View Full Version : Going Back in Time
2014 has seen big changes to my system. At the start of the year my system was AN Dac One.1x sig, AN M-One, Croft Twinstar 1 and Proac Response 2S.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-04-13124554_zps6e260712.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/tr1_zps1d0d8fe4.jpg
Since then I've gone back in time to the 70's. Only the AN dac has survived the cull. I know I'm tempting fate but I think I have stumbled onto a system that I can live with for a long time. Just as well because I'm skint! The speakers and amp have been fully recapped and the Sony has had a wee service too. Now all my spare cash is going on vinyl.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-10-25132609_zps538589e7.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-10-25135007_zps499c14db.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-10-25135637_zps3eb333a4.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20Model%20500/2014-05-09190930_zps059db8f9.jpg
What are the speakers, Paul? They look like some type of Celestions :)
Marco.
Hi Marco, they're IMF TLS50s. Here's one with the grill off. BTW My current line up is detailed in my sig!
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/IMF%20TLS50/2014-07-09202933_zps4c9f7ba4.jpg
dantheman91
25-10-2014, 13:28
What are the speakers, Paul? They look like some type of Celestions :)
Marco.
Celestion-ish dude but not quite their IMF TLS50 :).
The Barbarian
25-10-2014, 13:34
You just need to scrap the Hifi rack & put your clobber on a sideboard in true vintage style
:eyebrows:
You just need to scrap the Hifi rack & put your clobber on a sideboard in true vintage style
:eyebrows:
You're quite right. I would if I had a bigger room. My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard :eek:
http://www.midcenturyhome.co.uk/images/sideboards/greaves-thomas/greaves-thomas-teak3.jpg
The Barbarian
25-10-2014, 13:52
You can get shorter ones. I have an original G-Plan it's around 6ft long
Decor & Hifi have got more 60's since this pic was taken :eyebrows:
http://i1075.photobucket.com/albums/w425/ELPFAN1968/1960slamp.jpg (http://s1075.photobucket.com/user/ELPFAN1968/media/1960slamp.jpg.html)
Haselsh1
25-10-2014, 14:44
By Christ, they sure knew how to make stylish amplifiers back then !
walpurgis
25-10-2014, 16:40
I like the TLS50s. Good grunty speakers. Bet they shake the floor.
By Christ, they sure knew how to make stylish amplifiers back then !
The Kenny is my pride and joy. It just sounds fantastic and its phono stage is sublime. The Kenwood/Trio Supremes are pretty rare in the UK but well worth snapping up if you happen to see one.
I like the TLS50s. Good grunty speakers. Bet they shake the floor.
TBH, the IMFs were a big surprise. I didn't expect much when I brought them home but they have really exceeded my expectations. Surprisingly they work well in a small room.
Audio Al
25-10-2014, 17:58
just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard
OOF! :eek:
Don't worry Al. There's no rush :D
walpurgis
25-10-2014, 20:44
TBH, the IMFs were a big surprise. I didn't expect much when I brought them home but they have really exceeded my expectations. Surprisingly they work well in a small room.
Transmission line speakers and horns often do work well in small rooms (strangely my big reflex Tannoy Cheviots do too).
southall-1998
25-10-2014, 22:07
Transmission line speakers and horns often do work well in small rooms (strangely my big reflex Tannoy Cheviots do too).
+1
S.
jandl100
26-10-2014, 08:02
Wow - excellent! :thumbsup:
I heard a pair of IMF TLS50 in a friends 2nd system a few years ago - we'd been listening to his 'posh' main system with expensive Opera speakers for quite a while when for a laugh he fired up the 2nd system that resides in another room. I much preferred the system with the TLS50, and I think that was mainly down to the speakers.
I don't know the Response 2S, but I am a big fan of the original Proac Response 2 - a pair replaced Quad 63, and totally showed them the door in every way, imo. I'd imagine that the presentation is very different between the IMF and Proac speakers - both good, just different!
Maybe it's an age thing - but my system seems to be slowly heading backwards in time as well. I can now afford to buy things I could only ogle at enviously back in the day so I'm indulging myself a bit.
They made good kit back then that looked the biz. :)
Ammonite Audio
26-10-2014, 08:15
Do the IMF speakers sound better with the grilles on? The reason for asking is that the HF drive units are very close to the recessed baffle edge and there will be horrible diffraction effects, unless the grille incorporates some felt or similar to deal with that. If there's no felt in the grille, then a cheap tweak is to cut some thickish felt material into rings and place these around the tweeter and super-tweeter domes.
I saw a visual representation of this sort of diffraction last week at the Institute of Acoustics 'Reproduced Sound' conference - some clever people at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) have found a way of using laser interferometry to produce a moving video of sound waves. It's very interesting (but perhaps not surprising) to see what happens when a propagating sound wave produced by a tweeter hits a hard edge!
My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard
:rfl:
I do like that! The amp looks great, I'm thinking of setting up a vintage system myself.
walpurgis
26-10-2014, 10:40
It's very interesting (but perhaps not surprising) to see what happens when a propagating sound wave produced by a tweeter hits a hard edge!
Imagine the tweeter emitting high pressure water and you'd get an idea (not exact).
I don't know the Response 2S, but I am a big fan of the original Proac Response 2 - a pair replaced Quad 63, and totally showed them the door in every way, imo. I'd imagine that the presentation is very different between the IMF and Proac speakers - both good, just different!
The Response 2S are also excellent speakers. I enjoyed them greatly during the two years I had them. You are quite right in saying both are good, just different. If I could have afforded to keep both I would have but on balance I felt that the IMFs had better synergy with my vintage gear and just seemed to give me more of the sound that I was looking for. Big transmission lines do real bass in a way that a small ported box cannot. Given the fact that the driver layout of the IMFs looks like a dog's dinner, they image surprisingly well and produce a big convincing soundstage that has real depth and height. However, the Proacs probably have the edge in terms of 'holographic' imaging and detail retrieval.
Maybe it's an age thing - but my system seems to be slowly heading backwards in time as well. I can now afford to buy things I could only ogle at enviously back in the day so I'm indulging myself a bit.
This. I love the Marantz gear that you have too. Simply gorgeous. Proper hi-fi! My first job back in 1978 was as a Saturday boy in a hifi shop and my first system was Sansui SR222 mk1, JVC JAS-11G, AR18 mk1. I loved that system and had it for donkey's years. When I saw the Kenwood amp for sale in Glasgow it gave me the idea of building a 'high-end' version of my original system. My dream was to buy AR3a speakers to go with the Kenwood and Sony. I did buy a pair from ebay but all the original drivers had been replaced so they went back. I'm very happy with the IMFs so I'm no longer searching for AR3as.
Do the IMF speakers sound better with the grilles on? The reason for asking is that the HF drive units are very close to the recessed baffle edge and there will be horrible diffraction effects, unless the grille incorporates some felt or similar to deal with that. If there's no felt in the grille, then a cheap tweak is to cut some thickish felt material into rings and place these around the tweeter and super-tweeter domes.!
Great idea! I listen with the grills on as I have mental cats. I will definitely get some felt and experiment a bit.
Edit - I recently restored a pair of AR94s that had a square of felt about 7-10mm thick around the tweeter (see pic). What thickness would you recommend? Also should the ring be quite tight to the each tweeter dome or should I try to frame both tweeter and supertweeter within a triangularish felt box a bit like the AR94s?
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/AR94/2014-03-07212221_zps6959650c.jpg
You just need to scrap the Hifi rack & put your clobber on a sideboard in true vintage style
:eyebrows:I thought a wall unit would be better:
The Barbarian
26-10-2014, 14:18
Yep thats why i threw mine in the scrap pan
:eyebrows:
Ammonite Audio
26-10-2014, 14:46
Imagine the tweeter emitting high pressure water and you'd get an idea (not exact).
That's is so incorrect - not even close to what happens! A decently designed dome tweeter actually emits an even hemispherical wave when fed a pulse but actually that's not unrepresentative of what happens with a music signal. Tweeter output does become more directional as the frequency rises, though.
NPL have posted a short video showing part of the research findings, but the technique goes much further than this in terms of resolution:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=VRq1vc00R7s
So more like a lawn sprinkler then? ;)
Ammonite Audio
26-10-2014, 14:56
Edit - I recently restored a pair of AR94s that had a square of felt about 7-10mm thick around the tweeter (see pic). What thickness would you recommend? Also should the ring be quite tight to the each tweeter dome or should I try to frame both tweeter and supertweeter within a triangularish felt box a bit like the AR94s?
Around 7mm thick is ideal, I reckon. I have some old Russ Andrews Focus Rings ( see http://www.russandrews.com/product.asp?lookup=1®ion=UK¤cy=GBP&pf_id=5750&customer_id=PAA2673104814618XSULFJOFCYNGOWZN ) that work very well and which are quite fairly priced. The ring should not be tight to the dome - do that and you end up absorbing too much of the peripheral tweeter output. And, yes you do need to treat the tweeter and supertweeter separately.
jandl100
26-10-2014, 14:58
Edit - I recently restored a pair of AR94s that had a square of felt about 7-10mm thick around the tweeter (see pic). What thickness would you recommend? Also should the ring be quite tight to the each tweeter dome or should I try to frame both tweeter and supertweeter within a triangularish felt box a bit like the AR94s?
Careful with the materials you use - some (softer) felt can affect the perceived frequency response quite drastically, rolling it off - ime, coarse fibre felt is the best.
There was a US guy on here - diffraction begone - or similar who ran a company that had it sussed very nicely. .... Jim Goulding, that was it! http://www.stereomojo.com/Diffraction%20Be%20Gone%20Review/DIFFRACTIONBEGONEREVIEW.htm
jandl100
26-10-2014, 15:00
Around 7mm thick is ideal, I reckon. I have some old Russ Andrews Focus Rings ( see http://www.russandrews.com/product.asp?lookup=1®ion=UK¤cy=GBP&pf_id=5750&customer_id=PAA2673104814618XSULFJOFCYNGOWZN ) that work very well and which are quite fairly priced. The ring should not be tight to the dome - do that and you end up absorbing too much of the peripheral tweeter output. And, yes you do need to treat the tweeter and supertweeter separately.
Argh, no, awful things! - sounded like someone had thrown a blanket over my speakers! :eyebrows:
Ammonite Audio
26-10-2014, 15:19
Horses for courses, I suppose. I have a set currently doing transformative work on some old Videoton Minimax 2 speakers which have the same sort of recessed front baffle as the IMFs.
jandl100
26-10-2014, 16:35
Interesting. Are they tonally neutral on the Minimax or smoothing a bright treble?
Around 7mm thick is ideal, I reckon. I have some old Russ Andrews Focus Rings ( see http://www.russandrews.com/product.asp?lookup=1®ion=UK¤cy=GBP&pf_id=5750&customer_id=PAA2673104814618XSULFJOFCYNGOWZN ) that work very well and which are quite fairly priced. The ring should not be tight to the dome - do that and you end up absorbing too much of the peripheral tweeter output. And, yes you do need to treat the tweeter and supertweeter separately.
The fact that the ring should not be tight to the dome means that I couldn't treat the supertweeter as the inner edge of the wooden grill frame is only about 10mm from the top edge of the supertweeter. I suspect that at my age I cannot hear the supertweeter anyway so I will try a pair of the Russ Andrew's Focus Rings around the tweeter only.
Might it be worthwhile idea to get some thin 1 or 2mm felt and line the inner top edge of the grill frame above the supertweeter?
Argh, no, awful things! - sounded like someone had thrown a blanket over my speakers! :eyebrows:
Maybe worth a try anyway. At £12 it's a cheap experiment. I found this info tucked away on the Focus Ring page on the Russ Andrew's site which tries to alleviate your concerns:
"With speakers placed close to hard reflective surfaces you may hear a reduction in high frequency energy, due to a reduction in early sidewall reflection. At first you may feel that the sound has become 'dulled'. Don't panic! Once you become accustomed to the change, you will hear a noticeable improvement in clarity, depth of image and soundstage focus. The degree of improvement will vary depending on the design and quality of the tweeter."
Careful with the materials you use - some (softer) felt can affect the perceived frequency response quite drastically, rolling it off - ime, coarse fibre felt is the best.
There was a US guy on here - diffraction begone - or similar who ran a company that had it sussed very nicely. .... Jim Goulding, that was it! http://www.stereomojo.com/Diffraction%20Be%20Gone%20Review/DIFFRACTIONBEGONEREVIEW.htm
Looks interesting but diffractionbegone.com is down or no longer exists. Also whilst looking into this I read somewhere that his product was designed specifically for flat baffle speakers.
jandl100
26-10-2014, 18:26
..... At first you may feel that the sound has become 'dulled'. Don't panic! .....
Trust your ears! - it really has. :lol:
But as you say, Paul, it's only £12 in the great scheme of things, worth a go.
Ammonite Audio
27-10-2014, 11:58
Interesting. Are they tonally neutral on the Minimax or smoothing a bright treble?
Without the rings, the treble was rather harsh - not particularly bright, but harsh. I did once try them on my Avalon NP2.0 floorstanders, but the designer has already voiced them with grille diffraction in mind and the focus rings were a definite step backwards. The Avalons are representative of a small but refreshing breed of speakers that really do sound better with grilles on.
Spectral Morn
27-10-2014, 12:52
You're quite right. I would if I had a bigger room. My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard :eek:
http://www.midcenturyhome.co.uk/images/sideboards/greaves-thomas/greaves-thomas-teak3.jpg
Beautiful piece of furniture
Regards Neil
I just picked up this Trio KT-5300 tuner for peanuts. Pretty much unmarked and in perfect working order. Happy days.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-08154402_zps569aad16.jpg
You're quite right. I would if I had a bigger room. My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard :eek:
http://www.midcenturyhome.co.uk/images/sideboards/greaves-thomas/greaves-thomas-teak3.jpg
Lovely - both the sideboard, bowl and picture!
Vintage tuners are like buses up here; none for ages and then two at once. I just picked up a mint Pioneer TX-9500 that I stumbled across on Gumtree. I was so impressed with the little Trio that I just couldn't resist trying out a high end tuner.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-11002333_zpsc511b4cd.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-10225615_zpsd618e213.jpg
Nice amp the Paul....loverly;)
Gosh Paul, that tuner brings up some fond memories - I practically grew up with one!
My Dad bought one in the early 80's and then gave it to me as a present when I turned 15; it was my prized possession and part of my first proper hifi system for years! That thing got me through exams, high school heartbreaks, the lot! One fine sounding piece of equipment if you ask me.:respect:
looks superb and sounds it by all accounts,
Around 7mm thick is ideal, I reckon. I have some old Russ Andrews Focus Rings ( see http://www.russandrews.com/product.asp?lookup=1®ion=UK¤cy=GBP&pf_id=5750&customer_id=PAA2673104814618XSULFJOFCYNGOWZN ) that work very well and which are quite fairly priced. The ring should not be tight to the dome - do that and you end up absorbing too much of the peripheral tweeter output. And, yes you do need to treat the tweeter and supertweeter separately.
Thanks Hugo for recommending the Russ Andrews Focus Rings. I installed them this morning and they're just the job. There's no question that the imaging is more precise and there seems to be no reduction in HF response. A good result.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-13140551_zps329f5e3d.jpg
Ammonite Audio
13-11-2014, 19:21
Glad to be of help!
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-16175109_zpsd8aa7235.jpg
We unkindly went over the TLS 50's heads as we always sold more 80's and pro Monitors :( The TLS50's were lovely though as long as the bass was kept under control:)
Interesting how large the 50's look today. In our old KJ dem rooms, the 50's looked tiny (wish I had some pics from the old days, especially KJ Wigmore St in the mid 70's, as you'd be amazed how many big floor-standers/low stand mounters there were :)
Interesting how large the 50's look today. In our old KJ dem rooms, the 50's looked tiny (wish I had some pics from the old days, especially KJ Wigmore St in the mid 70's, as you'd be amazed how many big floor-standers/low stand mounters there were :)
That was back when speakers were made for MEN! and not WAF...
That really is a boss looking system, the only tiny niggle I have is that red rack. Ascetically speaking it just doesn't compliment everything else. For me anyway. But I have a thing about red, don't like red carpets or furniture or curtains.
That was back when speakers were made for MEN! and not WAF...
That really is a boss looking system, the only tiny niggle I have is that red rack. Ascetically speaking it just doesn't compliment everything else. For me anyway. But I have a thing about red, don't like red carpets or furniture or curtains.
It goes well with my cupboard though
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-16184428_zpsf868f612.jpg
We unkindly went over the TLS 50's heads as we always sold more 80's and pro Monitors :( The TLS50's were lovely though as long as the bass was kept under control:)
Interesting how large the 50's look today. In our old KJ dem rooms, the 50's looked tiny (wish I had some pics from the old days, especially KJ Wigmore St in the mid 70's, as you'd be amazed how many big floor-standers/low stand mounters there were :)
It was a simpler time. I remember the shop in 1978 where I worked had a wall of systems connected by a big switch box to a wall of speakers and you could select which system to play with any of the speakers. Great fun.
It was a simpler time. I remember the shop in 1978 where I worked had a wall of systems connected by a big switch box to a wall of speakers and you could select which system to play with any of the speakers. Great fun.
There is a bloke on the AK site who got hold of one of those comparator boxes and has a basement set up with about 20 receivers and 20 sets of speakers set up through it. Insane but at the same time very cool.
Spectral Morn
16-11-2014, 19:31
It goes well with my cupboard though
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-16184428_zpsf868f612.jpg
That's lovely.
Regards Neil
Finally I found a nice clean ADC LMG-1 headshell from the bay. Probably kidding myself but I think my turntable has never sounded better.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-23182800_zps6083dd2f.jpg
Also on Amazon I found this inexpensive LED clip light which charges over usb.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-23183807_zpsc3d33f81.jpg
The Barbarian
24-11-2014, 14:46
It goes well with my cupboard though
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-16184428_zpsf868f612.jpg
Nice. Id be tempted to strip it get the sander on it & give it a perfect spray finish.
:sofa:
I needed a new power lamp on my amp and Charlie (kondo) was kind enough to come over and solder it in for me for which I am very grateful. I'm too obsessive to tolerate the lamp being out for long and an amp this heavy is a real hassle to take take to a tech for such a simple thing. I really should learn to solder. Anyway, gave me a chance to take a decent pic of the innards:
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20Model%20500/2015-01-10155107_zps1419bed4.jpg
Out went the Audio Note dac and the Ifi usb-spdif converter, partly to raise cash and partly to make room in the rack for a cassette deck.
In came a Sony TC-K81 and an Ifi Nano iDSD dac. The little dac is a marvel. Not quite up to the AN but a more than adequate replacement.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-01-10191056_zpsbfbdb976.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TC-K81/IMGP0012_zpscc23f5ab.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-01-10185252_zps747ffca5.jpg
The Sony TC-K81 is a bit of a bargain I think. It was Sony's top of the line cassette deck in 1980-81 and has 3 heads, dual capstan, bias and sensitivity calibration yet I was able to pick up one in very nice clean condition for £99. I think this Sony flies under the radar for some reason. Certainly it cost around one sixth of the price of a totl Pioneer from the same period.
David Price (http://zstereo.co.uk/2014/06/27/sony-tc-k81/) reviews the Sony on zStereo and seems to rate it highly so it might well be a sleeper.
Has anyone here had one?
Idlewithnodrive
10-01-2015, 20:02
Nice looking rig Paul, particularly that TT ;)
Thanks Grant and Mike. I'm a happy chappy - for now :)
The PS-6750 is lovely but I've still got a fancy for that Sony PS-2250 that's been on ebay for ages. Must resist.
Thanks Grant and Mike. I'm a happy chappy - for now :)
The PS-6750 is lovely but I've still got a fancy for that Sony PS-2250 that's been on ebay for ages. Must resist.
and it is local to you as well :eyebrows: nice deck but I'd keep the one you have I think.
and it is local to you as well :eyebrows: nice deck but I'd keep the one you have I think.
I know what you mean. The fact that it is local to me makes it worse! To be honest, as it sits I'm not sure that the 2250 would offer a meaningful improvement over the 6750. It has potential in that it could take a better arm than the 6750's carbon fiber arm and down the line could be re-plinthed. At this point I could possibly stretch to the deck only by selling my tt but not a better arm. The main issue is that I couldn't use it with the Leak arm that's on it as it is a hand cue job and I'm left handed and cack-handed! The DV wouldn't last a week.
I'm a lefty too, but am ambi in many things so to me it wouldnt be too much of an issue. about the only thing I cant do with my right hand is..................:D
.........write:eek:
Thanks Grant and Mike. I'm a happy chappy - for now :)
The PS-6750 is lovely but I've still got a fancy for that Sony PS-2250 that's been on ebay for ages. Must resist. go on you know you want it:)
I know what you mean. The fact that it is local to me makes it worse! To be honest, as it sits I'm not sure that the 2250 would offer a meaningful improvement over the 6750. It has potential in that it could take a better arm than the 6750's carbon fiber arm and down the line could be re-plinthed. At this point I could possibly stretch to the deck only by selling my tt but not a better arm. The main issue is that I couldn't use it with the Leak arm that's on it as it is a hand cue job and I'm left handed and cack-handed! The DV wouldn't last a week. hi thought arm was audio technical, you could use my rega mean time
JR149s in the house. I got them from the first owner and they're totally unmolested and in lovely condition. I'll get them recapped next week.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-01-29171837_zps3a3f0f59.jpg
Floyddroid
29-01-2015, 21:44
Bloody hell that's just like the one we had when i was a kid. It might even well be the actual one. Gorgeous innit?
You're quite right. I would if I had a bigger room. My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard :eek:
http://www.midcenturyhome.co.uk/images/sideboards/greaves-thomas/greaves-thomas-teak3.jpg
The Barbarian
29-01-2015, 21:49
I Have a G Plan 'Fresco' sideboard exactly the same as the one in the below link Solid teak trims all around, solid Teak legs & handles. Dovetail drawers. Class
http://www.thevintageshop.co.nz/wp-content/themes/equilibrium/timthumb.php?src=http://www.thevintageshop.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/IMG_5317.jpg&h=453&w=680&q=90
Thanks to a very kind fishie, who has lent me a serviced Quad 303 for a couple of months, I have been enjoying a classic combination from my youth, 303 and JR149s. Fair enough, my Ifi dac that I'm using as a pre isn't too classic but it does make for a great sounding digital system that doesn't break the bank. I have been really enjoying the JR149s since their recap. Wonderful little speakers. The same gent also dropped off not one but two JR Superwoofers that I hope to restore in the coming weeks. Rather looking forward to hearing the 149s with a sub or two :) Interesting times.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-02-22091543_zpse00b5d31.jpg
The grills arrived this morning. It's such a shame that the fluted grills are not currently available. These ones which I got from BK Elec fit very well though and do the job.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-02-23120847_zps87427b34.jpg
they look very good Paul.
Managed to get the first JR Super Woofer up and running. First impressions are extremely favourable.
Unfortunately the second LPA amp has a hum issue so will need to go to the tech for a check over. It is most unexpected as both LPAs have been professionally recapped and serviced. This was done some years ago but they were never tested as the subs were out of service. I hope it will be something simple.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2015-02-28%2017.04.47_zpscqusmojf.jpg
The second LPA just had a bad solder joint so was an easy fix. I now have two working LPAs and two working JR Super Woofers. I just finished the sealed woofer having rewired it and redone the surround in butyl. Just listening to it now. Here's some pics of it's construction.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-25%2017.25.37_zpsaaz45qas.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-25%2017.25.51_zpstscfc3ok.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-22%2013.48.11_zpshqgcxwc8.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-22%2017.31.43_zps0aerjhpp.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-28%2014.00.20_zpskwruwsas.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-25%2019.33.16_zpsebmnlzqz.jpg
The other woofer is of different construction and is ported. I am awaiting a foam surround for this woofer but have been using it with a replacement driver so far. I will post pics of its construction when I do the surround in the coming week.
Glad your not my neighbour Paul :D ....nice job.
The foam surround for the ported sub came yesterday and I have now finished restoring the second sub which is back in my system. As you can see from the pics the construction of the two is quite different.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-12%2017.58.19_zps92gti6r6.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-27%2000.16.13_zpsjjl8vpu9.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-27%2010.44.28_zps8ikf1po4.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-27%2010.48.44_zpsrrma82ze.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-27%2010.50.12_zpsm0caqgh0.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-27%2011.02.44_zpsvj8vxtjy.jpg
walpurgis
27-03-2015, 11:51
Looks good.
Light Dependant Resistor
27-03-2015, 12:06
Nice work on restoring, the 149's and sub vs IMF will be interesting to hear about.
I would like to raise a point about restoring speaker surrounds with foam, as they
are not a good long term solution. Instead where possible rubber is much better
as it usually lasts a lot longer and has better compliance ie floppier.
I have original AR drivers in some AR6's which are cloth and are still going well
circa 1971.
There is an online industry now doing foam, it would be great to have clock
on how long before they need doing again. In another thread i compared foam
to disposable nappies... which is not too far off the mark. I have witnessed
many audiophiles replacing foam with yet more foam... er I think this needs to change.
Cheers / Chris
IMFs now taking a rest and both Low Pass Amps and JR Super Woofers have been wired up. Lovely :D
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-03-28%2015.42.05_zpsibahhlqn.jpg
Nice work on restoring, the 149's and sub vs IMF will be interesting to hear about.
I would like to raise a point about restoring speaker surrounds with foam, as they
are not a good long term solution. Instead where possible rubber is much better
as it usually lasts a lot longer and has better compliance ie floppier.
I have original AR drivers in some AR6's which are cloth and are still going well
circa 1971.
There is an online industry now doing foam, it would be great to have clock
on how long before they need doing again. In another thread i compared foam
to disposable nappies... which is not too far off the mark. I have witnessed
many audiophiles replacing foam with yet more foam... er I think this needs to change.
Cheers / Chris
I've always preferred to re-do the surround, wherever possible with the same material it had originally. I don't think modern foam surrounds are as prone to rotting as the originals. I had a pair of Proac Response 2S which must have been at least 15 years old. The original Response 2 were prone to foam rot but the later 2S was not. I discussed it with the Proac service department and they advised that modern foams are treated in some way to postpone disintegration and that they had no demand for foams for the S series speakers. I would hope that the same is true of the foam surround kits available today but who knows? Time will tell.
Nice restoration job, Paul! I've always thought that small standmounters with decent sub-woofers have a lot going for them, not least flexibility of positioning to suit 'odd' rooms. One of the best systems for sound-staging I ever heard used that approach.
Nice restoration job, Paul! I've always thought that small standmounters with decent sub-woofers have a lot going for them, not least flexibility of positioning to suit 'odd' rooms. One of the best systems for sound-staging I ever heard used that approach.
Thanks Peter and sorry for the delay in replying. This is the first 2.1 system that I have enjoyed since I got back into the hobby and I have to agree that they image really well. That said, whilst the JRs offer a more holographic image laterally, the sound-stage seems to be deeper, more 3D with my IMFs.
Jim came by today and took away his amp and woofer so now I'm down to one which is no hardship. It still sounds fantastic :) Jim was kind enough to give me the perfect stands for the JRs. Not only do they look better but they are at a much better height.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-04-18%2016.25.41_zpsgcvztoc0.jpg
southall-1998
18-04-2015, 17:24
Thanks Peter and sorry for the delay in replying. This is the first 2.1 system that I have enjoyed since I got back into the hobby and I have to agree that they image really well. That said, whilst the JRs offer a more holographic image laterally, the sound-stage seems to be deeper, more 3D with my IMFs.
Jim came by today and took away his amp and woofer so now I'm down to one which is no hardship. It still sounds fantastic :) Jim was kind enough to give me the perfect stands for the JRs. Not only do they look better but they are at a much better height.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR%20Super%20Woofer/2015-04-18%2016.25.41_zpsgcvztoc0.jpg
Is that a Buddha statue on the bottom left?
S.
Yes. He's a little fat happy buddha. Likes his tunes.
Jim also dropped off a pair of JR150s which need a bit of fettling :)
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/JR150/2015-04-18%2020.06.52_zpsvisiw44e.jpg
New room. Tannoys collected. Also have a long term loan of a champagne Marantz CD-73. Lovely thing.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2015-07-05%2022.48.39%20-%20Copy_zps6l1akb73.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2015-07-06%2011.42.04_zpsgpxv7tit.jpg
so hows you liking them Paul?
walpurgis
06-07-2015, 11:38
They look impressive! :thumbsup:
Your system is really beautiful! Looking at systems like this makes me long for the days when all I had was a simple Pioneer receiver, a Technics turntable, and a some Audio-Technica speakers...
so hows you liking them Paul?
So far I'm loving them but I've only listened to a few albums. I only got them home last night. Initial impressions are very good.
One with the grills off
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2015-07-06%2013.58.09_zpsqugrnz7e.jpg
Your system is really beautiful! Looking at systems like this makes me long for the days when all I had was a simple Pioneer receiver, a Technics turntable, and a some Audio-Technica speakers...
Thanks Doug. You could think about putting together a vintage system. They can sound surprisingly good.
Thanks Doug. You could think about putting together a vintage system. They can sound surprisingly good.
I have thought about it, but my wife has other plans :).
I am thinking seriously about getting a tuner, but I do wonder about FM radio in the long term. I know I regret getting rid of my tuner, as listening to the radio is a five-step process rather than just tuning into a station.
I will continue to check out your system though. It's not just the vintage parts that make me envious -- I've also never had a chance to check out Tannoys outside of a horrible store environment and I really wish I could.
The Black Adder
06-07-2015, 13:56
Very... very groovy.
Love it! Very cool kit - Nothing like a bit of G-Plan to bring it all together too! :)
I have thought about it, but my wife has other plans :).
I am thinking seriously about getting a tuner, but I do wonder about FM radio in the long term. I know I regret getting rid of my tuner, as listening to the radio is a five-step process rather than just tuning into a station.
I will continue to check out your system though. It's not just the vintage parts that make me envious -- I've also never had a chance to check out Tannoys outside of a horrible store environment and I really wish I could.
I'd be careful about Tannoys, Doug ... they can be horribly addictive, and you could end up with a couple of 'wardrobes' in your living room :D
Tuners, on the other hand .. go for it ... there are some great old ones out there for very little money.
Your system looks well cool Paul.:eek::)
walpurgis
07-07-2015, 09:05
I've also never had a chance to check out Tannoys outside of a horrible store environment and I really wish I could.
Should you be tempted by Tannoys, there are many great speakers, but there are also some horrors, so be careful. Some members have experience of many Tannoy models and can give an educated opinion.
My friend was kind enough to sell me the Marantz CD-73 that I had on loan.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Marantz%20CD-73/2015-09-30%2013.00.04_zpsqwnleg4e.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Marantz%20CD-73/2015-07-19%2014.53.39_zpscxsftnrd.jpg
My new pride and joy - a Kenwood KD-990 which I got from a German ebay dealer a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately the arm damping didn't work when it arrived. Anyway, Johnny of Audio Origami came to my rescue. I took advantage and asked Johnny to upgrade the signal cable and set up the DV properly.
The dealer has agreed to pay for the damping repair. Decent bloke. I collected the deck earlier today. Johnny has worked his magic and it is working perfectly and sounding great. I got the deck for a great price because the lid is very rough and the plinth has one or two minor dings. So my next job is to try and polish out the lid. If it's still bad, a new lid is available from ebay.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2015-10-04%2017.36.31_zpsiqlpvcsi.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2015-10-04%2017.36.43_zpshul0ya2l.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2015-10-04%2017.55.42_zpsv08ipncm.jpg
Got your dream deck Paul. Nice one
Very nice looking table. A retro hi-fi setup with an aesthetic appearance as a whole. Bet It sound good too:)
Got your dream deck Paul. Nice one
Cheers Grant. It's been a long time coming. I'm really very pleased. Hopefully this will be my last deck.
Youll be selling the sony or have you sold it already? ... good to see someone getting their dreams come true. thats the speakers and deck for life now.
Very cool kit you've got there, Paul. You certainly know how to identify some of the best vintage gear! :respect:
The Marantz CDP is a classic - and beautifully engineered, from the days of when CD players were CD players, and not the plastic mass-produced shit (in general) they are now at anything approaching 'sensible' money.
Love the Kenwood, too. How would you say it compares, sonically, with the Sony T/T you replaced it with? :)
Would love to hear your system next time I'm up in Glasgow.
Marco.
Nice setup but having the cdp on top of the amp like that seems a bad idea, I think it would work better reversed (the cdp under the amp) or at least elevating the cdp with some feet, hockey pucks or whatever so that there's decent enough room between them to let that amp breathe. Making sure your amp has good ventilation you'll prolong the life of the caps and could even prevent the nasty surprise of something failing.
Youll be selling the sony or have you sold it already? ... good to see someone getting their dreams come true. thats the speakers and deck for life now.
The Sony is sold. Someone on pfm was looking for one and it turned out he was in Edinburgh. So that worked out really well.
Very cool kit you've got there, Paul - you certainly know how to identify some of the best vintage gear! :respect:
The Marantz CDP is a classic - and beautifully engineered, from the days of when CD players were CD players, and not the plastic mass-produced shit (in general) they are now at anything approaching 'sensible' money.
Love the Kenwood, too. How would you say it compares, sonically, with the Sony you replaced it with? :)
Would love to hear your system next time I'm up in Glasgow.
Marco.
Thanks Marco. I haven't heard the Sony for a couple of weeks and my audio memory is pretty poor but first impressions are that the Kenwood is a step up from the Sony. I just love the engineering of the deck. The alloy chassis lurking under the plinth is a thing of beauty and the arm is really rather good by all accounts.
The Marantz is beautifully built too and much to my surprise a great sounding player. Maybe not the last word in detail but it has a really punchy enjoyable presentation. Very analogue sounding.
I'd be delighted if you were able to pop in for listen next time you're in town. I'm in Giffnock. Please just pm me when the time comes.
Giffnock? You're joking - I used to live very near there in Crosslees Park! :eek:
Ok, I'll PM you :)
Marco.
P.S From your description, the Marantz sounds like it uses TDA-1541 chips in the DAC - old multi-bit technology, instead of bitstream. I much prefer that.
Cheers Marco. Replied to your pm.
The Marantz is a first generation player with the CDM0 mech and twin mono tda 1540 dacs. If memory serves I think it's a 14 bit player.
Nice setup but having the cdp on top of the amp like that seems a bad idea, I think it would work better reversed (the cdp under the amp) or at least elevating the cdp with some feet, hockey pucks or whatever so that there's decent enough room between them to let that amp breathe. Making sure your amp has good ventilation you'll prolong the life of the caps and could even prevent the nasty surprise of something failing.
You're quite right Kai. The cd player has more clearance than you would think though. The fascia of the Kenwood stands proud of the top of the case by about 5mm and I have already built up the feet on the cd player. However, your point is well made and I will build up the feet another few millimetres. Every little helps. I can't put the cd under the amp as it is much shallower. The amp also has plenty of ventilation from the rear of the top plate where it is not obscured by the cd player.
Cheers Marco. Replied to your pm.
The Marantz is a first generation player with the CDM0 mech and twin mono tda 1540 dacs. If memory serves I think it's a 14 bit player.
Ah, so I wasn't too far off! Still, it'll make CDs sound more like they're supposed to sound, when both the discs and players first came out :)
Marco.
hi,deck is looking great,smart move
A Novus Plastic Polishing Kit (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/151827698602?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT) arrived today. It's very effective. Here's a couple of before and after shots. Shame about the crack though.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2015-09-24%2017.15.14_zpsuqyjv0xi.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2015-10-13%2017.26.49_zpsiumw5hib.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2015-10-13%2017.26.05_zpswjxtzhuw.jpg
I thought I would try these 1978 Yamahas out whilst my Kenwood 500 amp is at the tech for some fettling. Early days but they might relegate the Kenwood to the subs bench. First impressions are very good.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0024_zps4p7olifr.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0025_zpsck4cdzyk.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0023_zpsyu155ppl.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0029_zpseqabza80.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0019_zps9mxnjwrx.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0032_zpssm21efcr.jpg
Audio Al
26-10-2015, 04:22
:eyebrows::eyebrows::):eyebrows::eyebrows:
jandl100
27-10-2015, 09:19
Wow - I love the look of that tt! :eek: - and the Yammie M-4 power amp does look interesting, always fancied trying that or similar. :)
Are you able to describe the M-4's sonic presentation compared to other amps you've had?
I love those Yammie power amps. That was serious kit back in the day. Be interesting to see how it measures up now.
Veru nice indeed!
Had Kenwood KD-900 TT back in the days and it was very nice player for the price range at the time! Also got mine from German ebay and ended up selling after got some heavier DD solution before my current Garrard/MS era :)
Wow - I love the look of that tt! :eek: - and the Yammie M-4 power amp does look interesting, always fancied trying that or similar. :)
Are you able to describe the M-4's sonic presentation compared to other amps you've had?
The KD-990 is a lovely looking deck in the flesh, bigger than you would think and the arm is a lovely thing but the real beauty lies in the chassis.
http://www.geocities.ws/bc1a69/kp-1100-in.jpg
With regard to the Yamahas' sonic presentation, dare I say they're very natural sounding. (I'll get my coat.) Due to my limited exposure to decent kit I don't really like to come onto forums and talk my kit up. That said, I'd characterise them as fast, predominantly neutral in character with good grip and bass control. They sound really good in the context of my system. Really nice quality of bass, lucid midrange and a nice open airy treble. The imaging is really superb. Definite keepers but better than the Kenwood? Time will tell. Well worth a listen in my book if you happen to see a pair.
I love those Yammie power amps. That was serious kit back in the day. Be interesting to see how it measures up now.
It was indeed serious kit and I'd like to think it still is just affordable now to mere mortals. I got the original sales brochure and some manuals with the amps. The rest of the system was a Yamaha T-7 tuner and K-960 cassette, NS1000 speakers and a Revox B795 turntable. The whole lot cost about 7,500 DM back in 1980.
Veru nice indeed!
Had Kenwood KD-900 TT back in the days and it was very nice player for the price range at the time! Also got mine from German ebay and ended up selling after got some heavier DD solution before my current Garrard/MS era :)
Cheers Mika. I love your Micro Seiki by the way. A real thing of beauty.
It's a fine deck indeed, love mine. I replaced the feet with some oak cones and it improved the sonics IMHO. One question as you are using the standard head she'll Paul, is the azimuth ok on you cartridge. Looking form the front is it square to the record surface? Mine wasn't as I think the mat is slightly concave so I'm using an adjustable heashell to work around it....
It's a fine deck indeed, love mine. I replaced the feet with some oak cones and it improved the sonics IMHO. One question as you are using the standard head she'll Paul, is the azimuth ok on you cartridge. Looking form the front is it square to the record surface? Mine wasn't as I think the mat is slightly concave so I'm using an adjustable heashell to work around it....
Thanks for the tips Neal. I checked and the azimuth seems true on my arm. As for supports, I just got a set of round SDS isofeet from Brian of this parish and it turns out that they're the same diameter as the KD-990 feet which preserves the look and stance of the deck It's early days but they seem quite effective.
Thanks to Nial of this parish I have been able to add a Yamaha T-7 tuner and K-950 cassette deck to my C-4/M-4 combo.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20System/IMGP0035_zpseqrv8x5g.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20System/IMGP0023_zpsekilgetv.jpg
I also sorted some shelving for my albums.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20System/IMGP0024_zps9ev57arc.jpg
Finally I picked up a functional but somewhat shabby Thorens TD-125. It has a Grace arm fitted and the best part of another for spares. This is just as well because the arm lift is loose/broken and the black plate that the lift sits on is cracked at the corner. Also the lid is very rough but I'm hopeful it will respond to a polish. I've never tinkered with a turntable before and I'm thinking this deck could be fun to learn on. Lots of research required.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Thorens%20TD125/2016-01-17%2015.11.58_zpsmg8uv0g9.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Thorens%20TD125/2016-01-17%2015.12.50_zpsdzkmghzr.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Thorens%20TD125/2016-01-17%2015.13.36_zpspvrhszey.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Thorens%20TD125/2016-01-17%2015.12.37_zpsvvpfgij1.jpg
Since my last post, the final pieces of the jigsaw have fallen into place:
A good few weeks ago my tech guy came and bypassed the control pots on the Berkeleys, I thought to good effect, and would recommend. Seemed to clean things up a bit. Then today....
a set of stands for the Berkeleys arrived on a pallet. My first pallet delivery! I must be an audiophile now :eyebrows:. The stands were made by Les of Sound Damped Steel. What a difference they have made. Now the speakers are at the right height, imaging has improved but the bass has also improved. There's more bass and it's much cleaner. I'm well chuffed. Les did a great job and his technology is really very effective at stopping the energy going into the suspended floor.
I also picked up a second hand lid for the KD-990 which was lucky. Now no crack in the side :)
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-03-25%2019.14.57_zpsqpa0hwov.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-03-25%2019.49.20_zpssgxvoeor.jpg
jandl100
26-03-2016, 07:06
Impressive - those stands look the biz. :thumbsup:
Your system had pretty good bass before. Mind you I'm a bit behind - it was before the new Yam kit too.
You must be well pleased!
And looks just great too.
Look forward to hearing it and having an afternoon of chunes again.
walpurgis
26-03-2016, 11:16
Yes. Stands make a big difference with larger Tannoys. My Cheviot II Tannoys were much better once I got them 9" off the deck. I swear the ceramic magnet speakers sound better than the Alnico items. Dunno why though. I had the HPD Cheviots and definitely find the Mk.II better. Have you compared your Berkeley IIs to the HPD type Paul?
Since my last post, the final pieces of the jigsaw have fallen into place:
A good few weeks ago my tech guy came and bypassed the control pots on the Berkeleys, I thought to good effect, and would recommend. Seemed to clean things up a bit. Then today....
a set of stands for the Berkeleys arrived on a pallet. My first pallet delivery! I must be an audiophile now :eyebrows:. The stands were made by Les of Sound Damped Steel. What a difference they have made. Now the speakers are at the right height, imaging has improved but the bass has also improved. There's more bass and it's much cleaner. I'm well chuffed. Les did a great job and his technology is really very effective at stopping the energy going into the suspended floor.
I also picked up a second hand lid for the KD-990 which was lucky. Now no crack in the side :)
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-03-25%2019.14.57_zpsqpa0hwov.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-03-25%2019.49.20_zpssgxvoeor.jpg
What a fantastic looking setup, I wouldn't change a thing. Bet it sounds fantastic too, those stands are the business. Congrats :thumbsup:
Impressive - those stands look the biz. :thumbsup:
Cheers Jerry. I'm really pleased with them. I can't speak too highly of Les. I'm not the easiest person to deal with and he was really great with me.
Your system had pretty good bass before. Mind you I'm a bit behind - it was before the new Yam kit too.
You must be well pleased!
And looks just great too.
Look forward to hearing it and having an afternoon of chunes again.
Thanks Nial. I gather that you had a good Scalford. I read some very positive comments about your system. It'll be good to see you next time you're up this way.
Yes. Stands make a big difference with larger Tannoys. My Cheviot II Tannoys were much better once I got them 9" off the deck. I swear the ceramic magnet speakers sound better than the Alnico items. Dunno why though. I had the HPD Cheviots and definitely find the Mk.II better. Have you compared your Berkeley IIs to the HPD type Paul?
You're right Geoff. The stands have made a significant difference. I wish I'd bought them months ago but I kept on getting distracted by shiny boxes :stalks: I'm sorry to report that I've not heard any other large Tannoys. My Berkeleys are well sorted now: crossovers checked, dynamat lined, pots bypassed. They seem to gel well with my room and amps so I'm hopeful they'll be around for the long haul. Maybe if I heard other big Tannoys I might get twitchy but I love the sound that these Berkeleys produce even at very moderate listening levels.
What a fantastic looking setup, I wouldn't change a thing. Bet it sounds fantastic too, those stands are the business. Congrats :thumbsup:
Thanks Nick. I've no plans to change any major components now other than rotate in the silver kit periodically. Up next is the refurb of the TD125. How are you getting on with the Revox B780 receiver?
Slowly! I know it works, is about as far as I've got. Am having a major re-organisation of my kit and am struggling to fit the various boxes in my rack so that they have enough ventilation etc. I will get there though.
Like an idiot, I am now wondering about the matching tape deck and a period-correct CDP. I already have a tape deck though so am not going to spend £££ on a B-710 just so it matches. And there was no CDP in that generation of Revox kit so I'd have to find something that complements the U-Boot surplus look of the Revox. Might be easier to find a wee DAC box and hide it... Anyhow, I'm rambling on your thread, sorry!
walpurgis
26-03-2016, 16:01
Maybe if I heard other big Tannoys I might get twitchy but I love the sound that these Berkeleys produce even at very moderate listening levels.
I doubt it. Yours are getting towards as good as it gets. I suspect the Berkeley cabinets may benefit from a bit of sensible extra internal bracing. But not much else. The mid and top on these Mk.II drivers is superb. Same compression horn in mine as yours, just different magnet and bass cone sizes. I run my Cheviot IIs with SS Class A amplification at the moment and it's honestly difficult to know how the system could sound better.
I doubt it. Yours are getting towards as good as it gets. I suspect the Berkeley cabinets may benefit from a bit of sensible extra internal bracing. But not much else. The mid and top on these Mk.II drivers is superb. Same compression horn in mine as yours, just different magnet and bass cone sizes. I run my Cheviot IIs with SS Class A amplification at the moment and it's honestly difficult to know how the system could sound better.
Thanks Geoff. Your comments echo my own feelings. With regard to additional bracing, I'm not convinced that the Berkeley II requires it. I was pleasantly surprised by the substantial front to back brace between the crossover and driver that runs 2/3rd the width of the cabinet. I'm not sure if this is present on the mark I but the brace had a factory date stamp so was not done by the previous owner who partly lined the cab with dynamat.
Dynamat or equ is an excellent upgrade for many cabs. I have been experimenting with it over last couple years
walpurgis
26-03-2016, 21:52
With regard to additional bracing, I'm not convinced that the Berkeley II requires it. I was pleasantly surprised by the substantial front to back brace between the crossover and driver that runs 2/3rd the width of the cabinet.
Yes the Cheviot II has the stiff brace and the cabinet is very inert. I wasn't sure if the Berkeley II had the same.
The II series that followed the HPDs are pretty rare. I know that mine were only sold in limited numbers and were apparently on the market for a mere 11 months.
A temperamental phono selector switch has forced the early retirement of the Yamaha system. The good news is that I get to play with this lot and it's sounding rather good :D
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/IMGP0003_zpshwowyehd.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Pioneer%20TX-9500/IMGP0011_zpsjiwke2wt.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20Model%20500/IMGP0010_zpsihmdzrx5.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-03-29%2016.19.37_zpswcbkblif.jpg
That Kenwood is a thing of pure beauty :stalks:
Just magnificent!
jandl100
31-03-2016, 07:04
:thumbsup:
Love all that vintage gear.
brian2957
31-03-2016, 07:32
Fantastic looking system Paul . I'm sure it sounds as good as it looks . :)
Love the stands . I didn't know SDS did this kind of thing . Were they a special order ?
Fantastic looking system Paul . I'm sure it sounds as good as it looks . :)
Love the stands . I didn't know SDS did this kind of thing . Were they a special order ?
Cheers Brian. I have to say it does sound rather good :)
With regard to the stands, I'd been very impressed with the SDS turntable mat which gave me good results with my Sony PS-6750. I also like the SDS feet which I use under the KD-990 so when I was pondering custom stands I thought of Les. A phone call or two later and he was kind enough to make a pair to my spec. I just supplied a few wee drawings with some measurements. Les did the rest and I have to say the standard of fit and finish is excellent.
Also, the legs are drilled for M8 bolts or spikes. Mine are sitting on spikes and I have partially filled the legs with sand.
Love the big Pioneer tuner, though (weirdly) it reminds me of the Amstrad kit I used to have...gawd...30-ish years ago?
http://thumbs.ebaystatic.com/images/m/mcPwDbKcsglwqvb2no3Luew/s-l225.jpg
Those were the days....Amstrad kit with Ram speakers!
Recently picked up a Trio KHA-50 moving coil head amp which I'm using with an AT33PTG/ii that a friend kindly lent me.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Trio%20KHA-50/2016-05-21%2023.28.17_zpsgtzb4kpz.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Trio%20KHA-50/2016-05-21%2023.29.02_zpszsdm3on8.jpg
That may well be very good Paul. Not seen that b4, but reminds me of the Denon version a bit
Thanks Grant. It ought to be good as the technology is taken straight from the KA-907 integrated. First impressions are very favourable. It's really intended for use with my Kenwood amp which will be going back in the system tomorrow or Monday. It rather depends on whether I can face the thought of lifting 43lbs of amp off the cupboard floor :eek:.
The Black Adder
22-05-2016, 07:41
I like Trio kit... especially the older 70's stuff. I be it sounds great.
Virtual-Symmetry
22-05-2016, 10:10
I would not touch em with a barge pole after the early 70's :)
I would not touch em with a barge pole after the early 70's :)
Andr'e, did you keep your Trio KA2000a or did you purge it along with the rest of your gear?
Virtual-Symmetry
22-05-2016, 14:27
Yea still have one brown one boxed up for old time sake. Good phono stage in them.
The Yamahas have been relegated to the cupboard and the Trio head amp has now been hooked up between the Kenwood KD-990 deck and Model 500 amp. It sounds superb.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-05-24%2011.51.52_zps6zbppuqd.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-05-24%2011.53.38_zps8ilcuzfb.jpg
Virtual-Symmetry
23-05-2016, 18:55
Sony did a good Head Amp in the late 70's it was called a 'HA-55'..
The Black Adder
23-05-2016, 19:04
I would not touch em with a barge pole after the early 70's :)
With the exception of 'some' of the early to 80's stuff. To me when the brands merged it was a disaster somehow.
Sony did a good Head Amp in the late 70's it was called a 'HA-55'..
Thanks André. I'll keep an eye out for one.
With the exception of 'some' of the early to 80's stuff. To me when the brands merged it was a disaster somehow.
Yes. I'd love to own a KA-907, or any of the L-07 series especially the L07d tt. I would also be very pleased to find a L-01A integrated.
http://www.audioscope.net/images/kenwoodl01a1.jpg
Some recent additions:
Goldring Eroica LX in Nagaoka headshell:
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2016-06-18%2017.01.55_zpsahdzvbfz.jpg
Shure v15 iii with JICO SAS stylus. This is destined for use on the TD125/G707 when restored but I popped it in an ADC LMG-1 for now.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2016-06-18%2017.50.25_zpstakdhdsn.jpg
Some rather nice vintage Yamaha HP-500 headphones:
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20HP-500/2016-06-18%2012.58.34_zpswysy3ax3.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20HP-500/2016-06-18%2009.06.50_zpsyjtesiwr.jpg
Got a nice collection of vintage gear there Paul.
walpurgis
19-06-2016, 22:34
Nice MC the Eroica LX. I have one :).
Thanks Grant. I've always tried to keep my system focused but this last year has seen the box count creep up. :eyebrows: Still, cartridges and headphones don't take up much room and everything that's in the cupboard comes out regularly for a spin :)
Cheers Geoff. It's early days but first impressions are really very good. I think it will see off my DV20XH.
Audio Al
19-06-2016, 22:52
Nice MC the Eroica LX. I have one :).
And me :D
jandl100
20-06-2016, 07:01
Nice MC the Eroica LX. I have one :).
Me, too. :thumbsup:
And it's nice to see the Yammie 'phones in their new home. :)
-- as I said in my advert, they were a bit warm and cosy sounding for me, but whack up the treble tone control a few dB and they sounded fab!
Nice MC the Eroica LX. I have one :).
I have heard one - nice cartridge and a bit of a 'sleeper'. :)
Thanks for your comments gents. It's good to see the Eroica has found some favour on here. For my part, it was a pretty safe bet as I had heard it on numerous occasions in a friend's system. I only had it mounted for a couple of sessions before the Shure arrived so interesting comparisons lie ahead. The Shure has also made a very good first impression. It's very neutral & well balanced sounding but maybe lacking some of the air and space and top end extension of the Eroica.
walpurgis
20-06-2016, 17:43
The Eroica responds well to a decent SUT.
Me, too. :thumbsup:
And it's nice to see the Yammie 'phones in their new home. :)
-- as I said in my advert, they were a bit warm and cosy sounding for me, but whack up the treble tone control a few dB and they sounded fab!
Yes, thanks for the Yamaha headphones Jerry. Stunning retro design imo and surprisingly comfy. I had a couple of hours with them late last night and I enjoyed the fact that the sound has a bit of heft to it. I didn't feel that they were particularly treble light I have to say but I'm really no great judge of phones as I've not really been an indoor headphone listener up till now. I'd still like a minty pair of the Bellini designed HP-1's that I had when I was a young man. I have very fond memories of those. I have a feeling that they were a bit bass shy compared to HP-500 but it was a lifetime ago.
The Eroica responds well to a decent SUT.
I've been using the Trio KHA-50 mc head amp into the Yamaha's MM stage. I've not had a chance to compare it to anything else yet so I'm interested as to what you would recommend. A friend will bring over his Linn Linto mc stage at some point so that will give me an idea how capable or otherwise the Trio/Yamaha combination actually is. It'll be interesting to see how far short of the Linto they fall.
New headshell for the Eroica. Thanks Grant :)
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2016-08-10%2018.17.21_zpsx24pdhhj.jpg
A very nice vintage cartridge that I found NOS on ebay - Empire 2000e/iii. I was curious to see if it lived up to it's reputation on the web. I like it a lot.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Kenwood%20KD-990/2016-08-12%2001.17.09_zpsvnxsyh4p.jpg
I sold both the Goldring Eroica and the DV20XH to help fund this:
http://audioabattoir.com/uploads/default/optimized/2X/d/d10cd111c7aa293f398e9eaafe45a644e5aab654_1_690x388 .jpg
walpurgis
29-09-2016, 20:47
And? :)
And? :)
The short answer is that I'm delighted with the AT33. I had the chance to borrow a friend's for a couple of extended auditions at home so it was a safe buy.
I listen to a lot of jazz and, in my system, I found the Eroica a little forward on the cymbals for my taste. By contrast the DV was a touch recessed in the treble and I found myself listening most to the Shure v15 jico sas as it was the most even handed of the three.
The AT33 seems as even handed as the Shure tonally and really suits my system. It just adds a little mc magic to the mix.
The Empire has not had much of a run out whilst I've been sorting out my mc choice.
My plans for my TD-125 restoration have changed. It's going to get the full monty over the coming months. It's currently away getting a recap. I plan to buy a Layers of Beauty plinth and, possibly, a Jelco 750 for it eventually. I imagine the AT33 will stay put in the Kenwood and the Shure or Empire will find a home in the Thorens. It's going to take a while to save up for the plinth and arm so probably next year before its up and running.
walpurgis
29-09-2016, 21:41
That's good Paul. I always like finding a nice new MC.
HackneyRF
07-10-2016, 15:44
Only just saw this thread this morning whilst browsing the posts. Really a great read from start to finish Paul. As usual due to my rudimentary understanding of Hi Fi/technology, some stuff passes me by. However It was great reading how your system has evolved over time and has turned into something really lovely and you clearly enjoy. Great stuff.
Cheers
Loz
Thanks for your kind comments Loz. Greatly appreciated. The last couple of years have been a lot of fun. I'm definitely edging ever closer to where I want to be. In fact, I may be there already :scratch:. Future plans are limited to getting my TD-125 up to snuff in order to find out if it can dislodge the Kenwood KD-990. I will also be investigating phono stages. Other than that I'm pretty well settled with the system as it sits.
I really enjoyed viewing your thread! Some very nice vintage kit, in the words true sense!
The Yamaha pre/power obviously got resurrected from the faulty phono switch and they go very well with the Tannoys blackness. :)
All in all, an enviable system carefully put together! Keep us posted!
Thanks for the kind words Mike. Yes, the Yamaha pre has been fine since the tech gave it a quick service.
Sadly the Kenwood KD-990 has gone. I wish I could have kept it but needs must. Just returned from a 9 hour round trip to collect a very clean Sony TTS-8000. I'm a happy and a lucky man. Arm to follow. Should be sorted within the week.
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/25849675/2016-10-30%2021.07.02.jpg
SME 310 fitted with AT33PTG/ii now installed in the Sony.
Simply awesome.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TTS-8000/2016-11-02%2021.38.06_zpsevjolkz4.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TTS-8000/2016-11-02%2021.51.40_zpsytowhxyx.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20System/2016-11-02%2021.38.59_zpsvcvjitg8.jpg
Looking good Paul. That you finished now:D
Pretty much Grant. Still got some fiddling to do though but there's no rush.
I've the TD125/G-707 to restore. I'd also like to investigate phono stages. Charlie will give me a shot of his Linn Linto and then I'll go from there. I'd also like a regenerator at some point. Much further down the road I might ask Paul at RFC about external crossovers for the Berkeleys. Still dreaming of a black Yamaha B2...and so it goes on.
ah, the black beauty.. v fet isnt it? dont see many around now. probably cost a bomb lol. Nice set up anyways Paul. sweet.
walpurgis
02-11-2016, 23:28
Still dreaming of a black Yamaha B2...and so it goes on.
Not seen one of those or a B1 since the eighties.
Magnificent deck and arm. Love the clean styling of the Sony too. Not too hard to guess that it sounds absolutely killer?
Thanks Martin. Yes, it has greatly exceeded my expectations. I couldn't be happier tbh :)
Beobloke
03-11-2016, 10:18
Lovely looking system and a fab turntable combo!
Not seen one of those or a B1 since the eighties.
Hi-Fi Do have a B1 for sale currently... :eyebrows:
SME 310 fitted with AT33PTG/ii now installed in the Sony.
Simply awesome.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TTS-8000/2016-11-02%2021.38.06_zpsevjolkz4.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TTS-8000/2016-11-02%2021.51.40_zpsytowhxyx.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Yamaha%20System/2016-11-02%2021.38.59_zpsvcvjitg8.jpg
Absolutely gorgeous, Paul, congrats.
09mike69
11-11-2016, 23:33
It goes well with my cupboard though
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/For%20sale/2014-11-16184428_zpsf868f612.jpg
that's a nice lookin bit of furniture.
Firebottle
12-11-2016, 05:47
Pretty much Grant. Still got some fiddling to do though but there's no rush.
I've the TD125/G-707 to restore. I'd also like to investigate phono stages. Charlie will give me a shot of his Linn Linto and then I'll go from there. I'd also like a regenerator at some point. Much further down the road I might ask Paul at RFC about external crossovers for the Berkeleys. Still dreaming of a black Yamaha B2...and so it goes on.
See if you can get to hear my Vivant phono stage, MikeyB should be in receipt of it very shortly. I've heard the AT33 through it and it is now on my shopping list.
Just a thought.
:)
Thanks for the suggestion Alan. I would love to hear it but I fear it will be quite some time before I could afford it. (-:
that's a nice lookin bit of furniture.
Aye, I am very fond of it. Sadly, my current domestic situation means that it is being enjoyed by a friend. One day it will come back to me.
I couldn't resist this little beauty at a true bargain price. The pre works fine but the tuner needs attention. Looking forward to its arrival.
http://audioabattoir.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/optimized/1X/370c8097d006edd501f3b8d02e91445d428b718b_1_690x463 .jpg
The Nakamichi arrived.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Nakamichi%20630/2016-11-26%2014.29.24_zpsiqnklcoy.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Nakamichi%20630/2016-11-26%2014.22.04_zpsqhn1ib82.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Nakamichi%20630/2016-11-26%2014.22.57_zpsaoghd4ew.jpg
That is one funky tuner. Does it light up?
That is one funky tuner. Does it light up?
It's supposed to. The little tuner leds work but the green lamps do not. The tuner needs a bit of work so I'm just using it as a pre-amp just now. It's going in for a service next Saturday. Hopefully after a bit of tech magic the tuner and all the lights will then be working like they should:
http://i682.photobucket.com/albums/vv181/naac_tr/NAKAMICHI/DSCF7368.jpg~original
The Kenwood Model 500 has been languishing in the cupboard for too long. I thought it was time to try it with the Sony tt. I'd forgotten just how good it is.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-12-04%2020.19.09_zpsgkyeopta.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-12-04%2020.56.50_zpsc8tozahv.jpg
Good to see you are following the time-honoured protocol of having the tape deck lit up even when not using it ;)
Good to see you are following the time-honoured protocol of having the tape deck lit up even when not using it ;)
:D Actually the tape deck and tuner are off. It's a Marantz CD-73 that's lit up like Blackpool at this time of year.
brian2957
04-12-2016, 22:20
Your system looks fantastic Paul . Just shows you don't need the '' latest and greatest '' to have a nice system :)
Thanks Brian. You're very welcome to pop in if you ever venture south of the river :)
brian2957
04-12-2016, 22:49
Thanks for that Paul . I may take you up on the kind invitation when I have some time off :)
vinylspinner
04-12-2016, 23:12
Hi Paul,
Do you still use the Pioneer TX9500 tuner?
Nigel
walpurgis
04-12-2016, 23:14
Good those Kenwood/Trio amps. I'd still like to get my hands on a 901.
Hi Paul,
Do you still use the Pioneer TX9500 tuner?
Nigel
Nigel, it's been languishing in the cupboard for a while. It's been on my mind to maybe thin down the herd a bit but I'm not sure. Might you be interested?
Good those Kenwood/Trio amps. I'd still like to get my hands on a 901.
I think you mean the KA-907? It is meant to be rather good. I believe the guts of my KHA-50 mc head amp are taken from the 907.
vinylspinner
06-12-2016, 21:42
Nigel, it's been languishing in the cupboard for a while. It's been on my mind to maybe thin down the herd a bit but I'm not sure. Might you be interested?
Hi Paul, I have two already, very good tuners, just wondering what had happened to it, might be interested at the right price.
Nigel
Hi Paul, I have two already, very good tuners, just wondering what had happened to it, might be interested at the right price.
Nigel
Hi Nigel,
I think I'm going to hang on to it for now. You're right it is a very good tuner and I think I'd regret moving it on. The box count is a little high though just now. Never mind :lol:
Paul
I recently bought a variac. Thanks Geoff / walpurgis
I picked it up today from my tech chap who has done a lovely job casing it. Now the Yamahas can get the 220v they need. I'm delighted with it.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/2016-12-09%2014.43.40_zpsjys9zgfy.jpg
walpurgis
09-12-2016, 16:19
That looks excellent Paul. I wondered if you'd put it to use. Glad it's working for you. :)
A couple of new arrivals - Luxman L-590ax and, courtesy of Ali Tait, a Luman AD8000 SUT.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-01-27%2022.21.16_zpsfxnrobjq.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-01-31%2019.51.11a_zpsklkmnhhu.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-02-01%2002.18.46_zpswhec5ekm.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-01-27%2022.13.06_zps4fx8q3b0.jpg
brian2957
01-02-2017, 08:44
Very nice Paul . Your system looks fantastic . I'll have to get a date fixed out with you for a visit to hear it :)
Very nice Paul . Your system looks fantastic . I'll have to get a date fixed out with you for a visit to hear it :)
You're welcome any time Brian. It'll be good to meet you.
Love the Luxman Paul, have a strange thing for VU meters... :D
The Luxman's Class A I think?
Thanks Gary. Hard to believe but it's the first amp I've had with VU meters. I must admit I like the retro look of the amp. You're right it's class A - 30 watts/8 ohms.
Decided it was time to upgrade my somewhat basic cabling. I thought that given the Luxman SUT has a silver transformer, I would get some silver cables so I bought this (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/222398080658?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT) lovely arm cable from Yannis Tome with KLEI Copper Harmony plugs and he also made me a matching interconnect to run from the SUT to the amp. Topped it off with a pair of Chord Epic Twin speaker cables. Thrilled to bits with the system now. Could well be journey's end.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-02-18%2010.35.56_zpsldi4v22a.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-02-18%2010.55.41_zpsm1duowx6.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Luxman%20system/2017-02-18%2012.13.38_zpsgoadgdkc.jpg
Nice one, Paul. YT's cables are top notch! :)
The biggest improvement you could make to your system though, would be to move the sideboard and all your gear from in between your speakers, and (if possible) house it on one of the side walls instead...
Trust me, you've not heard your Tannoys (or your system) yet, with all that 'clutter' in between them, ruining the stereo image ;)
Marco.
I'd love to Marco but my present domestic circumstances are a major impediment. One day......
Ah I see. No worries :)
Btw, next time I'm up in Glasgow, which will be sooner rather than later, it would be good to pop by for a listen and make up for the last time when unfortunately I had to cancel :cool:
Marco.
You're welcome any time Marco. It'll be good to meet you.
I'd love to Marco but my present domestic circumstances are a major impediment. One day......
Glad we agree on something,regards charlie
Set up the Shure v15iii with Jico SAS as I've not tried it yet on the Sony tt or with the Luxman. The AT33 is up for sale to raise funds for a new cartridge. My first impressions are that the Shure gives nothing away to the AT. Sounds lovely.
http://audioabattoir.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/optimized/2X/6/60b972845b7b6c99ba0ba2a33b3b21ef136e62d4_1_690x388 .jpg
RobbieGong
17-04-2017, 09:40
My kind of set up - sweet ! :thumbsup: and love that Sony :)
I had been on the point of ordering a Kiseki Blue NS when the dealer offered me an excellent deal on a Purpleheart NOS. So far, I'm loving it :D
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Sony%20TTS-8000/2017-05-08%2018.05.21_zpswwmdzdcl.jpg
HackneyRF
20-05-2017, 14:37
Your ever evolving system still looking the business Paul. What happened to those lovely pair of Yammies you had?
Thanks Loz. I took the decision a couple of months ago to sell off most of my horde in order to help fund the Kiseki and, if all goes to plan, another forthcoming purchase. All I'm keeping is the tt, amp, dac and one or two tuners. The Yamaha amps were part of the cull. A nice chap from pink fish came up to Glasgow to collect them.
Who'd have thunk it, eh.... A Kiseki Purpleheart and SME 310, on a Sony 'DJ deck'? :eyebrows:;)
Just shows you how much the biased belt-drive brigade knew about turntables, back in the day.........
Marco.
Who'd have thunk it, eh.... A Kiseki Purpleheart and SME 310, on a Sony 'DJ deck'? :eyebrows:;)
Just shows you how much the biased belt-drive brigade knew about turntables, back in the day.........
Marco.
I'm ashamed to admit that since I got back into playing records, I've not really had much interest in belt drive decks so I've not heard many decent examples. I've nothing against belt drives or idlers but they just don't rock my boat. I've been totally obsessed with vintage Japanese direct drives and struggle to comprehend past and present prejudices.
The Sony's plinth was designed to take a 10" arm and has a factory SME armboard so I opted for an SME 310. With the Purpleheart it all makes for a very satisfying front end :)
I don't doubt it does, Paul! And that was essentially my point....
I'd expect your Sony, thus or similarly partnered, to have spanked the pants of any of the 'revered' belt-drives, back in the day (LP12s, etc), yet because of the bias that existed back then, T/Ts like yours simply weren't seen at your average dealer, and would've likely been laughed at as being any good, if even suggested! :doh:
Never mind, we know better now these days, thanks largely to forums such as this, so enjoy :cool:
Marco.
Haselsh1
21-05-2017, 08:32
Since my first interest in Hi-Fi around about 1979 I have owned Japanese DJ decks and belt drive Hi-Fi decks and my personal preference is very definitely for the latter. When it comes down to what I have heard, there really is no competition.
That's because you haven't heard a really good one yet, Shaun.... Plenty of time still, though, to educate you in that respect (that is if you want to learn and hear new things). All it'd take is a visit to your place from someone with the right T/T, or you to venture out yourself ;)
Marco.
Haselsh1
21-05-2017, 09:09
I am currently in the best place sonically I have ever been and I have no requirement to chase after some fantasy sound in the way a religious idiot chases a fantasy figure. I am at peace with my current system and do not see any kind of change coming any time soon. Yes, I shall have to renew quite a lot of valves and that will have to be done carefully and yes, there will have to be a cartridge change at some point but even having heard so much gear in almost forty years of listening, I am totally satisfied with my current sound system. I have compared my present system to those of friends who use a whole range of turntables and I always prefer my own. This is a good place to be. My only dilemma...? Buy CD's at a tenner or vinyl at twenty odd quid...?
Haselsh1
21-05-2017, 09:11
That's because you haven't heard a really good one yet
In forty years of listening I have heard most of what are termed the best. I worked in the retail sector for years and also heard hundreds of setups. I very definitely have heard many 'good' ones. Maybe it is you who have not...?
Lol.. Ok, so please list all the direct-drive turntables you've heard to date, and in what context.
Marco.
farflungstar
21-05-2017, 09:29
The point of this 'game' is to find contentment and fulfillment from our systems, of whatever flavour. We each have a certain sound we are looking for - and if you have found it then I'm very happy for you. There is no absolute perfect holy grail in this game.
I am currently in the best place sonically I have ever been and I have no requirement to chase after some fantasy sound in the way a religious idiot chases a fantasy figure. I am at peace with my current system and do not see any kind of change coming any time soon. Yes, I shall have to renew quite a lot of valves and that will have to be done carefully and yes, there will have to be a cartridge change at some point but even having heard so much gear in almost forty years of listening, I am totally satisfied with my current sound system. I have compared my present system to those of friends who use a whole range of turntables and I always prefer my own. This is a good place to be. My only dilemma...? Buy CD's at a tenner or vinyl at twenty odd quid...?
Not quite sure what or who you're referring to there, Shaun (the bit in bold). Hopefully it's no-one here, as no-one I know of falls into that category.
I fully understand and appreciate where you're coming from, but that shouldn't negate your desire always to learn and discover new things. So what if someone was to pop up to your place with, say, a heavily modded SL-1210, or perhaps Paul's Sony, and to your ears it beat your NA?
Just say that happened, for the sake of the discussion, what would be your opinion then on direct-drive T/Ts? :)
Marco.
The point of this 'game' is to find contentment and fulfillment from our systems, of whatever flavour. We each have a certain sound we are looking for - and if you have found it then I'm very happy for you. There is no absolute perfect holy grail in this game.
Absolutely, Adrian, but some folk seem to want to put their fingers in their ears and go 'na-na-na', 'I know everything there is to know now, and my rigidly-formed conclusions are indisputable', so I don't want to put myself into a position where they could risk being called into question....
Sorry, but I don't get that at all, as I dislike comfort zones. It doesn't matter HOW long you've been in this game for, there's always room for learning!
In that respect, ALL of us are on a continual learning curve, and thus we should accept that fact and VALUE being exposed to new listening experiences, where we might discover something new that's worthwhile knowing :)
Marco.
HackneyRF
21-05-2017, 09:39
Thanks Loz. I took the decision a couple of months ago to sell off most of my horde in order to help fund the Kiseki and, if all goes to plan, another forthcoming purchase. All I'm keeping is the tt, amp, dac and one or two tuners. The Yamaha amps were part of the cull. A nice chap from pink fish came up to Glasgow to collect them.
Damn, not the answer I was secretly hoping for. ;)
I was quite smitten with the look of the Yams and by yours and other accounts they sound rather nice too. Nice chap from Glasgows gain. Well I'll look on with interest to see how your set up develops. Good luck with it.
Cheers
Loz
I don't doubt it does, Paul! And that was essentially my point....
I'd expect your Sony, thus or similarly partnered, to have spanked the pants of any of the 'revered' belt-drives, back in the day (LP12s, etc), yet because of the bias that existed back then, T/Ts like yours simply weren't seen at your average dealer, and would've likely been laughed at as being any good, if even suggested! :doh:
Never mind, we know better now these days, thanks largely to forums such as this, so enjoy :cool:
Marco.
I got your point Marco but I was attempting to set out why I wasn't agreeing wholeheartedly. I think the Sony is sensational but I am very circumspect when talking about my equipment due to an overall lack of experience in the hobby compared to many here. Anyway, I hope you get the chance to pop in and hear it for yourself on one of your trips north.
This lack of experience in general and of belt drive decks in particular means I can't really make statements in reference to the Sony like yours above in bold or, indeed, claim like Shaun that I have an informed preference for one drive type over the other based on years of listening. That said, the feedback I have had on my deck from more experienced audiophile visitors suggests that it is a very decent performer by any yardstick.
FWIW, my friend has a very decent high mass belt drive deck with a top OL arm and an Ortofon cartridge from their exclusive range. To me it sounds absolutely superb and I have no doubt I could live with it long term from a SQ point of view. If the Sony were to fail, I expect I would look out for an EMT DD or an SP10 but I wouldn't rule out a high mass belt drive deck.
So what if someone was to pop up to your place with, say, a heavily modded SL-1210, or perhaps Paul's Sony, and to your ears it beat your NA?
Much as I would enjoy touring the provinces converting the sceptical to direct drive, as the Sony weighs about 22kg, and I have the upper body strength of a crisp, it won't be going anywhere :)
Damn, not the answer I was secretly hoping for. ;)
I was quite smitten with the look of the Yams and by yours and other accounts they sound rather nice too. Nice chap from Glasgows gain. Well I'll look on with interest to see how your set up develops. Good luck with it.
Cheers
Loz
Thanks Loz. I'm sorry that you didn't make your interest known about the Yamahas. As it happens I have a friend who posts here who has the same pair and he mentioned recently that he was thinking of moving them on. Next time we speak I'll let him know that you may be interested.
HackneyRF
21-05-2017, 16:47
As it happens I have a friend who posts here who has the same pair and he mentioned recently that he was thinking of moving them on. Next time we speak I'll let him know that you may be interested.
Yes, please do. :)
I got your point Marco but I was attempting to set out why I wasn't agreeing wholeheartedly. I think the Sony is sensational but I am very circumspect when talking about my equipment due to an overall lack of experience in the hobby compared to many here. Anyway, I hope you get the chance to pop in and hear it for yourself on one of your trips north.
Totally get that, Paul, and I will defo pop by for a listen next time I'm up in Glasgow.
My main point really was that high-quality, very capable and well engineered T/Ts. like yours, were almost completely ignored by the UK hi-fi press and dealers, back in the day (mainly due to their obsession with the LP12), and it was a major bugbear of mine, as it meant that we missed out on *so* much quality kit from Japan, which found its way onto other shores, such as Germany and Italy, because in those countries there didn't exist the same bias.
This lack of experience in general and of belt drive decks in particular means I can't really make statements in reference to the Sony like yours above in bold or, indeed, claim like Shaun that I have an informed preference for one drive type over the other based on years of listening. That said, the feedback I have had on my deck from more experienced audiophile visitors suggests that it is a very decent performer by any yardstick.
I appreciate that, mate.
The difference is, I've used 'high-end' T/Ts since 1982, and have owned many different ones in that time, but crucially also in the last 10 years, have attended numerous bake-offs, including large shows such as Scalford, where I've demonstrated my T/T to 100s of people, and also taken it folk who own some very serious turntables, some costing five figures(!) so I *know* exactly what it's capable of and how it compares against numerous other T/Ts, idlers, belt-drives or direct-drives, which means I can comment with some authority, not only on how good it is against such competition, but also how good all the other turntables I've heard to date are, in general, against a known and constant point of reference.
Not many folk I know have done that, and pitched their kit up against the best, in all different sorts of contexts/environments (most only have their own system/kit and that belonging to a few friends, acting as their benchmark), so in this particular area I have LOTS of experience, and so really do know what I'm talking about :)
FWIW, my friend has a very decent high mass belt drive deck with a top OL arm and an Ortofon cartridge from their exclusive range. To me it sounds absolutely superb and I have no doubt I could live with it long term from a SQ point of view. If the Sony were to fail, I expect I would look out for an EMT DD or an SP10 but I wouldn't rule out a high mass belt drive deck.
There's nothing wrong with belt-drive turntables; I've also heard some superb ones, especially those who've given my own T/T a run for its money (or bettered it), and of course no turntable or drive system is perfect (they all have their compromises), but there still exists the perception, especially here in the UK (old habits die hard and all that) that any 'serious' turntable is a belt-drive, and that D/Ds and idlers aren't in the same league, which I'm afraid is patent nonsense!
That's why, on AoS, we go out of our way to champion the best D/Ds and idlers (to educate and inform our members), such as the Technics SL-1200/1210 (when suitably modded), and SP10, your Sony (and other Sonys of a similar calibre), the Pioneer PL-71, Denons, Toshibas and JVCs, etc, and with idlers, the various Garrards, Lencos, Goldrings, and Thorens TD124, because in many instances they completely outperform (or have the potential to do so) to many overpriced, currently produced belt-drive T/Ts, purported as being 'high-end', and where they'll ultimately deliver higher 'SPPV'.
As you know (or should know), the 'SPPV principle' is a fundamental and core part of the AoS ethos, as indeed is me flying the flag for some of T/T's 'unsung heroes', in order to help eradicate the belt-drive bias that still exists, and dilute the perception that only 'proper turntables' are driven by a rubber band... ;)
Anyway, I trust you can appreciate where I'm coming from. If you do decide to go for an EMT (D/D) or SP10, do make sure that you get it properly serviced by someone qualified to do so, as the majority of these, undeniably superb, but *very old* (electronically complicated) designs, will need looked at by a professional, in order to perform at anywhere near 100% of the original capability.
Marco.
Thanks for taking the time to elaborate Marco. That's all crystal clear now. :)
FWIW, with regard to the AOS ethos and SPPV, I think this thread illustrates that my equipment choices over the years have not been exactly mainstream yet it has been a hugely enjoyable and largely successful progression. I have derived the confidence to make these choices largely as a result of the collective wisdom to be found on AOS and to a lesser extent the Classic room at PFM so make no mistake your efforts here do not go unappreciated. :thumbsup:
No problem, Paul, and cheers! Your system is indeed one of the text-book examples, contained in our Gallery section, of the whole 'SPPV principle', and how applying some lateral thinking (by embracing the use of quality vintage kit) can pay significant dividends.
Keep up the good work, mate! :cool:
Marco.
Thanks to a very kind AoS member, I've been lucky enough to acquire a pair of Lockwood Majors with MG15s. They have their original crossovers which have just been recapped by Paul Coupe. Bigly fugly but sounding lovely.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/2017-06-03%2016.08.35_zpsvb67p0e9.jpg
A few more pics
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/Lockwood%202_zpsnpeo7uu5.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/IMG_1264_zpsy1lwbkek.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/IMG_1263_zpsanbjr7j2.jpg
Interesting..indeed.
Can't help myself from asking : What? is all that Ugly/messed goop on the coils actually for ?
Never previously seen that particular bodge. Hopefully it wasn't pricey.
As aside .. IF determined to refit the Crossover covers on.. neatly ?
It is possible to fit nutserts to the coffin top bit and then use screws in lieu of the drilled out rivets.
Yer Welcome
farflungstar
03-06-2017, 18:10
I should imagine it's glue to hold them in place as they're quite heavy and can strain solder joints - I've seen it used on inductors and large capacitors. Nowt out of the ordinary and not indicative of a 'botch job'.
Danilo, thanks for the info on the nutserts. I'll pick some up for the next time they're opened but to be honest they can stay like that as they're securely mounted to the front panel with washers protecting what's left of the plates.
Thanks Adrian. I do believe that you've nailed it.
Arkless Electronics
03-06-2017, 19:15
I should imagine it's glue to hold them in place as they're quite heavy and can strain solder joints - I've seen it used on inductors and large capacitors. Nowt out of the ordinary and not indicative of a 'botch job'.
+1 Crossovers are often built at the factory by holding all components down to a piece of wood using hot melt glue or silicone...
Sorry.. Not even close rationalisations.
The LSU Hf crossovers are Very well made OEM . Being prior to the Harmon International 'takeover'.
They were well assembled solid units.. by any yardstick.
Far better than subsequent HPD ones for example
OEM these have a U shaped Ali bracket that goes under the PCB around the Coil lams (white taped bits) and has threaded ears that press against /fit the Coffin lid.
Where two screws fit, tightening the; clamp, transformer/coil and PCB Solidly together. It ain't moving.
Some bungler has removed the Ali hold down entirely.
Gawd Only.. knows why?
Even IF the goofy assortment of caps precluded the Coffin lid from Fitted adequately.
A simple additional bit of ali plate across the tops of the coil laminations would restore the structural integrity of the Factory Hold down design.. Quite neatly actually.
Easier to do IMO than Slopping Goop unbelievably messily everywhere. Even onto on the windings fer Gawd's sake ??
Other small trivia: Sily Cone is (Usually) corrosive.
Fair chance that the Goop (if it is Silicone) is eating away at the slopped on Coil windings .. as we type.
IF silicone? best remove it... Sooner rather than later. OEM Coils can be 'difficult' to find
Frankly not massively concerned..Mostly because they Ain't Mine :lol:
Does seem a shame though.
Hopefully the above is result of DIY adventures.
Hey ! we all learn something every time. Mistakes are essential to advancement.
Seriously problematic though... IF one paid $ for this quality of work.
I'd be looking for my Baseball bat TBH..
Danilo, thanks for taking the time to elaborate on your concerns. For clarity, I already posted that the crossovers were re-capped by Paul Coupe (of RFC).
They are not a "DIY job" nor is Paul a "bungler". He has a stellar reputation on matters Tannoy and I trust him not to have encased the autoformer and base inductor in a corrosive substance. I suspect he has recapped even more Tannoy crossovers than you have made doom-laden posts on AoS. :)
Arkless Electronics
04-06-2017, 11:58
Sorry.. Not even close rationalisations.
The LSU Hf crossovers are Very well made OEM . Being prior to the Harmon International 'takeover'.
They were well assembled solid units.. by any yardstick.
Far better than subsequent HPD ones for example
OEM these have a U shaped Ali bracket that goes under the PCB around the Coil lams (white taped bits) and has threaded ears that press against /fit the Coffin lid.
Where two screws fit, tightening the; clamp, transformer/coil and PCB Solidly together. It ain't moving.
Some bungler has removed the Ali hold down entirely.
Gawd Only.. knows why?
Even IF the goofy assortment of caps precluded the Coffin lid from Fitted adequately.
A simple additional bit of ali plate across the tops of the coil laminations would restore the structural integrity of the Factory Hold down design.. Quite neatly actually.
Easier to do IMO than Slopping Goop unbelievably messily everywhere. Even onto on the windings fer Gawd's sake ??
Other small trivia: Sily Cone is (Usually) corrosive.
Fair chance that the Goop (if it is Silicone) is eating away at the slopped on Coil windings .. as we type.
IF silicone? best remove it... Sooner rather than later. OEM Coils can be 'difficult' to find
Frankly not massively concerned..Mostly because they Ain't Mine :lol:
Does seem a shame though.
Hopefully the above is result of DIY adventures.
Hey ! we all learn something every time. Mistakes are essential to advancement.
Seriously problematic though... IF one paid $ for this quality of work.
I'd be looking for my Baseball bat TBH..
I strongly disagree with every word above.
I strongly disagree with every word above.
Thanks Jez.
narabdela
04-06-2017, 14:55
I strongly disagree with every word above.
+1
I suspect he has recapped even more Tannoy crossovers than you have made doom-laden posts on AoS. :)
+2
I've seen plenty of crossovers in my day and those look perfectly fine.
southall-1998
04-06-2017, 14:58
Sorry.. Not even close rationalisations.
The LSU Hf crossovers are Very well made OEM . Being prior to the Harmon International 'takeover'.
They were well assembled solid units.. by any yardstick.
Far better than subsequent HPD ones for example
OEM these have a U shaped Ali bracket that goes under the PCB around the Coil lams (white taped bits) and has threaded ears that press against /fit the Coffin lid.
Where two screws fit, tightening the; clamp, transformer/coil and PCB Solidly together. It ain't moving.
Some bungler has removed the Ali hold down entirely.
Gawd Only.. knows why?
Even IF the goofy assortment of caps precluded the Coffin lid from Fitted adequately.
A simple additional bit of ali plate across the tops of the coil laminations would restore the structural integrity of the Factory Hold down design.. Quite neatly actually.
Easier to do IMO than Slopping Goop unbelievably messily everywhere. Even onto on the windings fer Gawd's sake ??
Other small trivia: Sily Cone is (Usually) corrosive.
Fair chance that the Goop (if it is Silicone) is eating away at the slopped on Coil windings .. as we type.
IF silicone? best remove it... Sooner rather than later. OEM Coils can be 'difficult' to find
Frankly not massively concerned..Mostly because they Ain't Mine :lol:
Does seem a shame though.
Hopefully the above is result of DIY adventures.
Hey ! we all learn something every time. Mistakes are essential to advancement.
Seriously problematic though... IF one paid $ for this quality of work.
I'd be looking for my Baseball bat TBH..
Sometimes, you really talk crap, Danny boy :D
S.
Wow, that Kenwood sure brings back memories. I don't remember the model # of mine, but I bought new a similar amp when I turned 15 years age. I had money from working on commercial fishing boats over the school summer break, and spent it all on my first real system. The Kenwood sounded fantastic, would love to find a refurbished one for my second system. It had 40 watts per channel, I think it was the KA-3500. I bought Sansui and Yamaha after that, but neither gave me the sheer grunt and rock n roll sound I preferred.
Sorry.. Not even close rationalisations.
The LSU Hf crossovers are Very well made OEM . Being prior to the Harmon International 'takeover'.
They were well assembled solid units.. by any yardstick.
Far better than subsequent HPD ones for example
OEM these have a U shaped Ali bracket that goes under the PCB around the Coil lams (white taped bits) and has threaded ears that press against /fit the Coffin lid.
Where two screws fit, tightening the; clamp, transformer/coil and PCB Solidly together. It ain't moving.
Some bungler has removed the Ali hold down entirely.
Gawd Only.. knows why?
Even IF the goofy assortment of caps precluded the Coffin lid from Fitted adequately.
A simple additional bit of ali plate across the tops of the coil laminations would restore the structural integrity of the Factory Hold down design.. Quite neatly actually.
Easier to do IMO than Slopping Goop unbelievably messily everywhere. Even onto on the windings fer Gawd's sake ??
Other small trivia: Sily Cone is (Usually) corrosive.
Fair chance that the Goop (if it is Silicone) is eating away at the slopped on Coil windings .. as we type.
IF silicone? best remove it... Sooner rather than later. OEM Coils can be 'difficult' to find
Frankly not massively concerned..Mostly because they Ain't Mine :lol:
Does seem a shame though.
Hopefully the above is result of DIY adventures.
Hey ! we all learn something every time. Mistakes are essential to advancement.
Seriously problematic though... IF one paid $ for this quality of work.
I'd be looking for my Baseball bat TBH..
Please remember in future that this is someone's Gallery thread, where members show off their 'prides of joy', and therefore not really the place to lambast the kit folk use, in such an insensitive way.
You have a bad habit of doing this type of thing, so please stop it and learn to show some consideration for others, or next time it happens you'll be out for a week.
Marco.
Floyddroid
12-06-2017, 21:38
That looks like the one we had when i was a kid.
You're quite right. I would if I had a bigger room. My mum has one that would be perfect - just need to wait for her to die then I will have the room and the sideboard :eek:
http://www.midcenturyhome.co.uk/images/sideboards/greaves-thomas/greaves-thomas-teak3.jpg
Gorgeous kit in a lovely setup Paul. Thank you for sharing.
Cheers Andrew. I'm very pleased with it. :)
Thanks to a very kind AoS member, I've been lucky enough to acquire a pair of Lockwood Majors with MG15s. They have their original crossovers which have just been recapped by Paul Coupe. Bigly fugly but sounding lovely.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/2017-06-03%2016.08.35_zpsvb67p0e9.jpg
OMG aren't they gorgeous!
Thanks to a very kind AoS member, I've been lucky enough to acquire a pair of Lockwood Majors with MG15s. They have their original crossovers which have just been recapped by Paul Coupe. Bigly fugly but sounding lovely.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/Lockwood%20Majors%20-%20MG15s/2017-06-03%2016.08.35_zpsvb67p0e9.jpg
Lovely looking room and system Paul. Those big Lockwoods don't come up for sale every day. You done well there :)
FWIW I think Paul Coupe a top notch bloke:exactly:
Floyddroid
15-06-2017, 19:04
Lovely looking room and system Paul. Those big Lockwoods don't come up for sale every day. You done well there :)
FWIW I think Paul Coupe a top notch bloke:exactly:
Wow. You are making me want to buy a nice sideboard. Lovely kit.
Floyddroid
15-06-2017, 19:06
The Yamahas have been relegated to the cupboard and the Trio head amp has now been hooked up between the Kenwood KD-990 deck and Model 500 amp. It sounds superb.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-05-24%2011.51.52_zps6zbppuqd.jpg
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/p753/neradi/System/2016-05-24%2011.53.38_zps8ilcuzfb.jpg
Gorgeous.
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