My main system

[Theo]

Neat MF7s in place:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/LoungeHiFi201018.jpg

Cunningly-concealed (and totally inacessible) turntable:


http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/LoungeHiFi20107.jpg

Boxes:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/2010_01120008.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/dscf3529-1.jpg

[John]

Lovely looking system

[Theo]

Attic system:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/Picture006.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/2010_01120011.jpg

The lovely Luxman:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/Picture001.jpg

[Barry]

Not only a lovely system, but a lovely looking home as well. :)

[Techno Commander]

I am not in the slightest bit jealous.

OK, maybe I am. :) Lovely systems you have there.

[Theo]

Thank you - you're very kind :) Toyed with the idea of moving out of the country and back to the city a while ago, but couldn't imagine letting this place go - especially with the neighbours far enough away not to hear it when I turn it up.

[Marco]

Don't do it, Theo - stay well away from the bloody rat race! Rural is where it's at if you value well-being in your body and soul :)

I too am 'somewhat detached' from any neighbours, and often have (loud) music sessions with friends into the wee small hours... :eyebrows:

Yep, lovely looking property - I would guess 17th century?

I love both of your systems, but it's the vintage one in the attic which intrigues me most. I love Micromega CDPs, as they are always unfailingly musical. The French seem to know how to eke out the best from CD.

I also (unlike Barry ;)) quite like Briks!

The Luxman is truly gorgeous - have you ever compared it directly to your Eclipse, particularly with the same arm and cartridge?

I suspect that the Luxman, suitably 'tooled up' would give the Eclipse a bit of a hard time... Aesthetically for me it's a non-contest; I much prefer the sleek lines and timeless elegance of the Luxman!

However, many thanks for posting pictures of your systems - you should rightly be proud of them :cool:

Marco.

[DSJR]

Some Luxmans were all fur coat and no knickers when the bottom was removed, but I do remember that one as being pretty ok. 'Briks should run well in that situation as long as the reflections don't amear everything up too much.

Lovely looking rooms, I must say :respect:

[Reid Malenfant]

Not only a lovely system, but a lovely looking home as well. :)
I'm in 100% agreement with that :)

Reminds me of a scaled up cottage i used to live at in Colsterworth which is also in Lincs :) A real fire & ducking through doorways, ahhhh, those were the days :doh:

[Marco]

You can't beat old properties... Solid thick walls, usually big gardens, period features/character, and built to last - and yes, they have coal fires! I wouldn't swap our log/coal fire for anything, as it's so cosy in the winter.

I wouldn't have any new-build bollocks if you gave it to me for nothing! The properties are thrown up in no-time like doll's houses, often without using the proper materials, and more often than not have gardens the size of a postage stamp...

You'd better also get on with your neighbours, because you'll be close enough to smell their armpits!! :lol:

Nah, give me old detached properties, with plenty of space between any other bugger and you (in or near the country) any day :)

Marco.

[Jonboy]

Lovely looking place and systems you have there Theo, i remember seing it before perhaps on a thread elsewhere, something to do with listening seats if i remember right, i run a Micromega myself so know about thier merits and tempermentality :)

[Rare Bird]

Nice pad..Micromega! that name rings a bell, just found one in the bottom of the wardrobe i forgotten about just this morning

[Macca]

Nice pad..Micromega! that name rings a bell, just found one in the bottom of the wardrobe i forgotten about just this morning

Is that the wardrobe that has the entrance to Narnia in the back, Andre? Micromega was probably left there as a present by a fawn...:)

Theo - beautiful home and some great looking kit

Marco - we can't all live in the countryside or there would be no countryside - I'm going to move out to Wrexham way and knock up a hideous modern house right next door to you and race bangers up and down your street;)

[Theo]

Once again, thank you all for your kind words: house now taken off the market ;)

I do fancy getting the Luxman fettled. it's not a patch on the Eclipse in current form, but not a fair comparison as arm/cart not in the same league. Eclipse does pitch better, which leads me to think I need to get the d/d motor looked at. Tempted to get Audio Origami to fettle the arm, but also fancy the idea of putting a better 'period, arm on it (SME?).

The Micromega Classic Solo is a peach - I had a new transport fitted a few years ago, and it truly is a gorgeous sounding CDP. The Briks are a leftover from a previous 'muscle' system (powered by Exposure); sounds great at the end of the NVAs, but I have a hankering for a pair of ELS 57s. They might react to the room better: the Briks don't work as well in this awkward space as they used to in the lounge.

Anyway, off to the Whittlebury Hall show - see anybody there later?

[DSJR]

If you ever get the '57's, the NVA's will have to go unless you wish for an expensive bonfire - I think, unless you check with RD first... if the 57's (when and if you get them) have the over-voltage protection offered as an option twenty years or so ago, get a 606 or 707 Quad. I think you'll be very surprised just how good they can be...

[Techno Commander]

The Luxman is truly gorgeous - have you ever compared it directly to your Eclipse, particularly with the same arm and cartridge?

Marco.

Indeed. There is something special in both looks and performance with Japanese vintage heavyweight turntables.

[DSJR]

Sadly, not all Luxman turntables were created equal. That one was one of the better ones.

[Dr Bunsen Honeydew]

If you ever get the '57's, the NVA's will have to go unless you wish for an expensive bonfire
Don't be bloody daft, you really do run on about things you know 'nought about sometimes.

[Dr Bunsen Honeydew]

When the current circuit was first put together, guess what speaker were used in the development process - Quad ESL 57.

The usual fireside experts spout. Presumably confusing the high capacitance effects of some speaker cables with the inherent capacitance in the plates of electrostatic loudspeakers.

So lets look at this with a bit more knowledge - when an amp is connected to the Quad 57s what is it looking at - the plates - no! The plates need a couple of thousand volts to work properly so how can a transistor amp with a max output of about 100v drive that, well obviously via a transformer - so the amp is seeing and driving the transformer not the plates - ergo an inductive and resistive load.

The logic for electrostatic loudspeaker would be to drive them directly from the output of a valve directly to the input of the plates without the input transformer in the case of the speaker and the output transformer in the case of the amplifier, but I know of no one who has tried this.

It would never be allowed commercially or pass safety regs to have a couple of thousand volts on your speaker lines, but the amps could be built in.

[Theo]

Well...the second system has mostly gone. However, I've finally sourced the turntable I've lusted after for years: a Trio L-07D

It's such a huge and heavy thing, that I haven't got a table large enough for it yet. It certainly won't sit on the existing wall mounted stand in the main system - it overshoots it. Looking at options :)

[Macca]

That is a beast of a thing:eek:

[Gromit]

Popped over to Chez Theo this afternoon to pick up the Phono 1, so obviously got a good oggle at the Trio. It's a total honey of a turntable - the build quality is staggering just for starters. If it sounds as good as it looks, well...'nuff said. :)

Can't wait to hear it. :)

[Theo]

Cheers Richard - and thank you for the headshell too! Looks less naked now...

Gerry (on this forum) is an absolute mine of useful information on the L-07D too. Think I have my cartridge sorted :)

[Yoga]

Nice car :¬)

[Gromit]

Cheers Richard - and thank you for the headshell too! Looks less naked now...

Gerry (on this forum) is an absolute mine of useful information on the L-07D too. Think I have my cartridge sorted :)

You're very welcome Theo - what cartridge have you managed to sort?

[Theo]

Likely to be a Micro Benz Ace S (though there's an interesting Lyra going too).

[Theo]

Fettled L-07D in stonking form. Also, fancied a change on the speaker front - dipoles. Jamo R909s arrived this morning:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2051.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2411.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2417.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2407.jpg

Bass quality is certainly superior to the Neat's ported version, but it's too early for any definitive judgement calls. They are sounding fabulous though.

I MUST stop this hifi purchasing madness now; and get a better camera...

[Welder]

That’s quite a stack of Exposure kit you have there Leo. What are they? I can’t make out the lettering, dual 16’s perhaps.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Check the signature John

[Welder]

:doh:

Cheers

[Theo]

Yep, four mono 16s. Absolute brutes, but heaps of subtlety and control. Love em to bits :)

[Welder]

And there was me thinking i was the only Exposure fan here. :lol:

Yes, I've heard the 16 duals and as you say bags of grunt and control.
Have you used them with any of the Exposure Pre amps?

[Theo]

Hu John

Over the 25+ years I've owned a fair bit of the Farlowe-era Exposure output, and certainly heard them all. Of the pre-amps, my favourite is probably the 17. I had the 14/9 with the Mono 16s and thought that this would be my final resting place for amplification, but the 23 pre was - IMHO - far better, and my current Exposure MCX pre better still.

I think Tony Brady (current Exposure chief) has maintained the spirit and ethos of the original business, and their MCX range is pretty special. That's not to say they're the only amps I've had - I've gone through Naim, Musical Fidelity, Densen, NVA, and a few others too (mostly borrowed): I've always come back to Exposure though - they're pretty transparent, don't get in the way of the music, and provide a solid foundation for a varied collection of speakers.

[Welder]

I haven’t heard any of the MCX amps, out of my price range these days, but I have heard most of the Farlow era kit and had a few bits over the years.
I never really understood why Exposure kit didn’t get quite the same ecstatic reviews of many amps which imo sounded a lot less musical, the Naim amps of the same generation spring to mind.
Anyway, nice rack, erm, nice amps. Good luck with the Jamo’s ;)

[DSJR]

Is it just the CD players that were designed by Kevin at Talk Electronics? I think I'm right on this one..

[ComradeSaigon]

Hi Theo,
I see you're using NVA amplifications. I remenber in the 90s they are the alternative to Naim or others, quite highly sought after. Is the brand still in business.
I was young and at the height of hifi addiction, they were my dream.

[Theo]

Hi Minh

No NVA amps in the picture - all Exposure.

However, NVA very much in business, still making great amps.

[ComradeSaigon]

Oh!My mistake again. Let great design serve the puplics (NVA).
I agreed with you the transparancy of Exposure amp.I remember yes in 90s going to see Bristol Hifi show. Neat Acoustics were using their intergrated amp playing vinyl record Thomas Dolby or something. who is was not important, the music was not to my taste.Man, it got my hooked. My first taste of high end sound there.

[Theo]

Well, it's been a fabulous day of hifi fettling at my place,which has left me giggling with joy and adrenalin, as I rush around the house digging out old LPs to play.

Firstly, I had a second armboard made for the Trio L07D to mount my SME V / Ortofon Cadenza Blue. It looks dwarfed by the Trio arm, but the performance is absolutely stellar - certainly flies in the face of those who might think the SME "boring". :). The SME is forensic, the Trio more organic, but both supremely enjoyable. The SME can now track a "Grand Canyon" of a warped LP, which it certainly couldn't do when it was on the Inspire Eclipse. Great turntable...

Secondly, I had a niggling suspicion that the Jamo R909 speakers were not quite to my taste, with a strange "cuppiness" to the vocals, but as this feeling was gradual, and seemed more distinct on one channel only I suspected a fault. Long story short, it now has a replacement Scanspeak Revelator tweeter in place, and they sound utterly stunning. My Neat MF7s will be for sale soon :)

My deep gratitude and grateful thanks to Richard and Richie from Vantage Audio, who spent many hours of graft in helping me to sort out the speaker issues and install the SME into place today. I took a couple of days off work for this - I suspect I won't get to bed early tonight...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2800.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2812.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2807.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2792.jpg

[Gromit]

Nice one Theo - glad all is working 100% now. :)

Was good too to have Richard and Richie at my place on weds, sadly we didn't get much time to do a huge amount of listening as the house was a bit chaotic at the time, and they were running late. Did get time to have a listen to an old cartridge the guys had brought up with them, in this case a Technics EPC205C (I think!) which is basically a fairly low output MM jobbie - sounded sweet as a nut in the 1210, less top-endy than my Jico'd M75.

Has given me some cause for thought re putting a different cartridge in mine - since moving the room around and putting the kit on a different stand the balance has been thrown out of...well...balance. :D

[macvisual]

wOw, those Jamo R909's look utterly beautiful, quite a size, hmmm nice!

Are they new or a second hand purchase can I ask?

[Theo]

They were 2nd hand: I originally wanted a pair in red, but this black pair came up at a really good price, and I took a punt. Now they're working properly, I really love them. People say they utterly dominate the room, I say pah, its all down to perspective...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2422-1.jpg

[Reid Malenfant]

<snip> People say they utterly dominate the room, I say pah, its all down to perspective...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2422-1.jpg
They certainly look like they use a fair sized bass driver & a pair of them in each enclosure :eyebrows: But they don't look that big in all honesty!

Wouldn't surprise me if they were 12" drivers...

Some people have no idea what big is :eyebrows:

Your room looks a very decent size to, nice fireplace! In fact the whole lot looks good. I bet you haven't got a very high ceiling though :lol: I remember timbers like that & doors that you hit your head on the frame unless you duck ;)

[macvisual]

I know about decent size speakers taking over a room.....;

http://i382.photobucket.com/albums/oo268/macvisual/IMG_1848.jpg

[Theo]

They certainly look like they use a fair sized bass driver & a pair of them in each enclosure :eyebrows: But they don't look that big in all honesty!

Wouldn't surprise me if they were 12" drivers...

Some people have no idea what big is :eyebrows:

Your room looks a very decent size to, nice fireplace! In fact the whole lot looks good. I bet you haven't got a very high ceiling though :lol: I remember timbers like that & doors that you hit your head on the frame unless you duck ;)

They're 15 inch units - four of them :eyebrows: Ceiling is 8ft: wish it was higher, but the entire system will soon be moving to another room which much more "air" (no, not the garden).

Luckily I'm a short arse (5'8") so avoid smacking my head on everything. All the doors on the lower level are low-ish, higher on the 1st floor. When we were looking at buying the place, a couple of guys, both well over 6ft, viewed the house around the same time (it was mad buying property in the late '80s). They stooped around the place and I thought, "not the place for you, chum". We then went to see three similar properties, and the two guys were following us - same appointments! We kept thinking as they crawled around these vertically challenged houses, "why do you want one of these?". I always wondered if they eventually ended up buying one of them, and thinking of their chiropractor bills :)

[Theo]

Some Townshend VSSS speaker stands, bought from a Wammer. I had the same (but smaller) under my Neat MF7s, and they do make a fundamental and wholly beneficial difference to how the Jamo R909 speakers sound/perform in my lounge, given the timber-on-timber floors. Happy, happy bunny :)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2888.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2884.jpg

[Theo]

Latest Trio / SME V shots:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2898.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2899.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2904.jpg

[jostber]

Some Townshend VSSS speaker stands, bought from a Wammer. I had the same (but smaller) under my Neat MF7s, and they do make a fundamental and wholly beneficial difference to how the Jamo R909 speakers sound/perform in my lounge, given the timber-on-timber floors. Happy, happy bunny :)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2888.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2884.jpg

That's a great looking set of speakers. :thumbsup: Is the VSSS speaker stands a variant of the Stella stands? Just waiting for two of those next week. :)

[Theo]

Thank you :) The VSSS were Max's original attempt at speaker decoupling (I believe). I think it's his most successful variant, but they need to be made to suit individual speakers so aren't mass produced. I've been lucky enough to pick up two second hand versions that were (just about) the correct footprint.

The Stellas are more flexible in this respect (the speakers could overhang a little - not with the cradles).

[Theo]

A couple of shots of my NVA TFS digital beast. Black acrylic is a bugger to photograph...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2970.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF2968.jpg

[Theo]

My 'new' Zu 103, just retipped by Expert Stylus with their sapphire cantilever and Paratrace stylus - it's a lively beast :)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3131.jpg

Looking at SUT options at present, but sounding fab already in the Whest.

[Theo]

Haven't posted for a while; a combination of being away from home, and when home, consumed in a refurbishment project with lots of hassle attached. However, the final result (excluding not-forseen roof and wall repairs) involved a new bathroom, revamped bedroom, and most importantly, my new music room:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3569.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3566.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3551.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3555.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3554.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3577.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3572.jpg

This room used to be the bedroom, which has moved up the mezzanine where the old music room was:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSCF3562.jpg

Its the first time in 20 years or so that I've had all my CDs, LPs, etc. in one place. The NVA TFS will live in the lounge with a pair of active speakers to at least give me some music downstairs.

How does it sound? Firstly, the room is now 6m high as opposed to 2.4m, its around the same width but not as deep. Consequently I'm closer to the speakers, but they are further apart. It's a carpeted floor as opposed to solid wood with rug, but the CDs/LPs provide ample 'furnishings'. There is a new radial circuit with it's own ditribution board taken from the incoming supply, i.e. before the main house circuits. There are no equipment 'stands', apart from two wall shelves, plus spiked granite 'supports' for the stuff on the LP boxes. It's as different as can be from my previous set up - and it sounds brilliant.

As you walk around the room, there aren't the strange frequency shifts that used to occur in the previous room (pictures still available back in the thread), but I have to do a little work on a base node behind my listening chair, and all will be hunky dory.

It took a LOT of sweat and backbreaking work in setting this lot up, but it's been worth it. I'm NEVER moving it again...

[Macca]

Looks great Theo - plenty of space; I'm not keen on that carpet though, it's a bit busy.

[Theo]

Looks great Theo - plenty of space; I'm not keen on that carpet though, it's a bit busy.

Yep, a bit marmite, that carpet. It's actually very nice close up, but I can see why people would react, er, differently to it :)

[stupinder]

All look stunning. You have a beautiful home!

[RobbieGong]

Lovely set up, lovely cosy looking home :)

[Reid Malenfant]

Stunning equipment in a frankly stunning room as well :D

Did I mention a stunning collection of music to? :eyebrows:


Lovely stuff!

[Barry]

Stunning equipment in a frankly stunning room as well :D

Did I mention a stunning collection of music to? :eyebrows:


Lovely stuff!

Yes, +1. And the music collection? - well it's about three to four times as large as mine!

I would imagine the deviation from a 'rectangular cuboid' of most people's listening rooms helps a lot.

Nice, very nice! :D

[Marco]

I would imagine the deviation from a 'rectangular cuboid' of most people's listening rooms helps a lot.


Indeed. You can't beat odd-shaped rooms, with oak beams, dotted around the place. It's one of the reasons why I don't feel any necessity to use room treatment, and I suspect neither will Theo, although his listening room is rather bigger than mine ;)

Fantastic room and system, Theo, and a lovely home. You can't beat old properties for character and charm, can you? :)


Looking at SUT options at present, but sounding fab already in the Whest.


Is it for the Zu? I can recommend many, but you may wish to follow this thread, as the Silvercore (which can be made to match your cartridge of choice) is rather tasty: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18010

:cool:

Marco.

[Theo]

Gosh - thank you all for your kind words :) Although it has been pointed out to me by a yoof that i could have all this stored on 1Tb, and with a pair of active speakers, I'd had loads more space.

I gave him a good slapping for his impudent cheek...

[Theo]

Is it for the Zu? I can recommend many, but you may wish to follow this thread, as the Silvercore (which can be made to match your cartridge of choice) is rather tasty: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18010

:cool:

Marco.

Thank you Marco. actually, I've had the very same Silvercore here on loan for a while but haven't had the chance to play with it due to the muck 'n' mess. I have some time now to evaluate it...

[Marco]

Nice one, Theo. Another one I'd highly recommend is the A23 :)

Marco.

[Reid Malenfant]

Although it has been pointed out to me by a yoof that i could have all this stored on 1Tb, and with a pair of active speakers, I'd had loads more space.

I gave him a good slapping for his impudent cheek...
Ah, you did good :D Kids, they'll never learn :rolleyes:

[Theo]

Haven't bought anything new in ages, but came across the pretty rare ceramic mat for the L-07D, and couldn't stop myself :D

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_1762.jpg

First thoughts are that musical presentation is more vivid and solid. Will keep it in place for a while before going back to the stainless steel mat.

[Theo]

Currently playing with a pair of Audiosmile's new super tweeters. These have been designed with dipole speakers in mind, and I'm having fun integrating them into the system. Sadly not a good fit on top the speakers - a bit precarious, even with bodger's blu-tac - but they sound quite convincing sitting just behind. You notice the soundstage becoming more focussed. Tonally they seem to add nothing (which is a bonus) but I'm going to spend a few days with them in, then take them out and see what's missing :)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2078_zps98c497fa.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2078_zps98c497fa.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2076_zps2becb88f.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2076_zps2becb88f.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2072_zps2a76d965.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2072_zps2a76d965.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2069_zps4eb6e889.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2069_zps4eb6e889.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2067_zps0cb2980d.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2067_zps0cb2980d.jpg.html)

[Theo]

I've had a week with the Audiosmile Super Tweeters Mk II now, and I'm just about to return them (they are demo models only).

I will be ordering a pair though. You realise what is missing when you take them out of your system: they seem to add presence and air, and the soundstage is much more defined. I can't explain why this should be, but you know it when they're not in circuit. I kept the settings low, as you can certainly use them for treble lift if required. They still look precarious on top of my speaker, and I couldn't quite get them to gel there. However, they seem to do their stuff well sat just behind the speaker, with the ribbon either towards the listener or angled upwards.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2190_zpse4585323.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2190_zpse4585323.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2192_zpsd1963171.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2192_zpsd1963171.jpg.html)

[jason]

Just looking through your thread Theo you have a great place and stunning system:) loving those super tweeters too.

[Theo]

Cheers Jason :) those super tweeters have been a pleasant surprise. They've gone back now, whilst I'll wait for a newly-built pair, but the added 'presence' they brought to the system was really pleasing.

[jason]

Cheers Jason :) those super tweeters have been a pleasant surprise. They've gone back now, whilst I'll wait for a newly-built pair, but the added 'presence' they brought to the system was really pleasing.
I was planning on getting some super tweeters a couple of years back but never got round to it. After reading your thread Theo I might just put them back on the list:) just off to google to do some pricing for the future:)

[Theo]

Make sure that they have adjustable settings: I'm not sure that a 'one size fits all' approach would work. 2nd hand Townshend or Tannoys sometimes come up, but seem pricey.

[panos_adgr]

Wonderful System!

I love these Jamos! Enjoy them!

[Theo]

The Zu 103 back in place:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2290_zps61891224.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2290_zps61891224.jpg.html)

[Themis]

What a wonderful cartridge ! :stalks:

And wonderful system, too !
Hey, we have at least one thing in common : the ATH-W1000 ;)

[Theo]

Thank you - great headphones, aren't they?

[Themis]

Thank you - great headphones, aren't they?
Yes, indeed. It's incredible how nicely they fit and how little I can feel them on my head when I have them on : when you consider the size, it's purely awesome. :)
I have plenty of other headphones, but, at the moment, I don't feel the need of upgrading them. I think I will keep them for very, very long.

[jason]

Make sure that they have adjustable settings: I'm not sure that a 'one size fits all' approach would work. 2nd hand Townshend or Tannoys sometimes come up, but seem pricey.

Thanks for the tip Theo ;). Thats a nice cartridge by the way :wow::wow::goodthread:

[jasonC]

beautiful picture,did you take it?


The Zu 103 back in place:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2290_zps61891224.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2290_zps61891224.jpg.html)

[Theo]

Yes I did - not the easiest cartridge to photograph :)

[luckyguliver]

Hi Theo,

May I ask you a question? I've seen NVA amps in your place. Have you ever been tempted to pair them with Neat speakers? I've got Neat Vito SE which are big floorstanders and my first choice were old Exposure amps ( not monoblocks though ) but I also thought about NAV. However I have never heard Neat-NVA combo myself…

Any feedback would be much appreciated.

[Theo]

I no longer have either the NVA amps or the Neat speakers. I never used them together either, but experience of NVAs with Linn Isobariks leads me to believe that the amps would be fine with the Vitos: I'd be looking at the A80 mono power amps as a minimum, especially if you can get hold of the Mk 1 versions for a reasonable price. If you look at Exposure, then a 17 pre/18 power would be a good combo to try.

[Sovereign]

I have Mk1 NVA A80's
Before the NVA I had Exposure XIV/IVDR and I preferred the NVA A80's and I loved the separation, timing, imaging and grunt.

Never paired them with Neats though ,

[Mika K]

Yes I did - not the easiest cartridge to photograph :)
Yes there are some challenges indeed :) http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?11598-Mika-K-s-system&p=226148#post226148

What version your Zu DL 103 is, if I may ask?

[Theo]

Hi Mika
It's one which has had a new sapphire cantilever and Paratrace stylus, added by Expert Stylus Co. As to the actual 103, it's a grade one: they do a standard, grade 1 grade 2 and grade 2 prime.

[Mika K]

Ok.

If my memory serves me right the Zu DL 103 I have is grade 2 but would have to check from the box and it's somewhere in the moving boxes at the moment :) Have also been thinking to send it to be retipped at some point and Expert Stylus Co is one possible option for that..

[struth]

Lovely system Theo...love the vinyl racks and the way you have integrated the speakers...

[Theo]

Thank you Grant :) After having had expensive dedicated racks for ages, I realised that good SS amps don't seem too worried about where they sit (within reason). I made sure that the CDP and t/t were on wall shelves, and everything else sits on record storage boxes. It was a great way of hiding unsightly cables too, and ridding myself of unsightly metal framed shelves into the bargain (as ever, YMMV).

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_1778_zpsd54a8ad2.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_1778_zpsd54a8ad2.jpg.html)

[Stackowax]

Speaking of speaker cables, what are those speaker cables you are using with the XVIs?

[Theo]

Hi Jim
They're Chord Signature: the only cable I've tried that I preferred to the standard Exposure cable, as opposed to being just 'different'.

[Theo]

Long time since my last update. Having spent the last 4 months being treated for Cancer, my life perspective has changed somewhat, but once the treatment ended, I promised myself a treat. So the changes are not all hi-fi related, but definitely connected. This arrived yesterday:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2860_zpsb4252f48.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2860_zpsb4252f48.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2847_zps716452f2.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2847_zps716452f2.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2870_zpse177bb1d.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2870_zpse177bb1d.jpg.html)

That's my new listening chair - a classic Charles Eames lounge chair and ottoman. Incredibly comfortable :-)


http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2853_zps917fe3e3.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2853_zps917fe3e3.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2857_zps9c63f061.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2857_zps9c63f061.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2855_zps2e670e0a.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2855_zps2e670e0a.jpg.html)

A pair of the new (latest iteration) Audiosmile Supertweeters. Still settling in, but I like the effect. However, the Chemo has buggered up my hearing a bit (unsure if temporary or permanent), so I can't guarantee that others might find the balance 'correct' :lol:

[Sovereign]

Hi Theo

Hope your health is on the mend, what are the black platforms/squares on top of the EXPO XVI's?

[realysm42]

Good luck with the treatment matey.

[Theo]

Hi Theo

Hope your health is on the mend, what are the black platforms/squares on top of the EXPO XVI's?

Thank you James - I hope so too...

The black squares are these:

http://www.canford.co.uk/Products/17-905_SPECTRA-DYNAMICS-Deflex-sheet-plain-8mm

I have the ones with concentric circles, originally used for speakers. They were only £6 at the time, but are very effective at damping ringing cases. They're only loose laid on the XVIs, and certainly stops the top from ringing (they sound quite tinny when you knock them). Does it sound any better? I used to think so, I don't notice the effect now.

[Theo]

Good luck with the treatment matey.

Cheers Martin.

[chelsea]

Good luck in your recovery.

[Marco]

Hi Theo,

Ace pics as usual! LOVE the Eames chair :respect:


Long time since my last update. Having spent the last 4 months being treated for Cancer, my life perspective has changed somewhat, but once the treatment ended, I promised myself a treat.


Quite right, mate. I know how you feel, having recovered from a spinal tumour a few years back, after being told that there was a 70% chance I'd be paralysed from the waist down.... Thankfully, that didn't happen!

I wish you all the best for a speedy and full recovery. Enjoy your new toys and take care :)

Marco.

[Theo]

Many thanks Stu / Marco. I won't know the final outcome for a while, but I remain hopeful :)

As much as I love the Corbusier lounger, the Eames is just a far better listening chair: no gimmicks, lots of class and supremely comfortable.

[Canetoad]

All the best Theo. My mother-in-law is in the same boat at the moment. Just trying to be as supportive as possible for my wife. :(

[Sovereign]

Thanks mate

[chris b]

Hello Theo,
Sorry to hear about the illness my brother has on going treatment for mantle cell and continues to look good even with the chemo. The R909's still look the ticket mate ,seems along time now since I brought them over. Look after yourself.
ATB Chris.

[Theo]

Hello Theo,
Sorry to hear about the illness my brother has on going treatment for mantle cell and continues to look good even with the chemo. The R909's still look the ticket mate ,seems along time now since I brought them over. Look after yourself. ATB Chris.

Hello Chris

Good to hear from you, and thank you! I didn't lose much hair, but my beard fell out, along with about 2 stone in weight. Not a diet plan I recommend :-)

The 909s still sound spectacular, especially in this room. Hope all is well with you.

Best wishes
Theo

[Theo]

All the best Theo. My mother-in-law is in the same boat at the moment. Just trying to be as supportive as possible for my wife. :(

Hi Bernis - many thanks. It is indeed tough on partners & family...

[Gromit]

:eek:

Theo - truly shocked to hear your news, especially bearing in mind you looked really well last time I saw you! Hope the path from now will be smooth for you, and that the treatment will have worked well.

I'll have to pop over and scrounge a coffee soon. :)

[Wakefield Turntables]

Theo,

We've not spoken before but good luck with the big "C", I have some experience with it in the past.

Andy

[Theo]

Theo,

We've not spoken before but good luck with the big "C", I have some experience with it in the past.

Andy

Many thanks Andy - much appreciated.

[Theo]

:eek:

Theo - truly shocked to hear your news, especially bearing in mind you looked really well last time I saw you! Hope the path from now will be smooth for you, and that the treatment will have worked well.

I'll have to pop over and scrounge a coffee soon. :)

Hi Richard - it was only a few days after we last met. Still, I'm looking forward to recovering from the treatment, and concentrating on playing as much music as is possible :) Coffee always on too...

[Spectral Morn]

Beautiful room, beautiful Eames chair and LE CORBUSIER Inspired Chaise Longue - love that :)

I hope you make a full recovery and stay well - God Bless you.


Regards Neil

[Theo]

Thank you Neil :)

[Alex_UK]

I can only echo what has been said before - Eames furniture is gorgeous, but more importantly I hope you have a full recovery and much more music to enjoy!

[Theo]

I can only echo what has been said before - Eames furniture is gorgeous, but more importantly I hope you have a full recovery and much more music to enjoy!

Thank you Alex- I'm certainly going through oldies I haven't played for a while with renewed vigour :) I can see the cart going to ESCo real soon for another retip...

[bigmarty]

Hi Theo
What a lovely system and beautiful home and as other folks have said here hope you get well soon. Thinking of you and your family.

Marty :D

[Puffin]

I would love to hear those Jamo's. I have only heard their professional PA stuff, but the 15" bass units were superb. By the way your carpet is amazing, is it from a cruise ship as it looks like it has a gold maritime based crest.

[Theo]

Thanks Marty / Rob. The carpet was originally designed for a nightclub many moons ago. I suspect my carpet has lasted an awful lot longer than the club...

Some more system shots:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2922_zps9f334dc0.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2922_zps9f334dc0.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2920_zps6d48b200.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2920_zps6d48b200.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2909_zps9f280bef.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2909_zps9f280bef.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2931_zps89894681.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2931_zps89894681.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2928_zps3a73101c.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2928_zps3a73101c.jpg.html)

[Macca]

I have to ask - how did you end up with nightclub carpet?

I'm not that keen on it actually but I do covet your 'speakers. They are proper :)

[Theo]

They are indeed :)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_1695.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_1695.jpg.html)

The designer of the nightclub was a colleague of mine: the design had a 'Roman Empire' theme (well, it was the late 80s), and the carpet had laurel wreath and lyre motifs. There was a 'surplus'. It is great quality, hence the fact that it is still with us all these years later...

The Jamo R909s are just splendid: they make you aware of the 'box effects' of most normal speakers. I know that all speakers are a compromise in both design intent and sound quality, and shoehorning any into an existing system is taking a chance, but these have melded wonderfully with the Exposure amps (they appreciate a bit of grunt). The supertweeters have added some focus too. All in all, I'm very happy with the balance of this system. Any further additions would be to the record playing end (different cartridge/phono stage/arm), but let's see what the future holds.

[trio leo]

Hi Theo,
Your room and system looks like a HiFi dream, I'm envious, lots of beautiful components and plenty off space to enjoy, the L07D looks great, one of the best decks ever built IMHO, best wishes to making a speedy recovery and getting stronger, take care of yourself.

enjoy your music

kind regards Al

[Theo]

Many thanks Al - much appreciated. meeting the Oncologist later today for update...

Al - Question 1: do you know of anyone who might have the Trio/Kenwood DS-20 outer periphery ring for the L-07D? There is one on the auction site, but it has a few dints in it. Any help would be much appreciated :)

Question 2 - any chance of you updating your photos? Would love to see your new amp set-up and the TD 124.

[Theo]

Enjoying my new chair a lot :D

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_2988_zps61ef9fce.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_2988_zps61ef9fce.jpg.html)

However, I've found a new toy to add to the Trio L-07D:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_3246_zps02881541.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_3246_zps02881541.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_3252_zpsad514b47.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_3252_zpsad514b47.jpg.html)

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_3245_zps46cbf9dd.jpg (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TFP_2007/media/DSC_3245_zps46cbf9dd.jpg.html)

It's the Audio Technica AT666EX vacuun disc stabiliser (seen here):

http://www.thevintageknob.org/audio_technica-AT666.html

Mine is the upgraded version with the battery pump. I was curious to try one out, but didn't want to pay silly money for one. This one came from the US: it was branded as a 'Signet' and was at a silly low price (£75) compared to others I'd seen on ebay, so I thought it was worth a punt.

Expectations when it arrived were low, but I realised that the 'Signet' logo was a shoddy little cut-out, and came off quite easily, leaving the original branded AT version visible. I suspect that this is why it was priced low compared to others I'd seen. However, this device has given me one of my biggest 'WTF' hifi moments in recent times: taking off the Trio ceramic platter (but leaving the aluminium one in place), placing the AT one on top and adjusting the SME V arm height to suit, the newly-clamped LPs exhibit far more control, bass clarity and quantity, instrument positioning, and just general uplift in SQ, than I could have possibly envisaged. It's like the old t/t on steroids. I have to be careful here as this effect is new, and I'll go back to the ceramic platter after a week or so, but it's just so damn engaging that I cannot stop putting on record after record - always a good sign. At the cost, this is an absolute no-brainer.

It takes about 15-20 seconds to clamp a disc. The platter is weighty though, so I would have thought a suspended t/t a no-no, but on a suitable DD, with good vta adjustment, it would be a great experiment for others to try, providing you can pick one up at a reasonable cost without the rubber having perished. Mine holds the vacuum for the entire LP side, but it failed half way through on a particularly badly warped LP (it got through the first two tracks in 'flat' state though - a billy bonus).

This one is making me grin a lot: it's not going anywhere.

[Brico]

O Theo, my man! I'am in love with Jamo R-909. I saw those speakers when I was buying my pair of Focals and I was in seriously doubt. What a body, what a sound! Price of circa 4800 Euros - 2nd hand, piano black.

Silvio

[Tarzan]

Crickey! l could lose a year in that room, beautiful!

[keiths]

Crickey! l could lose a year in that room, beautiful!

+1

Lots of vinyl on display there too - about 2,500 lps I would guess?

Glad you are happy with you new purchase.

[Theo]

+1

Lots of vinyl on display there too - about 2,500 lps I would guess?

Glad you are happy with you new purchase.

Pretty good guess :) slightly less, but growing daily...

[Theo]

Crickey! l could lose a year in that room, beautiful!

Thank you - I lose myself in there on a regular basis. I refuse to add a TV...

[Theo]

O Theo, my man! I'am in love with Jamo R-909. I saw those speakers when I was buying my pair of Focals and I was in seriously doubt. What a body, what a sound! Price of circa 4800 Euros - 2nd hand, piano black.

Silvio

I love the Jamos too! Paid £3.2k second hand for my mint condition pair, a bargain in comparison to their £10k rrp in the UK.

[Theo]

Apart from some nifty earthquake-negating Audio Technica springy isolators, not much is new. Makes the L-07D look a bit butch though...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_6328_zps0d2b6fa0_1.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_6338_zpsc96b5045_1.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_6345_zpsb18e0c48_1.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s106/TFP_2007/DSC_6353_zps5b2f1cc7_1.jpg

[Marco]

Beautiful, Theo. I just love that L-07D. For me, it epitomises what a 'proper' turntable should look like! :)

The ones I've heard also sound superb...

Marco.

[Idlewithnodrive]

Nice as you like that Theo.

Fantastic looking rig :stalks:

[Sovereign]

Nice to see you on AoS Theo, not seen you around for a while .

[walpurgis]

Cool looking room and rather interesting system.

[struth]

Wow, you could open a record shop if stuck :)

[Theo]

Many thanks all :) The last two years have been 'interesting' and system additions has definitely been on the back burner. Actually, replacing what I have holds no interest for me, as I'm really pleased with the way the system plays my music. New music, however, is another issue: you just can't buy enough vinyl ;)

[Tarzan]

Hi Theo any further thoughts on the Cadanza Blue- l have a Black arriving soon.:rolleyes:

Oh did l say l could lose a year in that room.....:D

[Theo]

Hi Andy
I bought the Blue in preference to the Bronze: I did like the Black be couldn't afford it at the time. However, the Ortofon Per Windfeld is even better: I'd like that one next...

Having said that, I've had the Cadenza Blue re-tipped twice by ESCo (it does get a lot of use), the latest version of which sounds absolutely fantastic. I may just carry on down that avenue; it's far more cost effective.

[Tarzan]

Thanks Theo.:)

[Audio Al]

you just can't buy enough viny

:D

[walpurgis]

you just can't buy enough viny

:D

What's "viny" Al? Sounds interesting. :lol:;)

[Audio Al]

What's "viny" Al? Sounds interesting. :lol:;)

Opps the copy and paste missed a letter , or I did :D

[Theo]

Too true: still filling the boxes at an alarming rate...