approach.

let's see if I can find a pic ... ah yes ... http://ii.alatest.com/product/190x190/e/f/Klegg-M8-501-0.jpg

They then decided to do a 'proper' speaker and came out with the ones I have.
Seriously good, but I suspect not what the punters were expecting from them so they soon died out!

yes, I'm quite tempted to try a proper stand - I had a wanted ad in the classifieds for white stands!

jandl100

14-09-2016, 08:44

... they were available in a range of colours.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Klegg-Symphony-Bookshelf-Stereo-Speakers/dp/B0007D7OM2

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41T8JMABJJL.jpg

brian2957

14-09-2016, 08:57

Yep , I had a look on Amazon Jerry and this image came up . I've never heard of this brand as AV isn't really my thing .

Q Acoustics do a very nice white stand . Expensive though https://www.amazon.co.uk/Acoustics-Concept-Speaker-Stands-Gloss/dp/B00CLQGGUE/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1473843404&sr=8-6&keywords=q+acoustics+stands

jandl100

14-09-2016, 09:10

Yes, seen those Q stands, thanks - very nice! But, as you say, a lot of £££.

These look neat https://www.amazon.co.uk/Norstone-Stand-Speaker-Stylum-White/dp/B00AJZCBFS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473843800&sr=8-1&keywords=white+speaker+stands but still more than I want to spend, really.

I'll keep my eye out on ebay and see what comes along for a few tens of £ :).

No rush - quite happy with how they are now. - they look a bit like a bass-box-less pair of Leak 2075!
http://www.hifihunter.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Leak-2075-288x300.jpg

brian2957

14-09-2016, 09:20

The problem is you won't know how good these speakers really are until you put em on decent stands Jerry . They certainly look the part and would look very good indeed atop those Q Acoustic stands :)

jandl100

14-09-2016, 09:40

The problem is you won't know how good these speakers really are until you put em on decent stands Jerry . They certainly look the part and would look very good indeed atop those Q Acoustic stands :)

Mmm - yes/no/maybe. :)

Some speakers do respond well to stands, I recall a pair of ProAc Response 2 which needed Target R2 stands to achieve the 80% of their potential that other good stands missed.
That was an extreme case, though. Most speakers are less fussy. And some aren't fussy at all.

But yes, it would be interesting to try the Kleggs on a variety of proper stands to see which suited them best.

brian2957

14-09-2016, 09:43

Yes , my mate has those speakers , and stands which look very similar . The Proacs sound very good indeed.

User211

14-09-2016, 18:56

I used to run JBL Control 1Gs on those IKEA stands. I thought they were pretty good and they certainly hold the speaker well. As they point the speaker upwards, it was sort of a way to get some bass as the speaker was close to the ground, but sounded fine at a distance. It just looks odd.

Anyway, nice looking speaks. My Atacama lava filled stands would work well with them I expect. The ones my M&Ds are on.

Barry

15-09-2016, 17:54

M&D ? Do you mean M&K?

jandl100

15-09-2016, 18:09

No. Mark & Daniels, ribbon hybrid speakers of considerable accomplishment, if rather current hungry!

jandl100

03-10-2016, 18:54

The problem is you won't know how good these speakers really are until you put em on decent stands Jerry . They certainly look the part and would look very good indeed atop those Q Acoustic stands :)

Gosh, you do nag, Brian. ;)

OK - new stands bought. No, not the mega-dosh Q-Acoustics.
Pretty rigid - there's a steel bar bracing the top and bottom plates on these stands.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/kleggie%20on%20stand_zpsbqnbftau.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/kleggie%20on%20stand_zpsbqnbftau.jpg.html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/kleggies_zps709aibiw.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/kleggies_zps709aibiw.jpg.html)

Yup, they do sound even better atop these stands.
Playing Bax symphony #1, London Grammar and Emmy Lou Harris' Wrecking Ball. :thumbsup:

Pieoftheday

03-10-2016, 20:29

Jerry, where did you get the stands? Cheers Jim

struth

03-10-2016, 20:33

Quite an attractive pairing. No idea what they are though...very nice anyways

jandl100

03-10-2016, 20:43

Jerry, where did you get the stands? Cheers Jim

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/371657032112?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Pieoftheday

03-10-2016, 20:52

Thanks Jerry, do you find them stable? They have em in black too:)

brian2957

03-10-2016, 21:20

Gosh, you do nag, Brian. ;)

OK - new stands bought. No, not the mega-dosh Q-Acoustics.
Pretty rigid - there's a steel bar bracing the top and bottom plates on these stands.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/kleggie%20on%20stand_zpsbqnbftau.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/kleggie%20on%20stand_zpsbqnbftau.jpg.html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/kleggies_zps709aibiw.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/kleggies_zps709aibiw.jpg.html)

Yup, they do sound even better atop these stands.
Playing Bax symphony #1, London Grammar and Emmy Lou Harris' Wrecking Ball. :thumbsup:

Very classy mate :)

jandl100

04-10-2016, 06:22

Thanks Jerry, do you find them stable? They have em in black too :)

Well, they are 4 footed rather than 3, so are not inherently wobble-free, and there is not really any range of adjustment on the footer threads if they are to held solidly. So it all depends on your floor flatness! ... or you could put a 3-footed platform underneath.

The stands come with circular rubber-pad feet, not spikes. Although I'd imagine that threaded spikes could be fitted.

I have to confess that I don't obsess about that sort of stuff these days - Does it sound good and does it let me into the music? Yes. Right, cue the next track!

And yes, also available in darkly tinted glass - but why would I want to obscure my lovely tartan carpet? :scratch: :lol:

jandl100

21-10-2016, 20:36

It's no good, I just can't get bi-amping with different amps to work well. :scratch:

I thought it might be good to run my Carat A57 integrated amp on the midrange/treble of my MBL speakers and the Philips 380 power amp on the bass.

Both are, imo, excellent amps. The Carrot having a little more subtlety and finesse, and Phil majoring on clarity and clout.
Should have worked well, I would have thought ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Carat%20and%20Philips%20amps_zpsrtaxvjxj.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Carat%20and%20Philips%20amps_zpsrtaxvjxj.jpg.html)

But nope, the sound just didn't jell right. Definitely sounded a bit off, and well short of either amp on its own.
Weird. :hmm:

struth

21-10-2016, 20:40

The gain on the amps will be different so it wont sound right. maybe using digital xovers would solve the mismatch.

jandl100

21-10-2016, 20:43

The gain on the amps will be different so it wont sound right. maybe using digital xovers would solve the mismatch.

No, it's not that. There is adjustable gain on the Philips power amp, so I matched them up OK.

walpurgis

21-10-2016, 20:48

Have you maintained correct phase?

Could it be an amp output impedance issue (can't see how though)?

Experiment with interconnects and speaker cables.

Have you tried switching the amps round. You never know! :)

jandl100

21-10-2016, 21:07

Have you maintained correct phase?

Ah, good point! .....

Nope, it was OK.

Have you tried switching the amps round. You never know!

Hmm, worth a try ....

Nope, slightly worse, as I had surmised.

Going back to just one amp is a major improvement!

I've found this before when I tried bi-amping with different amps. With different sound signatures, it just messes up the whole presentation.

walpurgis

21-10-2016, 21:13

I must admit. I've tried bi-amping a couple of times and not been impressed.

User211

22-10-2016, 10:04

I have had amazing results witnessed by a whole crew of hi-fi casualties. Had massive fails too.

User211

22-10-2016, 10:09

Hey I have 5 amps at the moment. What's your record Jerry?

Counting monos as amps I have 8.

danilo

22-10-2016, 22:07

:lol: IMO that's NO badge of honor.
I have that many as well....basically because I'm Lazy And Tight.
So I haven't throw out.. what has definitively proven to be no longer desireable

Macca

23-10-2016, 09:34

10 amps here but that's nothing relatively speaking. There are folk here who have ten examples of just one amp.

walpurgis

23-10-2016, 09:41

If we're including pre-amps, integrateds, monoblocks and part assembled amps, I have at least twelve. I think. (must have a proper check :))

Very tempted to add a Creek integrated to the collection. They are a bit special.

jandl100

23-10-2016, 09:52

dantheman91

23-10-2016, 10:01

Very tempted to add a Creek integrated to the collection. They are a bit special.[/QUOTE]

Im still waiting for my 6060 to return home after have substantial work to get it working correctly...

walpurgis

23-10-2016, 10:03

A Destiny or Destiny 2 is what I have in mind. Has to be black. I'll have to flog something first though. :D

walpurgis

23-10-2016, 10:06

Im still waiting for my 6060 to return home after have substantial work to get it working correctly...

Who's doing the work Dan?

User211

23-10-2016, 11:05

[emoji38] IMO that's NO badge of honor.
I have that many as well....basically because I'm Lazy And Tight.
So I haven't throw out.. what has definitively proven to be no longer desireable
No it is a badge of fail. Real people usually have nothing that actually counts as a hi-fi amp. They are normal. Probably. Maybe. Possibly.

lordmortlock

23-10-2016, 11:17

Just counting those that have speakers outputs (not preamps) ... looking around the room I have 9 (all stereo). Sheesh. Crazy. I wish I hadn't counted. :lol:
And at least 3 in my other abode.
So 12 altogether. :mental:

And 2 preamps, 3 if I include a DAC with volume control and multi-inputs.

I'd like to sell some of them but I just can't be bothered with all the fuss!

Nine amps here, counting monoblocks as one amp. Don't sell them, use them as ornaments :)

http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m192/lordmortlock/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_1178_zps1swbsopm.jpg (http://s104.photobucket.com/user/lordmortlock/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_1178_zps1swbsopm.jpg.html)

lordmortlock

23-10-2016, 11:18

No it is a badge of fail. Real people usually have nothing that actually counts as a hi-fi amp. They are normal. Probably. Maybe. Possibly.

:lol:

jandl100

05-11-2016, 08:21

2nd system update.

With the Maggies now gone to Castle Firebottle, the room seems strangely empty!
But, curiously, the little Kleggie speakers, while sounding pretty decent before, have now made a fairly major step up in performance.

I guess the Maggies must have been singing along with, and somewhat behind, the music.

It's pretty damn decent now, :)

And I took advantage of the change to have a major system tidy up and move.
Tucked into the corner now, and looking rather neat, I think.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/Kleggy%20system%203-5-16_zpsylra8lb8.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/Kleggy%20system%203-5-16_zpsylra8lb8.jpg.html)

brian2957

05-11-2016, 08:39

Looking good Jerry . Those little Klegg speakers certainly look the part :)

jandl100

12-12-2016, 09:34

Let's keep the blog up to date for the main system electronics ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1374_zpscoyyg9wh.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1374_zpscoyyg9wh.jpg.html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1375_zpsvc7gbuzs.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1375_zpsvc7gbuzs.jpg.html)

The main upgrade since last time is the new duck. :thumbsup:

And a new USB > co-ax converter - a Trends UD10 with a battery power supply.
The battery PSU makes a substantial improvement, I was surprised how well that worked - I just have to remember to re-charge the batteries every day or so! :doh:

The Trends sits next to a new plasma ball and the old Xiang Sheng DAC01A which has been here since early in the year and still brings a smile to my face. :) Amazing sound - the fact that it cost peanuts is an added bonus.

And then the venerable Philips Black Tulip pre and power amp still drop my jaw. I've not heard better amps in my system. :thumbsup:

And top left, Pioneer DV-737 as a CDT for the occasional recording not on Spotify and for when the broadband occasionally drops out of an evening; and an Arcam DV29 for DVDs.

The MBL speakers are still in place, of course.

hornucopia

12-12-2016, 10:37

Watch here for tomorrow's system? (-:

Your comment on the Philips set up echoes mine on my old Hafler stuff (DH101/DH200). Sometimes I wonder if things have changed much in ....35! years.

User211

12-12-2016, 12:02

And then the venerable Philips Black Tulip pre and power amp still drop my jaw. I've not heard better amps in my system. :thumbsup:

Nah, you've just forgotten how good other stuff you've had is. Audio memory - plays tricks on the mind.:)

walpurgis

12-12-2016, 12:05

Nah, you've just forgotten how good other stuff you've had is. Audio memory - plays tricks on the mind.:)

Mine doesn't. Although I do tend to recall how bad things were, as opposed to how good.

Macca

12-12-2016, 12:22

if you ever move that Turnip stuff on please let me have first refusal :)

jandl100

12-12-2016, 12:47

OK, Martin
Don't hold your breath, though.

jandl100

12-12-2016, 12:59

Nah, you've just forgotten how good other stuff you've had is. Audio memory - plays tricks on the mind.:)

Mmm :hmm: no, I don't think so. I usually find that my audio memory is reliable.

I'm not saying you'd be hugely impressed, although you would like it I feel sure - the combo doesn't (quite) have the awesome dynamic sweep of the Parasound or the kick-slam power of the Krell, but it doesn't have the Krell's brightness or the Para's slightly laidback vagueness and warm feel, either.
The detail and focus is nowt short of superb from the Philips. And 100wpc is fine as far as I am concerned.

It's pretty much spot-on for me.

I wonder what will come along next. :)

Macca

12-12-2016, 13:27

OK, Martin
Don't hold your breath, though.

Christ they must be good.

Can't believe you are going to reduce your swapping to sources and cables though...

Reffc

12-12-2016, 13:32

That's a nicely specified little DAC for the money Jerry. Was going to try the Gustard X12 which is receiving some rave reviews, but may just give the little Xiang DAC a spin first as it's a third of the price!

jandl100

12-12-2016, 13:46

Christ they must be good.

Can't believe you are going to reduce your swapping to sources and cables though...

Yep, I know, astonishing. A real pain in the butt. They have made me stop looking at amp adverts. :( Where's the fun in that?

I bought the Black Turnip power amp the very end of August this year after having been very impressed with the BT pre-amp bought here on AOS on a whim, so over 3 months now and I am still deeply in lurv with it.
There is real synergy with the Turnip pre-amp as well - neither is as good without the other.
I can go direct into the power amp for pretty much all my listening, but it actually sounds better with the pre in circuit. :scratch:

struth

12-12-2016, 14:52

There was some black tulip on ebay i think.not sure what though

jandl100

12-12-2016, 14:56

There was some black tulip on ebay i think.not sure what though

Aye. The 'one down' power amp to mine - 60wpc I think.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/291964393978?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

I have no idea what that "switch box" does!

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/N9MAAOSwYIxX6-8D/s-l1600.jpg

Macca

12-12-2016, 17:55

I nearly bought a Turnip pre and power from Emporium back when they used to ask reasonable prices, 15 years ago or so. So although I done on the amplification front now I still have a hankering. Plus I think they have got 'the look'; great aesthetics.

Scooby

12-12-2016, 19:14

Aye. The 'one down' power amp to mine - 60wpc I think.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/291964393978?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

I have no idea what's that "switch box" does!

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/N9MAAOSwYIxX6-8D/s-l1600.jpg

Looking at Google pics of the rear it has a load of AC mains sockets, so I guess it must act as a power supply?

jandl100

12-12-2016, 20:09

Looking at Google pics of the rear it has a load of AC mains sockets, so I guess it must act as a power supply?

Aha! - yes, well spotted ....

http://image3.marktplatznet.de/mp/00004/000000211944_2.jpg

VesaLato

13-12-2016, 18:09

Aha! - yes, well spotted ....

http://image3.marktplatznet.de/mp/00004/000000211944_2.jpg
You got to have one [emoji2]

Vesa

jandl100

16-12-2016, 06:50

As some of you may recall, I've been using Spotify Premium (320kbs) as my main source for a year or more now.
Every now and then I get a little niggle and wonder if "near CD quality" really is suitable, and start pondering afresh about the lossless sources such as Tidal.

In fact a month or so back I tried Qobuz, but was immediately disenchanted by the paucity of its classical music catalogue. It was back to Spotify with relief.

But yesterday I invested 20 squid in a month's Tidal membership, once again - I've had quite a few months of Tidal membership before, in fact I started my streaming adventure with Tidal. But then an audio chum convinced me into having a go with Spotify Premium, and I've been happy with that ever since and let the Tidal sub lapse.
.
My system has come a fair way in the last year so I just thought I'd try lossless again.

Hmm. I do hear a difference against Spot Premium, although direct A/B comparisons show it to be fairly subtle on most material I have tried so far. Sorry, it's been all classical! ;)

Yes, it is just audibly higher rez.
But it also puts a bit of an 'edge' on the sound that becomes a bit insistent and relentless after a while.
It actually gave me a headache after a few hours. :(

It was great fun on Fazil Say's exuberantly eastern and superbly recorded Mesopotamia symphony, where the extra razzle dazzle came across well. Definitely just that bit more impressive and enjoyable. But for string quartets and piano and ordinary symphonic sounds I went back to Spotify with more than a bit of relief!

I'd also forgotten what a struggle the Tidal search facilities can be to use on classical music. Spotify's is much superior.
And whilst Tidal does have some classical material that Spotify lacks, Spotify easily wins overall for the breadth of its catalogue.

Anyway, back to the sq ---- Maybe my system has been fine tuned to suit the subtlely softer sound of Spotify 320kbs as it has been my main source for over a year? :scratch:

I've got the month of Tidal subscription to play around, it'll be interesting to see if I decide to keep both Tidal and Spotify. I may well try playing around with cables and such like goofery to see if I can tune in a better presentation from Tidal.

User211

16-12-2016, 14:23

Interesting. I would 100% use Spotify IF I could listen to it!!! I can't, and found myself still buying CDs when using it.

I really did find Spotify SQ annoyingly compromised.

Can't think of a reason for your TIDAL SQ dilemma.

User211

16-12-2016, 14:25

Ask the obvious but is the HiFi text at the bottom right of the S/W always "lit" i.e. not dimmed?

struth

16-12-2016, 14:38

Only been using Spotify for a week or so, but certainly on headphones i find it pretty good on the hishest extreme level direct from a chromecast. If i connect the caster to the system then i would say its not quite cd quality, but i could probably live with it. Its much better on cans though to me

jandl100

16-12-2016, 14:43

Yep, the Tidal HIFI icon is lit. ;)

I honestly think that a lot of the tales of Spotify not being good enough is due to expectation bias.
I was round at Jake lordmortlock's place recently and he said he just couldn't understand how I could use Spotify.
We settled down with a cuppa and were streaming music and the item we next wanted wasn't on Tidal so we swapped over to Spotify.
We were soon thoroughly engrossed in the music, one of our mutual favourite tracks, and had quite forgotten the source.
.... both groovin' along saying how great it sounded (and it did) .... I then asked "so what, exactly, is wrong with Spotify?"
He looked blank, then shocked, then gave a big grin and a laugh.

Spotify really is just fine, imho.

Macca

16-12-2016, 14:51

It is at least as good as cassette tape...

jandl100

16-12-2016, 14:53

It is at least as good as cassette tape...

That's true.

So is the highest end source you can imagine. ;)

User211

16-12-2016, 14:57

I think you need to be careful.

Some recordings can actually sound better compressed. Not the majority, but I know of some stuff I find sounds better compressed. Throwing away HF can do the trick and make some recordings sound better, which compression will do.

But after spending years using both, I completely think you are wrong. TIDAL is better and quite noticeably so over a wide range of material.

Could be that DAC, Jerry. Maybe it is a bit brightly lit, and giving it a full range signal screws the balance the wrong way. That said, if you are honestly telling me you can't tell that Spotify sounds worse than playing a CD over a wide range of recordings (on average) then I am flummoxed unless somehow my suggestion of the DAC being to blame is the truth of the matter.

jandl100

16-12-2016, 15:03

That's fine, Justin. I'm happy to report on different experiences to you, mostly listening to quite different music.

If I have the choice to use A or B, and I prefer B ---- guess which one I will use. :)
I am not without experience is listening to hifi gear, and imho my system with Spotify sounds very special and provides me with a huge amount of enjoyment.

I agree that it is possible that my DAC (and the rest of my system) is a good synergistic match with Spotify but not Tidal. That's fine - it's the sound of the music that comes out that matters. No components are perfect, and the synergy of the system is all important.

User211

16-12-2016, 15:10

I agree listen to what sounds best to you.

But maybe you need better speakers... and ears!:lol:;)

brian2957

16-12-2016, 15:18

User211

16-12-2016, 15:20

Agreed Jerry . I use Spotify too and it's excellent :)

No - it isn't!!! (shouting and jumping up and down).

Will someone please restore sanity to the forum?

Yomanze

16-12-2016, 15:20

Spotify uses digital watermarking on their songs. It is audible unfortunately, characterised by a pulsing or fluttering, clicking, distortion. Once you start to hear it, it just gets more annoying.

walpurgis

16-12-2016, 15:25

Will someone please restore sanity to the forum?

Are you suggesting there ever really was any? :eek: ................. ;)

jandl100

16-12-2016, 15:34

Spotify uses digital watermarking on their songs. It is audible unfortunately, characterised by a pulsing or fluttering, clicking, distortion. Once you start to hear it, it just gets more annoying.

Yes, I hear that sometimes between tracks - but never with music playing.

Maybe it dithers the compressed music and makes it sound as good as new. :D

jandl100

16-12-2016, 15:37

No - it isn't!!! (shouting and jumping up and down).

Will someone please restore sanity to the forum?

Maybe you should take your hearing protectors out. :lol:

http://theartofsound.net/forum/customavatars/avatar8415_15.gif

User211

16-12-2016, 15:47

They are reserved for Zitify!

brian2957

16-12-2016, 15:49

No - it isn't!!! (shouting and jumping up and down).

Will someone please restore sanity to the forum?

Oh yes it is :ner:

Gazjam

16-12-2016, 15:54

This place is turning into a Pantomime...

struth

16-12-2016, 15:57

Its raining men :D

jandl100

16-12-2016, 15:58

This place is turning into a Pantomime...

Oh no it isn't. :D

Look behiiiind you!!

Firebottle

16-12-2016, 15:58

Right time of year :eyebrows:

Macca

16-12-2016, 16:31

I've heard Spotify sound flat and dynamically compressed with Steely Dan, and very good with Gil Scot Heron. So the truth is that it is a mixed bag. I don't like it on principle because it isn't 'full fat', and as enthusiasts we shouldn't be supporting lossy compression in playback. Also, as with any streaming service, you have no idea where they got the recording from. Could be off a £1 compilation cd bought in a motorway service station.

I know some people only use it to check out new material, but you can do that on Youtube for free.

jandl100

16-12-2016, 16:34

^ Needless to say, I disagree.
But then I often disagree with Martin. :lol:

____

On a (possibly) less contentious subject, here is my current selection of favourite headphones ....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1381_zps3uwtbkvt.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1381_zps3uwtbkvt.jpg.html)

B&O H6, PSB M4U-1 and B&O Form 2.

All different sounding.

- The PSB (red) is very solid sounding, well balanced but with genuine deep bass (unusual in headphones, ime), very good detail and just a little closed in compared to the others.
- The B&O Form 2a (the frog green ones) are light and cheap and amazingly good, with genuine bass, surprising in a small headphone. Unlike the other two, they are a kind of open back, but with very low sound leakage - I can't quite figure that one out! Great 'phones, a real surprise.
I also have a pair of black Form 2.
- The B&O H6 (mk1) are my most recent acquisition - just a few days ago. They were 'as new' and barely used from eBay. I'm not surprised the guy sold them, they sounded awful - bright grainy and no bass at all. He should have run them in for a couple of days! With Led Zep turned up very loud indeed and played whenever poss, they have now matured nicely. They are never going to be 'phones for bass freaks, but sound very natural and detailed. Mmmm, they might just turn out to be my favourites.

The bright colours are a deliberate choice; my other 'alf was getting a bit annoyed when she wandered in for a chat and didn't realise I was wearing phones so started yattering away and me seemingly ignoring her. The colours ensure she knows to give me a prod (and, often. a heart attack) first.

Droog

16-12-2016, 16:43

Eh...I take it you aint heard many cans then Jerry.

jandl100

16-12-2016, 16:44

Eh...I take it you aint heard many cans then Jerry.

I've heard a lot of cans, thanks.

Why do you say that?

Droog

16-12-2016, 16:45

Why do you ask ?

Gazjam

16-12-2016, 17:11

Is this the 5 minute argument or the full half hour? :)

Reffc

16-12-2016, 17:35

I like the Spotify navigation system, but have found the music to be a mixed bag quality-wise. Personally, I intend on using it to scout for music, then buying the CD which I can rip onto the macbook and build a library that way. That or download hi-rez files.

All that aside, my first day with the same DAC you're using Jerry and I have to say it's an impressive little device and not at all brightly lit which was one of my fears. It provides bags of detail without the edge of some DACs. Good call that one :thumbsup:

User211

16-12-2016, 18:29

Gordon Steadman

16-12-2016, 19:09

I live on YouTube some days. Quite apart from wallowing in nostalgia, it's the ideal place for listening to stuff that wouldn't get a listen if I had to pay up front.

Sound quality can be mediocre of course but some is surprisingly good. However as you say, it's free so who's complaining?

jandl100

16-12-2016, 21:00

I listen/watch YouTube as well - some fab classical concerts. SQ when it's in HD is excellent, imo, and at least very listenable most of the time. But then I'm obviously not that fussy. :D

brian2957

16-12-2016, 21:32

Aye me too Jerry :D I've found a medium which sounds very good indeed , is convenient , and has instant access to millions of albums for a tenner a months :) What's not to like .:D

r100

16-12-2016, 22:57

struth

16-12-2016, 23:00

sure its not perfect, but its pretty good. It has the edge on similar stream rate Amazon sound wise and i prefer the Ui I think now, even if its not as forgiving via search. Have to say I will mostly use it with headphones, and imo it sounds best this way

jandl100

17-12-2016, 06:13

Why do you ask ?

Because I'm interested in what your experience of cans has been, and in your opinions about them.

I've been on quite a wide ranging journey with headphones the last year or so. What you see in the photo I posted is less than 50% of my current cans holding (see my signature, below), and I have owned and moved on quite a few others over the last year. I'm always interested in the opinions of others, even if we disagree in some ways.

jandl100

17-12-2016, 06:16

1+ for Spotify ... more practical than YT for discovering music, building playlists, etc and the quality @ 320kbs is perfect for 99% of what I listen to. Admittedly, some of the old stuff is not that good but still better IMHO than on any youtube videos I have heard so far. just my 2cts

Interesting what you say about older recordings on Spotify.

In classical music on Spotify, I have often been amazed at the sound of older recordings that I have found pretty much unlistenable in other formats.
Some 60s and 70s classic recordings, on CBS and RCA for example, sound thin and bass shy on CD and LP but have come up full and well balanced and very listenable indeed on Spotify. It's been a bit of a revelation, actually.

Macca

17-12-2016, 11:14

struth

17-12-2016, 11:30

Some tracks may well benefit from a bit of lossy work.

Macca

17-12-2016, 11:38

Some tracks may well benefit from a bit of lossy work.

I don't understand how. Either a lossy codec is inaudible or it is a degredation, logic dictates that it can't be an improvement.

struth

17-12-2016, 11:41

Think about it lol. If its bad then less bad is good, no?:D

jandl100

17-12-2016, 11:46

Isn't this more likely to be due to the kit? I can't see that Spotify do any re-mastering, so what else is the explanation?

I don't think so.
Numerous issues over the years, LPs and CDs - all bright and bass light. Spotify sounds great.
No, I don't understand it either.

Macca

17-12-2016, 11:49

I see what you are driving at but since it shouldn't work that way on paper I think I'd need to hear a comparison with a rip of the CD and the Spotify version, through the same hardware, to be convinced.

r100

17-12-2016, 18:20

Interesting what you say about older recordings on Spotify.

In classical music on Spotify, I have often been amazed at the sound of older recordings that I have found pretty much unlistenable in other formats.
Some 60s and 70s classic recordings, on CBS and RCA for example, sound thin and bass shy on CD and LP but have come up full and well balanced and very listenable indeed on Spotify. It's been a bit of a revelation, actually.

sorry off topic but in reply to jandl

A friend of mine comes by sometimes and he likes to listen to loud 80 and 90 rock and have a couple of beers at the same time. I find that kind of music quite "busy" and "dense"... maybe its just that I prefer more dynamic music with clear cut backgrounds and immersive soundstages so it's maybe not a bad recording but just the content I don't like too much. My hearing adapts after a couple of beers though.

I consider all recordings by Angus and Julia Stone to be very good (Angus does his own studio stuff I think). Also more recent electronic music is currently on my fav list.

As a side note, one recording I always thought was not that good on CD (SQ wise) was the one below (Chopin Masurkas by Arthuro Benedetti Michelangeli). Curiously, on spotify it sounds quite good and maybe more dynamic than I remember it on CD. It is definately the same recording as it has all the background, breathing, shuffling noises I remember were on the CD which I last heard at over 10 or more years ago. But maybe its just that my stereo has gotten better :eyebrows: although, not that much after all. I had some very nice Jean Maurer speakers at the time which I never should have sold !!

These all sound good to me (random selection) and don't forget to set Spotify to high res output ;-)

spotify:album:2kwxtGMHMzDk1likVEHa2E

spotify:album:4RykT5RjKjDR2I0QAIIbja

spotify:track:5vkQ1e8jTOJG1dluPG7R06

spotify:track:2whr53aXbiMp4D44HXKsBN

spotify:track:3OsujUDTgB1Vyg6AFXlhDk

This one (for Macca) sound is a little tinny IMHO as I remember it sounded on CD.

spotify:track:4oup3KfsjiTNmx5LiJSZQf

from the same Album but with more bass which is better than I can remember on CD
spotify:track:2nr6iUHCilKUfyL9CicbQE

User211

17-12-2016, 19:37

Are you sure you don't want Spotify set to the lowest quality?

You might like that better.

r100

17-12-2016, 19:56

not sure I understand :scratch: but from your previous posts, it is not clear if you even have any experience with Spotify Premium (you know, not the low bandwidth free version :lol:)

jandl100

17-12-2016, 20:03

Don't worry - Justin is just havin' a gentle sarcastic poke. ;)
- at me as well as you.

He's kinda cute when you meet him, though. :bum:

r100

17-12-2016, 20:10

:lol:

User211

17-12-2016, 20:29

Keyboard warrior, me. Today, at least:)

jandl100

12-01-2017, 21:26

Nobsound!!! :D - no tittering at the back. :eyebrows:

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/nobsound%20amp_zpsu6vjaf2t.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/nobsound%20amp_zpsu6vjaf2t.jpg.html)

Actually, this is rather interesting. It's a modern incarnation of the classic John Linsley Hood class A amp design.
Beautifully made.
10 wpc.
It sounds pretty damn amazing.
-- I'd expected it to be a bit laid back and soft sounding, in keeping with my general experience of class A trannies - but no, this is exciting and vibrant.

brian2957

12-01-2017, 21:40

This looks interesting Jerry . Where did you get it from mate ?

jandl100

12-01-2017, 21:45

This looks interesting Jerry . Where did you get it from mate ?

fleaBay - just happened across the BIN sale and thought "that's interesting" - and the Amazon review convinced me to give it a go https://www.amazon.com/Nobsound%C2%AE-NS-02G-Perfect-finished-Amplifier/dp/B00WTNXWOC

brian2957

12-01-2017, 21:47

Thanks Jerry , I will have a good look at this :)

jandl100

01-02-2017, 15:13

New addition to my vintage collection ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1584_zps6ijqzk8s.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1584_zps6ijqzk8s.jpg.html)

Rotel 603 receiver, sitting atop my Rotel 1412 amp.
I had been lusting after the ginormous 1603 receiver - but decided that the smaller 603 was more practical. Still looks seriously sexy, imo, get those grab handles. :D

agk

01-02-2017, 15:18

Looks like serious scientific equipment, love it. That 1603 you mention, awesome great beast.

User211

01-02-2017, 15:26

Talking of Rotel receivers, my brother used one of these with Celestion 44s for years. Sounded great with the 44s, and I just love the aesthetics.

RX-802.

http://www.audioscope.net/images/rotelrx802.jpg

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a5/43/fa/a543fae306495c3403f7b82e20af6a2d.jpg

Arkless Electronics

01-02-2017, 15:35

jandl100

01-02-2017, 15:37

Here ye go - a vintage Rotel / Marantz double-double wammy

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1586_zpspwvfq3eu.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1586_zpspwvfq3eu.jpg.html)

I just love that era of gear. :stalks:

And yes, Justin, that is another fabulous looking Rotel receiver. Damn, I want one!

User211

01-02-2017, 15:43

If anyone fancies a vintage receiver, the RX-802 really is good and a lovely piece of kit in the flesh. Looks fab in the dark. People agree - Google it.

User211

01-02-2017, 15:45

And yes, Justin, that is another fabulous looking Rotel receiver. Damn, I want one!

Actually I am not sure I don't want one too!

The 50 Watts it puts out is a pretty generous 50 Watts by all accounts. Even so, not really enough for me:(

jandl100

01-02-2017, 15:46

Oh, that double stack is not to use, just to look at. :eek:

I do fancy a black Rotel receiver or two. :)

Marco

01-02-2017, 23:03

Here ye go - a vintage Rotel / Marantz double-double wammy

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1586_zpspwvfq3eu.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1586_zpspwvfq3eu.jpg.html)

I just love that era of gear. :stalks:

Looks great, Jerry! However, does it all work now as fully-functioning hi-fi, or is some of it still simply for 'ornamental purposes'? ;)

Marco.

nthall

02-02-2017, 06:07

No - it isn't!!! (shouting and jumping up and down).

Will someone please restore sanity to the forum?
I use it at work sometimes. I keep a pair of iPhone earbuds in my desk. You can't hear the flaws. It still sucks, but being able to hear the compression and DRM is like fingers on a chalkboard to me.

I built the headphone amp/DAC I leave at work to run off battery power. I forget to charge them sometimes.

Sent from my Z981 using Tapatalk

jandl100

02-02-2017, 07:38

Looks great, Jerry! However, does it all work now as fully-functioning hi-fi, or is some of it still simply for 'ornamental purposes'? ;)

Marco.

Yes, it all works.
The 3 items of long standing have all been serviced.
At last year's Scalford show the Marantz duo were on active duty, and the Rotel 1412 the year before.

But yes, it is "still simply for ornamental purposes" as far as I am concerned. And it is well worth looking at - I never cease to enjoy its presence. :)
The only item that is good enough to strut its stuff in my system in terms of sound quality is the power amp section of the Rotel 1412 integrated amp. That really is rather good! The rest is on the warm and rosy side, which is lovely in its own way, but fails to satisfy in the longer term.

Not that I am against vintage electronics - the Philips Black Tulip 270 & 390 pre and power amps from the late 70s are still the best amplification I have heard in my system, for my purposes.
-- hopefully there will be another item or two in that vein arriving chez Jerry today! ;)

brian2957

02-02-2017, 07:45

They look fantastic Jerry , must be a delight to look at in real life . Even better to know that they are all working and can be used when required :)

jandl100

02-02-2017, 07:51

Thanks Brian.

I just wish I had more space for more vintage hifi ornaments.

Actually, a vague plan is forming of getting rid of my LP playback system and its associated shelves full of software, err, I mean LPs. :D
I haven't played any for many months - that could all be used as vintage electronics space which I would enjoy every day! :eek:

brian2957

02-02-2017, 07:57

Yup , I see where you're going but .. won't you miss your vinyl :)

I'm going in the opposite direction with vinyl and upgraging my cartridge , I do love my Spotify though :D

jandl100

02-02-2017, 08:05

but .. won't you miss your vinyl :)

I haven't played any for many months. So, no, I don't see that I'll miss it.
In fact it's a vague irritant seeing it there!

So -- a very nice collection of carefully selected minty classical LPs (and a few others) may soon be heading to the Hereford Oxfam music and books specialist shop. The best place for it, they do seem to have a good trade in the stuff there and charge non-trivial prices for it.

Any offers on my analogue hifi rig, listed in my siggie? :lol:
-- only kidding ;) I'll list it properly as and when. :)

brian2957

02-02-2017, 08:11

Hah ! I don't know what any of it means never mind consider an offer :lol:

Having been away from vinyl for 25 years or so my knowledge is very limited :)

struth

02-02-2017, 10:47

Enjoy spotify too, but dunno sbout de vinylising. Bit drastic.

jandl100

02-02-2017, 15:19

Well, if I don't use it it's just taking up valuable real estate that could be used for some seriously sexy vintage gear.

Hmm, yeah, I think I've made up my mind.

Out, out damned vinyl.
- outmoded technology anyway. :whistle:

Marco

03-02-2017, 15:23

Yes, it all works.
The 3 items of long standing have all been serviced.
At last year's Scalford show the Marantz duo were on active duty, and the Rotel 1412 the year before.

But yes, it is "still simply for ornamental purposes" as far as I am concerned. And it is well worth looking at - I never cease to enjoy its presence. :)
The only item that is good enough to strut its stuff in my system in terms of sound quality is the power amp section of the Rotel 1412 integrated amp. That really is rather good! The rest is on the warm and rosy side, which is lovely in its own way, but fails to satisfy in the longer term.

Not that I am against vintage electronics - the Philips Black Tulip 270 & 390 pre and power amps from the late 70s are still the best amplification I have heard in my system, for my purposes.
-- hopefully there will be another item or two in that vein arriving chez Jerry today! ;)

Cool, mate. Good to know! I'm also with you on its looks :)

Marco.

jandl100

06-02-2017, 11:39

The first, but hopefully not the last, of today's deliveries ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1611_zpscsxng4yx.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1611_zpscsxng4yx.jpg.html)

Halide Bridge USB > SPDIF convertor.
A Wammer was kind enough to loan me one a few months back, and it went on to my Want List. Finally snaffled one at a nice price.
A lovely piece of kit. Raised the old system's sq buy quite a few steps.
More presence, more 3D, more vitality without brightness.
A lovely thing.

jandl100

07-02-2017, 08:10

Little and large!

A Philips 370 power amp has joined the larger 380 (60wpc vs 100wpc).

All plumbed in and shown to be working at very low level - but will have to wait for the missus to stir herself before a proper listen can be had.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1631_zpsow0mwfuo.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1631_zpsow0mwfuo.jpg.html)

jandl100

07-02-2017, 08:40

Here you go, a special Black Tulip treat :D

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1630_zpsfh2hhq5l.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1630_zpsfh2hhq5l.jpg.html)

brian2957

07-02-2017, 08:44

Looks very purposeful Jerry , in a nice way though :D

Tell me , are you using Spotify Premium and the '' top of the range '' Tidal ?

jandl100

07-02-2017, 08:47

Just Spot Premium now.
I let the hi-rez Tidal subscription lapse last month.
Sorreee - I know I must be deaf, but I prefer Spotify. (Hides head in shame.) :eyebrows:

struth

07-02-2017, 08:56

I do like those white dials against the black. Very eye candy

brian2957

07-02-2017, 09:01

Just Spot Premium now.
I let the hi-rez Tidal subscription lapse last month.
Sorreee - I know I must be deaf, but I prefer Spotify. (Hides head in shame.) :eyebrows:

I'm with you on the Spotify Premium thing Jerry , it's perfectly adequate for my needs , and sounds excellent with my setup :)

jandl100

07-02-2017, 09:17

I'm with you on the Spotify Premium thing Jerry , it's perfectly adequate for my needs , and sounds excellent with my setup :)

Adequate.
Yes.
Not the popular, inaccurate meaning of the word - mediocre, humdrum. :nono:.
But adequate in meaning that it does the required job.
And the job for me is to sound bloody fantastic.
Adequate.
Yup. :thumbsup:

agk

07-02-2017, 09:36

Nice to see you have all your ducks in a row Jerry.

jandl100

07-02-2017, 09:37

User211

07-02-2017, 09:49

Peking duck... yummy.

http://thumbs.ifood.tv/files/image/ce/1b/535594-peking-duck-the-national-food-of-china.jpg

brian2957

07-02-2017, 11:09

Adequate.
Yes.
Not the popular, inaccurate meaning of the word - mediocre, humdrum. :nono:.
But adequate in meaning that it does the required job.
And the job for me is to sound bloody fantastic.
Adequate.
Yup. :thumbsup:

Yes , if we're being pedantic , it does what it's supposed to do :ner: However , like you I think , as far as SQ goes , it's excellent .

I've just this minute plugged a Linear PSU into my superhub and initial impressions are very good indeed :uhho: :sofa:

jandl100

07-02-2017, 11:12

Interesting!
I'm waiting for me next Synergistics Research Black fuse to arrive and I fully expect another ridiculously inexplicable step up in sound quality. :mental::lol:

brian2957

07-02-2017, 11:17

Interesting!
I'm waiting for me next Synergistics Research Black fuse to arrive and I fully expect another ridiculously inexplicable step up in sound quality. :mental::lol:

Haven't gone down that road yet Jerry , however Garys system was sounding excellent when I heard it a few weeks ago . It would have been a bit of a faff to ask him to A /B fuses inside his casework so we didn't go there . I tust his ears anyhow .

I look forward to your findings Jerry . Are you fitting these to plugs or internally ?

jandl100

07-02-2017, 11:19

I've one SR Black fuse atm - and have put it into the mains plug at the wall which feeds the mains block which feeds the whole system.

Astonishing sq improvement from that. Just crazy.

No, I probably won't go the internal fuse route - I'm not cumfy with that.

brian2957

07-02-2017, 11:24

Yes I agree about changing the internal fuses , you have too many boxes to do this anyway :)

My first port of call would be the plug feeding my mains block . Are your amps plugged into the mains block too ?

Where are you fitting the next SR Black mate ?

EDIT : This linear PSU into the Virginmedia superhub has yielded a very nice improvement in SQ BTW . Looks like it will be staying put :D

jandl100

07-02-2017, 11:28

DAC, pre and power amps all come from that mains block. That's all I need as I use my laptop as source.

Where for the 2nd one? :scratch: - probably the power amp as it's the main current drawer. What do you think?

brian2957

07-02-2017, 11:36

Mmm.. I would have gone for the preamp first as it's earlier in the chain . TBH it only takes a couple of minutes to swap the fuses around anyway . You would also be surprised at how a DAC will improve with a better power supply . My Denon DAC improved markedly when I substituted the wallwart with a quality linear PSU , so I would try it there too ( unless you like to use the properly rated fuse for each piece of equipment ) .

jandl100

07-02-2017, 19:28

A fragment of packing polystyrene had worked its way behind the power meter glass, so I took her top off to get it out ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1614_zps8aukhaey.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1614_zps8aukhaey.jpg.html)

struth

07-02-2017, 19:50

looks new inside jerry

stewartwen

07-02-2017, 20:16

Tis a power distribution unit Jerry..................very useful things they are!

jandl100

08-02-2017, 12:12

nthall

08-02-2017, 14:14

New arrival for my vintage collection.

I think I'm in love all over again. :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1639_zpsrvidob2i.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1639_zpsrvidob2i.jpg.html)
Cool. My uncle just gave me a Beogram, but I have no idea how to work on linear trackers. I have to do some reading.

Gazjam

08-02-2017, 17:31

Yes , if we're being pedantic , it does what it's supposed to do :ner: However , like you I think , as far as SQ goes , it's excellent .

I've just this minute plugged a Linear PSU into my superhub and initial impressions are very good indeed :uhho: :sofa:

Told Ya! :)

Gazjam

08-02-2017, 17:33

Gazjam

08-02-2017, 17:35

Have two SR Blacks in my lash up so far:

* Internally in digital Source (Logitech Transporter)
* IEC Fuse in my Densen Pre

Bigger jump with the Pre, and my original WT(actual)F! post was about the improvement I got with the Transporter.

...next up the IEC fuse for my Dac's linear PSU.

In 30'odd years of hifi hobby-ism, I've never blown a fuse yet.

jandl100

08-02-2017, 18:17

My 2nd SR Black fuse arrived today.

Where to put it?
Tried pre-amp --- mmm, no definite sq improvement. Real disappointment. :(

Moved it to the power amp --- ah, yes, better focus, more transparency.

Hmm, curious. Maybe they don't benefit low current draw devices?
But the 2nd fuse is a keeper, too, for the power amp.

Might try it in the DAC.

Barry

08-02-2017, 18:22

New arrival for my vintage collection.

I think I'm in love all over again. :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1639_zpsrvidob2i.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1639_zpsrvidob2i.jpg.html)

I have the matching tuner and it too is excellent. IMO the 'slide-rule cursor' styling was B&O's finest as exemplified with the 3000 series electronics and the 1700 series here.

Nice find Jerry.

Gazjam

08-02-2017, 18:22

My Transporter's draws 0.3Ma...so not sure.
the American chaps seem to favour amplifiers for fancy fuses. (Apart from those that kitted out their digital gear!)

Had a reread over the AudioGon thread, like a lot of hifi stuff not a general consensus of "best practice" unfortunately.
As always suck it n see!

jandl100

08-02-2017, 18:40

I have the matching tuner and it too is excellent. IMO the 'slide-rule cursor' styling was B&O's finest as exemplified with the 3000 series electronics and the 1700 series here.

Nice find Jerry.

Thanks Barry.
The 1700 amp has a friend arriving in the next few days. :)

Barry

08-02-2017, 19:37

Here's my B&O tuner:

http://i780.photobucket.com/albums/yy88/barrydhunt/BOtuner-1.jpg

It this your "friend"?

User211

08-02-2017, 19:55

looks new inside jerry

When I took the lid of my 1975 Accuphase M-60 amps about a year ago, there was another layer of "lid". Removing that revealed something that looked very untouched/seen and very pristine indeed.

Honestly, some of these high end 70s amps are as good or better than anything produced today sonically. People think the caps must be "gone" etc etc, and I am sure in some cases they have but not it would appear in this case. Touchwood.

All the ground rules for building fabulous amps were around a long time ago. And the components to build them with were good enough too.

User211

08-02-2017, 19:59

Here's my B&O tuner:

http://i780.photobucket.com/albums/yy88/barrydhunt/BOtuner-1.jpg

It this your "friend"?

Very nice. When I was at school I always hated B&O of that era even then regarding them as more arty farty design than real hi-fi. Yet in the B&O shop after school in Watford I'd always drool. My father bought a B&O turntable with a platter that used to ring terribly. I bought a £60 (at the time quite expensive) solid diamond cantilever B&Q cart for it and it really wasn't too bad in practise.

Barry

08-02-2017, 20:07

Too many people dismiss B&O gear as "Habitat Hi-Fi" IMO, yet the 3000 series electronics are/were very good, and I've long been a fan of their fixed-coil cartridges (of which I have about half a dozen in my collection).

jandl100

08-02-2017, 21:10

Here's my B&O tuner:

http://i780.photobucket.com/albums/yy88/barrydhunt/BOtuner-1.jpg

It this your "friend"?

Very nice, but no. :)

Beobloke

09-02-2017, 13:04

If we're talking 'slide rule' B&O, then it has to be the Beomaster 5000 and Beolab 5000. The 1700 items are nice but B&O did so much better than 'nice' when they put their minds to it.

Arkless Electronics

09-02-2017, 13:40

I've got a Beomaster 1001 which is rather cute... very slimline and has a huge slide rule tuning scale on the top.

jandl100

09-02-2017, 14:38

If we're talking 'slide rule' B&O, then it has to be the Beomaster 5000 and Beolab 5000. The 1700 items are nice but B&O did so much better than 'nice' when they put their minds to it.

Hmm. :hmm:
I have to very humbly disagree.
For me the 1700 series is classic B&O.

Arkless Electronics

09-02-2017, 15:05

B&O is a brand I hate working on I must say... very frail in build, loads of plastic clips etc that snap when trying to remove them, awkward switching arrangements with extenders or pull cords on them, output transistors usually only just up to the task etc. The electronic design is fine and they sound good but certainly not well made...

jandl100

09-02-2017, 15:08

^^ Yes, the number of malfunctioning B&O bits on eBay is quite astonishing. Not designed for the long haul.

nthall

09-02-2017, 15:42

I see them like the Apple of audio. They used styling, and just enough new features to keep you excited about grabbing the next model. They sound good, but were not designed for long time serviceability. Their style held up.

Sent from my Z981 using Tapatalk

Beobloke

09-02-2017, 22:37

Forgive them, Lord, they know not what they say...

walpurgis

09-02-2017, 22:45

:lol:

nthall

09-02-2017, 22:53

Forgive them, Lord, they know not what they say...
There aren't many of them left in the states, and finding parts for them is a nightmare. It isn't really that finding parts is hard, but they cost more than the unit is worth most of the time. There are plenty of units for parts or repair on eBay, but the same parts are usually broken or missing.

I think they are some of the coolest looking gear ever made, but if you buy one here you have to check everything.

Barry

09-02-2017, 23:02

If we're talking 'slide rule' B&O, then it has to be the Beomaster 5000 and Beolab 5000. The 1700 items are nice but B&O did so much better than 'nice' when they put their minds to it.

Agreed. I realised my mistake: I should have said the 5000 series and not 3000.

jandl100

15-02-2017, 12:27

My B&O collection is growing. :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1662_zpseeyv1jpk.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1662_zpseeyv1jpk.jpg.html)

brian2957

15-02-2017, 12:32

Looks fab Jerry . Have you tried it yet :popcorn:

struth

15-02-2017, 12:32

The platters always look impressive on those. (Not the band):lol:

jandl100

15-02-2017, 12:41

Looks fab Jerry . Have you tried it yet :popcorn:

It doesn't work - but I knew that when I bought it.
It's for looking at, decorative. :stalks: I think it looks stunning.

The platter spins freely, but when switched on the lights come on but it makes curious grinding noises. :eek: And the stylus is naffed anyway.
I might look into getting it sorted.
Some day. :)

Beobloke

15-02-2017, 12:45

Bloody hell, Jerry! You've got one of the finest linear tracking turntables made there - get it fixed (I can give you a phone number) and get the cartridge off to Franz-Josef Schulte in Germany for a re-tip https://www.schallplattennadeln.de/b-o-info-engl.html

:doh:

(Oh, and take the stylus protector off the detection arm and put it on the cartridge where it should be, there's a good chap - it looks silly there...:D)

jandl100

15-02-2017, 12:49

(Oh, and take the stylus protector off the detection arm and put it on the cartridge where it should be, there's a good chap - it looks silly there...:D)

:lol:

I hadn't realised.
Sorted now.
It looks so much better. ;)

jandl100

15-02-2017, 12:49

Bloody hell, Jerry! You've got one of the finest linear tracking turntables made there - get it fixed (I can give you a phone number) and get the cartridge off to Franz-Josef Schulte in Germany for a re-tip https://www.schallplattennadeln.de/b-o-info-engl.html

Yes, let me know details of a fixer, please. :thumbsup:

Firebottle

15-02-2017, 13:12

I've got a broken one of those as well Jerry, but haven't had time to look at it yet.

I might be able to fix yours as well when i get my head around it.
:)

jandl100

15-02-2017, 13:19

I've got a broken one of those as well Jerry, but haven't had time to look at it yet.

I might be able to fix yours as well when i get my head around it.
:)

:thumbsup:

Please, definitely let me know, Alan.
You're not a zillion miles away and dropping it off would be a good excuse for a visit. :)

Go on, get on with it, then. :popcorn: :lol:

jandl100

17-02-2017, 13:04

I've had the hots for one of these for quite a while. :stalks:

Now added to my vintage collection. :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1681_zpsatpedspz.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1681_zpsatpedspz.jpg.html)

Dang thing is too wide for my rack at 54cm, I might try moving things around so I can have a listen in my system but that will entail quite a lot of moving.

Headphone use is tempting but I'll need an unusual configuration of adapter for that - see my Artist's Palette post.

Audio Al

17-02-2017, 13:48

Is that a classic 8 track player :)

jandl100

17-02-2017, 13:55

No, just an ordinary receiver - the Grundig central name-plate is just that - decorative not an entry port!

I do like lots of knobs and dials. :eyebrows:

I'll take another pic this evening - I suspect it will look very pretty with the dial lit. :)

jandl100

17-02-2017, 19:44

Mmmm .... even prettier in low light :)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1682_zpsg5cyn9eq.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1682_zpsg5cyn9eq.jpg.html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1683_zps90uoytef.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1683_zps90uoytef.jpg.html)

Gazjam

17-02-2017, 20:36

You sexy thing....
The Grundig, not you Jerry!

(Though not an honest 'country mile' patch on the vintage Marantz kit you have...that stuff's just 'Dont get no better')

jandl100

20-02-2017, 16:06

2nd system update.
Klegg Symphony speakers, Philips 370 power amp, Audiolab MDAC, Pioneer 505 disc spinner, Rotel RP 3000 Turntable, Goldring Eroica LX.
With an out of pic Jamo sub to add a bit of bass shudder where appropriate.

It sounds rather good.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1706%201_zpsn3jieoxg.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1706%201_zpsn3jieoxg.jpg.html)

struth

20-02-2017, 16:52

Pretty speakers Jerry.

jandl100

20-02-2017, 16:54

Yup, thanks Grant, they are.
Piano lacquer white - they sound good, too.

Macca

20-02-2017, 17:53

Pretty damn fine for a second system.

jandl100

20-02-2017, 18:05

Yes, no complaints from me.

Mostly 'established' kit but the speakers were a random eBay punt that turned out very well.
Embarrassingly, I bought the speakers as they matched the decor of the room :o as well as looking an interesting design - white window frames, the brushed aluminium of the tweeter mount plate ties in with the coffee table and also the speaker stands. :o
It all goes rather well together (unlike the random shambles of my main system!).

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1707_zpsjb3sklfo.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1707_zpsjb3sklfo.jpg.html)

nthall

20-02-2017, 18:38

There's nothing wrong with having a little style to go with the sound.

Sent from my Z981 using Tapatalk

Macca

20-02-2017, 19:02

Lovely view out the back there. You not considered making that your main system room? Lots of glass though I suppose.

jandl100

20-02-2017, 20:04

Lovely view out the back there. You not considered making that your main system room? Lots of glass though I suppose.

The glass would probably go well with the MBL speakers - I have ended up with a deliberately reflective wall behind them in my main system - lots of glass fronted pictures and a 42 inch plasma screen - they seem to like it that way.

The main issue is that there is approx 75 miles between the 2 systems - hence the need for the 2nd system!
But if we ever did move there permanently the MBLs would be OK. Seems unlikely we would do that, though.

Macca

20-02-2017, 20:36

The main issue is that there is approx 75 miles between the 2 systems - hence the need for the 2nd system!
.

That explains that then. Thought it was just your dining room or something. I see now why you need a pretty decent second system.

jandl100

20-02-2017, 20:41

Yup - I used to have the Maggie 1.6QR speakers there that Alan firebottle bought off me - great sound but they got in the way of the view too much!

User211

20-02-2017, 23:09

Parkie37

21-02-2017, 00:04

That looks like a really nice second system Jerry. All you need to complete the look is one of the early Magnum Dynalab tuners, like the FT 101A. It would look great on that rack with that gear!

Don

nthall

21-02-2017, 01:43

I dunno all these big wanky expensive speakers and components when really a simple pair of half decent small speakers and a decent old amp can really do a pretty enjoyable job.

Might not be awesome, but there is goodness to be found for not much dosh.
I like the big speakers, but I pretty much use decent old amps exclusively.

Sent from my Z981 using Tapatalk

jandl100

21-02-2017, 07:09

I like the big speakers, but I pretty much use decent old amps exclusively.

Yup, that sums up my view these days for audio electronics, too, even for the no-expense-spared big rig.
... although I dare say I'll be tempted back to the audiophile amp & DAC dark side sometime!

jandl100

21-02-2017, 08:15

That looks like a really nice second system Jerry. All you need to complete the look is one of the early Magnum Dynalab tuners, like the FT 101A. It would look great on that rack with that gear!

Don

Hmm. :hmm:

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/OTAxWDE2MDA=/z/hb0AAOSwT6pV6sMV/$_1.JPG

Nah. Not really my thing.
It's actually very similar to my vintage Philips amps, but somehow lacks their sense of style. For me the Magnum slips across the border from cool to fugly.

I much prefer my previously mentioned and recently acquired Grundig receiver ...

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/ODE1WDE2MDA=/z/zMkAAOSwLVZVsTqJ/$_1.JPG

:stalks: :eek:

Now there is a thought - I may well try the Grundig in the 2nd system as a pukka system amp and see how it does. :bulb:

nthall

21-02-2017, 12:54

Yup, that sums up my view these days for audio electronics, too, even for the no-expense-spared big rig.
... although I dare say I'll be tempted back to the audiophile amp & DAC dark side sometime!
I like the variety of listening to different gear. I still have a DAC but it's homebrew and doesn't see much action.

Parkie37

22-02-2017, 06:40

Hmm. :hmm:

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/OTAxWDE2MDA=/z/hb0AAOSwT6pV6sMV/$_1.JPG

Nah. Not really my thing.
It's actually very similar to my vintage Philips amps, but somehow lacks their sense of style. For me the Magnum slips across the border from cool to fugly.

I much prefer my previously mentioned and recently acquired Grundig receiver ...

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/ODE1WDE2MDA=/z/zMkAAOSwLVZVsTqJ/$_1.JPG

:stalks: :eek:

Now there is a thought - I may well try the Grundig in the 2nd system as a pukka system amp and see how it does. :bulb:

You have to see the Magnum Dynalab in person, as it looks WAY better than in that photo. Especially at night when the backlights glow a warmish yellow light : )

jandl100

22-02-2017, 06:57

You have to see the Magnum Dynalab in person, as it looks WAY better than in that photo. Especially at night when the backlights glow a warmish yellow light : )

Perhaps, Don.
Although I have seen the Dynalab in the flesh, and it reminded me a bit too much of ....

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31n6ddrMV-L.jpg

I suspect that it is just one of the infinite number of ways in which our audio tastes differ.
- e.g. I am about as far from being an Audio Note fanboy as you can reach with a very long stick, whereas you seem rather fond of the stuff!

alphaGT

22-02-2017, 08:53

The beauty of the Magnum Dynalab is in the hearing! Wonderful FM music, easy to listen to. I guess it seems logical
That big speakers sound big, and quite often do. But I've heard some well made little speakers with a sub in the corner that also sound very big! And often with greater pin point soundstaging.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

jandl100

22-02-2017, 11:06

Sadly that beauty would be lost for me, FM reception is pretty much zero where I live. :(

jandl100

02-03-2017, 20:22

Nobby is back in harness. :)

-- aka Nobsound NS-02G - my John Linsley Hood circuit 10wpc class A solid state Chinese amp.
Nobsound. :D

It sounds fabulously transparent and 3D and detailed after about a 1 hour warm up.

My vintage Philips Black Tulip pre/power is resting for a while.

Here's Nobby lit up with Tiffy in the foreground....

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1783_zpsdrgnl87p.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1783_zpsdrgnl87p.jpg.html)

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/nobsound%20amp_zpsu6vjaf2t.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/nobsound%20amp_zpsu6vjaf2t.jpg.html)

Bigman80

02-03-2017, 20:33

nthall

02-03-2017, 20:36

I have 37 packages en-route via China Post. I went on a Chinese clone kit buying spree a couple of weeks ago.

jandl100

02-03-2017, 20:41

Like I said ...

It sounds fabulously transparent and 3D and detailed after about a 1 hour warm up.

It really does sound awful when you first turn it on, though - it's quite like having your speakers out of phase. After 10 minutes or so it starts to come together.
It gets quite warm.

I've not heard a better amp if you want accuracy - but you do need to be able to get away with 10wpc which kind of limits speaker and/or music choice.
It's fine for my 86dB/W (effective in-room efficiency) easy to drive speakers on pretty much any classical music, but I have heard it clip on rock music played loud.
You just need to pair it sensibly with speakers.
I don't like Tannoys personally, but I can imagine it being a superb choice for those that do.

It's very low noise, I use it with the volume turned up to max (with volume controlled elsewhere) and there is no amp noise at all through my MBL speakers.

nthall

02-03-2017, 20:46

I play rock music loud. My speakers are 98dB, but they seem to like some headroom. I never get the knob to halfway on a 35-45 watt amp, but they really seem to light up on amps that have the extra power on tap.

walpurgis

02-03-2017, 20:55

It really does sound awful when you first turn it on, though - it's quite like having your speakers out of phase. After 10 minutes or so it starts to come together.
It gets quite warm.

That's much like my Monarchy Audio Class A amps. They sound crude, dead and flat when first turned on. The magic starts about ten or fifteen minutes later. The transformation is unbelievable. Puts a grin on my face each time.

jandl100

02-03-2017, 21:01

That's much like my Monarchy Audio Class A amps. They sound crude, dead and flat when first turned on. The magic starts about ten or fifteen minutes later. The transformation is unbelievable. Puts a grin on my face each time.

Hmm.
I have previously 'dissed' those Monarchy amps.
I had some on loan and they sounded awful - dead, flat, boring.
However, although it is many years ago and I cannot remember, it is possible that I didn't give them a chance to warm up! :hmm: :doh:
I wouldn't have believed it possible that an amp can change so much as it warms up until I heard it with Nobby.
I may well have sold the Monarchy amps seriously short. Mayhap those class A tranny amps do all need quite a while to come on song?

Bigman80

02-03-2017, 21:31

I have 37 packages en-route via China Post. I went on a Chinese clone kit buying spree a couple of weeks ago.
Lmao. That'll keep you busy

Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk

nthall

02-03-2017, 21:34

Lmao. That'll keep you busy

Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
I'll probably burn some more holes into my brain from all of the lead fumes. I'll have the best knockoff reference system around when I'm done.

Bigman80

02-03-2017, 21:50

I'll probably burn some more holes into my brain from all of the lead fumes. I'll have the best knockoff reference system around when I'm done.
[emoji23]

Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk

jandl100

03-03-2017, 11:56

More vintage goodness. :stalks:

It's just arrived.
Ebay purchase - it worked until recently apparently, but now tends to pop fuses instead.

Just for decoration, but I'll get it looked at eventually.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSC_1790_zps1tq8sznx.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/user/jandl100/media/DSC_1790_zps1tq8sznx.jpg.html)

nthall

03-03-2017, 15:00

I've never even heard of SABA. It look cool.

jandl100

03-03-2017, 15:13

Interesting, and long, history - from Wiki --

SABA (Schwarzwälder Apparate-Bau-Anstalt) is a German electronics company founded in 1923 at Triberg im Schwarzwald (Black Forest), present-day Baden-Württemberg. SABA started as a clock-making company, then became a radio manufacturer, and a few years later a record label. In 1968, SABA sold the majority of the company to GTE, an American telephone company. In 1980 the company was purchased by Thomson SA and integrated as a separate business unit.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SABA_(electronics_manufacturer)

A lot of cool looking gear!
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=SABA+HIFI&biw=1361&bih=614&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjgu8KLz7rSAhWDBsAKHbi-Ak4Q_AUIBigB&dpr=1

nthall

03-03-2017, 15:22

I was just looking through the same stuff. I think some of it may have been rebranded and sold under another name here. The all in ones look really familiar down to the Dual tables, but I can't recall what name was on them.

Sent from my Z981 using Tapatalk

struth

03-03-2017, 15:23

Do a lot of fullrange speakers.

Barry

03-03-2017, 16:19

Hmmm - I can see why you would want to keep this as an objet d'art. Nice find Jerry.

jandl100

13-03-2017, 12:04

http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/7ZIAAOSwJ7RYVU4v/s-l1600.jpg

Heh heh - JBL headphones. :rock:
£300 rrp - I paid rather less. ;)

Actually, a lot like the JBL L110 Monitor speakers I used to own they are excellent, and not just for rock, but for any music.

OK, these have a bit of a bass boost - but well short of Beats level atrocities. Just a bit of added weight.
Quite clear and precise, with deeep fairly solid bass.
A little rolled off at the top, I think. Which allows them to be played seriously loud without pain. Lacking a little sparkle at the top, but very listenable over the long haul.
Not the ultimate is resolution, but still very good.
Amazingly cumfy.

I'm going to enjoy some time with these. :)

They have a built-in and thankfully switch-offable DSP function for that LIVE sound. :scratch:
As most of the reviews attest, that is best avoided most of the time.
In 'passive' mode they are very fine indeed. For Dream Theater @11 or string quartets.