View Full Version : My journey to the temple of boom
Thumbnails are crap, Andrew. It looks better like this:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/827/i9ol.jpg
;)
Marco.
No worries - just thought I'd help your pic look better :)
Marco.
A very simple and neat looking set up there Andrew, reckon she sounds pretty good too.:)
istari_knight
20-02-2014, 18:40
Niiice ! If you want to go the whole hog I notice there's currently a champagne gold Denon TU-260L on eBay... Only a fiver at the moment.
Sorry about City-Link [who shall henceforth be known as Sh*tty-Stink] I can't believe their incompetence :doh:
Nice one Andrew - so great to see a pure, uncluttered set-up. Something rather special about a Champagne Sony too, sadly my ES is all black (still sounds more than acceptable though ;) )
Beautifully simple and elegant Andrew, has got me wondering whether I really need all the gear I own seeing as 90% of my listening is done via Spotify or lossless CD rips... :eyebrows:
Cheers, I do like a compliment! After nearly ten years in the motor trade I've just been told I don't have solid experience!
Keeping my eyes open for something suitable, stylish and cheap to stand the gear on now.
That may be it for a while as matching tuners are both rocking horse poop and pricey.
I have a j2p lead for dab/mp3 type duties and just whack it into my phone as required.
As far as a rack is concerned this (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Soundstyle-Status-ST-100-4-Shelf-Hifi-Rack-Silver-Aqua-/221393282088?pt=UK_Home_Garden_LivingRoom_TV_Furni ture&hash=item338c116428) might fit the bill. The seller says there are signs of wear but this doesn't seem too apparent from the photos. Pick up only from South Croydon though :eyebrows:
http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Soundstyle-Status-ST-100-4-Shelf-Hifi-Rack-Silver-Aqua-/00/s/NjY3WDEwMDA=/z/EQgAAOxyUI1TIj8D/$_12.JPGhttp://i.ebayimg.com/t/Soundstyle-Status-ST-100-4-Shelf-Hifi-Rack-Silver-Aqua-/00/s/NjY3WDEwMDA=/z/7LAAAOxyoVZTIj8N/$_12.JPG
istari_knight
18-03-2014, 14:44
Might look a bit garish with the gold components though... Black stands tend to look better IMO.
Of course, in their country of origin how you've got them would be 100% correct :D
Quite true James san, I don't think paper walls are going to work though. The neighbours are sure to object ;-)
I'm hoping to bump into a glass tv/av stand at some point when I've actually got cas on me. They usually go for as little as a score and would keep the simple lines going.
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.co.uk/viewitem?itemId=151239920354&index=2&nav=WATCHING&nid=37256442803
Very nice and just the thing but the price is the same as I've paid in total for the two ingots I already have. As I mentioned, rocking horse doodoo with a price to reflect that.
istari_knight
18-03-2014, 15:29
Yeah thats a ridiculous price. I'll keep an eye out, have seen them go for £50 a few times.
Ta man, we really must share a bar one of these days.
Holy awesomeness batman! This deck makes the Pioneer sound like one of those mechanical monkeys with a pair of cymbols.
Ta man, we really must share a bar one of these days.
Holy awesomeness batman! This deck makes the Pioneer sound like one of those mechanical monkeys with a pair of cymbols.
What are you planning to do with the Pioneer Andrew?
Its been given to a local lad as it was a freebie for me. I'd like to have been able to sell it for beer vouchers but quite frankly apart from the mech' I really can't recommend them when for less bunce you can pick up a dvd player (these Sony are £45-/+) that sounds better.
I think the Pioneer you had there was a much better piece of kit. The components used alone were of a higher spec then the PDS units I've had. They look good on the surface but when you get inside there's nothing special and as I say, they don't really sound all that.
Oh man I just saved some pennies.
Had me a brainwave and following a read of the manual for the dvp I have programmed the remote to control the volume on the amp.
I'm not someone who HAS to have a remote but I'm all for a bit of convenience if it can be had.
istari_knight
18-03-2014, 20:39
Ta man, we really must share a bar one of these days.
Holy awesomeness batman! This deck makes the Pioneer sound like one of those mechanical monkeys with a pair of cymbols.
:thumbsup: :cool:
Its quite an ear opener isn't it ? Great idea with the remote, didn't occur to me :doh:
Buggers me every time as I either don't have wheels or when I do they are attached to something naughty...
Yeah man, I've seen your ride.....
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/59/mt4g.jpg
Wicked!! :D
Marco.
Yeah man, I've seen your ride.....
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/59/mt4g.jpg
Wicked!! :D
Marco.
Hang on, is that Sebastian Vettel testing Adrian Newey's rehash of the sick 2014 Red Bull F1 car? Hmm, I'm not sure whether that conforms to FIA regs... :D
The way I feel sometimes that might be quite apt guys.
Slight rearrange as the stack seemed a bit messy and the amp weighs a ton.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140319-00056_zpsd3679e75.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140319-00056_zpsd3679e75.jpg.html)
Found me some sofa cushions for my butt so moved the bed back into the bedroom.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140322-00067_zpsb31823af.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140322-00067_zpsb31823af.jpg.html)
This works much better.
New speaks in situ.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00080_zpsc0d5ba02.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00080_zpsc0d5ba02.jpg.html)
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00081_zps449b83d8.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00081_zps449b83d8.jpg.html)
So far the new boxes are an improvement. I always found the Tannoy's bass a bit overwhelming and these are far more polite.
I would also say that these image far better too.
Not bad for a tenner.
My excuse is that the earlier photo was poorly lit.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00082_zpsae4ea269.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140325-00082_zpsae4ea269.jpg.html)
Much happier with this one though:cool:
istari_knight
25-03-2014, 19:43
Looking good :thumbsup:
Cheers buddy. Sounding pretty sweet too. So much more 'together'.
I wasn't convinced by the Tannoys, something always seemed missing. I guess following the Kans they needed more precision. The Celestions have that in spades.
Really feeling these now so they deserve a few pics.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00095_zps4b16d75a.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00095_zps4b16d75a.jpg.html)
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00094_zps9080802d.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00094_zps9080802d.jpg.html)
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00093_zpsdfb814ba.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140330-00093_zpsdfb814ba.jpg.html)
Need something HUGE now though, if for no other reason than I can't be bothered to dust the stands.
A sofa and some free stands among other stuff means its photo time again.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140402-00099_zpsb232f206.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140402-00099_zpsb232f206.jpg.html)
Any good tips for getting dog stink out of a pleather sofa? Running a bit low on Dior so am reluctant to soak it in that.
Man I hate moving stuff. Now being treated to intermittent distortion in one channel. Just what I needed after a day lugging furniture up stairs.
istari_knight
02-04-2014, 15:21
What a PITA :(
What sort distortion is it ? Have you tried swapping speaker cables over left to right & right to left to see if it follows ?
Word.
After moving it all back to its previous location to get it away from a socket and discovering no improvement I am 'happy' to have isolated what I think is a flakey phono lead.
Jiggled them around and its gone away for now. Just peed off I gave away my spare months ago.
Had these for an age and when my iron gets replaced I shall have a look inside as I love them.
Location location location.
Man it makes a difference sitting on the same level as the tweets. Had to move the speaks back further to get some bass back which has the added benefit of getting the unit out of the corner behind a speaker.
Thus.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140402-00101_zpsea66755b.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140402-00101_zpsea66755b.jpg.html)
I also don't feel like some pikey student anymore. Bonus.
Phew! Just isolated the fault to a tweeter so that's a relief. At least its nothing expensive and knowing what's causing the grief puts me in a happier place.
Well scratch that. The substitution of another pair of speaks firmly points the finger elsewhere.
Kef Cresta 30 by the way, not a sound I like even without the other issue. Very shallow and muffled.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140404-00103_zpsc2ab9880.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140404-00103_zpsc2ab9880.jpg.html)
I once bought a pair of Cresta 10s - the standmount version - and they didn't stay here very long at all. As you say, shallow sounding. In fact the 10s had virtually no bass at all!
How are you getting on with isolating your problem?
(Nice system by the way. That Sony amp looks great.)
I found the Kefs to have plenty of bass (floorstanders so I guess that helped) but sounded like they had a blanket over them.
Cheers man. Found the problem and it was the Sony so its Cambridge time again thanks to a local charity shop.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140408-00104_zps9152e18c.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140408-00104_zps9152e18c.jpg.html)
Now this is too cool! Using an Onkyo code (83) I have programmed the dvp remote to operate volume on the Cambridge amp.
I have a lot of respect for CA amps. I owned an A1 MKIII SE for quite a few years and only let it go once I began to get really serious about hifi again around five years ago. Considering this model propped up CA's range of amplifiers I found it to be an excellent sounding unit which for me outperformed some well sorted and highly regarded budget amplifiers from years gone by such as the NAD 3020 and Marantz PM44se. Unfortunately the A1 couldn't handle difficult speaker loads as well as its competitors which is why ultimately I moved it on. My A1 was fitted with the rather excellent MM phonostage which is one of the reasons I hung onto it for so long. How does the 540A compare with the Sony in your system Andrew, not withstanding the Sony's intermittent fault?
This is going to hurt, me being a long time CA hater who never got on with them and found the Richer Sounds era stuff too bright.
I'm only six discs in but I think the Cambridge sounds better. There, I said it.
Its a slight improvement in space around individual instruments and a depth and liquescence to the bass. The Sony did all this well but the Cambridge just has the edge.
It has to be said that I don't know how much of this might be down to the flawed Sony. Had it been in full health the result may have been different.
istari_knight
10-04-2014, 00:05
Nah its probably just better... Dont forget the 30ES was the bottom of the ES range and is basically a QS model in fancy clothes. When I compared it against a 770ES it was obviously colouring the sound "rounding off" the frequency extreme's. The CA's are/were designed by the leg-end that is Doug Self http://www.douglas-self.com/ampins/ampins.htm so I'm not surprised its capable.
And lest we forget our old friend synergy :D ... Good to see your able to enjoy your tunes again anyways :thumbsup:
I'm going to save up for another Topping and go for new again.
This thing loses a channel on start up but when cranked it comes back and stays. Bloody secondhand stuff can be such a pain.
Sounds great though so I shall put up with I suppose and then score a TP60.
walpurgis
10-04-2014, 09:46
I'm going to save up for another Topping and go for new again.
This thing loses a channel on start up but when cranked it comes back and stays. Bloody secondhand stuff can be such a pain.
Sounds great though so I shall put up with I suppose and then score a TP60.
A friend of mine had a TP60. It was nice enough I suppose for the money, but not the most revealing amp about, he found it slightly thick and two dimensional. I tried it in my system and came to the same conclusion, using it to drive my Tannoys. I've heard smaller T/D type amps sounding better.
Cheers for the insight, I had a TP22 and while it was good it obviously lacked in volume/power so good to get thoughts on the bigger Topping.
I'm tempted to see what's what with this CA and wait until it can be fixed.
Just had me a thrombo, I was having one of my almost regular rearrangements of kit/rack when I heard something loose in the Sony.
Oh feck says I, what's that? Whipping the lid off I discover a 44pin smd ic floating around!
First thought was of a type not to be shared on this fine forum although rest assured the language was earthy.
I soon noticed a length of clear sticky tape and corresponding marks on the base of the cdp that indicate this ic was taped down in there for some reason.
Odd but at least it hasn't fallen off a pcb.
Now trawling the web looking for a list of icd in the dvp so as to find out which this is.
Phew!
istari_knight
16-04-2014, 15:22
WTF !? :scratch:
I think I know what that is... When I bought it the seller stated Techtronix had fitted a multiregion chip so he could play DVD's from the US. I reckon it's come away in transit. I should think everything will work fine just wont play non R2 DVD's now.
Yup. This is the original chip that had been taped down inside the chassis after the change.
istari_knight
16-04-2014, 15:55
Ahh cool - Panic over :D
Yeah man, initial reaction was freak out time but a bit of detective work brought relief.
Curious as I am to try CA again I don't want to lose this beauty just yet.
A move and some downsizing have led me to the current setup.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140524-00118_zpsc379fd75.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140524-00118_zpsc379fd75.jpg.html)
Its rather good too.
istari_knight
24-05-2014, 16:05
I don't know how you managed to find champagne cans but thats commitment !
A move and some downsizing have led me to the current setup.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140524-00118_zpsc379fd75.jpg (http://s209.photobucket.com/user/taxiboy69/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20140524-00118_zpsc379fd75.jpg.html)
Its rather good too.
Nice set of cans Andrew..
A complete fluke but a very handy one as I do mean to continue the champagne binge James.
Cheers Grant, they continue to amaze and astound.
Best headphones I've ever owned and I've had a few over the years. Most comfortable to wear at well
jandl100
25-05-2014, 10:47
what 'phones are they?
Audio Technica ATH-AD700 Jerry.
jandl100
25-05-2014, 12:57
:thumbsup: not heard those.
I'm happy with my upcupped Grados, though.
Very nice indeed. Quite fancy SR1's but may need a lottery win first!
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-11/IMAG0049_1_zpsymrvkcbn.jpg
Seeing some of the great pics folk have posted of their boxes I shall endeavour to snap some sexy ones of my meagre setup...
Sexy pics aren't really in mine or my kits mature but I do love the veneer on the MA.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0057_zpsajm1ygxl.jpghttp://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0054_zpsbxkwubpb.jpghttp://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0052_zpsuxvtutww.jpghttp://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0051_zpsaqnhajgg.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0060_zpstyegmbls.jpg
The baby Sony is doing well until I score a nice fat ES.
And a very nice bit it is too! I have to start a new thread I reckon as my champagne is no longer in the rack.
Tempted to flog it but really not sure I can be bothered to post as it weighs a ton!
The Champagne now sits alone but I can't be arsed to start a new thread.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0083_zpszrveuihu.jpg
dantheman91
19-12-2014, 20:34
The dac arrived today dude
Many Thanks
Have a good Xmas dude :)
So, a complete lack of champers and not much in the way of a rack.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0085_zpspfz99ax8.jpg
The Arcam is sounding great, a good compliment to the CJ and very happy working with the Monitors.
No problems at all with the amp lacking poke. This may be due to the cdp apparently having a lower output than many.
Just started acquiring fancy power cables so really must find a rack.
Happy with it at last. Comfy listenage is a go.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0090_zpsvsqcyqvh.jpg
Ripley's Cat
06-01-2015, 19:35
All looking good, Andrew. And encouraging to see also, a bottle of something-or-other on the low unit.
Looks clutter-free - I'm deeply envious. On a rare occasion, I can sometimes see my living room carpet . . .
Happy New Year - have a good one.
Very tidy Andrew. Johnny Walker Red Label? Cheers
Cheers guys.
Johnnie Walker Red it is, cheers again!
Couple of new snaps of some old boxes.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0107_zpsvcia2qgr.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0102_zpsawhzggyj.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0097_zpspaam7lz9.jpg
I've had some bargains over the years but twenty quid for this cdp has to be my best. Very different beast to the CJ. This seems to have the edge on detail but the CJ wins on bass and warmth.
If I can use the CJ to acquire better amplification that score could go a long way.
Ok so the CJ stayed and the Alpha went.
Few changes to the room layout...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0120_zpselgwf1tv.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0122_zpsx3flok1k.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0124_zps8nsx667e.jpg
The tv now lives on a shelf in the window.
Hi Andrew,
Was that after you’d been burgled, or do you just like the minimalist look? :eyebrows:
Marco.
Hi Andrew,
Was that after you’d been burgled, or do you just like the minimalist look? :eyebrows:
Marco.
:rfl:
I do like it minimalist Marco, can't see why folk need more. Wouldn't have a tv if the woman didn't want one. I'm quite happy with tunes and a book.
No worries, dude. We’re all different… I don’t like unnecessary clutter, but I do like to be surrounded by all my 'stuff’. I also like rooms to look inviting and cosy, which for me they’re not if they’re sparsely furnished.
In my view, a home’s not a home if it doesn’t contain a goodly dose of the personality of its owner(s), as portrayed by their possessions :)
Maybe the relative emptiness of your room says something ‘deep and meaningful’ about you? Who knows…. :eyebrows: ;)
Marco.
The Black Adder
16-03-2015, 20:27
Have you thought about having a wall hanging on the right hand side wall? A rug or a tapestry? It looks like a big wall and I'd say it could do with some sound dampening.
Just a thought. :)
Beobloke
18-03-2015, 15:49
Have you thought about straightening the red rug......?
;)
Poor Andrew’s getting dog’s abuse for showing us his abode! Just ignore us, mate… ;)
Marco.
I do like it minimalist Marco, can't see why folk need more. Wouldn't have a tv if the woman didn't want one. I'm quite happy with tunes and a book.
You'd get on with my mate. he is into minimalism too. Has its good points:)
The wall hanging idea has been on my list of jobs for a while now. One of these days it'll happen.
Man with my ocd I can't have a straight rug or I'd be straightening it every half hour!
Minimalist abodes take far less cleaning for one thing Marco.
Absolutely, mate. Hey, it's your space, so it's up to you how you like it :)
Marco.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0167_zpsuhbx3gza.jpg
The new arrival doing its thing. Bloody CJ seems huge sat next to it.
Small form aluminum front CD player needed maybe. Any thoughts folks?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/251910922498?limghlpsr=true&hlpv=2&ops=true&viphx=1&hlpht=true&lpid=108&chn=ps&device=c&adtype=pla&crdt=0&ff3=1&ff11=ICEP3.0.0-L&ff12=67&ff13=80&ff14=108&ff19=0
Yes that is an option Grant thank you. Just does nothing for me I'm afraid.
I shall have a peek at those little Musical Fidelity X things, I seem to recall a cdp in the range.
Currently powering the Amptastic from an 075 car battery.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0178_zpslnvjfgun.jpg
I'm only part way through the first disc since the changeover but there may be something in this battery lark.
It certainly neatens thing up at the back.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0177_zpsdn7avksb.jpg
Of course all is neat at the front anyway. This is me after all.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0179_zps2guiedvh.jpg
Score! £8 and finally a Target Audio rack is mine.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0191_zps5ppgt73z.jpg
This was twenty mile away and a bargain but these things are like buses, there's now a two shelf in Peterborough for twenty-five notes.
I seem to have some Leak's.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0193_zpsvommy88g.jpg
I'd forgotten how good Leak speakers are! In original non modified form and missing a tweeter it's a bloody good sound. Once I've sorted the tweeter, replaced the internal wire and put some new caps in I fully expect to be glued to my sofa in awe.
I read a lot about how the top end is harsh. Poop! It's real, live sounding treble.
I could find no figure for sensitivity but comparing volume levels to that used for the Monitor Audio that just left I'd have to guess at early to mid 90's.
So the Amptastic loves them.
Wire has arrived. The re-wire is going to wait until I have a replacement tweeter though, these things are bloody heavy.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0195_zpsml66boqa.jpg
The original wiring in place and about to be bettered.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0210_zpsfnbv5mav.jpg
The stressful task of unsoldering original wiring without buggering the drivers in partial completion.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0208_zpszhcyjvq9.jpg
Progression picture.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0207_zpsdy3tpwqs.jpg
One completed bar a woofer.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0209_zpsnnrflyjw.jpg
You managed to get a replacement tweeter then?
They look like they could have proper old school potential.
Yup. I have a cousin with a stash of Leak bits it turns out, phew.
Rewire completed I've retreated to the pub to chill before serious listening starts.
Took some shots of the caps too so I can score some replacements.
'Gramophone' magazine were quite impressed by them:
http://www.link-audio.be/Leak2060Gramophone1975.htm
shame the graphs are missing but still quite a lot of info there:
Over a long period of listening to all kinds of music and speech, one finds it difficult to fault this loudspeaker on any score, particularly in view of jt modest price. Perhaps rather large for the smaller lounge, its superb finish and neat but unobtrusive design should overcome any resistance from the feminine side of the family.
Yes an interesting read. They did like a measurement and a few graphs back then.
Brigadoon
25-05-2015, 06:51
So Andrew how are they sounding now after the re-wire?
I have only had a couple of hours listening so far and hampered comparison somewhat by changing the height of them at the same time I did the wiring.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0213_zpsrc4gyyiz.jpg
I need to tilt them back an inch or so I reckon but am happy with the look grilles on (after removing excess wood that was blocking the mid and high).
I am continually delighted with things they reveal.
Should be listening more today so will have more thoughts.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0222_zpsvyz5xykz.jpg
:)
No major changes to report although I do have a Quad 405 in bits at work. Might be interesting and given my love of Quad gear and shared origins I love it.
I have however finally put new speaker cable runs in of the same stuff that I used inside the Leaks. Nice.
In the process of putting it in it occurred to me that maybe I could hide the excess on the channel nearest the amp in the conduit pictured next to part of said excess.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0307_zpssszigxev.jpg
I'm not sure of the rights and wrongs really. It would mean doubling it back on itself and it being tightly packed with the tv aerial and tv power.
Any thoughts most welcome.
I have also added a layer of adhesive backed foam to the top of the cdp.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0309_zpsvtdr9ayc.jpg
Best picture I could get to show thickness.
Not sure of any great benefit but at no cost it can't hurt.
Better light better picture.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0310_zpswaw1elqu.jpg
The Quad arrived looking like this.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/003_zpsx6e2pssa_1_zpseswasphw.jpg
Through a process of paint removal and replacement...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0318_zpsprdrvdc3.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0320_zpslzxlpn9s.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0321_zpsitlekvnx.jpg
...it now looks like this.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0327_zpsn2dgzct2.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0328_zpscqrphg5a.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0329_zps19frzl7x.jpg
Not one for the traditionalists I'm afraid. Internals next and that's just Dada.
Found a nice box to build a passive pre in. Very industrial forged aluminum with a screw on base.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0338_zpsupspgrit.jpg
One end solid and one with an opening I have fashioned a plate for to mount sockets on.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0337_zpsuzuwd255.jpg
So. Thinking can often lead a body astray but sometimes it all works out fine.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0362_zpswtyfed4o.jpg
Fane Sovereign 12" full range drivers arrived following a brainstorm and then I baffled them.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0367_zpsqldvrzah.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0368_zpslprav0hq.jpg
Early reports are very good. Fantastic imaging and plenty of bass although obviously I'm not going to be throwing a rave anytime soon. I already planned for ribbon tweeters and that is a must.
Look good. Never built open baffles before. I've a set of fane 8" just finished. Nice sound. ..Well done and look forward to the tweeter s
Firebottle
18-08-2015, 17:20
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0337_zpsuzuwd255.jpg
Funky looking box :wowzer:
Look good. Never built open baffles before. I've a set of fane 8" just finished. Nice sound. ..Well done and look forward to the tweeter s
Thanks Grant. Looked in on your thread earlier and noticed your Fane project, quality work. I really cannot fault these drivers at the price.
Funky looking box :wowzer:
Tis rather cool isn't it?
One simple xover knocked up and tweeters borrowed from the Leaks later...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0432_zpsxjbmwdsl.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0433_zpslceqcafc.jpg
Bit of a lash up for now but it confirms my confidence in this concept. Nice new tweeters to follow asap.
walpurgis
23-08-2015, 20:12
You can't beat a good "lash up"! :)
My system spends much of its time in 'lash up' mode.
I think I may be on a winner with these babies. Fantastic sound if not exactly warehouse scale bass. Strapping the tweets on really has brought the music to life.
A very unforgiving presentation in the same sort of fashion as Kan 1's.
They do take some grunt up them to really sing though so it's back to ss for me until I can afford EL34 joy again.
The pre lives! A bit scrappy but it's all there.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0446_zps86bnyjcm.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0447_zpsr3vkdemb.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0449_zps8vcu4gqr.jpg
It does great justice to the P500 that has arrived from a foreign land too. My landlord is in the upstairs flat at the moment but later on I shall give this a gert spanking.
Shunt mod added and boy was this a worthwhile five minutes and 78p!
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0456_1_zpsusknn2qa.jpg
Just more. Space and air and separation are increased.
The knob of kindness has arrived!
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0458_zps5d93yszh.jpg
It fits nicely and feels good in action as well as finishing the pre off.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0459_zpsemnfi7gi.jpg
Many thanks to Nigel for the knob, it's great.
The current grouping of oddments.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0461_zpsljd6y9i8.jpg
The Leaks have had their tweets returned and have been reinstated while the open baffles are being reworked to include their own tweets.
All sounding lovely and worth the dicking around.
I couldn't leave the CD4 alone. I've put a new captive moulded three core power cable on and replaced the rca sockets with fancy ones as I do like a shiny doodad.
Necessary things like fixing the display will happen but I'm happy enough just listening for a while.
Different but not unpleasantly so from the CJ I think for a fiver it's a steal.
Theres a pair of sandwitch speaks on gumtree fairly local to me for 40 notes... Have to be worth more
They are in their several versions still to be had for bargain prices but just lately seem to be creeping up in price.
Mine are a very good pair and won't be going anywhere now as they will get harder to replace.
I've removed the naff blue scrawl from the P500 Grant.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0463_zpsdmzekqcm.jpg
Had to be done, looks much better now for me and at this price point well who cares?
Ah the blue p...yes it was naff and never liked it either. These ones are the 15 ohm ones ...look in good nick..might have gone as it was 2 week old add.... Fancied the cabs actually...im bad:eyebrows:
Naughty indeed. Slightly bigger cabs than the Dovedale ones those.
I was going to write that I had nothing major to report but actually I suppose a complete change of axis is fairly major.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0001_zps2dnvxwi1.jpg
A few reasons behind this but suffice it to say that it's worked.
I've gone back to the Target stand too as it seems less imposing and will work better with a planned acquisition.
Some additional features.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0007_zpsbqwjexu6.jpg
A small alteration.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0004_zpsu9bbvcnf.jpg
Firebottle
03-10-2015, 11:05
Is that a resistor in parallel with the main driver? If so why?
I can't see a series cap with the tweeter wiring also, just concerned, tell me to bog off if all is well :lol:
So glad I've finally decided on a location for the tweets, the old 60's ones have given up. Time to deploy cones...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0008_zpsk6xyejs1.jpg
The resistor is on the tweeter feed as is a capacitor that is much smaller than the overspec resistor and can't be seen in that pic.
Nay bother Alan I'm now chilling with a nice buzz and The New Mastersounds.
A new case presented itself, I fashioned some end plates and...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0011_zpsrx9c5rjt.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0010_zpsdfnatsbl.jpg
It's a bit more mainstream than the previous case and I shall be able to add another pair of inputs and switching for them.
Back to a quality cdp and boy is she fine!
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0012_zpsy6mdipbz.jpg
Such a joy to use and listen to.
Had to go into the P500 to repair a fault and found a cracked pcb which has now been fixed and could not resist changing things a little so replaced the rear socketry and removed the extra inputs and outputs. I shall add pics a tad later once I open it up again for the final tidy.
Following the last post with this seems a copout but that's life.
The drivers from my open baffles are for sale. There will be a sale thread shortly.
£70 collected.
Baffles if wanted free with the drivers.
Great mids. Vocals to die for and surprising bass.
What were you using as drivers in them Andrew.?
A pair of Fane Sovereign full range 12"s Grant.
I love what they do but they don't do enough. Amazing vocals and wonderful mids.
Those the 250's... decent drivers those. Might be better in a big reflex box Andrew
I see they are 200's... maybe not enough at top end for a box, but you never know
I've sorted some very capable replacements that will join me in a while Grant. I'm going back to enjoying the fruits of someone else's labour.
I will keep my eyes peeled for them appearing :)
What a difference a day makes.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0019_zpsfhilrctw.jpg
Many thanks to Graham aka newton of this parish for some excellent speaker stands (two pairs no less!) for nothing.
Thoroughly good bloke that.
A Gumtree purchase of a two shelf Target rack and some temporary £20 Gales from an auction site and it's a much tidier room.
Something a little special speaker wise on the way in a short while but these seem to do a good job as fillers.
orbscure
18-10-2015, 15:16
Looks very nice indeed Andrew and good to see that the battleship Sony is doing the business for you too :)
Cheers Pete, it's a fantastic deck. That free NVA cable isn't bad either. Especially when you consider how cheap they are.
orbscure
18-10-2015, 15:25
The NVA Sound Cord was a freebie with one of my previous power amp purchases and it was a huge eye opener for me too. I had it between a pre & power amp and it was a revelation... :eek:
Before anyone calls me on it I've now moved the tv closer to the wall so it doesn't mess with its neighbouring speaker.
needin' to move that telly a bit Andrew ;)
Watch this space folks I`ve just paid for a pair of interesting monoblocks...
walpurgis
05-11-2015, 12:11
Watch this space folks I`ve just paid for a pair of interesting monoblocks...
Hint?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/272036948763?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2648&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
The new beasties are in.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0040_zpsoilyampq.jpg
Five minutes of listening and I am very happy.
They are monsters.!!!:stalks: well you wont be short of power thats for sure:lol:
They do seem to have plenty of that and sound pretty good too. I think they are with me in waiting for my upstairs neighbour to go out so I can give them a spanking.
So I went mad and splurged forty quid on a Chinese stepped attenuator. It's a bit clunky but man does it do good!
I'm doing too much at once here. I've now got Merlin Chopin interconnects throughout too. Impulse buy and one I'm very happy with.
The whole is sounding immense about now so I'm chuffed to bits.
I keep forgetting that I'm still sitting in front of the Gales. Quite a n accomplished speaker all in.
walpurgis
16-11-2015, 19:51
So I went mad and splurged forty quid on a Chinese stepped attenuator. It's a bit clunky but man does it do good!
Photo?
(Merlin cables are good by the way)
Yeah I slipped up there. I shall grab a shot when I make the box smaller to reduce cabling. I used NVA Sound Cord for the internal wiring of the passive volume by the way. Nice.
This is the attenuator http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/EIZZ-100KA-gold-plated-Hi-end-Stepped-Series-Attenuator-Potentiometer-Stereo-/281647909844
...and on the seventh day...
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0068_zpsuvqfhtti.jpg
hoopsontoast
22-11-2015, 16:03
Nice, let me know how you get on! :)
Very nice Sony CDP as well :D
Cheers guys.
They seem to be settling in now. I've wacked the
gain up on the Altecs and the Kords appreciate it more than the Gales did.
Rob I forgot to have a drool over your 9000 while I was there. I need a DVD player and have decided that's the one for me. Should make a handsome extra cdp too I figure.
Firebottle
22-11-2015, 17:28
How many steps to the attenuator Andrew?
:)
23 Alan, or is it 24 if you count zero?
jandl100
24-11-2015, 09:00
For this thread in general ... :youtheman:
Amazing DIY lash-up skills, interesting and adventurous choices, hifi fun the way it should be.
And I bet it sounds way more than a bit decent, too! :thumbsup:
Thank you Jerry for your kind words. It's not half bad and may yet improve.
jandl100
24-11-2015, 09:58
I'd seen those Altec amps on the Bay and had wondered about them myself.
You can often get a lot more sound per £ with pro amps like those.
Good to see that they have found an appreciative home. :)
They seemed worth a punt and I'm not regretting the buy. Well made with a few bells and whistles.
Just ordered a 48 step attenuator from the Fatherland. Should be interesting.
Well I've cancelled the Deutsche attenuator and gone down a route that had been preying on my mind since I got the Altecs.
They each have a master volume control on their rear panel so why not use that?
The passive volume control is for sale in the classified section.
Not the most decorative solution to home audio but it is wonderful to hear.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0098_zpsdthwljth.jpg
The money shot.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0099_zpshdf7vtjy.jpg
Bass is now a living thing creeping and darting around a soundstage that is just there, palpable.
On a practical note I shall be auditioning elastic bands with which to unite the two volume knobs.
Very nice set up and room , I take it you have drunk all the champagne:D
Thank you Barry. The title should really change I guess, pity I don't know how...
Thank you Barry. The title should really change I guess, pity I don't know how...
just ask a mod to change it, and as long as you ask an intelligent one, it should be ok.. dont ask me, I'm an idiot ;)
Thank you Barry. The title should really change I guess, pity I don't know how...
What do you want the new title to be Andrew? I'll change it for you.
That's a debate I'm having as I type Barry. I will get back to you, thanks.
Got it. "My journey to the temple of boom." I think that should do the job admirably.
jandl100
26-11-2015, 08:50
Ooo - you buggers!
I thought Alzheimers had finally set in. :confused:
My journey to the temple of boom
Where the hell had that long running thread come from?
I'd even contributed to it. :scratch:
It was with a genuine sense of relief that I realised the thread title had been changed. Phewwww!
You guys don't realise the stress you cause sometimes!
Genuine LOL.
It had to be done, not least as the Champers is long gone.
Just awaiting the postie and hopefully a new sacd I've been waiting for.
Upstairs neighbour is out too...
Genuine LOL.
It had to be done, not least as the Champers is long gone.
Just awaiting the postie and hopefully a new sacd I've been waiting for.
Upstairs neighbour is out too...
Not Champagne finish is it :D
Looks like I got me some Champagne after all.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0174_zpsjspxet8y.jpg
Curiosity got the better of me.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0173_zpshtzwoifc.jpg
Firebottle
01-12-2015, 17:33
Nowt wrong with curiosity :eyebrows:
pgarrish
01-12-2015, 18:41
How do you find it running the volume controls on the power amps? I found I got a much better sound with a stepped passive in front of mine, than using the gain control on the power amps. Plus it gives me some safety! 10 on the power amps would have my drivers in the other room :eek:
PS - I went from a shunted Alps to a DACT stepped attenuator and it was a massive improvement. I may take a look at that chinese attenuator you had though.
The volume control on these amps is always in the circuit so using them instead of a separate pot/attenuator is the cleanest route available Paul.
The practical side isn't as much of a pain as I thought it would be.
Once the volume is set I'm on the sofa with my feet up enjoying the music.
I shall possibly change the knobs for something better marked but I'm settling for this for a bit.
A little bit of a rearrange and cable lengths are optimised.
No discernable difference in sound and none expected. Looks neater and the right hand speaker is a bit freer now though.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0192_zpsewdxbtpf.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0189_zpstbwml8g8.jpg
Looks very inviting, and surely makes some nice mjoosic!
Like your Buddha (?) and the colours of the room :)
Cheers man. May I compliment you on the excellent car you have chosen as your username? I had an AlfaSud Ti some years ago, best car I have driven when it felt like working.
jandl100
06-12-2015, 08:32
I had an AlfaSud Ti some years ago, best car I have driven when it felt like working.
I had an Alfasud Ti as well. Fantastic fun to drive - only 1186cc, but phwow! :stalks: A real driver's car. :)
Mine was pretty reliable, but fell apart with rust. :(
Mine had electrical issues you might say.
Scored me some cheapo knobs to ease the volume adjustment.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0197_zpsotrdbpbz.jpg
This gives me a fixed point of reference at the top of the dial rather than one that moves with the knob. Off to find a nicer pair.
Nothing happening here apart from ditching speaker stands in favour of these small tables.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0020_zpsrsvbxhkv.jpg
Looks better to me and drops the tweets nicely into the right alignment.
Table stands look good Andrew...a nice colour match and good height. Systems looking great
Thanks Grant. I wasn't sure about the colour so am glad to have the match confirmed (a touch of colour blindness).
It's sounding as good as it looks if not better man. It's a strange place to be in, I have nothing to scour the classifieds and ebay for.
Myself and the 555 visited an old friend for an evening/night of musical entertainment.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0021_1_zps9on5vqlc.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0023_zpstbeognoc.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0025_zpsygw0imeh.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0029_zps7fyczfrd.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0028_zpszafcv0qa.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0030_zpswivqbmar.jpg
A very good time had and the CD50 with Rega dac gave the Sony a good fight. Honours were even at the end although the 555 used its SACD weapon of mass frequency to deliver the sweetest sound of the session.
Obviously a fan of Mondrian! Nice room... :respect:
Can't comment on the system, but I'm sure it sounded great. Glad you guys had a good time! :cool:
Marco.
Having arrived in the Temple of Boom I then felt compelled to change the decor again.
The previous amps and speakers are listed in the classified section.
I now have a pair of Fostex PM1 powered monitor instead.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0090_zpslf1nkolj.jpg
The sock is reducing a quite booming bass.
I like them.
These have necessitated a rearrange as they like a similar placing to Kans although further off the wall.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0128_zpsuwrecei9.jpg
They will sit higher or on angled pads at some point but for now tables and marble chunks suffice.
robertzombie
07-01-2016, 14:05
Try placing a heavy absorbent throw over the TV to prevent reflections :)
Yeah.
I'll be honest it was squeaky bum time for a few hours but after a change of angle to better position the tweeter I'm a very happy camper.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0136_zpsjpgynjrh.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0138_zps5bwpxqs1.jpg
A very different sound to the Kords this but not in any bad ways.
I'm awaiting a shorter pair of cables in rca to xlr.
Currently using mono 1/4 jack to 1/4 jack leads and rca adaptors. They work but at three metres in length and of dubious quality...
By the way does anyone have a pair of squash balls I could purchase? The socks really have to go.
I know a few women who could sort you out there Andrew:lol:
The chosen stands have arrived and are doing wonderful work. The booming bass is unsurprisingly gone now and they image with merciless clarity.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0147_1_zpsx2axsmor.jpg
Obligatory foot shot.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0150_zpsig6ut5ql.jpg
Non obligatory forehead shot.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0149_zpszcffhltn.jpg
I just love these "pro" connectors. Clunk click
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0148_zpsvaqhxmwt.jpg
Non obligatory forehead shot.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0149_zpszcffhltn.jpg
Is that really your forehead or were you very excited by your new speakers? :eyebrows:
Honest guv it was just my head.
Found a DVD player that will do nicely until a black 9000ES comes up.
Sony NS900V.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0151_zpsn6ezency.jpg
Seems to do a good job on SACD and I'm sure it's competent with CD. Came with original box and remote control too.
Just made a nice score on gumtree, Sony TA FA3ES amp and a pair of these beauties for £65.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMAG0154_zpscldz708t.jpg
The speakers will of course be making their way back onto gumtree shortly.
The amp will get a good clean tomorrow and stay for a while as I'm moving the Fostex on.
I shall put the Kords back in until I score some Sony APM22's. If anyone has a pair and fancies a trade...
The Fostex's never did much for your forehead then Andrew? :eyebrows:
Too many holes and a small knob :eyebrows:
The amp came up pretty well considering I'm fairly sure it has been stored in a hoover bag.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0164_zpsprq4afaa.jpg
Sits nicely with the 555 and for now controls the Fostex monitors via its pre outs.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0163_zpsdmcf1ll8.jpg
That's it then, I'm officially a Sony fanboy.
Firebottle
17-01-2016, 13:47
Nice.....lots of dust then?
Yep full of it. Most came out fairly easy with a hoover but I'll get an airline in there at some point.
Like Quatar... Or British Airways.. ;)
Looks terrific!
Cheers Mike.
The white van speakers are gone. Left them outside on the drive at one o'clock and when I got home at five they were gone. Plan complete.
They were utter shite.
So, back after a self imposed ban for getting involved in political arguments. My apologies to anyone I may have offended in a certain thread, I do lean heavily to the right but I am never racist.
The Sony collection continues and the pictures do much better than I at telling the story.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0178_zpsx9mq6ey8.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0185_zpsyspu6yob.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0186_zpseyoj3bje.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0187_zpsl2odwq6v.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0188_zpsav2on1db.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0192_zpsxtvzf5os.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0193_zpss63ohnxp.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0196_zpsxjbl3yy1.jpg
Faulty 670ES bought cheap, cleaned and currently running as a power amp while I trace a fault in the vr boards. Seems it may have a dicky knob.
Had it running perfectly for about half an hour one lunch break (got home later and it was gone again) and I've never heard anything so good.
...
Hahaha! Thats some serious scrubbin'!
Do hope you identify the fault then, looks to be in good nick! And smells nice too? :lol:
But to be quite honest, i have difficulties seeing where this Sony admiration comes from? Maybe here in Sweden we've been overrun and disappointed with their lower end stuff during the years.
Have had some of their stuff in the QS range meself but that was not a music lovers ticket to heaven.
So the Sony 555 cdp is gone despite having been the "last" one I would buy.
http://rs209.pbsrc.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20160702-00208_zpso5ocaxxg.jpg?w=480&h=480&fit=clip
The Kords too are gone. Replaced by these 2075s that belong to my cousin, who also has the family 3090s in his collection.
http://rs209.pbsrc.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG-20160711-00226_zpslqgr6hlx.jpg?w=480&h=480&fit=clip
Is that a philips andrew? Or a marantz
Wakefield Turntables
12-07-2016, 09:58
I think Adam "beobloke" has the bigger brothers to these. Once saw a pair come up for sale, stupidly didn't buy them. How do the smaller versions sound?
Its the Philips Grant and very lovely too.
They aren't actually smaller than the 3090 Andrew. They are identical iun size and pretty much everything else too.
The tweeters are different and the 3090 has pots for the upper frequency drivers.
Tweeters aside I think that not having the pots makes these the better speaker.
I shall be looking out for a pair of the isodynamic 3090 tweets or maybe a modern equivalent but am pleasantly surprised with these given the slating they get.
Certainly a great listen and revealing in that way only multi way designs can be.
but am pleasantly surprised with these given the slating they get.
Certainly a great listen and revealing in that way only multi way designs can be.
I think the slating has more to do with the trend for manufacturers (aided by the mags) to flog dinky little 2 way speakers as though they were the ultimate solution and, as a part of that strategy, bad-mouthing the big 70's speakers as being coloured,slow and old fashioned. Seems to me now that more and more people are now finding out what a complete crock of shit that was.
Simpler design makes for cheaper manufacture leading to more profit I suppose.
I shall rewire with some modern cable, solder all connections in place of the spade connections used throughout and replace the Bulgin plugs and sockets with speakon plugs and sockets.
Beyond that and keeping my eye out for some interesting tweeters I shall mainly be enjoying a wall of sound provided by inquisitive robots.
Lower shipping cost, higher WAF - makes sense all ways except for the primary purpose.
After some small adjustment to the grilles (removing a mass of hardboard from them) the Leaks are now as close to being unobtrusive as I can manage.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG-20160718-00238_zpsbjehd0yz.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG-20160716-00236_zps9tbc9mhp.jpg
And the song remains the same.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG_20161117_123742_zpsqsixu0qc.jpg
I haven't made any revisions or mods to the Leaks after all. I really can't justify any changes as they sound wonderful as they are.
I only got rid of my last tube amp because I couldn't afford to fix it when I destroyed some valves and a tx with a small football.
I've been wanting back in.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG_20161129_141732_zpsh6hhe4em.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG_20161129_140007_zpsd41dzuqg.jpg
So now the Rogers Cadet III is here and I'm loving it so far. Sound obviously very different to the Sony but not as much of a gulf as you might think.
Firebottle
29-11-2016, 17:51
How can you destroy the tx with a small football :scratch:
Cadet looks grand :)
I want those Leak speakers. They are proppa.
Football + EL34 = short tx
Thanks both, looks good and sounds good all round.
So, the hum got annoying pretty damn quick.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG_20161223_104235_zpsugsfddfq.jpg
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/IMG_20170105_162437_zps9az9rnnv.jpg
Mullard and Brimar doing their wonderful work. This amp really was a bargain buy and to be recommended.
I think I have arrived at my ideal combination. ES, tubes and big Leaks.
So close to the finish here now.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20170124_112836_zpssjqnc5wx.jpg
I'm still a massive Philips fanboy but I have been won over by the way of ES.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb151/taxiboy69/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20170124_112758_zpszltdthrm.jpg
The fact that this one was an absolute steal adds to the pleasure of course.
Zoidburg
04-07-2017, 19:03
I love the look of those Leak speakers Andrew, very 70s but in a good way!
I too had one of those yaqin amps, initial impressions were great but it went wrong not long after purchase and even though I had it fully repaired I could never get over the fear of it doing it again.
I love the look of those Leak speakers Andrew, very 70s but in a good way!
.
They just look fantastic don't they?
Vinyl turner
05-07-2017, 13:12
I love the look of those Leak speakers Andrew, very 70s but in a good way!
I too had one of those yaqin amps, initial impressions were great but it went wrong not long after purchase and even though I had it fully repaired I could never get over the fear of it doing it again.
The speakers look damn good ...... I want a pair of them !
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