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LouisB
27-06-2015, 09:40
Hi, I'm another newcomer.

I live in Sussex, UK. I've always been into hi-fi since a little kid and additionally do dabble with audio recording, production and writing occasionally, when time permits...

In terms of hi-fi, as well as the usual streaming and cd/digital sources and some pro-audio 24bit gear, I more recently went back to vinyl, which I'm very much enjoying.
In this respect my system is;

Pro-ject expression iii (carbon arm, acrylic platter) + motor suspension upgrades
Ortofon 2M Black
Custom leads, VdH and isolation plinth etc
Project Phonobox RS
Project Speedbox SE
Arcam A85 amp
Audes Blues speakers

I've been really enjoying this system for some time, gradually accumulating some classic albums that sound great on vinyl.

From the system it's probably apparent the amp has become the weak link now, as everything else around it got upgraded. To that end I'm on the look out for a new amp. A s/h bargain would be nice, but generally on the cards are Rega Elicit-R, Cambridge Audio 851 W and open to ideas on others to audition. Even consider a classic Quad power amp for a good bang for the buck. In first place is the CA 851W so far, but I need to hear these and compare. Probably start another thread on it for further ideas.

Anyway, hello! :)

walpurgis
27-06-2015, 10:04
Hi Louis. Welcome to AOS.

Seems you know what you want from your system. I'm sure that if you start a thread in our Blank Canvas area and outline your amplifier ideas, you'll get plenty of replies. I'm not familiar with your speakers. From what little I know I'd imagine they are rather good.

Tell us what music you listen to and feel free to add some equipment photos to the Gallery. They'd be appreciated.


Enjoy the forum,
Geoff.

LouisB
27-06-2015, 10:40
Hi,

The speakers I really like, best bit of my system. Hoping a better amp will do them proper justice.

As for music, literally all sorts. Some small examples might be:

Jazz - Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Coltraine, Mingus, Monk and so on
Rock - Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, Dire Straits, Fleetwood Mac etc
Heavy - Metalica, Iron Maiden etc
Electronic - anything from classic JMJ, Vangelis, Eno through to more modern stuff, Bjork, Leftfield. Ambient through to drum and bass etc. Massive attack and so on
I also like some blues too.

Sort of almost anything.

Recently, been enjoying new albums such as Emiliana Torrini - Speed of Dark

Macca
27-06-2015, 10:45
Hi Louis and welcome.

The Audes Blue look to be interesting speakers. American too.

EDIT:

Oops just read this Steroe Times review here: http://stereotimes.com/speak051502.shtml

Apparantly the Audes are Estonian.

struth
27-06-2015, 10:46
welcome to AoS Louis. I had a project deck myself and they are rather good with fibre arm and acrylic platter. as Geoff says if you wish help on selecting the vast array of amps available just ask

LouisB
27-06-2015, 11:06
hey, thanks all,

I will definitely be seeking some further advice on amps from you guys, will start a new thread about it shortly. Looking forward to it. I'm very open minded about it.

Audes are Estonian! But sell globally. They've been going for many years, but remain still a bit niche. Their high end stuff is really good and they actually make drivers.

I've just yesterday ordered a couple of new upgrade woofers for the Blues (higher damping factors) - they didn't have any stock, they are making me a couple in the factory. I like that. It's not just a box with someone else's off the shelf drivers in it.

Anyway, as always not the last word in speakers, none of my hi-fi is. But I've been really enjoying it and hope the new amp will unlock a little more fun from it :)

Marco
27-06-2015, 14:26
Hi Louis,

Welcome to AoS. Glad to see you've made it! :)

Looking forward to reading all about your views on hi-fi, so get stuck into the various threads. If you can post a picture of your system in The Gallery, then that would be great, as we love pics. Oh, where abouts in the UK are you? :cool:

Marco.

Spectral Morn
27-06-2015, 15:16
Welcome to AoS :cool:


Regards Neil

jasonC
27-06-2015, 21:45
welcome Louis
nice to see someone else not far from my neck of the woods. :)

Barry
29-06-2015, 10:20
Welcome to AoS Louis,

Enjoy the Forum

Regards
Barry

Eagle owl
29-06-2015, 10:21
Hello and welcome Louis.

Geoff. :wave: