Journeys end...? [Archive] - The Art of Sound Forum

realysm42

26-07-2013, 19:30

I'm finally happy enough to post my system properly as it's no longer in a state of flux; everything balances and ultimately sound amazing.

I'm not afraid to admit today my system bought a tear to my eye for the 1st time ever, you might say it's emotional now :D

Here it is:

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/7_zpsd98d3431.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/7_zpsd98d3431.jpg.html)

Can you spot the new additions :eyebrows:

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/5_zpsc8abed34.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/5_zpsc8abed34.jpg.html)

(Above) The beast

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/9_zpsb92ccde3.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/9_zpsb92ccde3.jpg.html)

(Above) The beauty

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/4_zps0a0740e1.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/4_zps0a0740e1.jpg.html)

(Above) Velvet glove

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/3_zpsd8823b20.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/3_zpsd8823b20.jpg.html)

(Above) Iron fist

Thanks for looking.

synsei

26-07-2013, 19:41

Martin, I hope you are feeling proud right now because that is one mighty and fine looking system, and if it sounds as good as it looks then it may indeed be 'journey's end'. Now don't forget to throw the ring into the crack of doom Frodo... ;)

TimJ

26-07-2013, 19:54

Looks fantastic, very nice the hours upon hours of pure bliss sound, im so jelous!

Audio Al

26-07-2013, 20:05

Well done , you finally did it !!

A wall heater :lol:

sorry

Nice looking system , and very nice Ushers ;)

RichB

26-07-2013, 20:13

Cor, smashing!

What's the little things on the wee rack?

Tim

26-07-2013, 20:15

You can let the grass grow a little now then Martin ;)

synsei

26-07-2013, 20:17

Well done , you finally did it !!

A wall heater :lol:

sorry

Nice looking system , and very nice Ushers ;)

What are you like? :lol:

realysm42

26-07-2013, 20:27

Cor, smashing!

What's the little things on the wee rack?

Acoustic revive rr-777 with kingrex linear PSU :)

Tim, I agree sir. I've never felt so happy and satisfied!

synsei

26-07-2013, 20:35

And that's what it's all about :)

jollyfix

26-07-2013, 20:43

Very nice Martin.

realysm42

26-07-2013, 20:44

The only thing I'm toying with the idea of is a pre amp, after some of the info I've picked up on here, but I'm in no rush right now.

Thanks Dave.

This is the result of just under 3 years hardcore research, learning, mistakes, frustration and fun. I'm finally happy to sit back and listen to the music and not the hi fi.

The Ushers are a work of art, the pictures don't do them justice and they sound better than they look :) I was worried that they reach to 26hz, but the bass isn't overwhelming at all, it just reaches lower and sounds more wholesome for it. As for the diamond tweeter, its ribbon like in the heights it reaches but sound neutral and Smith. Top stuff.

The amp is partly to thank here; more power than I'll never need and the headroom is palpable, effortless presentation that delivers neutral representation across the range.

Tbh, a big :yesbruv: to this forum, I learnt pretty much everything I know about audio from this place, so thank you all for your patience and guidance; I see the this as a sum of all my work and your tips combined; finally happy :)

Thing Fish

26-07-2013, 21:13

Well done Martin glad to hear your happy. But give it a few months (when your ears get used to the sound) and you will yearn for something different...;)

It's the way of things...:eyebrows:

Ali Tait

26-07-2013, 21:14

Looks cracking, well done, and enjoy!

Tim

26-07-2013, 21:19

It's the way of things...:eyebrows:
Not for all of us Dave . . . its just music for me and nowt else. I stopped chasing my tail sometime ago now and just relax into the music and spend my money on buying more ;)

Nice job Martin and your evolution has been quite something, is there anything left there from your original system?

realysm42

26-07-2013, 21:20

Well done Martin glad to hear your happy. But give it a few months (when your ears get used to the sound) and you will yearn for something different...;)

It's the way of things...:eyebrows:

Lol, we shall see. My ethos for the system is something that punches well above its weight for the money. I really believe I've achieved the this!

Bearing that in mind, I can't reasonably move forward without spending megabucks now; I don't want to move sideways, only forward and given I've got synergy and balance, I'm content :)

Thanks Ali and for your help in crafting it!

Amen Tim.

Ali Tait

26-07-2013, 21:25

You're welcome, but I've no idea what I did! :scratch:

Nice pics though, looks very nice indeed.

realysm42

26-07-2013, 21:30

You're welcome, but I've no idea what I did! :scratch:

Nice pics though, looks very nice indeed.

For starters, got me interested in a certain chaps valve DAC.

Answered a lot of questions for me over time. There are certain people on here who I have an inkling to listen to.

Ali Tait

26-07-2013, 21:47

realysm42

26-07-2013, 21:53

Aye well, Nick may be a mate, but I would never recommend his stuff to other folk just because of that, it stands on it's own, folk just need to listen for themselves.

I might get accused of the "S" word! :lol:

Fair point. I mean the thread you created about it got me interested; you never actively recommended it to me!

Having said that, based purely on my own experience, if you're looking for a DAC, buy it :eyebrows:

Ali Tait

26-07-2013, 22:04

I will be, just need to save up first!

Always happy to try and help folk, it's what places like this are all about is it not? :)

jason

27-07-2013, 06:21

That's a stunning set up Martin very nice:)

Macca

27-07-2013, 07:48

Congrats Martin you have joined the ranks of those with 'serious' systems. The Ushers look like a million dollars. One question - it may be the photo but are the speakers not a little bit too close together?

realysm42

27-07-2013, 07:55

Thanks Martin :)

In answer, yes they are too close. Unfortunately set up is dictated by the shape of my living room. I'm currently renting a place, so when I look to buy, the shape/size of the living room is going to be a big factor!

I bought with the future in mind tbh.

MikeMusic

27-07-2013, 08:03

Nice set up Martin
If you're looking for Pre Amps let's compare notes as that is next on my list too
We might be able to try out some kit together as I guess we're fairly close together

I suppose those Ushers *might* give my Isobariks a run for their money
:)

Now to make a big space somewhere for a P10 ......

realysm42

27-07-2013, 08:29

Mike, you're welcome to come and check it out if you like.

I'm always interested to hear other peoples opinions/tips.

Notes on the Ushers:

Not fully burnt in, I got them from Jordan Acoustics from their demo room. Despite their excellent packaging, they have some cracks in transit :( thank god I signed unchecked! They reckon they've got about 100 hours on them, everyone says they need about 200 to really sing.

Regardless, I've never heard my system sing like this! The amp is great, really grips the music by the scruff and has power in spades so partners well with the dancers, gives them what they need in neutral and plentiful power.

Things I've noticed with these speakers are extra inflection sung vocals. So while the vocals aren't new the way I'm hearing them is much refined, it brings you closer to the performance (hearing the artists actions, breathing etc, not just singing). I can now hear the bodies of instruments being played, not just the notes they produce. This has been a revelation. Hearing the actual skin of the drum being hit and knowing how its being hit, not just a banging drum in the background.

Notes on the Magtech amp:

Amazing bit of kit, really. I had it set up with my old cp6311s for a short while and the difference, even with them was one of those WOW moments. The utter control it has at all frequencies is astonishing. Bass (even in my horrible room) got a grip of itself and actually developed texture! In fact, there were some songs I played (real bass heavy stuff) and I was actually initially disappointed at first, because I'd never heard anything other than one note boominess; I thought that was how the song was meant to sound!

Now I understand that there are layers to bass, texture and differing notes. Pretty eye opening stuff.

I might have made this thing sound like an up tight control Nazi so far, its not; presentation feels 'effortless' without being lazy and when it gets loud or complex, it just doesn't break a sweat (or get hot, only amp with a linear, 99% efficient PSU). It does the 'delicate stuff with aplomb. Neutral sounding and clean, it just gets out the way and reproduces music more authentically than a lot of other challengers I've headed.

I took a huge gamble with tbh new amp and speakers, never auditioning them before I bought them, but just had an inkling they'd work well together, sometimes its worth following your gut :)

Notes on the ancilleries:

Power as important as actual components and should be treated as such!

Isotek evo3 mains conditioner (schuko plugs):

My first foray into this kind of thing and I'm glad I took the plunge. The removal of fuses and scrubbing electricity removed so much noise that blocked the music. This is the foundation of my system!

Ifi USB with mcru linear PSU:

So how anal can one get? About this anal. The ifi alone is essential if you're serious about digital music. Adding the extra PSU with its own filtered connection just upped the levels again (or dropped the noise floor considerably, however you want to put it). Goodbye grunge, hello new found levels of natural presentation.

PC and mcru linear PSU:

Low power (spec) ideal for music playback. No moving parts, sata noise filters. Much less rfi and emi. Jriver is amazing; don't suffer amp or iTunes, you owe it to demo this programme, everything most people will need. The PSU comes in a matching black case which is great, very sexy. You can probably a spot the trend here. Less ripple, less noise, just loads more music. This with the ifi was a *substantial* upgrade for me, really. One of those cases where you'll never know until you've actually experienced it :)

TQ ultra blacks:

Seen off everything I've ever demoed so far (most things have not come close). Pricey yes, but an investment. Transparent and give more music.

Isolation, Jcube isolation platforms with RDC combo bass, cups and spikes:

Great looking, bit of Diy (satisfying to have a 'hand' in making part of my system) and no vibrations. Very very good vfm! RDC gets pricey quick but is great stuff.

Franc audio platforms:

I've written a review of these on here, it they were 'out of action' with my previous ushers due to the huge iron bases. Placing the minis on them, combined with their own plinths looks great and these things work! Solid aluminium, ceramic isolation balls, some magic resin, anything you put on these stops losing energy into the floor and comes at you instead, you can actually feel the difference! Again pricey for isolation but I'm so glad I took the decision to go for these, and yes, much much better than granite (which sucks the life out of music I find).

I think my brothers reaction confirmed really what I'd been aiming to achieve with the set up; something that punches well above its weight for the cost. He said he thought it bested a lot of the megabuck systems he heard at the sound and vision show this year - I was chuffed with that!

MikeMusic

27-07-2013, 09:46

Sounds like we ought to do a visit to each other's to nick ideas of each other :)
Sunday's are my only day I could come to you.
2-3 hour sessions any evening if you come to me
PM sent

realysm42

27-07-2013, 09:52

Sorry Mike, I had a full inbox, its sorted now.

Tim

27-07-2013, 10:14

Ifi USB with mcru linear PSU:

So how anal can one get?

Not at all anal Martin - the iFi isolates the 5V USB rail which powers the DAC chipset, as the 5V rail from the motherboard is not 'clean'. iFi provide an SMPS to power their unit which sends 5V to the DAC chipset via the iFi, so it makes perfect sense to use a linear supply with the iFi, in fact I would go so far as to say its arguably rather pointless using an iFi iUSBPower without one, as you are not realising its full potential ;)

realysm42

27-07-2013, 10:18

Agreed and the proof is in the pudding, works an absolute treat!

I understand that they are aiming for a certain market with the ifi but they're missing a trick not at least offering an upgrade option, as with everything else, power is the key and in this case makes a good product great!

steviej233

29-07-2013, 12:15

I can vouch for everything that has been said, this system has come a LONG way and i think that although it is still a relatively expensive system, it punches well above it's weight. It has been a genuine pleasure to watch this system grow and my god it sounds good, i have spent no less that 15 hours this week listening to this system for big blocks of time and i can honestly say i was gripped for the whole session. Well recorded music sounds AMAZING with layers and depth and notes that you can literally feel. Badly recorded music beware this set up will really out you! The addition of the big Sanders and the mighty mini's is phenomenal, i was trying to talk him out of spending more money but i am glad that he didn't listen! I think Martin will agree (at least for the time being) that the focus now will solely be on buying and listening to music, and do you know what i can't wait. :cool:

realysm42

29-07-2013, 13:05

Yeah we did get some hours on it last weekend huh!

Yes, I've spent so long researching and trying to get it up to spec I've slowed right down with the music; now I can relax and get involved with enjoying what I have and discovering lots more, which is what it's about.

The Black Adder

29-07-2013, 20:39

Bad boy system is that... Looking well cool!

pjdowns

29-07-2013, 20:56

Loving the look of the system. If it looks only half as good as it looks I'm sure you'll love it :)

realysm42

29-07-2013, 21:39

Loving the look of the system. If it looks only half as good as it looks I'm sure you'll love it :)

Don't worry, it looks half as good as it looks :p

Thanks Joe :cool:

Might add some more tweaks to it, just to upset the pfm lot a bit more, got to be worth the money :eyebrows:

Will be speaking to the shop about the damaged speaker tomorrow, I don't see myself ever wanting to change the model so can't settle with cracks and bruised veneer on the side of it :(

loo

29-07-2013, 22:17

Hi ,some systems on here are just porn
and yours is certainly XXX rated:wow:
very nice indeed

realysm42

29-07-2013, 22:21

Thank you Paul, much appreciated :)

Barry

29-07-2013, 22:38

A very nice and neat set up you have there Martin. I particularly like the equipment rack.

But, apart from the Usher speakers, what exactly are the other items of kit?

realysm42

30-07-2013, 08:13

A very nice and neat set up you have there Martin. I particularly like the equipment rack.

But, apart from the Usher speakers, what exactly are the other items of kit?

Sanders Magtech amp

Longdog Audio vdt1 dac

Isotek Aquarius evo 3 mains conditioner (schuko plug fittings)

MCRU linear psu (for the pc beneath it)

Home built PC (Windows 8, all ssd and passive cooling, no moving parts); runs Jriver v18

Franc Audio isolation platforms (under speakers)

PC to dac is usb; I'v got an ifi usb power unit with a linear psu to keep the signal clean.

Underneath the amp is an Acoustic Revive RGC-24, which is a grounding conditioner (passive unit, suck aways transformer borne noise).

HTH.

Tim

30-07-2013, 20:42

What did you decide re the power amp Martin? Are you going to stick with digital "dithered" attenuation or look into analog attenuation with a pre amp. Could you borrow one for comparison before making a purchase, as I fear for your bank balance?

archiesdad

30-07-2013, 21:03

Looks really, really Desirable(I struggled to think for the right term there), if it sounds half as good as it looks :wow::carrot: will need to reread the tech bits as some(well a lot, went over my head). I've seen this so many times on car forums only for the mod itch to start and it all begins again, but until then, happy listening.

realysm42

31-07-2013, 09:11

@Tim: from what I can gather, Jrivers dithering isn't great, so I'm probably losing something, especially as I tend not to turn the volume up past 30%. Also, it'd be interesting (for piece of mind) to see what a physical preamp can do. However, a demo would have to happen first as this is something I'm not confident on taking a punt on!

I'm happy to wait a while as it actually sounds better than it ever has done before, pre amp or no!

@Martin: thank you for the kind words. I'm sorry if I made it sound too sciencey (I try not to, I find places like 6moons hard to read because of their flowery language).

Keeping it simple, I've done my utmost to remove fuses from the chain (where it's safe to do so) and make sure the power my system is fed is as clean as feasibly possible at every opportunity (power conditioner has euro plugs, so no fuses, but and the big but is, all of the gear is internally fused and the plug going into the wall is fused too) whilst removing any opportunity for the gear to vibrate (via the isolation platforms).

All of the wiring is neat, (for the first time ever :lol:) no power cables touch anything (including each other) and the signal cables have their own space too. Speaker cables are kept from the floor via 4 granite slabs (these were added since photos were taken) and I'll be adding some Shuntaya research dark field cable elevators (v2) for shits and giggles, im too curious to see if they work; I'll report back.

realysm42

02-08-2013, 17:12

Just put my old 3.5" HDD into a caddy to get some old music off of it and my god, I had to turn the power amp off because of the horrible noise it got the speakers to make!

I'm guessing it emits an electromagnetic field of sorts, I've never heard anything like it!

I know its slightly different when in a PC case but the amount of 'noise' this thing spits out is unreal. Good to have a back up of my music in though.

You get what you pay for, the case is cheap and the cables have to be crushed to fit inside of it but it does the job :lol:

Ali Tait

02-08-2013, 19:27

A NAS is the way to go, put it in another room, well away from the hi-fi!

realysm42

02-08-2013, 19:55

I use ssds for my Os and music storage, I think they behave a little better!

Ali Tait

02-08-2013, 21:14

Aye you're not wrong, but they are not cheap if you have a lot of data to store.

Gazjam

03-08-2013, 11:00

Nice setup Martin, very neat n tidy. Bet it sounds awesome!

About Jriver digital volume vs Preamp...
Jriver's internal volume is as good as it gets imo. In my experience you don't lose any quality.
Its ideal if you want to use a smartphone or tablet to run Jriver.

FROM JRIVER SITE:
All audio handling inside the program is done with 64 bits of precision. Most high-end hardware uses 24-bit output, meaning the engine has an additional 240 dB of precision above the hardware's output. As a result, should you choose to use them, digital volume, room correction, and other audio functions are pristine.

Why not try it, see what you think? The convenience is great.

There's a great thread about this over on the Jriver forum HERE:
http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=76912.0

lurcher

03-08-2013, 11:16

Gazjam

03-08-2013, 12:30

Yes, but the problem with that is while you are using 64 bit internally, the DAC is still at best 24bit, that dac has a S/N ratio of +100dB, but each 6dB of attenuation you remove from the output takes 6dB of S/N ratio and 1 bit of resolution. If you use a analog preamp after the DAC you wont have this problem. You may not notice as you have enough headroom, but its there none the less.

Sure, that makes sense, thanks Nick.
I run Jriver at 32bit through the dac though, and I noticed theres a jump in quality between 24bit and 32bit playback?
Is it because there's less "downsampling" from the original 64bit internal precision?

ta.

realysm42

03-08-2013, 18:48

lurcher

03-08-2013, 20:41

Thanks Tim :) Yes, I've used a tablet with jriver for some time now; I absolutely love it, makes life so much easier!

Ta for the input Nick, if you were in my shoes what would you do? Sending the DAC back to trim some of the output voltage sounds like a smart idea.

Gas, did you select 32 bit over the auto bitrate setting? If so, which one dude? Might have a go myself.

Well, altering the output of the DAC is not a simple thing, and certainly not without doing harm. If it was me I would think about a preamp. But then again, you are happy with the result, so dont fret. I only wanted to point out that even with 64 bit processing digital volume controls are not without problems. You could try what I suggested, I make you up a simple balanced variable attenuator.

Gazjam

04-08-2013, 08:58

Thanks Tim :) Yes, I've used a tablet with jriver for some time now; I absolutely love it, makes life so much easier!

Ta for the input Nick, if you were in my shoes what would you do? Sending the DAC back to trim some of the output voltage sounds like a smart idea.

Gas, did you select 32 bit over the auto bitrate setting? If so, which one dude? Might have a go myself.

Hi Martin,

In Jriver options: DSP and Output format, under bitdepth I selected 32bit integer mode.
I wouldn't advise it though unless your Dac can do native 32bit, potentially sound worse!

lurcher

04-08-2013, 09:41

In Jriver options: DSP and Output format, under bitdepth I selected 32bit integer mode.
I wouldn't advise it though unless your Dac can do native 32bit, potentially sound worse!

But in this case, what matters is if the DAC has a analog output that can resolve a -150dB sine wave, all the "32 bit DAC" I have seen have a S/N ratio that looks close enough to be a 24 bit dac (-126dB), without that, attenuating in the digital domain is not a free lunch.

realysm42

05-08-2013, 10:17

Hi Nick,

If you could send me some to try that would be really helpful; i'll pm you my address.

I bought a pair of Goldenjacks -20db xlr attenuators and they make an awful hum when either plugged into the dac or the power amp, so they're useless, have you any idea why this might be?

Cheers Gaz, I'll have a look/listen :)

Andrei

07-08-2013, 05:44

Martin
I believe the best source* on the planet today is a well fettled PC. Hi-res (not BS up-scaled files), and the 3+GHz processor (what 'streamer' has that?), plus heaps of other tweaks that are not especially difficult or expensive means you can have a source virtually second to none. With that in mind would you mind giving us a masterclass and list your components in your PC source?

Case
Motherboard
Ram
Chip
Chip fan
Case fans
Power supply
Mouse - Keyboard
Monitor / Screen
Video card?
Sound Card?
Optical Drive
Others eg dynamat

Regards, Andrei

* I have not heard uber-dollar sources such as dcs

realysm42

07-08-2013, 08:15

Sure thing Andrei, I'll look it up for you and get it posted.

Tbh, I've not delved too much into high res downloads, a lot of what I listen to is redbook (ripped losslessly in .ape) and am amazed how much good sound you can get from it.

DSD is something I will be exploring though!

realysm42

07-08-2013, 20:11

Andrei

08-08-2013, 00:43

Here you go Andrei:

Streacom fc5 case (without optical drive)
Amd sempron 2 cores @2.5ghz
Gigabyte mini atx mobo am3
MCRU linear PSU in matching case
Geil ddr3 8gb @ 1333mhz cas 9-9-9-24 (1t)
2x ssd, one for os and one for storage with sata noise filters on each
Os is w8 64

Re your comment about processor power, I deliberately kept it low with few cores. Reason being I want it will behaved; in the case of music server, less is more (as long as you've got the power to run the Os and process files).

I might get my mate to declock it as well.

I agree with the fine source thing, I'm gob smacked at the lovely noises is capable of making! Especially with the massively upgraded psu. If your DAC takes power from the USB of your PC, the ifi is an absolute must, it was a huge clean up in terms of sound quality again.
Ethos with the PC build was simple:
No moving parts
The best quality power I can afford to get
As posted earlier, if you're going to keep your music 'in' the PC, make sure its ssd!
And if your going to buy an ssd, hold out as it sounds like Samsung are going to change the game soon:
http://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2013/08/samsungs-3d-vertical-nand-crams-a-terabit-on-a-single-chip/

Hope that helps!

Thanks for that Martin
I went for a factory underclocked CPU; the 3.1GHz Intel i7-3770S. In i7s come in standard speeds, overclocked and this underclocked "s" version. I deliberately went for the underclocked CPU because it would draw less power, & therefore require less cooling. I have tweaked most things but the CPU is running with a stock Intel fan would you believe! I had intended to put a Scythe or Zalman fan (I'm a fan of those fans) but the CPU never heats up as the load is so light - never hits 1%. The CPU cost a couple of hundy more but I have been numbed into Hi-Fi pricing so it still cost less than some interconnects!

Did you install via USB? - I see no optical. I installed by DVD then disabled the optical drive.

I went the Hard Drive route. To be pure SSD is obviously the way to go, but ... (1) Space; a 2 Terrabyte drive is kind of needed. I have have 400 gb of Flac, and about the same of movies and music videos, the library is expanding with new rips and hi-res downloads. (2) Also I load the files to memory before playing so that partially ameliorates the problem, (3) The Drive I have is silent and suspended with silicon, (4) I have a noise filter between the drive and the SATA connector. It did cross my mind to put the OS on an SSD and have the spinning drive for storage, but then I thought I want to keep this beast as simple as possible with as low a power draw as possible and stick to one drive. How big are your SSDs?

I will do a bit of research on my DAC as to whether it relies on the USB connector for its power. I am impressed with ifi at the moment as the ifi phono stage was a pretty decent upgrade over the Pro-ject I previously had.

You may wish to consider faster ram. On the plus side it is still cheap - up to a point, uber-fast ram will attract a price premium. The other side is that you may have the same issue I had; namely finding ram that would fit in the enclosed space.

I am also running W8 64, I find it boots faster than I can say "I don't like apples".

I not at a final destination yet, rather something of a pause. There are minor tweaks on my source, my DAC needs upgrading to take DSD. I prefer Valves to SS but to improve on my amp would take megabucks. I have a couple of pure silver interconnects and to have silver all round would be an improvement. But I do know your feeling about a satisfaction when you really forget your gear and take quite an intense pleasure in all the musical elements that envelop you.

Andrei

realysm42

08-08-2013, 12:07

You might want to look at getting a passive cooling solution if possible, especially as your cpu doesn't seem to be breaking a sweat. Less noise and less 'noise'. Can't be bad!

I think anything whirring about/moving inside of the case can't be good for SQ due to vibrations and EMI being generated (I don't know this for sure, but it's the purist's way).

I'm happy with the RAM that I have for now, it never feels the strain or is fully used, so again, having less (read: the least amount possible to runb the OS and get tasks done without flatering) is more for me.

I don't have a huge music collection stored digitally, I've currently got about 150 GB of high compression .APE.

I do however have about 800 cds/tapes of drum and bass from my yoof, that I plan on ripping at some point (pretty daunting task really) so will definitely need to up my storage.

Yes, all of my music is ripped via a usb powered removable drive and this is how I did the install of OS.

My OS drive is 40 GB and my music storage drive is (currently) 250GB.

I've tried one of those Ifi Gemini cables, for the output of the Ifi usb. They are very nicely made and allow the music to breathe a tad more freely.

realysm42

08-08-2013, 12:20

Nice job Martin and your evolution has been quite something, is there anything left there from your original system?

Sorry Tim, only just saw this.

The only thing that's left from the original system really are my speaker cables.

Everything else has been upgraded or gotten rid of. For example, I had some Townshend super tweeters and I just never got on with them, so off they went!

Gazjam

08-08-2013, 12:50

Gazjam

08-08-2013, 12:53

Hi Martin,
t'was unaware Dave Brook did a linear PSU for a Server.
You'd think I'd know about it too! :)

Any details on it?
Sounds intersting.

thanks.
Gaz.

Ali Tait

08-08-2013, 13:19

http://www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/custom-built-power-supplys/620-longdog-audio-filtered-power-supply-.html#

realysm42

08-08-2013, 13:38

Cheers Ali.

On the front page of this thread Gaz, the two matching black boxes; one is the PC the other is the linear PSU for it.

I'm stoked that they match :D

Substantial upgrade to the sound, cleared up lots of fuzz I never knew was there, meaning the sound is clearer and low level detail retrieval is a lot better. More nuances and detail but also bass became a lot clearer and textured. Highly recommended.

Gazjam

08-08-2013, 13:59

ah...that one. :)
Wondered if it was something new Martin.

Yup, Ive heard one with the Server down at Bristol, and in my own system.
Job's a good 'un.

Ali Tait

08-08-2013, 14:05

realysm42

08-08-2013, 14:14

@Gaz, it must sound superb what with the balanced main n all. I'm not jealous, honest!

@Ali, he's a top bloke and earnt my trust as far as investments in the system are concerned.

Ali Tait

08-08-2013, 14:15

Make that the next spend Martin, a BPS. A no brainer IMHO.

realysm42

08-08-2013, 14:36

Yes, I very nearly bit the bullet and got one for where I currently live (rented flat) so would have had to get a plug in unit, which would mean more top notch mains cable and plugs, ideally I'd like to avoid that as much as possible. So refrained.

As soon as I've got my own place its the 1st thing that's happening! I'll be getting the hard wired, no compromise model and be using Gaz's excellent post as a guide :)

Next thing I'll look at is (software) room correction, see what that can do for the sound.

realysm42

22-08-2013, 15:10

Guys, I get a ground hum, but only sometimes.

How do does one go about removing this please,make do you have any idea why its intermittent?

I removed the xlrs from my DAC and it vanished, so I'm assuming its from the DAC anywhere up the chain?

lurcher

22-08-2013, 18:13

Its unlikely to be ground loop caused by the dac as the outputs on it are totally floating and isolated. It may be that teh amp expects them to be grounded when in fact they are not.

realysm42

23-08-2013, 07:55

I had a play with the cables, it seems to be them, with my stock xlrs, there's no issue, so h the pair I borrowed (to try with the passive) the hum just won't go away. For troubleshooting I just swapped them out, so its definitely the cables.

Shame because it renders the pre unusable :(

Do you have any ideas?

MCRU

23-08-2013, 07:59

realysm42

23-08-2013, 08:18

Thanks Dave, much appreciated.

The only combination I tried was:

dac > tq black > pre amp> ultimate xlr > power amp

Due to cable lengths, do you think there would be any difference if I swapeed the xlrs round?

It's not really practical as the ultimate xlrs are too short, but if it made a difference...

realysm42

23-08-2013, 12:18

So I tried the second combination out and no joy, the noise persists.

Come to think of it, this is the exact same issue I had with the Goldenjack xlr attenuators I bought.

So it seems the only things that DON'T hum are the ultimate xlrs, any ideas why dudes? They use the posh Furutech plugs, think that might have anything to do with it?

lurcher

23-08-2013, 18:48

Whats the amp? Is it a truly balanced input?

It may be the problem is the earthing or not of the cases of the XLR's, and if the ground pin (pin 1) is connected.

MartinT

23-08-2013, 21:35

Excellent stuff, Martin. I've watched you develop your system from strength to strength. The Magtech is quite a beast as I realised when I evaluated one. Great coupling with Ushers, as I know you've found. Enjoy!

realysm42

24-08-2013, 09:21

Hi Nick, its a sanders magtech stereo power amp and according to this:

http://www.stereotimes.com/amp051412.shtml

Its not truly balanced. Does that have an impact? I'm just going to try another pair of xlrs that Dave kindly sent.

Thanks Martin, you're one of the people that's actually guided a lot of my decision making in the build of this system (tq, usher, various advice / musings). I've got to say how glad I am that I found this forum, got so much insight into brands you just wouldn't from the HiFi dealerships on the street.

realysm42

24-08-2013, 09:30

Just for the record, these too get the hum.

realysm42

08-09-2013, 22:20

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/DSC_0277_zps62a641b2.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/DSC_0277_zps62a641b2.jpg.html)

lurcher

09-09-2013, 07:15

From the amp review

Input Connections: operates single-ended via either RCA or XLR

Ahh, infact not balanced at all. That explains your problems. I wired that attenuator I made you expecting to drive a properly balanced load. That will explain the hum, and why your other attenuators hum.

Send the attenuator back and I will change it to match what you have. Or I can make you up a XLR to RCA lead for the DAC and change the attenuator to unbalanced.

TBH, you are gaining nothing by using XLR's to drive that power amp.

Yomanze

25-09-2013, 14:32

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/DSC_0277_zps62a641b2.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/DSC_0277_zps62a641b2.jpg.html)

Don't suppose you've thought about moving your HiFi away from in between your speakers? Looks like your room could do with treatment too e.g. panels on the rear wall, breaking up of right angles & reflective surfaces etc... is that an absorption panel on the right hand side of the photo? Also think you'd get a much better soundstage if the speakers were further apart and toed-in... definitely the left channel speaker moved out further to the left & toed-in is worth a shot.

realysm42

27-09-2013, 11:17

Don't suppose you've thought about moving your HiFi away from in between your speakers? Looks like your room could do with treatment too e.g. panels on the rear wall, breaking up of right angles & reflective surfaces etc... is that an absorption panel on the right hand side of the photo? Also think you'd get a much better soundstage if the speakers were further apart and toed-in... definitely the left channel speaker moved out further to the left & toed-in is worth a shot.

What would be the advantage of moving the hi fi from the centre of the set up?

Yes, I've got panels on both the left and right of the room, placed at the 1st point of reflection.

This photo is slightly out of date, the speakers have been slightly toed in (and do sound more coherent for it). Unfortunately, just out of shot is the reason I can't have the speakers any wider apart currently, there's a door leading into the the room, so I'm pushing it as things are.

Yomanze

27-09-2013, 16:37

Ah yes, my room has prevented me from trying numerous things, no chance of corner speakers due to the fireplace and alcoves. Sometimes moving the HiFi out of the middle can increase the soundstage's depth and width, sometimes it makes no difference. Depends on the room and speakers really...

realysm42

27-09-2013, 19:12

Thanks, I'll bare that in mind when I move to a new place.

News just in, there's a new baby joining the family, watch this space :)

Yomanze

28-09-2013, 12:58

Congratulations, best accident that ever happened to me! ;)

realysm42

01-10-2013, 16:48

Sorry Neil, that might have been a touch misleading, this is the baby that's joining me soon:

http://www.mfaudio.co.uk/babyclas_detailed.htm

Jonathan is coming round with one to test in my system personally, to work out how everything interacts and work out volume spacing etc, which is good service IMO.

I've decided that trying to live without a decent pre is too much of a pain in the arse and I don't want any digital attenuation in (or should I say out) of the sound.

Its hard to be patient and wait for it :eek:

lurcher

01-10-2013, 20:30

Well, I can assure you that your DAC will work just fine with one of those TVC's. Should be just the job.

realysm42

01-10-2013, 20:36

Nick, apologies for not telling you about the preamp, hope you didn't waste too much time thinking about the circuit for it. Im really excited to see what I've been missing out on with regards to what the DAC can actually do!

lurcher

01-10-2013, 21:10

Time spent thinking about circuits is never waisted :-)

Say Hi to Jonathan from me.

realysm42

01-10-2013, 21:24

Sure thing, will do.

Have you head his designs? This is another punt of mine...

MCRU

01-10-2013, 21:51

Sure thing, will do.

Have you heard his designs? This is another punt of mine...

We used his pre-amp last week at whittlebury dude, why did we use it? Because it's the best!

MCRU

01-10-2013, 21:54

can you spot the pre-amp there chief?

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt309/themainsman/LDA/room1_zpsff8be682.jpg

pjdowns

01-10-2013, 21:54

News just in, there's a new baby joining the family, watch this space :)

Wow congratulations Martin... so not only have you got a great system but you have a new baby to enjoy it with (soon) :)

P.

pjdowns

01-10-2013, 21:56

Wow congratulations Martin... so not only have you got a great system but you have a new baby to enjoy it with (soon) :)

P.

Doh! just saw your note that it was a new baby (hifi) as apposed to new baby (person) :doh:

pjdowns

01-10-2013, 21:56

However, I must say that those speakers look awesome :)

realysm42

02-10-2013, 07:20

Dave, great minds eh :)

:lol: Paul, my post was easy to misinterpret.

MCRU

02-10-2013, 07:28

Dave, great minds eh :)

:lol: Paul, my post was easy to misinterpret.

anyone who really knows you would realize hifi takes precedence over "everything else" even sex? :lol:

so no pattering of tiny feet yet :)

realysm42

02-10-2013, 07:34

:lol: piss off!

pjdowns

02-10-2013, 20:30

:lol: piss off!

:rfl:

realysm42

03-10-2013, 08:24

Although she did say yesterday that we'd be getting more out of where we lived if there was a kid in the spare room...

:stalks:

realysm42

08-10-2013, 11:01

If all goes according to plan, I should receieve some Tellurium Q Black Diamond RCA interconnects tonight. Got to say I'm quite excited to see what they're capable of.

realysm42

08-10-2013, 14:52

I've got them :D

Now I can't concentrate :lol:

realysm42

08-10-2013, 15:12

***Update***

I can confirm that just being within about 3 metres of the cables, women find me more attractive and I've just been promoted. Also, the dead plant in the office has come back to life!

brian2957

08-10-2013, 15:19

Thought that was the Lynx body spray effect Martin :D . Must say I'm a bit jealous mate . I haven't heard a TQ cable yet which I didn't like . Hope it lives up to your expectations.

Oldpinkman

08-10-2013, 15:36

Woof - in an idle moment I googled them but I think I'm looking in the wrong place - cos I'm getting £1200 a pair. That's the price of a decent (very decent) moving coil cartridge. What are you putting on either end of them? :eek:

realysm42

08-10-2013, 16:09

Have a look at the beginning of the thread Richard, should give you an idea.

These are RCA's, not xlrs, so £858 for a metre pair.

realysm42

08-10-2013, 16:26

Out of the box?

They're good. They definitely need to burn in, this is one thing I've always noticed with tq products, so I'm not going to judge too much quickly.

They're impressive though, I expect a lot.

Tarzan

08-10-2013, 16:47

:popcorn:

Oldpinkman

08-10-2013, 20:58

It looks lovely but I haven't a clue what any if it is. I hope you enjoy the cables, whatever they are connecting. Remember to wear oven gloves whike they burn in;)

realysm42

08-10-2013, 21:04

Thanks dude :)

They connect my DAC to my power amp currently.

Reason I've got two pairs is I'm getting a music first audio passive pre to plumb in soon.

Andrei

08-10-2013, 21:14

***Update***
I can confirm that just being within about 3 metres of the cables, women find me more attractive and I've just been promoted. Also, the dead plant in the office has come back to life!

LOL! I know the plant you are referring to - it is a Lazarus. They can only come back to life a maximum of two times.

realysm42

08-10-2013, 22:11

First nights thoughts:

Build is nice, heavy shielding but flexible. They have the a very slight roughness, being fresh cables, but that's expected and OK, I reckon this is what can put some people off of tq gear, ime 30 hours in and you're sorted.

The amount of sound they pick out at both macro and micro is frankly astonishing, impressive considering they replaced heavily shielded 5n purity silver xlrs. Speaking of which, the rca connectors are novel and ensure a very secure grip.

I've not twisted them yet, or cleaned with deoxit and rthe contact enhancer, so expecting more from those tweaks.

One thing that really stands out is the added inflections of instruments being played, very nice to hear so much more I just didn't know existed. Decays on strings and pianos last longer and Voices have taken a slight step back, perhaps what I had before was ever so slightly forward?

Timing has tightened up and yet everything just flows. I've said a lot about detail, these are very revealing but not fatiguing to listen to.

Re bass, these things reach an octave or two lower it seems but it remains firmly in control and textured, impressive. I wonder what a few good days of listening will do for them.

So early impressions are extremely positive, I'm genuinely excited to see what happens with the pre chucked in.

I hope that sounds like a shill so our friends at non value add (nva) forums have a giggle ;)

Macca

09-10-2013, 07:40

I hope that sounds like a shill so our friends at non value add (nva) forums have a giggle ;)

I think you've done a good job but personally I would have really pushed the boat out and gone for three additional octaves of bass ;)

MikeMusic

09-10-2013, 09:31

I think you've done a good job but personally I would have really pushed the boat out and gone for three additional octaves of bass ;)
What about

"better than sex" ?

:)

realysm42

09-10-2013, 11:46

What about

"better than sex" ?

:)

One thing at a time :eyebrows:

I woke up earlier this morning to sneak a quick listen in :)

Also taken delivery of these:

http://www.shunyata.com/Content/products-DFEv2.html

I bought a pack of 6 before and put 3 on each speaker length. The packet I got today is of 12.

The effect on the sound is subtle (it builds with more in the system and can be overdone, apparently) but they lower background noise and allow more music through. Instruments appear to have more body and things don't sound as 'stressed'. I've not tried them on power leads or interconnects yet, but now I've got enough to play with, I can do some experimenting.

I don't know if raising cables from the floor in itself makes a difference, the "foo" with these can be read on the site, they say there's more to their design than that and I like what I've heard so far. Interesting kit.

Macca

09-10-2013, 11:54

MikeMusic

09-10-2013, 12:43

One thing at a time :eyebrows:

I woke up earlier this morning to sneak a quick listen in :)

Also taken delivery of these:

http://www.shunyata.com/Content/products-DFEv2.html

I bought a pack of 6 before and put 3 on each speaker length. The packet I got today is of 12.

The effect on the sound is subtle (it builds with more in the system and can be overdone, apparently) but they lower background noise and allow more music through. Instruments appear to have more body and things don't sound as 'stressed'. I've not tried them on power leads or interconnects yet, but now I've got enough to play with, I can do some experimenting.

I don't know if raising cables from the floor in itself makes a difference, the "foo" with these can be read on the site, they say there's more to their design than that and I like what I've heard so far. Interesting kit.

If you can come over one of the things I can show you is an interesting load of cables.
This will improve, currently is 'not best practice'.
Just thinking, it has improved as I have cut down the amount of cables I have with recent upgrades.
Work to do

realysm42

09-10-2013, 12:53

The central problem with the conventional model is that elevating a cable from the floor with an electrical insulator creates a relative static charge differential between the cable and floor. Over a period of time this static differential can become enormous -- sometimes exceeding tens of thousands of volts.

Hmmm.....

Sounds like a load of BS, doesn't it. It might be (I'm not qualified to know).

My brother laughed at me (and I laughed whilst explaining - poorly, what they're meant to do).

Having said all of that, I gave them a go and I'm happy I did.

Mike - Sounds good mate, I'll bring some of these cable elevators round for a laugh as well :)

MikeMusic

09-10-2013, 13:26

Mike - Sounds good mate, I'll bring some of these cable elevators round for a laugh as well :)
Hah !
Got to to fit them in somehow. Most of the lengths snake around under Mana stands.
I may have to re-engineer my layout for various reasons

realysm42

09-10-2013, 13:29

I think it's more important to have them in contact rather than elevating them from anything, I might be wrong and will work on this theory tonight.

MartinT

09-10-2013, 16:20

I may have to re-engineer my layout for various reasons

Good luck with that, Mike :eek:

realysm42

09-10-2013, 16:20

Just popped them in:

*7 on each speaker cable
*2 on the mains lead feeding the mains conditioner
*1 on linear PSU feeding ifi
*1 on linear PSU feeding PC

The effect isn't subtle, this was what happens when I linear paid everything I could: a dramatic reduction in the noise floor, sounds like the music's got more room the breathe (and bigger lungs lol).

These are definitely keepers :D

I'm kinda thinking wheres all the pain with these upgrades? Apart from the money that is :eyebrows:

Oldpinkman

09-10-2013, 17:55

realysm42

09-10-2013, 17:57

You leave my relative static charge... differential alone!

Oldpinkman

09-10-2013, 18:14

I don't mean to rain on your parade. I'm pleased they were money well spent for you. I won't even question the burnin or challenge the vfm of the cable. I will as a question of fact , showing myself as a tedious pedant, promise you they don't extend the bass by two octaves. Or one octave, or a minor 2nd. :ner:

realysm42

09-10-2013, 18:16

Were talking about two different things I think.

But I understand what you're saying. Okay, bass is 'better' lol.

MikeMusic

10-10-2013, 12:34

Good luck with that, Mike :eek:
Lots and lots of thinking which usually ends in
"can't do that"
At least now I'm settled I can look at permanent fixes.

MikeMusic

10-10-2013, 12:38

Barry

10-10-2013, 13:37

The central problem with the conventional model is that elevating a cable from the floor with an electrical insulator creates a relative static charge differential between the cable and floor. Over a period of time this static differential can become enormous -- sometimes exceeding tens of thousands of volts.

Hmmm.....

Agreed - a total load of "technobollocks". And since when could a static field or signal modulate anything?

But just wait until those cable supports have 'burnt in'!

realysm42

10-10-2013, 13:57

I'm not going to try to explain how they work as I frankly haven't a clue but they are excellent, there's a market for them and I'd be getting rid of them sharpish if they weren't effective.

I've taken punts on things before and they didn't work out for me, for example, the Townshend super tweeter, I tried and tried and was never sure if they helped. At their price (even second hand, which mine were) "might help" isn't good enough, so off they went.

MikeMusic

10-10-2013, 14:06

realysm42

10-10-2013, 14:22

MikeMusic

10-10-2013, 14:58

Life's so much simpler that way I find Mike, I mean at the end of the day it's meant to be fun and enjoyable.

I do get a kick out of trying new things and them 'working'.

I don't get a kick out of trying to validate my methods of testing, or explain how things work. Life's too short to worry about things like that.

I know people might laugh at those that take a punt (fall for the foo, or whatever). The truth is I don't even read that technical stuff, I read other people's experiences and have a go myself. So while they might snigger at me, I sit at home smiling happily with a great sounding hi fi :cheers:
I don't need the tech either although I'm happy to have it underlining good kit.
Even the fiddling can be a pain for me sometimes.
I like
try 1,
try 2,
note improvment - great !
My system now sounds superb.
Courtesy of MCRU and my newly upgraded and changed IEC on Ultimate it will sound even better tonight !
I talk to people about hfi, but often not for long as 99% don't know or care

MCRU

10-10-2013, 15:11

Agreed - a total load of "technobollocks". And since when could a static field or signal modulate anything?

But just wait until those cable supports have 'burnt in'!

burn in, what's that all about then? :laugh:

Oldpinkman

10-10-2013, 15:14

This is probably as good a place as any other. I was talking with the arch-objectivist yesterday - trying to get him to look at cable burn-in without spoiling the moment when he had just given me a Pip 2. Rather than get drawn on the technical theory, (which he for sure understands) he said

"There are 2 possibilities.

1) You can hear it - and prove you can hear it, or

2) You can explain it - and measure it

Otherwise its balderdash!"

That clearly allows for "you can hear it". The "subjectivists" part company when it comes to the "and prove you can hear it" bit. Even the most militant hard-line objectivist I know wasn't dismissing the idea you can hear it is an acceptable stance. Just can you demonstrate it? If not, you are just claiming to hear it - and that's as open as the limits of human imagination.

So if I put a blindfold over your eyes and remove the little cable supports, would you be sure to know? Of course, if you're enjoying it - it doesn't matter to you. But for me to evaluate whether I might share your appreciation if I lighten the load on my own wallet and buy some too- it would matter to me. I think it is for that reason that objectivists look for "proof". And why a personal audition is always preferable to relying on a review. 3rd party proof is only of any interest where a personal audition is not a simple option. But forums, by their nature, are lots of opinions and not much chance for personal experience. Just a few thoughts....:)

realysm42

10-10-2013, 15:35

I can't argue with that Richard, I understand that some would want more solid evidence before parting with their cash and that's up to you/them.

I thin this gets to the point where my subjective experience is good enough for me, indeed I put my money where my mouth is. Others can question it and laugh at manufacturers silly explanations of their products (and perhaps my stupidity for buying it). Up to them and their entitled to their opinions.

I'm happy to share what I experience, in my 'test conditions' but don't care enough to take it any further, ie try to justify what I'm hearing and how I'm hearing it.

Looking at what I've gained from the internet (mainly this forum though) my knowledge and equipment is far better and I'm enjoying it more than if I hadn't read all of these unquantifiable opinions :)

realysm42

10-10-2013, 15:41

burn in, what's that all about then? :laugh:

Loada bollox, init.

MCRU

10-10-2013, 16:04

Loada bollox, init.

oh yes and writing endless piles of drivel about it is too :lol:

brian2957

10-10-2013, 17:11

You've hit the nail on the head Martin . If it works in my system then it stays . I don't tend to look at specifications . The only listening tool I need is my ears and like you I'm willing to try just about anything. My past experiences have shown me that the gear which should work sometimes doesn't , and the gear which shouldn't more often than not does work in my system. Glad your new purchases are doing it for you .

realysm42

10-10-2013, 17:32

Cheers Brian, I think an open mind is a healthy thing :)

On a similar note, the acoustic revive rgc-24 is an excellent tweak, it used to live under my power amp, but since going unbalanced/rca connections I moved it to my DAC and placed the puck under the mains transformer, this has had a bigger impact on the sound here, again a lowering of background noise.

One issue I've got since going unbalanced is a tiny ground him, its very quiet but after the steps I've taken for a quieter background its a bit of a shame. Anyone got suggestions to remove this please?

Barry

10-10-2013, 18:19

burn in, what's that all about then? :laugh:

It was said "tongue in cheek". But if the conductors of cables are thought to ‘burn in’ with time, why does the same not apply for (dielectric) insulators? They are also subject to the same electromagnetic fields.

MCRU

10-10-2013, 18:42

Oldpinkman

10-10-2013, 18:43

It was said "tongue in cheek". But if the conductors of cables are thought to ‘burn in’ with time, why does the same not apply for (dielectric) insulators? They are also subject to the same electromagnetic fields.

I was thinking of starting a burn-in service for them now you mention it ;)

realysm42

10-10-2013, 20:39

Dave, I've bought a load of stuff from Blue Coast records, mainly Keith Greeninger.

Its unadultered DSD, the quality is amazing!

If you've got a rig to appreciate it, DSD is the best format, in my humble and uneducated opinion :)

MCRU

10-10-2013, 21:09

loo

10-10-2013, 21:20

One issue I've got since going unbalanced is a tiny ground him, its very quiet but after the steps I've taken for a quieter background its a bit of a shame. Anyone got suggestions to remove this please?

Yeah get a tiny ground her to tempt him away;)

realysm42

10-10-2013, 21:27

Most helpful, thanks lol.

lurcher

10-10-2013, 23:27

Marco

11-10-2013, 06:49

I was thinking of starting a burn-in service for them now you mention it ;)

All you need is a cable toaster :)

Marco.

realysm42

11-10-2013, 07:15

Just to be certain try a different interconnect. Maybe also check with the dac out of the rack, just to make sure its not the output TX's picking up something. Does having the dac powered off make any difference?

When the DAC clicks 'off' and the power light goes red, the hum stops. This didn't happen with the ultimate xlr interconnects in the system.

Oldpinkman

11-10-2013, 07:20

All you need is a cable toaster :)

Marco.

No - those little wedges would jam in. I reckon you skewer them and then toast them over a barbeque like marshmallows :)

Oldpinkman

11-10-2013, 07:28

When the DAC clicks 'off' and the power light goes red, the him stops. This didn't happen with the ultimate xlr interconnects in the system.

Take it as read that you have good shielded cables plugged in the right way round. Have you tried running an earth wire between the dac chassis and the power amp? Ensure signal cables don't run alongside power cables where possible. You could try a little temporary earth lift, if the health and safety mob don't fly at me. If you have moulded cables, just get a cheapo extension lead with the earth wire NOT connected. YOU MUST MAKE SURE YOU HAVE CHECKED YOU HAVE A GOOD EARTH FROM THE CHASSIS OF THE DEVICE YOU ARE LIFTING TO THE CHASSIS OF A KNOWN EARTHED DEVICE like the power amp BEFORE lifting the earth. I usually test with a meter from the lifted chassis to the earth pin on the power amp plug before plugging in.

Done a lot of hum in my time...:(

Marco

11-10-2013, 07:30

No - those little wedges would jam in. I reckon you skewer them and then toast them over a barbeque like marshmallows :)

Lol... I'm being serious, muchacho - you need one of these chaps: http://www.nordost.com/images/review-images/review-pdf/9-HiFiPlus_issue47b.pdf

http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/2267/6j5c.jpg

Sorted! :D

Marco.

lurcher

11-10-2013, 08:02

Hmm, thats very strange. It makes it my problem to fix. Somehow replacing the XLR's with RCA's I have created this.

realysm42

11-10-2013, 08:27

I'm just going to try some other RCA's quickly.

realysm42

15-10-2013, 13:13

Taken delivery of an Ifi Itube preamp to have a play with, should e interesting.

realysm42

15-10-2013, 16:07

Initial thoughts: living without a pretty (ie DAC to power amp) is folly!

Baring in mind its all I've done with my system since the Magtech arrival this is a revelation :yay:

Given the price of this 'cheap' pre, it fits in with the system very well.

Music (server side) is now 100%, so the analogue pres doing the amplification duties (instead of digital attenuation).

I know not a professional reviewer so please excuse my explanations...

Everything sounds more nuanced and yet effortless, don't mistake that for laid back though, bass is visceral and has real slam. Voices are crystal clear and sound is so much more coherent and together.

And to think i was saying this when all the other new bits turned up :lol:

These are initial thoughts and this might not be the 'fairest' comparison (pre vs digital volume) but provide food for thought. Anyone running DAC to power amp, you use it to yourselves to try a pre in the mix.

Makes me wonder, if this is what a £300 pre can do, what's the the MFA tvc going to do for me?

Right, I'm off to listen to music.

Yomanze

15-10-2013, 16:18

Yep, can't beat a dedicated preamp, you've just 'unhobbled' your system. Wow you are really building stuff up at the moment, I can talk though, 4th pair of Royd speakers on the way...

realysm42

15-10-2013, 16:21

Yep, can't beat a dedicated preamp, you've just 'unhobbled' your system. Wow you are really building stuff up at the moment, I can talk though, 4th pair of Royd speakers on the way...

Unhobbled is a good word for it. Makes everything so much more visceral.

Nice, 4th in the collection, or do you have one system?

Yomanze

15-10-2013, 16:27

Visceral, yes, a good word to describe what a good pre adds to the mix vs. not having one. Of course some people would argue it should all be 'transparent' ;)

As for the Royds, I like to change between them depending on my mood, but use one system. Am a collector for sure spurred on by how they are no longer made! Doh....

realysm42

15-10-2013, 16:34

That would be cool, to have the flexibility to switch things up.

I've never heard a decent pair of older speakers.

My system has now made me jump 3 times with songs I know well with how punchy it sounds lol...

realysm42

18-10-2013, 08:09

Having a quick early morning jam before work :eyebrows:

This ifi pre is really good fun and has opened my music up a lot, I can't believe I've lived so long without a pretty in the chain :doh:

I've got Jon B coming round tomorrow with his MFA pre (copper, vii cores). It'll be interesting to note the differences; its not really a fair comparison, given it costs more than 10x the amount of the ifi.

Who knows, I might prefer the ifi...

I'll report back.

realysm42

19-10-2013, 17:47

OK, Jon popped round early this afternoon with his MFA baby reference.

We hooked it straight up and played some tracks; let's get this clear straight away, this is the best my system has ever sounded, by a long shot :eek:

Unfortunately, the model I'm getting is the little sibling of the reference, so the transformers won't be as 'good' as what I heard today.

Anyway, I ran through some reference tracks, he recommended I try some music with female vocals and pianos in as well to stress it's abilities. I sat there grinning like an idiot for about an hour; pianos developed a more articulate attack and the decay of the notes hung in the air, with real palpability. Female vocals were sublime and natural sounding.

Noise floor sounded to me like zero, nuances popped up, everything had a pervading rightness about it.

I was worried (from other peoples experiences of passives) that bass might be lacking in drive and slam, this was completely unfounded, it was clearer and more controlled than it ever has been before.

I was also worried that it would be flat, dull or boring sounding. On further reflection, I think this might be true in some systems, if there are issues further down the chain then this thing won't cover them up.

I was relieved that this wasn't the case for me, music took on real vitality.

Of course I'm not speaking about my pre here but if it provides 60% of what I've heard today I'd be pleased.

Jon also offered to not include xlr connections right now in my model and to not include the input switch on the back, which means that I'm 'listening' to less stuff in the signal path. He took notes on the levels I like to listen at and will create the windings to suit them.

He's also going to drive the unit up to me when its complete to make sure it works properly upon installation. I'm mentioning this because these extra touches are so rare nowadays, he goes the extra mile for his customers and on top of an outstanding product, that counts for a lot, im sure you wouldn't get this service from most companies.

So, how does the ifi (at about 1/16th of the cost) stack up?

Pretty damn well actually. I'm not going to give a blow by blow comparison, I'm not a good enough reviewer and don't take notes to compare them, but I hooked it up straight after Jon had left and it didn't embarrass itself.

Its hard to describe but the ultra clear window to the music the MFA provided was no longer there (I think a linear PSU, decent mains lead and plugging into my mains conditioner would help a heck of a lot here, none of which I've done in this case).

I'll stick my neck out and say the timing isn't as spot on either (I don't know if preamps are even meant to be able to have an impact here, but hey ho).

Its safe to say, this isn't a fair comparison and tbh, if the MFA pre wasnt better, something would be up!

The ifi is a great performer, (especially at its cost) and has proven a large step up from not having a preamp; I said it earlier and I'll say it again, having a DAC to power amp is folly (in my experience). Tbh I can't believe I've put up without one for so long!

If you go DAC to power amp, you owe it to yourself to at least try something out, I'm sure you'll be surprised at what you've been missing.

I've just got to be patient now and await the delivery...

lurcher

19-10-2013, 18:57

I was worried (from other peoples experiences of passives) that bass might be lacking in drive and slam, this was completely unfounded, it was clearer and more controlled than it ever has been before.

Its all about whats driving the TVC having a low impedance and being happy driving inductive loads, Get those right and they work great, get it wrong and you get what some have found, slow bass and lack of goodness.

realysm42

19-10-2013, 19:43

Nick, its great to finally hear what your DAC design is really capable of, its a stonker!

I said hi to Jon for you. He wants to know if you can build him a DAC ;) His foot was tapping today.

Its all about whats driving the TVC having a low impedance and being happy driving inductive loads, Get those right and they work great, get it wrong and you get what some have found, slow bass and lack of goodness.

Sovereign

19-10-2013, 19:48

Martin can you give me a link to the amp you are buying, thanks.

realysm42

19-10-2013, 19:55

MCRU

19-10-2013, 21:26

James, it's one of these:

http://www.mfaudio.co.uk/babyclas_detailed.htm

I'm single source so opted out of source selection and just running rca connections without input toggle switch. Its got copper (not silver) v.ii transformers, for better frequency range (especially down low) and posh wbt connectors.

If you can, I really recommend an audition, fantastic piece of kit.

Possibly the best pre-amp ever made? David Price -Hi-Fi Choice

I have one on the way, pity I have no power amps in the house! :lol:

300b's anyone?:)

The thread was entitled journeys end but after 17 pages you are still at it Martin, where/when does it all end chief? :)

realysm42

19-10-2013, 22:04

I'm beginning to think it doesn't :lol:

Sovereign

19-10-2013, 22:14

Thanks for the link, I thought you were talking about this one
http://www.audiostream.com/content/ifi-itube-active-tube-bufferpreamplifier

Macca

19-10-2013, 22:17

I'd assumed the title was ironic.

Nah just kidding with you - interesting read that - I thought you would get good results. I was chatting recently with someone in the business and we discussed passives briefly and it was his experience that the best are the transformer passives. Had a look at your link but seeing as the only price is for a used one at £3.5K that's not a route I can go down. I'm still sold on the whole passive route though, got an LDR pre amp kit arriving bit by bit, will see what that does.

realysm42

19-10-2013, 22:51

James, I do have the ifi in my rig right now, the maker of the MFA pre popped round to test his in my system (as I bought one, its just not made yet).

The ifi is very good, especially for the cost, if you've not tried it, and have £300 in your budget, give it a shot for sure (even if you're planning on spending near to ore more).

Martin, the one in the link cost me £2,200 with v.ii transformers and a few other nice bits. I saw one go 2nd hand with v.I transformers on the wam for £500. Keep your eyes peeled and you can grab a bargain! His website could make the distinction between products clearer.

Sorry, just read your post properly, it'll be interesting what the ldr does for you, heard good things about them, but if it doesn't there are bargains to be nabbed if you're quick :)

Sovereign

20-10-2013, 07:17

Thanks Martin

realysm42

24-10-2013, 16:37

So I just confirmed Jrivers volume levelling doesn't sound as good as unadulterated audio (no such thing as a free lunch, eh).

...Then it dawned on me that Jon of MFA had come round to test volume levels with this feature turned on (volume levelling tends to drop overall volume levels quite dramatically) so this means as if I wanted to turn said feature off, thee custom wound transformers would be set incorrectly and I'd have an insanely loud preamp :doh:

I emailed him worriedly and thankfully he'd not begun the construction, but did offer immediately to come round and redo the demo to ascertain the proper volume levels I'll be listening at.

This guys dedication to his brand and customers is second to none, I'm really impressed and grateful :cool:

MCRU

24-10-2013, 21:16

All seems to be going well then chief?

Got my new power amp this morning, pity my pre is not ready yet! ggrrhhhhh! :lol:

MCRU

24-10-2013, 21:18

Martin if James wants to borrow the i-tube when your pre is made send it to him no problem for a week or so.

realysm42

24-10-2013, 22:20

Nice, which amp is that, the 'special' one?

Yeah, the itube has been extremely useful! I was surprised at the improvement it brings over no pre.

Sure, is this Sovereign James?

Sovereign

24-10-2013, 23:04

Sounds great, thanks. I'll pm you my address

realysm42

05-11-2013, 14:43

So out with one and in with another.

Borrowing an MFA baby classic with v.i copper cores (mine will have v.ii copper cores), just to get used to the volumes I'd like the transformers wound to.

These things are fantastic, they really let the music breathe. Its got a 'grown up' sounds to it. Clean, precise, honest but (vitally) musical and not sterile. Very impressive.

MCRU

05-11-2013, 15:01

realysm42

05-11-2013, 15:28

Nice; which core type you going for and is it silver or copper?

One thing I've noticed is its very easy to play far too loud without realising it; I only realised I was raising the roof when I went to sing along and realised I couldn't hear my own voice :lol: (probably for the best).

MCRU

05-11-2013, 16:50

realysm42

05-04-2014, 17:00

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/6a97526e-3e1a-4882-9c46-2e08011598d6_zps1b04c18c.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/6a97526e-3e1a-4882-9c46-2e08011598d6_zps1b04c18c.jpg.html)

So this has had some serious time on it now and I think it's finally burnt in, I reckon it took close to 300 hours (it was very strange to hear it gradually improve then so far down the road bang! Better it gets again).

It's a truly fantastic piece of kit, with the mk.ii (copper) cores, it weighs substantially more than the model I was loaned. The frequency response is better with the bigger cores, it goes lower and dynamics stepped up a notch or two. Honestly the only time I'll upgrade this thing is to get it's bigger brother in a few years.

It's "sound" is transparent as you like and detailed without sounding etched. It also does this thing called dynamics pretty damn well, no impedance matching issues here sir (apparently a benefit of TVCs over traditional passives). I also stuck some Acoustice revive QR-8s inside, one on each transformer, just to foo it up a bit :)

realysm42

16-05-2015, 14:37

Bumplestiltskin.

So things have changed a bit since the last post in here. Actually the equipments the same but I'm in Western Australia now. It's winter and raining lol.

Just got back from my first ever bake off and it was a DAC one. Took the old Longdog VDT1 along. TBH I was pretty nervous as to how well it would stand up against the competition, there was all sorts there, the big daddies being a Vitus entry level SACD player (with DAC) and a Meitner dac. There were loads of other ones too. The system was a pair of ATC SCM100 actives, run through a balanced mains, then regenerated by a PS audio P10. Preamp was an Auralic something or other (I think it was a bottleneck in the system tbh).

The Meitner sounded cold and analytical, the Vitus sounded fantastic. There was a NAD dac that sounded pants compared to everything else. There was a 'Killer' DAC that I liked and someone had a crazy solid copper, half Audio Note internal dac with tubes and chokes and all sorts, couldn't play hi-res but sounded lovely! At the end of the day we played a Light Harmonic Geek - this thing made the NAD sound good, it was really very flat and dull - I was surprised at how poor it was.

The Longdog sounded fantastic on the system, I've not come home feeling like I wanted anyone else's DAC tbh. It played all of the demo tracks and had its signature liquidity and warmth without being cloying and slow.

It was interesting when a load of people left we put the Meitner back on and it sounded great, I don't know why it sounded poor before but it really grew on me and I was very impressed with everything it did - it's a great bit of kit. I think me not knowing everyone at first and not being familiar with the system probably coloured my perception the first time round.

The ATCs were excellent speakers, they presented music in an effortless and persuading fashion with no embellishment I could make out. It was scary how loud they were without you realising, when a track finished and you caught yourself shouting at the person next to you was eye opening.

realysm42

08-09-2015, 04:08

Well done on the review, nick:

Longdog Audio VDT1 DAC review (http://www.monoandstereo.com/2015/09/longdog-audio-vdt1-dac-review.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+monoandstereo%2FHOym+%28MONO+ AND+STEREO+Ultra+High-End+Audio+Magazine%29)

realysm42

08-09-2015, 12:08

Got song Tung sols, made in 1957 ready to pop into it soon :)

rikardo1979

19-02-2016, 08:24

so clean, really nice

realysm42

24-02-2016, 06:11

Thanks that's kind of you. I'll put up some more pictures when i move into the new place; which i must say I'm very excited about! Moved from Perth to Melbourne (we drove it because why not?) And I've finally got the listening room I've always wanted, the speakers will have more room to breathe than before :)

Tim

24-02-2016, 06:59

Feck me, Perth to Melbourne . . . that's a drive! I love Melbourne and have friends in Upwey. Have fun :)

realysm42

25-02-2016, 00:56

Feck me, Perth to Melbourne . . . that's a drive! I love Melbourne and have friends in Upwey. Have fun :)

Hi Tim, long time no speak! Yeah, the funny thing is I've never driven before, so I got 6 lessons before leaving and then had a crack at it :eek: My Girlfriend is either very trusting or insane. I now have the dubious honour of driving the longest straight road in Australia (90 miles). TBH she did most of the driving though, it's tiring/stressful when it's so new to me.

Did you move to China in the end?

Tim

25-02-2016, 07:21

Due to go in a couple of weeks, just waiting for my work Visa to be granted, been delayed due to the Chinese New Year break. All packed and ready though.

realysm42

09-05-2016, 12:37

Got a new pre amp winging it's way to the other side of the world as we speak:

168931689416895

realysm42

06-06-2016, 09:24

So how does it sound? It came with 50 hours burn in from Jon (the manufacturer) so sounded good Out of the box (flight case). I played some music I'm familiar with and was immediately impressed at just how much more music it lets through over the smaller cousin. I'm not going to say anything stupid like 50% better but it's definitely a more grown up sounding unit.

One area of surprise for me was the bass response, it sounds like it reaches lower and with better articulation, so I'm hearing more bass and with more detail.

It's been a joy to just revisit old music to see how different (usually better) it sounds. It doesn't flatter bad recordings one bit, things that bothered me slightly with the old pre (in terms of recordings, that is) are clearly more evident now. Another thing it really excels in is the inner resolution it lets out; there's an inherent rightness to what I'm hearing. If it's anything like the other pre, it's going to really come on song around the 250/300 hour mark. If anything changes substantially I'll report back.

Hours later

Another thing that's coming through nicely is the dynamics and (oddly to me at least) the timing of music; I never noticed anything wrong before but now there really is an added toe tapping element to drum work and rhythm.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/post-147485-0-55836400-14639138491_zpsrnvqnn2u.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/post-147485-0-55836400-14639138491_zpsrnvqnn2u.jpg.html)

New staring down old, bigger case for bigger transformers.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q153/realysm42/post-147485-0-87233500-14639139211_zpstgcev54x.jpg (http://s135.photobucket.com/user/realysm42/media/post-147485-0-87233500-14639139211_zpstgcev54x.jpg.html)

Said bigger case needs bigger isolation platform lol!

realysm42

07-06-2016, 06:45

Ordered some hifi tuning supreme fuses for the whole system. That's two for the amp, two for the dac, one for the pc psu and one for the mains conditioner. Thank God I use Schuko plugs, cut the cost in half!

I actually ordered some before but they had a load of what looked like corrosion on them, unacceptable qc at any cost, especially at the premium end of the scale! I tried them in the amp though (i mean it'd be rude not to) and slap me upside the head with an objectivists slipper and call me a subjectivist hippy if they didn't improve the sound! Was half tempted to just leave then in tbh.

Will report back when they're in place.

AlfaGTV

07-06-2016, 08:47

...slap me upside the head with an objectivists slipper and call me a subjectivisti hippy
...
:lol: Thanks for giving me a good laugh!

Yomanze

07-06-2016, 16:20

Hi Martin, nice to hear you're still in the game, hope you've settled well in Oz.

realysm42

13-06-2016, 11:34

Hi Martin, nice to hear you're still in the game, hope you've settled well in Oz.

Hi Neil,

Australia has been a real tumultuous time for me. We originally moved to Perth (WA) and coming from a pretty good job I found it sobering to be out of work for two months, then to land a data entry job for seven (!) while I kept looking for better work. All the while my partner kept flying to Melbourne as that's where the work is for her company (PWC). So we moved to where the work is (Melbourne) only for PWC to land a huge 4 month contract in... you guessed it, Perth! Bitter pill swallowed. Melbourne is fantastic though and they pay for her to fly back every weekend or for me to go over there, so it's not the end of the world. It's funny, I'm actually really glad I'm over here as my family are in meltdown back in the UK (pretty toxic/messy) and I don't want any part of it, so I'm thankful for small blessings.

As far as stereo is concerned, I'm still very much into the game as it were.

Next on my list is building my own hi-fi rack to accommodate everything, (hopefully) sound better and look better. This is a pretty big project, I think I'm going to have to learn cad drawing and source some items internationally! I'll update once it's underway.

I also will have to perform open heart surgery on my PC as there are no gaps for the inbound Paul Hynes PSU and accompanying cables - this will be exciting/stressful. I'm currently awaiting delivery of the unit, this has been a real source of anxiety if I'm honest; I've waited for more than a year for the unit! Paul has kept me up to date (some of the time) but having dropped $4k on the thing it's uncomfortable waiting that long. Part of me figures I've waited this long I might as well hold out, the other says just ask for the money back - I think I'm going to give him a deadline and see what happens there - not fun :(

I have a serious inkling to start upgrading caps strategically in my PC as well (on the SOtM card etc) as apparently this can have a huge impact on the sound, again - stay tuned :eyebrows:

Tim

13-06-2016, 15:40

realysm42

14-06-2016, 06:31

Perth and Melbourne, two of my favourite places in Australia, what's not to like you lucky fella ;) There's a great fish and chips shop in Upwey, if you are ever up there old bean.

Sent from my XT1580 using Tapatalk

In hindsight I was a bit disarmed at how uncomfortable aspects of my life were at the time; I naively thought I'd move over here and everything would be perfect! I mean, who'd have thought some of my issues are with myself and not the rest of the Human race :eyebrows:

How's china treating you mate? How come you moved out there in the first place (if you don't mind me asking). I'm always curios as to why people go through the trouble, now I'm one myself!

I'll make an effort to check the Fish and Chipper out, it's notoriously difficult to find 'proper' fish and chips here :(

Macca

14-06-2016, 08:01

Good to hear Australia is finally working out for you Martin.

I figured as much when you were back on the Hi-Fi trail ;)

realysm42

26-07-2016, 05:47

Cheers Martin :)

Paul Hynes PSU delivered. Excited is an understatement, I've waited more than a year for this! Will report when it's plumbed in.

realysm42

26-07-2016, 10:50

Tis now connected. Actually significantly better than what i had before. Excellent. Popped a hifi tuning Supreme fuse in too. Can't wait for it to burn in. Will report back when I've chilled out a bit.

realysm42

27-07-2016, 05:41

Might be time to get a new pc case.

17599

AlfaGTV

27-07-2016, 10:34

Haha! :) That Streacom is getting a bit crowded!
It seems your PSU delivers some nice clean power for different parts of the 'puter?
How's it sounding?
Atb Mike

Skickas från min iPad via Tapatalk

realysm42

27-07-2016, 10:42

Hi Mike;

Okay, some observations on the new psu. There are a couple of changes:
Significantly lowered noise floor; hearing things I've not before. I was very shocked to hear that Jason Isbells 'Cover me up' isn't a solo track! Hearing new nuances in bass lines and bass lines I've not heard before.

Dynamics have taken a few steps in the right direction, to the point i was made to jump more than once last night with reference tracks.
Funny the abbreviated version of the above is "It's quieter and louder!". Just in the right ways.

Micro details have been leaping out, this is something i love about refining equipment; you hear the artists voice waver/crack, the flaws in their performance are revealed (making it more human to me), you hear footsteps taken in the studio you didn't before. This is like getting a whole new music library. One great point of reference I find is listening to (good) piano recordings and hearing the complex interplay of the notes as they decay into/against one another, this is a lot more convincing now.

This has revealed some flaws in recordings that actually make them a tad less comfortable to hear. This is unfortunate but something I'm happy to accept in the quest of hearing what's actually on the recording. Adding the hifi tuning Supreme fuse allows a little more of all the above to shine through. What's funny is the PSU I currently use is no slouch, it cost me $1600 and has served me flawlessly, guess there's levels to this game (I suppose the new one being more than twice that amount might also have something to do with it).

I don't know what contributed the most to all of the above, the main differences are:

All soft annealed pure silver power leads.
All leads are captive (removing more connections).
The power lead for the 'PSU'(HDplex 250w) is actually the 4pin direct to the card as they couldn't source the barrel type connector. Which thinking about it is a great problem I'm happy they encountered, less connections (that I didn't think to remove myself). Happy days :)
The 'psu' itself is changed from a generic Pico something or other to a HDplex 250w. I have to say I was somewhat apprehensive getting the Paul Hynes built for this PSU because of what I'd read earlier in this thread (bought the HDplex then read this thread lol). Too late to fundamentally change the spec by this point. Now if I'd stuck to a Pico psu, perhaps it would be sounding even better? Maybe, maybe not and it's so much better I CBA to lose sleep over it.
The SOtM usb card has it's own clean power now, freed from the tyranny of the Motherboard's dirty stuff (this is the same for all of the other components).
This is all in a completely messy and un-optimised set up. It's a shambles that I threw together just to see if it works and I'm going to leave it like that until I've worked out what to do next. I know a new, larger case is in order for certain. I might power up to a 6th generation I7 and new mobo.

realysm42

27-07-2016, 10:51

There's another phenomenon I'm not really sure i can articulate propely but ill give it a go; sound seems a lot more immediate and palpable, its as if theres extra energy/liveliness/fullness to it. This seems to manifest mainly in the midrange, so things like guitars really benefit from it, they have lots more body and colour saturation to them. Its almost like adding a nice nice dose of tubeyness.

I noticed a similar thing when i got the upgraded clock for the sotm card.

I'm really in a very happy place with the set up now, the new pre, clock, fuses and psu raising the quality significantly higher and working synergistically together.

Next stop is recapping the sotm card and clock, expecting another nice uptick in sound from that. Also replacing all generic power cables in the pc with soft annealed silver, moving to one lage ssd so i can give the sotm clock its own paul hynes juice. Posh sata cable incoming as well. Finally might recap the hdplex because why stop any earlier?

I hosted my first bake off the other day and had a couple of vinyl guys seriously entertaining the notion of digital afterwards, wish they'd been able to hear the new psu! Not that i need other people's affirmations but it was nice to get such good feedback from other people that care about music.

Macca

27-07-2016, 11:09

Interesting stuff and matches what I have found which is that better power supplies equals better digital sound. So much nonsesnse about 'hi rez' formats and curing 'jitter' etc, when this is where the real gains are to be found.

realysm42

27-07-2016, 11:49

Agreed re the formats, I've got red book that sounds fantastic.

After moving from generic usb output to ifi, to sotm and finally upgrading the clock for it I'm a beleiver in lowering jitter, it really can lower the noise floor and make things sound a lot calmer/less 'digital'. The sotm and clock is a great upgrade. Admittedly, cleaning the power to them was a large step forward. I'm going to change the clock on my motherboard too now I've heard what it can do. If i ever move back to england I'll invite you over Martin.

Macca

27-07-2016, 15:42

Cool - although I think you would be crazy to move back here - at least in the near future anyway.

AlfaGTV

27-07-2016, 21:56

Good to hear you're pleased Martin! And it seems the psu is performing as intended. :)
Also agree with both Martins that the rez of files being played is not the limiting factor, there are much more imprtant aspects from pre-production to psu/dac/analog parts etc.

realysm42

19-08-2016, 09:04

I recently spoke to Roger Sanders about the heat of my Magtech amp and he sent out replacement parts for me to put in. Upon opening the amp I discovered that the caps were leaking and now my system is out of action until repaired :(

Currently my hi fi consists of my flat screen TV; I can't wait to get everything fixed again! I keep wanting to ask the MS if she'd like to lay on the sofa and listen to some music and then I remember...

walpurgis

19-08-2016, 10:52

It pays to keep a half decent integrated amp tucked away as a back up. Hope you get the Magtech sorted soon. :)

jandl100

19-08-2016, 12:49

Shame you're on t'other side of the world, otherwise I'd be happy to send you a loaner amp to keep you going, Martin.

realysm42

20-08-2016, 23:54

Thanks gents - appreciate it :)

I tell you what's been really interesting; having to go back to standard TV audio.

I knew for music it wouldn't be nice at all (bass... what was that again?) but watching films is actually a lot like hard work now! What I mean is in films, when it gets loud, the distortion is actually really uncomfortable (I'm the same as most others; grew up with this kind of sound) to the point of having to turn it down. Of course, when it gets quiet and people are just talking, you then can't hear anything and have to turn the bloody thing up again! It's been educational to get used to how good things sound, then have it taken away (I never realised that "normal sound'' could be just so fatiguing). So in a perverse way (like a scientist that's happy to use himself for his own sick experiments) I've quite enjoyed the (forced) comparison :D

I also listened to some music for a laugh and I have to admit although it sounds like a poor copy of what I'm used to, I can see how for light listening (where you're in the same room as the music), you really don't need all of what I've got and this is probably why our hobby isn't so mainstream. If only people knew...

realysm42

05-09-2016, 23:58

Inbox cleared btw

realysm42

08-03-2017, 07:23

A long while ago, I promised myself at the beginning of my latest PC build i wouldn't mess about with software until my hardware was sorted. Anyway, I was bored one evening, a few whiskys later and I thought what heck? (It's always how it starts with me).

I purchased Process Lasso and Fidelizer as i read they work great together.

This is how I set them up:

Process Lasso:

Dedicating two (of the four physical) cores of my I7 6700T, strictly to audio duties (Dirac, Jriver, Lasso and Fidelizer)
Exempting said processes from any kind of throttling
Turning the PC to 'game mode' (essentially turns off all power saving features and throttles). Don't stare at me, the cpu is 35W under load anyway!

Fidelizer:

Run it in Audiophile mode and told it to load Jriver as my preferred player.

Simple as that. Yes, Dirac works perfectly too.

After set up I'm impressed with the result, which is essentially a lowered noise floor. This translates into clearer, more natural sound from top to bottom. New details I've not heard before appearing in the 'right' way; not etched and ear searing, rather an overall ease to the sound where things fall into place. The most similar experience I can liken it to is when I first installed the SOtM card and secondly it's upgrade clock, each time the music relaxed, losing some of that 'uptight' signature associated with digital (I think this is a spectrum, it's not binary and no, the pun wasn't intended).

I don't know how well this would work in any other system, but on my W10 PC in my system, it was well worth the modest outlay.

My conclusion?

Drink more whisky.

realysm42

08-03-2017, 07:24

Ps. Turned purist mode on in Fidelizer and the uptick in sq is more than noticeable, it's worthwhile.

realysm42

22-05-2017, 09:31

Mods can you delete this thread please? Tired of talking to myself.

struth

22-05-2017, 09:34

dont delete threads Martin. Your not speaking to self. folk read it and often reply too.:)

brian2957

22-05-2017, 09:37

Been reading this thread with interest Martin . Sorry should have posted something up to that effect :)

Missed your post on Fidelizer , however , I agree with your findings

realysm42

31-05-2018, 05:43

I didn't realise so much time had passed since I last posted on here...

Here's the new hi fi rack, made from Australian Blackwood to my specification:

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/907/27268015817_45a7648aa9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HxzH6K)thumbnail_IMG_6046 (https://flic.kr/p/HxzH6K) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

It's a real looker.

Below is a sample of the isolation racks. There are nine in total, what I love is the white pattern matches the top shelf of the rack :):

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/908/27268016077_ffeb682d56_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HxzHbe)thumbnail_IMG_6049 (https://flic.kr/p/HxzHbe) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

User211

31-05-2018, 06:57

Nice rack.

jandl100

31-05-2018, 07:36

I bet you say that to all the boys. :D

But yes, very nice.

User211

31-05-2018, 09:12

As the bishop said to the actress.

Getting a carpenter to do you a nice rack has to be the way to go.

realysm42

04-06-2018, 00:05

As the bishop said to the actress.

Getting a carpenter to do you a nice rack has to be the way to go.

Absolutely, the workmanship is excellent (All of the joints are mortice and tenon) and the VFM is better than a lot of store bought stuff. Plus, it's nice to have something completely unique.

In other news, it seems the journey doesn't end... I sold my Usher Mini Dancer 2s a while back (puppy Rottweiler made it too scary to own them lol). I've been lent a pair of Usher S520 as stand in replacements and... I just miss big speakers.

So, where next on my journey? Well, I didn't want to take another step backwards and so I'm currently in the process of getting something rather better than my Mini Dancers... I'll post back with news soon.

realysm42

05-06-2018, 04:26

Sneak preview...

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/27704260127_a25be83045_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jd8zkn)IMG_1407 (https://flic.kr/p/Jd8zkn) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

Marco

06-06-2018, 09:21

That's gorgeous looking wood, Martin. I've not seen it before. Love the colours! :)

So will you be stacking the racks, as shown in the picture, or putting them side by side? Or indeed, is that the rack now built that way? If so, I fully approve, as taller racks are much better for facilitating proper cable management, which is important in any good system.

Bundles of 'spaghetti', strewn all over the floor, definitely isn't sonically optimal.... Anyway, enjoy! :cool:

Marco.

realysm42

22-04-2019, 04:34

It's been a while since I updated this thread, here is my system as it is today:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47664578351_9612e86402_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fBXqx2)IMG_3230 (https://flic.kr/p/2fBXqx2) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

There's a couple of new additions, can you spot them?

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47611705262_f302235dbf_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2fxhrd3)IMG_3231 (https://flic.kr/p/2fxhrd3) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

Here's a less subtle clue. Apologies for the finger marks, I've just added better footers, so they need a proper clean.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32721926307_32e47c345a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RRwqFe)IMG_3232 (https://flic.kr/p/RRwqFe) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

This shot gives a good perspective of just how large the monos are; roughly twice the height of your average box!

Marco, you're right; I'm extremely grateful I spent the time planning, measuring and remeasuring when drawing the hi-fi rack, I knew I'd have monos one day and I had to factor in the platforms, all of the isolation footers (for both platforms and items) AND some stupidly big components (without knowing how tall they'd be). It all worked out perfectly.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46940435244_5a54632a93_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2evY123)IMG_3234 (https://flic.kr/p/2evY123) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

I've got a 13 month old boy and the hi-fi is as much a risk to him as he is to it, so I built this (admittedly ugly) barrier to protect them from one another. It tucks under the rack and so he can't pull it forward onto himself. I built this because I've read so many other people's tales of woe (I wish I'd never sold xxx and just boxed it up etc) so fingers crossed it all works out.

Macca

22-04-2019, 08:49

Looking good there Martin. Is that an LDA pre on the top shelf? Your sig still says Sanders?

realysm42

22-04-2019, 10:40

Looking good there Martin. Is that an LDA pre on the top shelf? Your sig still says Sanders?

Hi Martin, thanks.

I need to update my signature lol. The preamp (at the top-centre) is a Music First Audio Baby Reference MK II TVC.

I sold my Magtech to partially fund the new P6 monos, which was a more significant upgrade that I had anticipated. Honestly, it's criminal how little fuss has been made about them! I know Bigman80 rates their little brothers (the MFA versions).

Macca

22-04-2019, 12:20

I sold my Magtech to partially fund the new P6 monos, which was a more significant upgrade that I had anticipated. Honestly, it's criminal how little fuss has been made about them! I know Bigman80 rates their little brothers (the MFA versions).

I agree I think the P6 are exceptionally good.

Pieoftheday

22-04-2019, 13:18

Hi Martin, thanks.

I need to update my signature lol. The preamp (at the top-centre) is a Music First Audio Baby Reference MK II TVC.

I sold my Magtech to partially fund the new P6 monos, which was a more significant upgrade that I had anticipated. Honestly, it's criminal how little fuss has been made about them! I know Bigman80 rates their little brothers (the MFA versions).

Hello Martin, how do you like the Ushers? And what have you got them sat on? Cheers Jim. Aah just noticed the s 520s were just a stop gap

paulf-2007

22-04-2019, 13:21

After building such a nice looking rack and setting all your kit up looking beautiful, I would think you could do better with your barrier. Come on now, make something practical and in keeping.

realysm42

22-04-2019, 23:43

Hello Martin, how do you like the Ushers? And what have you got them sat on? Cheers Jim. Aah just noticed the s 520s were just a stop gap

Hi James, the little Ushers are fantastic speakers.

When I plumbed them in I had prejudged them and I ended up being more impressed with what they can do, rather than being disappointed by what they can’t (as you’d expect this is deep bass and huge dynamics).

When you factor in their price, I consider them to be an absolute bargain. They’re also transparent enough to respond to the last few upgrades I’ve made (whole new cable loom and amps).

realysm42

22-04-2019, 23:44

After building such a nice looking rack and setting all your kit up looking beautiful, I would think you could do better with your barrier. Come on now, make something practical and in keeping.

I must try harder! I may paint it in future tbh.

If I were mega serious about it I should build a diffuser into it! Now there’s a project.

Pieoftheday

23-04-2019, 18:32

Hi James, the little Ushers are fantastic speakers.

When I plumbed them in I had prejudged them and I ended up being more impressed with what they can do, rather than being disappointed by what they can’t (as you’d expect this is deep bass and huge dynamics).

When you factor in their price, I consider them to be an absolute bargain. They’re also transparent enough to respond to the last few upgrades I’ve made (whole new cable loom and amps).

I have a pair myself, unfortunately in storage as I don't currently have space for hifi. I don't think I've been able to hear them at their best, though they did pretty good on the end of a Cambridge Azur 651w, cheers Jim. The rack looks great BTW:)

realysm42

24-04-2019, 03:34

I have a pair myself, unfortunately in storage as I don't currently have space for hifi. I don't think I've been able to hear them at their best, though they did pretty good on the end of a Cambridge Azur 651w, cheers Jim. The rack looks great BTW:)

Yes, honestly, I'm amazed at how 'cheap' speakers can sound amazing in a rig. It's actually been educational for me and I can see how a good pair of bookshelves can be enough speaker for many people (depending on the musical tastes). Great speakers scale well with systems I find.

Thank you, I appreciate your feedback re: the rack. I wanted something functional, useful yet beautiful and I'm happy with the result.

Yomanze

25-04-2019, 11:22

There’s a lot less to go wrong in simple two way standmounts. I agree that seemingly modest ones can really open up with expensive gear behind them.

hornucopia

25-04-2019, 11:44

realysm42

03-05-2019, 11:22

There’s a lot less to go wrong in simple two way standmounts. I agree that seemingly modest ones can really open up with expensive gear behind them.

Amen.

realysm42

03-05-2019, 11:28

I spent years...decades....thinking bigger was better, but making these ...https://6moons.com/audioreviews/zigmahornet/zigmahornet.html
got me to realise that small COULD sound good.
AND 'full-range'!
The quality persuaded me to get my current Ocellia Calliopes (which ain't 'small' but.....)
I'm thinking of Kroma Mimis, if I ever sell the Calliopes!
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/kroma2/

I’ve read great things about Kromas; I’d love to hear them for myself someday.

Tbh, I am a bass freak although I don’t rate ‘punter’ bass. I want it tight, tuneful, textured and deep, and floorstanders or multiple subs are really the only way to achieve that.

I listen to a lot of drum and bass and this particularly highlights the shortcomings of my bookshelves in this area.

realysm42

15-10-2019, 09:26

I got the new speakers set up optimally (below).

Optimal in this context means:

*gutting all of the cables in the system (power, interconnect and loudspeaker, incl jumpers),

*give them a deoxit (clean and then deoxit gold enhancement) all over

*put them back in perfectly (I did a bodge job before when I put the amps in), so minimal contact, Shunyata supports where they touch the floor

*placed the speakers on my full RDC combo (spikes, cups and combi bases)

This took a good while, but this is the first time I’ve been genuinely satisfied with the ‘technical’ aspects of my set up - I always knew before things were in a state of flux.

How do they sound?

TLDR; these are the best speakers I’ve had the pleasure of owning (this includes the Usher mini DMD II’s).

One caveat with this statement, my system has moved on significantly in the last ~year or so, ergo the other speakers never had a fair chance lol.

Bearing that in mind, I am still these are the best I’ve had in my system:

*They are open yet controlled and tight,

*they let nuances in throughout the entire frequency range that I’ve never heard before (lower noise floor than that others?). Notice I’m not saying ‘detailed’, they don’t highlight treble at all, they’re neutral to my ears. The treble has gorgeous air around it. One caveat, bad recordings still sound shite lol.

*one thing that blows my mind is the bass on this model, I’m easily getting into the 30hz region! No it’s not damaging the houses foundations, but wow! Compared to the Ushers, these things kick arse! Being an EDM fam, bass is important to me and I’m so glad to have it back. It’s tight, controlled and tuneful too.

*they’re snappy, timing is fast, they start and stop faster than anything I’m used to, which of course helps to portray the musical message.

*their dynamic capability is good; great recordings ‘pop’ with vivacious energy and they can play loud! I don’t always listen loud, but I like to turn it up every now and then and they play without strain (thank you monoblocks for your help here).

NB.

1. The 6D jumpers still have a good while to fully burn in, so I expect further uplifts in the treble quality. Also, the Galans have allowed my system really show what it’s actually capable of delivering and I’m delighted!

2. My DC blocker is fully burnt in and, because of the nature of my electricity (very poor) it’s made a large uplift in the quality of my systems sound, this really lets my amps and source operate as they’re meant to, in turn, the speakers articulate this excellently.

In summary:

I’m exceptionally happy �� I’ve no intention to change anything in the immediate future. When back in England, I will move up in speaker size, but I foresee me sticking with Quadral, they’re a superb brand.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48902198451_35739fb547_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hvjxSB)D7746EFD-4908-434C-AD71-12A8E0373A24 (https://flic.kr/p/2hvjxSB) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48902402202_6e6a747744_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hvkAry)2C73A31F-A88A-4214-BD0E-6306A43AA40F (https://flic.kr/p/2hvkAry) by Martin Johnson (https://www.flickr.com/photos/158250330@N04/), on Flickr