View Full Version : DIY phonostage.
Don't sell it, just extend the umbilical cables from the power supplies so you can put them out of the way.
Wakefield Turntables
23-04-2018, 10:11
Can highly recommend the Longdog Audio MC Jfet phonostage. Same designer, less money. Having not heard a Paradise, it's hard to know where it ranks but the LDA is very good. Not sure why a Two box design is a must though? [emoji848] Also, having heard the MF phonostage, whilst it is exemplary in performance, it's about £10k and you'd need a world beating SUT to get the best out of it with a MC cart like the ZYX.
Maybe ask Alan for a trial of his Vivant too, he is usually very accomodating also, as it's MC and MM, there's no extra SUT required.
ive auditioned the LOng dog MC jfetbphonstage way before I got my Paradise and it's on the same level as the latest Sugden masterclass phonostage (which I own). Whilst good it's considerably behind a fully modded paradise.
Bigman80
23-04-2018, 10:13
ive auditioned the LOng dog MC jfetbphonstage way before I got my Paradise and it's on the same level as the latest Sugden masterclass phonostage (which I own). Whilst good it's considerably behind a fully modded paradise.Can't argue mate as i havent heard one.
Foo resistor jealousy :stalks:
No need to have - I’ve tried a Paradise fitted with super resistors in the RIAA and didn’t think it was worth doing the mod. Now the loading resistor is another matter.
Firebottle
23-04-2018, 12:05
Can't argue mate as i havent heard one.
I have heard the Paradise and whilst exceedingly good, the Vivant is on a par but with a more 'fluid' presentation IMHO.
See http://theaudiostandard.net/post/121635
I have heard the Paradise and whilst exceedingly good, the Vivant is on a par but with a more 'fluid' presentation IMHO.
See http://theaudiostandard.net/post/121635
I'm honestly surprised you say that as the Paradise is one of the most fluid stages I have heard - perhaps we are attributing slightly different meanings to 'fluid'. Do you have a loaner Vivant one could try?
Interesting pictures in the link :)
DiveDeepDog
23-04-2018, 15:21
I have heard the Paradise and whilst exceedingly good, the Vivant is on a par but with a more 'fluid' presentation IMHO.
See http://theaudiostandard.net/post/121635
Funny how we heard the same thing yet have such a difference of opinion about the 2. I had the Vivant as more upfront and forceful, treble had an edge to that wasn't to my liking. Not a fair assessment from 20 minutes listening, but I bought a Paradise ;-)
Firebottle
23-04-2018, 16:26
OK Mark, we are repeating our little conversation.
Always best to hear things in your own system so can we arrange for me to come over some time?
Firebottle
23-04-2018, 16:27
I'm honestly surprised you say that as the Paradise is one of the most fluid stages I have heard - perhaps we are attributing slightly different meanings to 'fluid'. Do you have a loaner Vivant one could try?
Interesting pictures in the link :)
I don't post the Vivant I have but am willing to bring it up to you for a trial.
DiveDeepDog
23-04-2018, 16:49
Yeah, need to get my loading sorted, might even have a Koetsu running in a month :D
Firebottle
23-04-2018, 16:51
Oooh, nice :)
Avinunca1
23-04-2018, 17:31
ive auditioned the LOng dog MC jfetbphonstage way before I got my Paradise and it's on the same level as the latest Sugden masterclass phonostage (which I own). Whilst good it's considerably behind a fully modded paradise.
Were you able to audition both at the same time with the same source etc? Was the Paradise superior in every way? I am a Paradise owner (when I can find time to finish it) and I know it's a great piece of kit but I also know that valves have their own qualities, especially with great circuit design. This is a bold statement that you make.
Were you able to audition both at the same time with the same source etc? Was the Paradise superior in every way? I am a Paradise owner (when I can find time to finish it) and I know it's a great piece of kit but I also know that valves have their own qualities, especially with great circuit design. This is a bold statement that you make.
We had the Paradise and Nick's Music First stages back to back at one of the NEBOs and as far as I was concerned you could not put a fag paper between them, they were both astonishingly good. Just on another level entirely from everything else. Never mind there being anything better out there, I'd be amazed if it was even possible to make something better.
I'd get that Paradise finished quick-time if I were you :)
I don't post the Vivant I have but am willing to bring it up to you for a trial.
Well that’s a very kind offer - is Sheffield not too far for you? If not then perhaps in a month or so when work (my work that is) is less manic?
Wakefield Turntables
23-04-2018, 18:13
Were you able to audition both at the same time with the same source etc? Was the Paradise superior in every way? I am a Paradise owner (when I can find time to finish it) and I know it's a great piece of kit but I also know that valves have their own qualities, especially with great circuit design. This is a bold statement that you make.
Yes. Same kit, my systems have been pretty static for the last 4-5 years. No, the paradise wasn't superior in every way. Can you define what "every way" means? I have a very hot rodded EAR 834 clone which in some instances equals my 4 box paradise so it's not perfect. I can only report back what I heard in my system and to my ears, the Long Dog was out gunned by the Paradise. My Paradise has been constantly modded over the last several years and in some ways is different to others. I don't particularly think my claims are bold, just my humble opinion. :)
Firebottle
23-04-2018, 18:30
Well that’s a very kind offer - is Sheffield not too far for you? If not then perhaps in a month or so when work (my work that is) is less manic?
We are looking for trips out in the motorhome so when you are ready get in touch.
:)
Wakefield Turntables
23-04-2018, 18:39
Alan, check you inbox mate!
We had the Paradise and Nick's Music First stages back to back at one of the NEBOs and as far as I was concerned you could not put a fag paper between them, they were both astonishingly good. Just on another level entirely from everything else. Never mind there being anything better out there, I'd be amazed if it was even possible to make something better.
I'd get that Paradise finished quick-time if I were you :)
Is that the Music First stage that is 10K and moving magnet only?
Is that the Music First stage that is 10K and moving magnet only?
I don't know, is there more than one? But IIRC the retail cost of it was more than £10K
Bigman80
25-04-2018, 12:04
Is that the Music First stage that is 10K and moving magnet only?Yes it is and yes it is.
sq225917
25-04-2018, 13:49
Alan, as I said the Paradise sounded flat and lifeless on Saturday, that cart should have been up at 600r, not 180ish which was where I had it.
It's fair to say you've not heard what the Paradise does. If you go to Marks you will though....
Firebottle
25-04-2018, 14:19
That's fair enough but I don't understand where you are getting 600 ohms from, for a cart with a 4 ohm internal resistance.
Mickyricky
25-04-2018, 15:41
We had the Paradise and Nick's Music First stages back to back at one of the NEBOs and as far as I was concerned you could not put a fag paper between them, they were both astonishingly good. Just on another level entirely from everything else. Never mind there being anything better out there, I'd be amazed if it was even possible to make something better.
I'd get that Paradise finished quick-time if I were you :)
10k v under 2k ! The Paradise must be a real real Billy bargain..Glad I got one 😀
337alant
25-04-2018, 17:11
We had the Paradise and Nick's Music First stages back to back at one of the NEBOs and as far as I was concerned you could not put a fag paper between them, they were both astonishingly good. Just on another level entirely from everything else. Never mind there being anything better out there, I'd be amazed if it was even possible to make something better.
:)
Thanks Macca :D guess that must have been my Paradise Phono and I agree they are very nice, I have improved the power supply since then but still not fitted the calvins, will get round to it soon hopefully
Alan
sq225917
25-04-2018, 21:15
Trust me, it needs higher loading and will probably benefit from a couple of 'n' to widen the Q.
Thanks Macca :D guess that must have been my Paradise Phono and I agree they are very nice, I have improved the power supply since then but still not fitted the calvins, will get round to it soon hopefully
Alan
Yes it was your one, Alan. The first time I heard that was the NEBO previous where it was being used with Ken's concrete Techy, your Avondale amps and the Celestion 66 speakers.
I recall someone put on some Kansas, which isn't my sort of thing, but there was a bit where the four of them are harmonising and the soundstage was truly holographic, like they were stood there in 3 dimensions between the speakers. Jaw dropping moment for me. I did not think a vinyl record could achieve that to that level of perfection.
DiveDeepDog
26-04-2018, 09:52
Not sure what cart was used but if Paradise sounded flat an lifeless there must have been something awfully wrong with the setup . In my setup I had to tame "liveliness" by going with different RIAA values , Paradise when the material is right keeps you on the edge of the seat but at the same time with different music could be very subtle .
I heard(owned) several phonostages and closest to Pardise was Trilogy 907 , probably not exactly there but could live with if I had to .
I'd love to hear Alan's phono but distance seems to be an issue , shame
Oh how our ears are different ! I've boxed the Paradise with Trichord, 907 in the Naim/Edwards camp for PRAT and liveliness.
Needless to say Paradise is the best I've heard, but I don't think I'm getting the best out of AT37, 3ohm internal impedance. Keeping an eye on solutions :popcorn:
one man's chalk is another's cheese ;)
sq225917
26-04-2018, 12:36
Not sure what cart was used but if Paradise sounded flat and lifeless there must have been something awfully wrong with the setup.
From the guy who had the modify his own Paradise to tame liveliness?
It sounded flat, it was my own unit from home. Unless the mains in the building was under 240v i can't see a reason for it, other than low loading. Anything much under 240v would have the shunt undersupplied and not 'shunting'/ I have 245v at home so have it rigged for that with little headroom.
I've heard a lot of Paradises in a lot of different set-ups and with a lot of different carts. One thing holds true with all of them, they sound best with carts that require a higher loading, Benz, Linn's, Lyras. They also manage to shine with Audio Note carts as well, so maybe there's some trade with impedance and inductance. They don't sound great with 103's, and Alan's cart apparently.
With the right cart they're sublime.
Firebottle
26-04-2018, 13:15
This has got me intrigued. My cartridge is a ZYX R-100 which is recommended to see a load of over 100ohms. I have never had a problem with loading it in various phono stages to give an excellent result.
Does the Paradise not present a resistive load at the input, with whatever additional shunt resistance and/or capacitance added for loading?
Mickyricky
26-04-2018, 14:18
How far off flat is the Paradise?
You sit a plate on them and it don’t wobble ��
DiveDeepDog
26-04-2018, 15:45
Alan, if it's Yatra, its 4 ohm internal load. I've got AT 37 which should be stunning (similar to Art 7) but 3 ohms, it isn't setting me alight:scratch:
Koetsu's off for rebuild, got a PTG ATM .
sq225917
26-04-2018, 18:08
Alan. Yeh there's a 10K straight after the input into the front end. The native impedance comes out about 1200 ohm according to simulation.
sq225917
26-04-2018, 18:13
I don't know whether it's a curiosity of the input stage topology or what, but the absolute sweet spot is with higher impedance carts at least with the house riaa balance.
Slav, No issue with the deck or cart. They were fine sounding.
I can attest that Si does have a lot of experience of the Paradise, not just building them but hearing it in differing systems and different cartridges. Personally I’ve heard quite a few of his different phonostage builds but have only heard it with my own modded Linn Troika and his Benz LP. One thing you have to consider is that, unlike a lot of stages, it is extremely chameleon like. That is to say, one minute you are playing a couple of records and thinking ‘oh it could have a bit more weight in the bass’ (for example) and then you put on another record and suddenly you are pinned to the seat by the bass slam and extension!
sq225917
02-05-2018, 17:40
There's a lot of bass on some vinyl. I have a couple of electronic/EDM albums with stygian bass in the grooves.
Here's number 'whatever it is' done and dusted and heading off to Notts soon.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/959/40953483515_0e5515e2bc_b.jpg
And the business end, with stylish air vent closure (EVA foam )
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/960/27983765618_1a7f0abebd_b.jpg
Bigman80
02-05-2018, 18:12
There's a lot of bass on some vinyl. I have a couple of electronic/EDM albums with stygian bass in the grooves.
Here's number 'whatever it is' done and dusted and heading off to Notts soon.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/959/40953483515_0e5515e2bc_b.jpg
And the business end, with stylish air vent closure (EVA foam )
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/960/27983765618_1a7f0abebd_b.jpgThat looks incredibly well assembled. Can I ask what wire you use for the PCB to phono sockets?
sq225917
03-05-2018, 23:26
It's a microcoax, all copper. Well shielded.
sq225917
03-05-2018, 23:29
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/970/41149601314_3423d83a7a_b.jpg
Bigman80
04-05-2018, 06:27
It's a microcoax, all copper. Well shielded.Micro coax ? Off to google [emoji23]
He just means it's a thin coax cable. You can get it from HiFi Collective - I used some silver plated copper stuff (PTFE insulated I think) from them in my build.
Si, I love those adjustable loading plugs - very neat!
I used this stuff I think - though you could also get it in black back then:
https://www.hificollective.co.uk/wire/silver-plated-copper-screened-wire.html
Bigman80
04-05-2018, 09:53
I used this stuff I think - though you could also get it in black back then:
https://www.hificollective.co.uk/wire/silver-plated-copper-screened-wire.htmlAh I see, cheers mark. I'll have a look at that stuff. Next project on the horizon may not need it but always good to have an option.
sq225917
08-05-2018, 21:52
it's a bit better than that, 98% screen. Nowt fussy, just decent copper wire
Huge thanks to sq for the patience and perseverance in delivering his latest Paradise.
It was worth the wait and sounds even better that it looks (which is incredibly tidy and well built).
Vinyl never sounded so good!
Mickyricky
14-05-2018, 17:55
There’s them that know a good thing Steve:) and ......
sq225917
10-06-2018, 17:56
Speaking of patience, seems like this most recent one has been on the go for ages.
PSU finished today, on GB boards.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1730/42664767002_bf10be323b_b.jpg
More fettling and wiring to do on main boards.
Steve, I'm happy to hear it's doing the do for you.
337alant
01-07-2018, 07:27
Cracking job Simon as usual :eyebrows:
Alan
sq225917
22-07-2018, 19:13
Another one bites the dust...
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/929/42668349445_b0c1fd325c_b.jpg
Rolll your own loading plugs seem to be the hot inclusion on all the recent builds.
This ones a narrow main case and two Naim shoeboxes, defo more fiddly that two full case builds. manage to score a set of group buy psu boards as well.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/941/29702787238_af607f0de2_b.jpg
sq225917
11-09-2018, 17:13
Long drive down to Horsham on Sunday to deliver this fella.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1771/42174428370_98ec5a1757_b.jpg
Unless some sort of miracle happens that's the last one.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1850/30748983048_b6759aed52_b.jpg
Made a bit of mistake when ordering smd resistors, might have gone too small. 2.4mm FFS...
Bigman80
11-09-2018, 17:20
Wow, still looks neat though.
Long drive down to Horsham on Sunday to deliver this fella.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1771/42174428370_98ec5a1757_b.jpg
Unless some sort of miracle happens that's the last one.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1850/30748983048_b6759aed52_b.jpg
Made a bit of mistake when ordering smd resistors, might have gone too small. 2.4mm FFS...
Sent from my VKY-L09 using Tapatalk
lovely! and horshams just up the road from me,if the owners on here,please get in touch,id love to have a listen sometime.
Wakefield Turntables
11-09-2018, 19:36
Si, do you feel sad or happy that you've finished them all now?
sq225917
11-09-2018, 19:42
Bit sad. Lots of happy owners out there though. I might Joachim into doing another run.
sq225917
11-09-2018, 19:43
Jamie he posts as madscientist on pm, Paul.
Bigman80
11-09-2018, 19:49
Bit sad. Lots of happy owners out there though. I might Joachim into doing another run.[emoji50] really? I'd be in for it.
Sent from my VKY-L09 using Tapatalk
Jamie he posts as madscientist on pm, Paul.
thanks si.
Wakefield Turntables
11-09-2018, 20:29
I might Joachim into doing another run.
Masochist!!!! ;):lol:
sq225917
11-09-2018, 22:49
Yeh, but the happy little faces...
Bksabath
12-09-2018, 12:38
:D
Yeh, but the happy little faces...
Wakefield Turntables
12-09-2018, 17:21
Yeh, but the happy little faces...
Yep I must admit that it's one of the best things I've ever bought.
sq225917
12-09-2018, 17:36
Cheers Andy, glad it's still doing the do for you.
sq225917
17-10-2018, 23:59
I might, might, possibly have hunted down another set of mainboards...
So maybe one more complete build to come.
Bigman80
18-10-2018, 06:16
I might, might, possibly have hunted down another set of mainboards...
So maybe one more complete build to come.Paradise??? [emoji50]
Better start saving.
sq225917
18-10-2018, 07:46
Better fight to the front of that queue....
Bigman80
18-10-2018, 08:07
Better fight to the front of that queue....I have a better idea.
sq225917
23-10-2018, 22:32
Boards purchased and in the post as we speak... nibbles finger nails...
Bigman80
24-10-2018, 05:39
Boards purchased and in the post as we speak... nibbles finger nails...Congratulations mate. Still no sign of a response on DIY.
[emoji31]
Bigman80
24-10-2018, 07:36
Have you tried Gerhard on DIYAudio when I was looking for boards he had some but not the lastest version thoughSent a message days ago.
I'm going leave it for now.
Yep I must admit that it's one of the best things I've ever bought.
Indeed, quite transcendent.
sq225917
12-11-2018, 19:10
Well look what turned up in the post today.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4908/44935924275_7636fb4c8a_b.jpg
I was beginning to wonder if I hadn't been grifted..
Sadly this one is already spoken for.
sq225917
12-11-2018, 20:35
Yup Karma67.
Ah, I did wonder - a wise decision by him :).
sq225917
15-11-2018, 12:50
Rolling along with it.
Input stage is matched and fitted
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4861/45882033331_c95056da44_b.jpg
Bigman80
15-11-2018, 12:57
Rolling along with it.
Input stage is matched and fitted
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4861/45882033331_c95056da44_b.jpgSo neat and tidy. Superb work. I see dale resistors too. Top spec build, Jamie is a lucky guy.
sq225917
15-11-2018, 17:55
The underside will be interesting these are v2 boards so there'll be a fair few parts added to the bottom.
Wakefield Turntables
15-11-2018, 18:14
Hi, Si, what improvements do the v2 boards have over the v1 boards?
sq225917
15-11-2018, 19:35
Nothing, a couple of moved vias. The v3 have compensation caps under the heatsink, on a v2 these have to get soldered directly the the transistor legs under the board. Yours are v2 and still current.
sq225917
15-11-2018, 20:10
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4870/45882024681_63eddf17e4_b.jpg
About half way through the main boards now. Waiting on that big Mouser delivery.
Wakefield Turntables
15-11-2018, 22:16
Nothing, a couple of moved vias. The v3 have compensation caps under the heatsink, on a v2 these have to get soldered directly the the transistor legs under the board. Yours are v2 and still current.
Nice! :cool:
sq225917
16-11-2018, 00:07
There's a school of thought that says chomping the transistors on the legs rather than through pub tracks is more direct anyway. Juries out...
Avinunca1
16-11-2018, 08:07
There's a school of thought that says chomping the transistors on the legs rather than through pub tracks is more direct anyway. Juries out...
Assume pub=pcb but 'chomping'? Yorkshirish Simon?
Bksabath
16-11-2018, 08:41
Assume pub=pcb but 'chomping'? Yorkshirish Simon?
more like Pintyshish
Simon I have the old R2 that you may remember :D
Is making a bit , cancel that, quite a lot of his, would you be able to look at it and fix it ?
I vote for suspenders on legs
IMO there are far to many tracks on Paradise PCB
sq225917
18-11-2018, 15:34
Comping, as in compensating. Lol.
Sandro, of course. Stick your main boards and Calvin's in a box and send them over.
all the hard work my end has been done lol,my denon head amp has been sold,nakamichi ca-5 pre amp is for sale soon,its been with me a long time :( on to better things though,shelf space ready and waiting :cool:
https://i.postimg.cc/ydXgq43P/IMG-2795-1.jpg
Bigman80
18-11-2018, 18:34
all the hard work my end has been done lol,my denon head amp has been sold,nakamichi ca-5 pre amp is for sale soon,its been with me a long time :( on to better things though,shelf space ready and waiting :cool:
https://i.postimg.cc/ydXgq43P/IMG-2795-1.jpgUsing the JW amps volume control mate?
its the only one ive got mate lol
Bigman80
18-11-2018, 19:17
its the only one ive got mate lol[emoji1787] I hear Steve has a few Khozmos lying around. See if you can fit one in it!!
if i do go down that route its a long way off and low on the things to improve list,which thankfully is getting smaller and smaller.
i may take a trip up to john woods next year to have the amp checked over,i'll see if if thinks its worthwhile.
Bigman80
18-11-2018, 19:49
if i do go down that route its a long way off and low on the things to improve list,which thankfully is getting smaller and smaller.
i may take a trip up to john woods next year to have the amp checked over,i'll see if if thinks its worthwhile.Fair enough mate. Seems sensible although not all designers see the value in expensive attenuators.
See Glenn Croft for instance.
Whatever you decide, you seem to have a plan and that's half the battle.
sq225917
19-11-2018, 19:57
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4856/45227245914_a4cdbfbf93_b.jpg
Main board waiting on fancy resistors for RIAA and heatsinks for the Calvins.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4824/44126413130_88855eacb7_b.jpg
I bloody love winding coils...
sq225917
20-11-2018, 19:43
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4908/44158204620_224fd02a27_b.jpg
You can never have too much heatsink.
sq225917
23-11-2018, 17:46
Still waiting on naked foils for the rise, cases are here.
sq225917
27-11-2018, 00:13
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4875/31127409777_424ae8e391_b.jpg
Onwards and upwards. The power supply is taking shape.
now this is attention to detail,quality!
transformer mounting discs.
https://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h90/markemark_2006/Assorted/FE22CF45-50E6-4129-A54F-3BB6FB259B32_zpsezxoefds.jpg
Bigman80
27-11-2018, 19:02
now this is attention to detail,quality!
transformer mounting discs.
https://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h90/markemark_2006/Assorted/FE22CF45-50E6-4129-A54F-3BB6FB259B32_zpsezxoefds.jpgThat's pure class.
sq225917
29-11-2018, 21:40
And fitted...
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4858/46057615862_ef2ee5f7d0_b.jpg
Bigman80
29-11-2018, 22:00
And fitted...
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4858/46057615862_ef2ee5f7d0_b.jpgThey look better on!!! Great work.
Lovely!!!!!!! Class!!!!!!!
sq225917
30-11-2018, 00:00
I still chuckle every time I build a psu for a Paradise, this one has 144,000uF of smoothing caps in a CLCRC filter arrangement with four 300mA chokes on the back end and four common mode chokes after the traffos. The snubbers under the traffo boards are trimmed exactly for the transformers, scoped in situ. Nothing succeeds like excess.
sq225917
30-11-2018, 23:37
throw a few bits in a box, drip some solder over it and tadaaaa.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4817/46121641341_912a2bce31_b.jpg
Wakefield Turntables
01-12-2018, 08:47
Looks like a set of skyscrapers.
Hi
Nice looking job and fantastic perspective picture mate
Very well done
S.
sq225917
01-12-2018, 22:29
To be fair I think I like building them and taking pics as much as I like listening to mine.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4828/44305315390_22db56208b_b.jpg
Must push this to one side until the RIAA resistors arrive. I have my own pre-amp and its PSU to case up and a pair of quads that need disassembling.
To be fair I think I like building them and taking pics as much as I like listening to mine.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4828/44305315390_22db56208b_b.jpg
.
im really enjoying the builds pics .
sq225917
03-12-2018, 20:42
Just wait until its installed, you'll like it even more then...
sq225917
11-12-2018, 20:11
Been waiting bloody ages for these.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4893/44460554000_6bdd639583_b.jpg
Bigman80
11-12-2018, 20:14
Been waiting bloody ages for these.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4893/44460554000_6bdd639583_b.jpgWhy so offset?
Firebottle
11-12-2018, 20:30
Avoids bending both leads. Least stress the better.
Bigman80
11-12-2018, 20:34
Avoids bending both leads. Least stress the better.Ah! Very clever.
Been waiting bloody ages for these.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4893/44460554000_6bdd639583_b.jpg
another great photo si are they the foil resistors from the states?
sq225917
13-12-2018, 20:10
Yup that's the fellas.
They are also off to one side because the input and output wires from the buffers are the last two wires to be soldered in place. See where it says EXT and RIAA. If I put the resistors smack bang in the middle on even length leads if makes reaching those pads with the soldering iron almost impossible. What you can't see in that picture is that the output buffer boards are 60mm above the main pcb and the front edge of them overlaps those pads by about 5mm, so I have to come at them from the camera end.
Everyone loves black chassis screws, yeh but they're a PITA because they are anodized and screw case continuity across all the panel, so I've been flap-wheeling patches on the contact points today to get that lovely low impedance path to the GND socket from any panel on the chassis. Here she is, six crimps away from being PSU complete.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4823/46303507071_1587b727cd_b.jpg
Got any plans for Sunday Jamie? (Could be possible, I'll know tomorrow).
Got any plans for Sunday Jamie? (Could be possible, I'll know tomorrow).
no mate,im about.
give me a call to discuss please.
sq225917
13-12-2018, 23:05
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4811/46255358892_06bcf3bc39_b.jpg
PSU done.
That is some sexy looking circuitry! Solder joints look perfect, what kind of solder are you using? Top drawer work! You’re not charging enough.
Russell
keith1962
14-12-2018, 08:51
Looks fantastic as usual Simon.
Are the US z-foils different to the Charcrofts that Hificollective do?
sq225917
14-12-2018, 18:25
Keith they're the same part but US sourced.
Alpha, its Chinese jinhu 60/40 cored solder. The joints look good because I drag it down the legs after the first flow, every joint removed of excess solder. It's a pita.
sq225917
14-12-2018, 22:08
Trimming the Calvin's has been fun, had to drop one side to 4.9ohm to get a nice null and still leave trimming in either direction.
Soak testing now.
sq225917
15-12-2018, 18:12
Fix your call or build hifi, what ya gonna do?
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4803/45411623885_c9eeb700ef_b.jpg
Bigman80
15-12-2018, 18:28
Fix your call or build hifi, what ya gonna do?
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4803/45411623885_c9eeb700ef_b.jpgVery nice. You've got a gift mate.
Cycleallday
15-12-2018, 19:05
Where did you source the In / Out etc labels ?
Mel
Bigman80
15-12-2018, 19:33
Where did you source the In / Out etc labels ?
MelHa, you read my mind!
sq225917
15-12-2018, 20:25
From he of the laser cutting perfection, YNWAN
Bigman80
15-12-2018, 20:48
From he of the laser cutting perfection, YNWANOooh, he of laser cutting perfection got any spares?
sq225917
15-12-2018, 22:55
I doubt it, he makes me a batch every so often.
its on its way!..............
Bigman80
16-12-2018, 09:55
its on its way!..............Cool! Well done Si, great build pics and well done Jamie, can't fault the investment you've made in your system.
Well its been a very happy day here,the paradise is in and WOW! so very very quiet!
It needs a bit of burning in before i make any judgement but out the box its a big step up from what ive been using,most noticeable immediately is a refinement to delicately played guitar passages im used to,i can sort of feel the restrained stroke of the plectrum.If there's more of this to come as it opens up with use i'll be over the moon.
I'd like to say a BIG thanks to simon for his fantastic work ,he drove it down today from Sheffield!,installed it in my system and set the cartridge loading up.
A real pleasure to meet you mate. :cool:
Bigman80
16-12-2018, 19:02
Fantastic service there.
Will await the review with interest.
Wakefield Turntables
16-12-2018, 20:18
Well its been a very happy day here,the paradise is in and WOW! so very very quiet!
It needs a bit of burning in before i make any judgement but out the box its a big step up from what ive been using,most noticeable immediately is a refinement to delicately played guitar passages im used to,i can sort of feel the restrained stroke of the plectrum.If there's more of this to come as it opens up with use i'll be over the moon.
I'd like to say a BIG thanks to simon for his fantastic work ,he drove it down today from Sheffield!,installed it in my system and set the cartridge loading up.
A real pleasure to meet you mate. :cool:
Welcome to the club. Si's a top bloke. It can get addictive both when listening to the thing and also getting the thing upgraded!
keith1962
16-12-2018, 22:43
Well I think Jamie is the most up to date and will not need any upgrading for a good while. I got on board pre Calvin buffers and with an earlier psu arrangement so get your point about upgrading.
I think mine does not need any upgrades at the minute but I am sure Simon would advise:). I do like the look of those zfoils in the riaa though:)!
KR
Keith
sq225917
17-12-2018, 20:06
Keith, z-foils, Calvins, and cart loading via back panel RCA plug would bring you bang up to date. I have Boards and probably most parts for Calvins except heatsinks.
sq225917
22-12-2018, 17:02
This one's in for an update.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7919/31481112007_9426ab9193_b.jpg
Back panel legends fitted
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4904/32548572538_418d958e15_b.jpg
loading plugs fitted to back panel.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7819/31480880977_23c11575d9_b.jpg
Calvins hard mounted to the case
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7838/46369751232_0b9777595c_b.jpg
New hand wound inductor to replace the original ferrite cored part
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4846/46369749652_fca94d0175_b.jpg
New power resistors fitted to up the current from the shunt, also trimmed them with smaller parts to get exact match.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7906/32548562778_56fb6a03d1_b.jpg
Taken LED from CCS of shunt out to bottom of panel, recessed and machined hole in sleeve so that it illuminates gently beneath the front edge of the case when its powered up.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7802/46369772172_cbd280c7d8_b.jpg
Cases refinished.
One channel done, one to go.
DiveDeepDog
22-12-2018, 17:45
Will you be able to shoehorn Calvins into mine ? Mickey's moved the game along, gotta keep up :eyebrows:
hi si,
the 280 loading plugs arrived today,cheers mate much appreciated :cool: i think they are on the money,my paradise has started to really open up now,i reckon i have put about 15 hrs on it since you dropped it off.
sq225917
22-12-2018, 20:41
You've still a way to go Jamie, I reckon based on the remaining DC offset that it would be another 30 hours from when it was installed till those caps were fully formed.
I had a feeling the 280r would be on the money. If you're sure they're right then knock a set up with decent plugs and 1n wima film cap on them like my Eichmanns. JLE's should be perfect.
Mark, can do. I'd struggle to hard mount them in your current case though..
Bigman80
22-12-2018, 20:54
You've still a way to go Jamie, I reckon based on the remaining DC offset that it would be another 30 hours from when it was installed till those caps were fully formed.
I had a feeling the 280r would be on the money. If you're sure they're right then knock a set up with decent plugs and 1n wima film cap on them like my Eichmanns. JLE's should be perfect.
Mark, can do. I'd struggle to hard mount them in your current case though..What is the 1n cap for?
Mickyricky
22-12-2018, 23:21
It’s gone back to its maker Mark ! Not that there was any thing wrong with sound wise ...I felt like I needed some small upgrades and Simon as the pics show is doing a first class job ...Highly recommended!! Meanwhile back to the Lp 12��
DiveDeepDog
22-12-2018, 23:26
Loading seems a black art, Jamie Art 7 and 280 ohms ?? I've got AT37 and while its still silent (0.1mv) with 100 ohm loading, theres more to come?
Si, I will hear either Sap7, or Mickey's in the new year.
We heard Mickeys vs AlanT's at Nebo, Mickey's more precise but the jury was out which was more tuneful.
DiveDeepDog
22-12-2018, 23:33
re; loading; worthwhile posting a sticky somewhere to values that work?
I'm set at 100 ohms, prolly a bit too much?
Loading seems a black art, Jamie Art 7 and 280 ohms ?? I've got AT37 and while its still silent (0.1mv) with 100 ohm loading, theres more to come?
Si, I will hear either Sap7, or Mickey's in the new year.
We heard Mickeys vs AlanT's at Nebo, Mickey's more precise but the jury was out which was more tuneful.
it is to me as well,the specs on my cartridge show a minimum loading of 100 ohms,i used it on my old phono stage at 200 ohms setting,i only had 3 options,50,100 and 200. the added bonus with the paradise is you can get your cartridges loading set perfectly.the hard bit that goes over my head is working out what resistors you need to achieve the loading!:)
si,when you say,use 1n wima film cap, do you mean instead of the resistor?
edit,ive just seen a photo you posted,so its in addition to the resistor yes.what does it do?
https://i.postimg.cc/VkynDrvs/30748983048-b6759aed52-b.jpg
Firebottle
23-12-2018, 08:07
The capacitor acts more as an RFI suppressor than anything.
With a common input for MC and MM on any phono stage the typical 100pF fitted to load the MM setting will act as RFI suppressor for MC.
Hi Jamie
Thanks for having me over.
Had a great time listening to the new phono stage,
Fantastic sound, deeply impressed.
I'll be back to listen again once its had a few more hours on it.
The best stage I've heard, even better than the stage i heard at the Penkridge bakeoff, think that was a VAS valve stage.
Incredible build Simon, just wish i could afford one.
Cheers Jamie
your welcome mate anytime,its really coming on in terms of bedding in,god only knows (and simon) what its going to sound like in another 2 weeks :)
thanks for the help with the toe in on the yammies,much easier with 2 people.
Hi Jamie
Thats the other thing that really has improved
Since replacing the old tv cabinet and giving the Yammies some room to breath with a little toe in,they sound superb.
Little changes with HUGE benefits.
Regards Steve...
sq225917
24-12-2018, 00:16
I always find, with the Paradise at least, that adding a little extra capacitance further damps the cartridge. The resistor suppresses the HF peak adding a little film cap broadens the range of the damped, it seems to widen the Q of the damping effect.
I finished micky's today. New coils, increased voltage into the shunt, increased bias on the buffers, fitted new back panel legends, phono loading plugs, refinished the cases and fitted power on led's by relocating two of the few leds from the shunt. Its sounding epic. Much more gutsy than when it came in.
Mickyricky
24-12-2018, 09:48
I finished Micky’s today. New coils, increased voltage into the shunt, increased bias on the buffers, fitted new coils, phono loading plugs, refinished the cases and fitted power on less by relocating two of the few leds from the shunt. It’s sounding epic. Much more gutsy than when it came in.
Woo Hoo!.
It sounded great before but after the make over that you have described so well ,I can’t wait to couple them up to the 301 again.
Paradise is coming home for Christmas..
Santa may be late tonight guys he’s stopping by have a demo ..
sq225917
27-12-2018, 09:19
Micky, it was great to meet up the other night. I'll get you that multi-way GND lead in the post over the next couple of days. I'd have your local guy take a look at your tonearm grounding wire though, that didn't seem connected up at the arm end.
DiveDeepDog
27-12-2018, 13:10
Micky, it was great to meet up the other night. I'll get you that multi-way GND lead in the post over the next couple of days. I'd have your local guy take a look at your tonearm grounding wire though, that didn't seem connected up at the arm end.
That'll be me ! I don't connect arm ground to the Garrard, I keep them isolated straight to the pre-amp. Always been quiet whichever arm/cart I've fitted, plywood/Corian's an effective electrical insulator.
sq225917
27-12-2018, 14:33
Yeh, hes got inducted motor noise though. I would try the following.
1, Additional wire from tonearm gnd to paradise gnd
2. Same as above but with small branch to garrard chassis as well
3. Same as above but run it on to the pre-amp as well. (I'll build this wire).
4. Clip small crocodile clips between the input phono gnd pin and the GND socket inside the main cases of the Paradise. The Paradise signal is floating so grounding it back to mains earth at the earliest point might be a fix.
I'll get the wire in the post over the next few days. You boys and your non-standard connections...
DiveDeepDog
27-12-2018, 15:35
I use a Hydra type plug so it all earths there, including the TT Its always quiet, but I admit earthing is another black art.
I have had a shuffle around in the rack and found positioning of the Paradise critical. I bought an Opus CD player in the hope of better distribution on my rack (2 half width cases, transport + PS) but the Paradise wasn't happy till it was on the shelf alone.
I found it susceptible to hum from adjacent to rather than above/below, I s'pose motors and torrid have differing electromagnetic fields?
Parcel Contents:
Stock No Quantity Description
6833402 25 MRS25 Resistor A/P,0.6W,1%,270R
6833386 50 MRS25 Resistor A/P,0.6W,1%,261R
6834180 50 MRS25 Resistor A/P,0.6W,1%,240R
6833348 25 MRS25 Resistor A/P,0.6W,1%,232R
6833360 25 MRS25 Resistor A/P,0.6W,1%,249R
well if that lot doesn't get the cartridge loading bang on i'll give up :D
DiveDeepDog
28-12-2018, 19:35
Which cart, Jamie?
sq225917
28-12-2018, 19:35
Lol, at Mr dogs we found 10 ohm to be easily identifiable on a low impedance cart. My benz LP is a honey badger, it doesn't give a shit, 200-800r will do.
lol am i being to obsessive??:lol:
Which cart, Jamie?
audio technica art-7
DiveDeepDog
28-12-2018, 20:30
I’ve got Art 9, but my AT37 is probably closer spec to your 7? 0.1 output, 3ohm internal resistance, you really appreciate how quiet the Paradise is, looks like I could do some tweaking ��
Hi Jamie
I see your getting a few Vishay resistors-should get your loading spot on with that lot mate:)
Steve...
sq225917
28-12-2018, 22:51
Mark, I have some RCA plugs with double screw terminals on the back, less hassle than soldering and a quick way to get dialled in.
these spring loaded could be even easier
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Maxhood-Speaker-Terminal-Female-Spring-RCA-Male/dp/B077MH6TD2
sq225917
04-01-2019, 23:40
mmmmm, solid silver coils for the output buffer, cos, why not?
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7804/45685030185_54596eb9c0_b.jpg
Well I’ve just ordered a handful of frighteningly expensive nude foil resistors and a handful of other, equally expensive components, to upgrade my Paradise..... I wonder if it will sound any better (difficult to believe it will at present).
i ordered my 2 Charcroft resistors yesterday so if anyone would like to have a play with loading i have these vishay ones left.
270R,261R,240R,232R,249R they are all 1%.
i settled on 270 for my ART-7.
DiveDeepDog
09-01-2019, 18:41
i ordered my 2 Charcroft resistors yesterday so if anyone would like to have a play with loading i have these vishay ones left.
270R,261R,240R,232R,249R they are all 1%.
i settled on 270 for my ART-7.
Can I try the 270 with my AT37? Do you want paying or is it worth keeping them together and do a round Robin?
sq225917
09-01-2019, 19:20
Empty your inbox mark
DiveDeepDog
09-01-2019, 19:58
Done
Can I try the 270 with my AT37? Do you want paying or is it worth keeping them together and do a round Robin?
nope no payment,just pm me your address and i'll send you 2 of each size. :cool:
sq225917
12-01-2019, 16:06
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7911/32838217338_3d3026b71c_b.jpg
Calvins for the current build, not sure where this one is going. Interest from a gent in Lincs and another in Birmingham.
sq225917
12-01-2019, 21:39
https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7854/45801449295_2320d1a8df_b.jpg
Resistors, films and LEds in, transistors on order
Can I try the 270 with my AT37? Do you want paying or is it worth keeping them together and do a round Robin?
have you got the resistors?
sq225917
16-01-2019, 17:37
I've got a new set of 70-220 in 7 ohm steps coming.
DiveDeepDog
16-01-2019, 20:21
Apologies for the delay, feet haven’t touched the ground since Friday, only had 20 mins at home yesterday, but enough time to open a jiffy with goodies in them.
I’ll get on the testing ASAP, with a Longdog phono for starters, then when my Paradise has visited Si again I’ll make final choices.
Been lucky enough to buy an Accuphase AC5, a bit special when I’ve heard it�� but another cart that deserves bespoke settings.
Sweet, just so you know si told me the actual loading is about 10% less than the value of the resistor
sq225917
16-01-2019, 20:58
We'll do it by ear Mark, always best, and we'll leave you with a few adjacent values to roll.
sq225917
20-01-2019, 19:51
All matched up and ready to hit the shelf until someone comes along and make an enquiry.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4825/46764406122_6efecfca63_b.jpg
Very possibly the last one
someone should jump in quick and buy it,you really would not regret it and its end game.
Wakefield Turntables
20-01-2019, 20:09
This should go pretty quickly.
sq225917
20-01-2019, 22:47
I'm sure a suitably discerning vinylphile will be along presently, there always is.
Bksabath
12-10-2020, 12:22
28708Would a 1.1 mV output cartridge overload The Paradise ?
Time will tell
Avinunca1
02-09-2023, 17:10
With much work from Simon solving some challenging issues, my Paradise is finally working. I suffered a lot of frustration trying to match the input transistors and got fed up with it and it lingered in my loft for years. I wish I'd sent Si the boards a long time ago.
Anyway after recabling the amps and installing new umbilicals to the prereg I constructed it's finally up and running.
I'm listening with my ZMF Vérité headphones and a Whammy amp plus Border Patrol pre. No hum and quiet as a mouse.
I changed the pre reg droppers to 57 ohms which gives me 27V into the psus. I read somewhere Si uses 26.5v and the max recommended on diy-audio is 28V. No heatsinks reading above 50c so should be fine unless someone tells me otherwise.
May do a bit of fettling on the pre-reg - like the ringing damping mod for the mains transformers if it's likely to have any effect on SQ. Will also try experimenting with the cart loading resistance. Running 100 ohm with a Transfiguration cart. Sounds amazing right now.
Update - Listening to Variations Andrew Lloyd Webber. ........Sublime
Simon - you are a wizard with these phono amps. The designers did quite well too!
Simon knows his stuff and it is certainly one of the best phono stages there is.
Wakefield Turntables
03-09-2023, 13:57
Simon knows his stuff and it is certainly one of the best phono stages there is.
Shame he's been banned.
Avinunca1
03-09-2023, 13:58
Shame he's been banned.
From the forum? Why?
Yes the paradise phono is probably the best SS I have heard.
karma1967
03-09-2023, 17:10
probably disagreeing with the missing forum owner,those sort of things have a habbit of people being banned.
Wakefield Turntables
03-09-2023, 19:24
probably disagreeing with the missing forum owner,those sort of things have a habbit of people being banned.
Yep, I'd just about say that would be true. :lol:
He was banned in January 2019 by Marco, for reasons unknown.
Wakefield Turntables
04-09-2023, 09:48
He was banned in January 2019 by Marco, for reasons unknown.
2019! Time flies.
karma1967
04-09-2023, 16:04
He was banned in January 2019 by Marco, for reasons unknown.
https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?62349-Grounding-boxes-The-real-deal&p=1053590#post1053590
Bksabath
07-09-2023, 08:36
Yes a shame Simon was banned
My first Paradise was the first one he ever heard
He soon became the person to go to for help.
I am not sure where he is posting now ...
I lost a fair bit of motivation building things or posting here probably winter came and I will get back in to it
Paradise best phono stage ? maybe not the N 1 but so far up there IMO
And it can be better whit a different PCB for starters
Eventually one day maybe ...:D
Wakefield Turntables
07-09-2023, 09:04
Hi PM me if you want his contact details I’m interested in your new PCB idea. Care to expand ?
I've lifted Simon's ban. Not sure he is that bothered about posting here but if he ever wants to he can now do so.
karma1967
07-09-2023, 15:49
nice one :cool:
sq225917
28-04-2024, 15:08
Cheers Martin,
I'm mainly on pfm these days.
I'm still building Paradises if anyone's interested. Price depends on spec, but starting at £2,300 for a 2 box, dual mono build.
The usual offer of hearing one at yours subject to mileage, and ongoing servicing at parts and p&p cost still stands.
Wakefield Turntables
28-04-2024, 16:56
Si, did we ever get any new upgrades? It's been a while since I've had any work done on mine.
sq225917
28-04-2024, 22:18
You're all up to date Andy. Give me a call in another five years...
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