View Full Version : Hlly T90 amp with Caiman as preamp?
Hmnn..
getting itchy feet with a touch of upgraditus with the run up to Xmas...
Thinking of amp upgrade - but on the cheap if possible?
Currently using Cambridge Audio Azur 640a, which I heard hooked up at Ali Taits place and it sounded good into his 'statics.
Been curious about the Hlly T90 amp as an upgrade to my amp? I could sell on the Cambridge and put the funds towards a Hlly.
I use my Caiman as a "switching centre" between all my bits of kit, so don't need an amp with lots of different inputs so Im thinking something like the Hlly would be a good bet in my system.
Ali says when he had his T90 it worked better through a preamp, so my question is how good the Caiman is as a Pre and how would I connect it up with the Hlly amp?
Also, on paper the Hlly sounds like it could be a good upgrade, what do you think?
Ta muchly.
Gaz.
Covenant
07-12-2010, 16:33
Have you read over on the Wam about the Mini-T amp Gaz? My namesake, Jerry, loves it and is using it with £18k of speakers but some people with inefficient speakers dont think it has enough welly.
Quite tempted meself for £60........
Why do you think the T90 would be an upgrade? I'd replace those speakers of yours if you really want to improve the sound you're getting - we've been here before IIRC...
Jerry l myself use the Mini-T and it sounds amazing, l mean really good if you do not need uber loudness, 1 input, does anybody know if you can use it as apre-amp without surgery:).
Why do you think the T90 would be an upgrade? I'd replace those speakers of yours if you really want to improve the sound you're getting - we've been here before IIRC...
Hey Dave,
we probably have, but that was before I upgraded my source to the Touch/Caiman and was then happy with my lot.
Why up(side)grade my amp?
Maybe I'm just a box shifter :)
I know speakers/room seem to be the agreed biggest factor in overall quality, but I'm looking to have more transparency and the Hlly (in fact T-amps in geberal) seem to major on that?
Just thinking I can get a bigger change for less money changing my amp as opposed to the speakers.
I changed the cable to Sterling Black Mamba an it gave my Ae109s the kick up the arse they needed.
hence looking at the amp, as its a cheaper option.
ta
gaz.
I use a Caiman (modded) into an Avondale A260 power amp. I have not found a better preamp for digital sources so far and I have owned quite a few in my time.
I suggest that the Avondale S100 "self build" is on your short list as they are very capable and have a great following on the PFM forum.
Regards
Chris
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 17:08
Gaz,I've not heard the mini-T,but lots of folks say it's very good,and you could get two for less than the price of one 90,then you could biamp. I'd say that would be a good step up from the Cambridge.
Thanks for reply, but as the AE109's are the only bit I know and remembering their odd lifeless balance as I do, my suggestion regarding a better speaker to better make use of the gear you have is still valid I reckon. You want more transparency? Consider a speaker change! :)
I use a Caiman (modded) into an Avondale A260 power amp. I have not found a better preamp for digital sources so far and I have owned quite a few in my time.
I suggest that the Avondale S100 "self build" is on your short list as they are very capable and have a great following on the PFM forum.
Regards
Chris
Humm, I do appear to be a "0" out on my recommendation - sorry I should have looked what the Hlly's are all about first. :eyebrows:
Regards
Chris
Hi Gaz,
I have several T-Amps (Muse & Bantams), and I think they're excellent value for the dosh, what sort of price bracket are you looking at? under a ton?
I presume you're thinking of using the touch for your volume control, or does the beresford have that functionality?
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 17:21
Both do.
Hi Gaz,
I have several T-Amps (Muse & Bantams), and I think they're excellent value for the dosh, what sort of price bracket are you looking at? under a ton?
I presume you're thinking of using the touch for your volume control, or does the beresford have that functionality?
Hey Will,
'bout £150(ish) including the proceeds of the sale of my Cambridge 640A
Gaz,I've not heard the mini-T,but lots of folks say it's very good,and you could get two for less than the price of one 90,then you could biamp. I'd say that would be a good step up from the Cambridge.
I think thats what Jerry (Jandll) has/had done with his T-Amps.
Sounds good Thanks Ali!
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 18:01
Think I'm going to try a pair to drive these OB's sometime soon.
Ali let us know you get on the Mini T driving the OB's I been toying with this idea for awhile
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 18:23
Will do,though not sure if they will have enough welly. I was considering something like this too-
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=350418236936&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_4576wt_957
For myself not have to worry about welly as 2 x 300watt sub plates for the bass and 95db for the duel concentrics I might even consider something like the Glow
Sorry Gazjam
I used to have the A1109 my first speakers many years ago I tend to agree with David replacing these would give you the biggest improvement in sound and if budget an issue you could always go down the DIY route
Read Jerry's Mini T-Amp thread on the Wam.
Theres something good about them for sure, despite the usual naysayers.
Never thought of biamping two Mini-T's...would this be a better amp setup than a single Hlly 90 you think?
Biamp benefits (hopefully more bass grunt) vs. more power from the T-90.
Its just the question of how to connect two of the Mini T's up to the Beresford.
This is where I'll need some help.
I like the idea of the midrange being so open and "high end", but wouldn't want it at the expense of bass.
So its the Hlly 90 or two MiniT's.
My speakers are pretty efficient and not too difficult to drive.
any thoughts appreciated!
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 18:58
Two amps would give you more power and probably better sound,as well as more flexibility for future speaker changes.All you'd need is some "Y" connectors as there are not two pre outs on the Beresford,though thinking about it,if you have the passive mod,which I think you have,the variable output could be wired to the fixed output so you'd have two pre outs to connect both amps to.
Two amps would give you more power and probably better sound,as well as more flexibility for future speaker changes.All you'd need is some "Y" connectors as there are not two pre outs on the Beresford,though thinking about it,if you have the passive mod,which I think you have,the variable output could be wired to the fixed output so you'd have two pre outs to connect both amps to.
Thanks Ali.
would there be any advantage to wiring the variable/fixed outputs together rather than just using Y connectors from the fixed outputs?
Less connectors in the path I suppose, but would you notice it?
In my experience the best sound I got of those speakers was when I bi-amp them
you not really going to notice the extra connector
Ali Tait
07-12-2010, 19:09
Thanks Ali.
would there be any advantage to wiring the variable/fixed outputs together rather than just using Y connectors from the fixed outputs?
Less connectors in the path I suppose, but would you notice it?
As you say,less connections,but as John says,I doubt you'd notice.You could just use something like this-
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/RCA-SPLITTER-Y-CONNECTOR-GOLD-BI-DIRECTIONAL-DJ-HOME-/380268471508?pt=UK_Computing_CablesConnectors_RL&hash=item5889c464d4#ht_1782wt_888
A small point, but probably worth considering, do you use ReplayGain at all on your Touch?
If so you'll need an amp with a bit more 'beef', on average all my stuff is about -6dB when I use it.
The Bantam monoblocks are ideal for your requirements (bi-amping etc.) but screw your price bracket by 100%.
I was looking at a 90wpc PopPulse myself but backed off on the price, but I think it's around £200 (again over your budget), but it is apparently easy to switch to power only.
For value for money I can't recommend the Muse M21 EX highly enough (plus power supply which really makes a difference), it's 25wpc, the pair plus postage came to around £90. They do several others and have heard nothing but good reviews, just a bit rubbish for after sales service.
Then there's the Bantam @ 15wpc (which is great, but for a main system a bit short on grunt for parties etc.), or the Bantam Gold (25 wpc) which does have a +6 additional gain option, and therefore is a bit more flexible.
I'm sure there are lots of other good implementations of T-Amps out there, I'm still stunned by how good they are.
A small point, but probably worth considering, do you use ReplayGain at all on your Touch?
If so you'll need an amp with a bit more 'beef', on average all my stuff is about -6dB when I use it.
The Bantam monoblocks are ideal for your requirements (bi-amping etc.) but screw your price bracket by 100%.
I was looking at a 90wpc PopPulse myself but backed off on the price, but I think it's around £200 (again over your budget), but it is apparently easy to switch to power only.
For value for money I can't recommend the Muse M21 EX highly enough (plus power supply which really makes a difference), it's 25wpc, the pair plus postage came to around £90. They do several others and have heard nothing but good reviews, just a bit rubbish for after sales service.
Then there's the Bantam @ 15wpc (which is great, but for a main system a bit short on grunt for parties etc.), or the Bantam Gold (25 wpc) which does have a +6 additional gain option, and therefore is a bit more flexible.
I'm sure there are lots of other good implementations of T-Amps out there, I'm still stunned by how good they are.
Thanks for that Will.
I dont use ReplayGain on my Touch at all, so hopefully its not an issue!
The Bantam Gold looks interesting...as does the Muse.
I like the idea of support with the Bantam, but absolute sound quality wise, does one win out over the other?
thanks.
ps the mono bantams look interesting, but a bit out of budget for the moment! Hopeing to "box-swap" my 640C for a direct replacement as much as possible. :)
Oh I do like my ReplayGain, great for random play lists on the squeezebox, like having your very own John Peel.:)
However it does drag the overall soundlevel down a bit:(
Now then which would I recommend, that's a tough one Gaz...
I'm running the Muse with an M-Audio 2496 soundcard, and the Bantam Gold with squeezebox receiver, both into mission 780SEs, and both with QED Qunex 3 interconnects, the Muse has QED Silver Bi-Wire, the Gold has QED Original bi-wire.
They both sound great, very detailed, fast, 3D soundstage etc the Muse is perhaps a little punchier, with lots of bass (really noticeable with the additional power supply like adding a sub), the Gold perhaps a little smoother.
But to be honest that could be just different characteristics of the two DACs, or the rooms.
I'll give them a switch tomorrow, I need to replace the Gold (it's a Christmas present for the in-laws, and I've been running it in), with my own Classic.
The classic itself is excellent, but I prefer the other two, and at 15wpc I'd worry on my main system.
So the Gold at £179, or the Muse at £90 (£28 for the amp £35 for the power supply + shipping)...if it was a money thing I'd have to say Muse, with the power supply it's quite staggering. However taking the money out of the equation....let me report back:scratch:
ok Boss...will do. :)
I had a look at the Muse online and couldn't find any reference to the extra power supply?
This Site is selling them..
http://www.dinodirect.com/amplifier-speaker-amp-adapter-m21-ex-ta2024.html?cur=GBP
...gotta love the text translation:
* Speaker output terminals are clamps, the signal input terminals is the lotus outlet, 2 channel output
* Alto voices moderate, it is a sound choice for lovers
:)
Where would you buy them from?
ta.
jandl100
08-12-2010, 10:01
I'm loaning Gaz a Mini-T amp to try out. We'll see how he gets on with it. Should be in the post today. :)
If it's got enough welly for him (a very personal judgement!) then I honestly don't think you can get better sound from kit that retails at under a grand.
I prefer it to several multi-£k amps I've compared it to.
Hamish kindly loaned me his HLLY Tamp90 amp - yep, more welly, but it didn't match the midrange speed and transparency that makes the TA2020 amps so special for me. Some folks prefer a more relaxed and easy-going sound than the TA2020 amps provide. Me? I prefer the extra rez, speed and openness.
And the bass is fab with the right speakers.
Yup...
watch this space. :)
big props to Jerry, what a nice guy!
Hi Gaz,
What a decent chap Jerry is...
Well the results are in and it's bad news and worse news...bugger!
When I turned on the Muse power supply (after relocating it in the kitchen setup), there was a huge 'pop' and that familiar smell of burning electrical components, I'd not turned the amp on so it's a fault with the power supply.
:steam:
But it's not an absolute disaster, like Ricky Ponting I'm going to try to get some positives out of this;:eyebrows:
I connected the Bantam Gold to my M-Audio 2496/QED Silver/780SE setup, and it's detailed yes, but sadly lacking in bass, I think the pairing with the QED silver speaker cable has exaggerated the top heavy effect (too shrill man!!). So I'm now scouring ebay for some QED Original wire to pair up with the Gold (it's intended as a gift, I've got some silver cable allocated but that will be a bad match)
I'm now listening to the Bantam Classic on the same rig, and it's much more pleasing, the bass is back!!. Now the classic is a tripath amp (the Gold is something different), at 15wpc, but there is a little trick to it, I've discovered that it has a +3 gain setting as standard, hence it sounds very loud for a 15wpc amp, and perhaps slightly less smooth at the top end than the Gold.
The Muse is the best of both worlds, particularly with the power supply, but as you can see reliability, and customer service might be an issue. i got mine and the power supply from ebay from this seller;
http://cgi.ebay.ph/MUSE-M21-EX-TA2021-T-Amp-Mini-Stereo-Amplifier-25WX2-G-/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120567506263#ht_4057wt_756
I've just emailed him to tell him of my power supply problems, we'll see what he comes back with.
Given that a replacement will be £60 (including P&P), I might just write it off and get a replacement, it really does make that much of a difference.
On closer inspection the Mini-T that Jerry has lent you looks almost identical to the Muse M20, there's another guy on this forum who has an M20 and swears by it. I wonder if they're from the same factory...
In summary if one forgets about the power supply problems then the Muse M21 wins hands down, regardless of cost, then comes the Classic, and the Gold a disappointing 3rd, particularly given its £179 cost.
I think the Gold will need some very careful matching, no silver anywhere in the loop is my guess.
I'll keep you informed of my 'customer support' endeavours with the Muse supplier...
Enjoy the Mini-T, I'll bet it's very similar to the Muse...
:)
hi Will,
bit pants about the PSU, - sods law I guess...
QED speaker cable?
ooohhhhhhhhhhhh......you dont wanna do that! :doh:
The silver QED can be very bright, and would probably be my LAST choice for a potential "bass light" amp like a T-Amp.
I'm sure replacing it with some good sensible heavy copper stuff would have a far better balance.
Have you thought about non QED cable? Its kinda known for not being fantastic....
A heavy guage copper cable from Maplins etc can be got for a couple of quid a metre...better imho than any QED.
THe Muse certainly seems to be your favourite...I'm after max sound per pound, but its always good to know if something goes wrong you can get it fixed.
I've just emailed him to tell him of my power supply problems, we'll see what he comes back with.
Watching this one with interest...
In summary if one forgets about the power supply problems then the Muse M21 wins hands down, regardless of cost, then comes the Classic, and the Gold a disappointing 3rd, particularly given its £179 cost.
The Bantam was my front runner actually...if the whole T-Amp thing does it for me then I was looking to get a pair of the Bantam monoblocks and run them into my Caiman.
Seems the non Tripath chip in it has a different house sound...hmnnn.
I think the Gold will need some very careful matching, no silver anywhere in the loop is my guess.
I'd go with that Will.
Cheers and thanks,
Gary.
Ali Tait
08-12-2010, 12:46
You can bet that power supply is meant for 220v,so will be on the edge with UK voltage.
jandl100
08-12-2010, 13:14
Hi Gaz,
..... Enjoy the Mini-T, I'll bet it's very similar to the Muse...
:)
I've got the Muse 20 as well. There is clearly a TA2020 house sound, and that is transparency and clarity in the mids like you may well have never heard before!
Pipe & Slippers listeners need not apply! :eyebrows:
But to my ears, the Mini-T is clearly the better sounding amp over the Muse. Same sort of clarity but it sounds like the Mini-T has better component quality ... which is what the Mini-T seller claims ... a more sophisticated and musical sound, imo. It sounds like the 'model up' from the Muse.
You can bet that power supply is meant for 220v,so will be on the edge with UK voltage.
Bullseye Ali...
60W Linear Power supply for T-AMP TA2024 TA2020 DAC
Input:110v or220v
Output:12V 5A
http://cgi.ebay.ph/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120609333234#ht_2362wt_866
Please excuse my poor electronics knowledge here chaps, I'm sure it'll give you a laugh anyway...
If you look at the photos on the above website, 3rd and 4th ones down, behind the right 'Kenwood' capacitor (is that a capacitor?), the black grill radiator thingy has had the back blown off it!!!
Do you think I could source an alternative supply better suited to the UK at a similar price from anywhere?
It made such an improvement to the sound...I miss it already
R.E T-amps sounding tinny...no no no, even with the QED silver (a perfect match for the muse/power supply) there's plenty of beef, in comparison the non T-Amp Gold sounded neutered.
As for Bantams I'll not be recommending the gold, and therefore the monoblocks again, the classic is still a belter however. :)
I've got the Muse 20 as well. There is clearly a TA2020 house sound, and that is transparency and clarity in the mids like you may well have never heard before!
Pipe & Slippers listeners need not apply! :eyebrows:
But to my ears, the Mini-T is clearly the better sounding amp over the Muse. Same sort of clarity but it sounds like the Mini-T has better component quality ... which is what the Mini-T seller claims ... a more sophisticated and musical sound, imo. It sounds like the 'model up' from the Muse.
That's probably why the additional power supply made such a difference...
I've got the Muse 20 as well. There is clearly a TA2020 house sound, and that is transparency and clarity in the mids like you may well have never heard before!
Pipe & Slippers listeners need not apply! :eyebrows:
But to my ears, the Mini-T is clearly the better sounding amp over the Muse. Same sort of clarity but it sounds like the Mini-T has better component quality ... which is what the Mini-T seller claims ... a more sophisticated and musical sound, imo. It sounds like the 'model up' from the Muse.
oh...
looking forward to your TAmp coming in the post even more Jerry. :)
Stratmangler
08-12-2010, 13:51
If you look at the photos on the above website, 3rd and 4th ones down, behind the right 'Kenwood' capacitor (is that a capacitor?), the black grill radiator thingy has had the back blown off it!!!
The black grill radiator thingy is a heat sink, and its probably had a voltage regulator attached to it - you should be able to get a replacement regulator.
The black grill radiator thingy is a heat sink, and its probably had a voltage regulator attached to it - you should be able to get a replacement regulator.
Thanks for helping an electronics numpty Chris, I'm a bit worried by Ali's accurate prediction, and perhaps I might be pouring good money after bad.
I might see if I can find an alternative UK supply that matches the same spec...or am I being too simplistic again?
Stratmangler
08-12-2010, 14:06
It might be possible to modify the PSU so that it doesn't go pop again - some decent piccies of the main board would be good.
It might be possible to modify the PSU so that it doesn't go pop again - some decent piccies of the main board would be good.
Bare with me Chris whilst I get some...
Stratmangler
08-12-2010, 14:10
When you get some decent snaps start a new thead in the DIY section;)
good luck with it Will! :)
good luck with it Will! :)
I'm beginning to think that cutting my losses might be the best bet, but we'll see...enjoy the Mini-T it sounds like a belter:)
looking forward to comparing it with my Cambridge 640.
Elsewhere a couple of folk have said their T-Amps aren't disgraced by the Cambridge 840.
THAT got my attention :)
Gaz, you could do a lot worse than driving south to buy these... (http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=8586) I reckon you'd make a big improvement over the AE109s.
Those speakers look fantastic Jason, sure they would be a big step up, but out of budget unfortunately...damn! :)
ah well...
Hi Gaz,
The Mini-T has arrived, in just 30 hours!!!
It's only been running for 3 hours and it sounds magnificent, I wonder if it will get any better? Hard to imagine how at the moment.
Well as Jerry said it is certainly a step up from the Muse without the PSU, whether it's better than the Muse with the PSU is another matter, it's certainly no worse (from memory). The bass is stonking, I've just been listening to 'Dubber Side of The Moon', what a treat!
But for the single box aesthetics, the customer service, and cost, if you factor in the additional cost of the Muse PSU (and import duty), it wins on all fronts. It also has much better binding posts so I can dispense with the banana plugs, which helps IMHO.
I'm keeping it, the intended recipient is getting the Bantam Classic instead...I do selfish very well.
Thanks again Jerry, top tip!!!
By the way the Muse supplier wants me to send the PSU back to China for repair, which will cost as much as the damned PSU in the first place. I'm off to give him some bad ebay feedback!
jandl100
12-12-2010, 11:14
Hi Gaz,
The Mini-T has arrived, in just 30 hours!!!
It's only been running for 3 hours and it sounds magnificent, I wonder if it will get any better? Hard to imagine how at the moment.
Well as Jerry said it is certainly a step up from the Muse without the PSU, whether it's better than the Muse with the PSU is another matter, it's certainly no worse (from memory). The bass is stonking, I've just been listening to 'Dubber Side of The Moon', what a treat!
But for the single box aesthetics, the customer service, and cost, if you factor in the additional cost of the Muse PSU (and import duty), it wins on all fronts. It also has much better binding posts so I can dispense with the banana plugs, which helps IMHO.
I'm keeping it, the intended recipient is getting the Bantam Classic instead...I do selfish very well.
Thanks again Jerry, top tip!!!
By the way the Muse supplier wants me to send the PSU back to China for repair, which will cost as much as the damned PSU in the first place. I'm off to give him some bad ebay feedback!
My pleasure, Will. :)
Yep, the Mini-T is pretty special in a lot of systems.
Some folks don't appreciate its virtues though - on the good ol' Wigwam there have been a few dissenters, but interestingly they are (for the most part) folks with humungous valve amps.
Come on, Gaz - how's it goin'? :cool:
... I won't be offended if it doesn't do it for you! ;)
Whether its a product of it having been running for 24 hours, or more likely that I had a minging hangover yesterday...it sounds even better today, probably the latter.:)
Blutack now inserted over BLUE LED, another good tip, one could perform laser surgery with the little bleeder.
:cool:
Got the TAmp on Saturday from Jerry, proper listen Tommorow with full report.
What I CAN say right from the getgo is that it is better than my Cambridge Azur 640 in every way apart from MAYBE bass depth, but that seems irrelevant to be honest, its so damn catchy!
Time wil tell if I miss the bass depth, to be honest I dont think theres much in it and its better in every other way.
tbc...
Got the TAmp on Saturday from Jerry, proper listen Tommorow with full report.
What I CAN say right from the getgo is that it is better than my Cambridge Azur 640 in every way apart from MAYBE bass depth, but that seems irrelevant to be honest, its so damn catchy!
Time wil tell if I miss the bass depth, to be honest I dont think theres much in it and its better in every other way.
tbc...
Any conclusions yet Gaz? :)
Maybe it's so good he's pinched it and gone into hiding...
jandl100
17-12-2010, 22:47
:(
Maybe it's so good he's pinched it and gone into hiding...
Uhm...
Thanks for that Simon... your a funny guy. :scratch: :)
Not really in the habit of pinching stuff mate.
Jerry..?
The amp is fab.
Better than my £250 Cambridge 640 which got great reviews.
Its more organised sounding, way more detail in the mids..a bit less solid in the bass I think, but the overall balance of this T-Amp is so good it doesn't really matter.
For those wondering, the treble is not bright or glaring at all..just very clear. Its not a "shiny" sounding amp, which really surprised me. Not the last word in bass depth, but it can be very dynamic and stops and starts very quickly.
I noticed this especially when watching movies through the caiman/TAmp.
I did have issues at the start though...but I wanted to make some changes in my system to see if I could suit the TAmp a bit better.
My initial problem was bass depth just didn't seem to be there, which was a pity as you were spot on Jerry when you spoke of the "insight" into the music. The mid and top end were very open...
Jerry had said that with the right speakers the amp could do good bass?
The Mini-T did a lot of things right in my system, apart from missing a chunk of the bottom end. The amp was so good in fact I tried to see if my system could be tweaked to suit the amp.
I made the speakers suit the amp better by moving them further back towards the wall. They were a couple of feet out from the back wall, and I moved them in a foot or so.
Problem solved!
All the clarity was there but the bass was much better.
Another thing I thought of was using the amp at max volume plugged into the variable outs of my caiman, and control volume from there.
I preferred the sound directly from the line outs, just wasn't as good.
Does the amp go loud enough?
Yup.
My speakers are 90db and any further than ten o'clock on the volume was getting too loud.
So I was very impressed with this little amp, its not for bass fans I'd say though...but the overall balance is fantastic, better than my £250 Cambridge amp for sure.
Great budget amp upgrade.
Thanks Jerry for the loaner, you have PM.
Good to hear you enjoyed the Mini-T
The bass from your Cambridge must be immense...as I think the bass from the Mini-T is very impressive, along with all of the other attributes you pointed out.
Probably down to speakers I suppose, I'm using mine with modded Mission 780SE's, I've always liked their bass response for a bookshelf speaker.
Given your review I don't think you should bother with the Bantam Gold, as the bass is rather more delicate.
My mini-t is now a permanent fixture, the Bantam Classic is going as a gift instead, I am a selfish bugger! :)
P.S. Muse PSU is being repaired for £30, and should be back in the fold by Tuesday, which is a nice result all round.
Hope the weather's better up your your end of the world, been snowing all morning down here.
:cool:
Hey Will...
Yeah the Mini-T's doing it for me have to say. :)
Theres no real sub-bass (not that there was that much with the Cambridge), which shows itself every now and again, but it doesn't really matter, as the balance is just spot on.
My main concern would be that it would sound bright..but not at all.
It does rock too, AC/DC guitar's snarl, drums thwack...all that good stuff.
Movies are great..lots of booms and bangs.
Moving the speakers back added the missing oomph to the sound, so I'd have to say the amp is quite speaker dependant?
Snows not too bad up here, light sprinkle overnight nothing serious.
-5 though :(
Bad time to have wooden floors throughout the house gotta say!
Hey Will...
Yeah the Mini-T's doing it for me have to say. :)
Theres no real sub-bass (not that there was that much with the Cambridge), which shows itself every now and again, but it doesn't really matter, as the balance is just spot on.
My main concern would be that it would sound bright..but not at all.
It does rock too, AC/DC guitar's snarl, drums thwack...all that good stuff.
Movies are great..lots of booms and bangs.
Moving the speakers back added the missing oomph to the sound, so I'd have to say the amp is quite speaker dependant?
Snows not too bad up here, light sprinkle overnight nothing serious.
-5 though :(
Bad time to have wooden floors throughout the house gotta say!
Bad time to have flu too, day 5 now, starting to feel a bit better, the rum is helping, the cricket is not (but that's my own private hell)...
I have to agree with you about 'rock' guitars and drums, just playing Battles at the moment, and the drums on 'Atlas' sound excellent..great attack, and depth. :)
Covenant
18-12-2010, 12:53
Does your T amp have the 5amp supply Gaz? Its supposed to be a bit better in the bass department. Thats what I have got (but not allowed to open until Christmas day) :)
jandl100
18-12-2010, 13:00
Thanks Jerry for the loaner, you have PM.
Hi Gaz
I'm really pleased you like the wee beastie! (I'd not call it timorous, though! ;)) Yup, I think it really is an amazing thing.
The bass is strange. Some folks have issues with light bass, others (including me) think it is actually exceptionally good, both in terms of quality and quantity!
Perhaps a matter of taste, or maybe speaker interaction?
No sign of a PM, btw ... But no rush to get the wee beastie back to me, as I have other toys to play with at the moment! (See my latest post on my Gallery System Blog).
Gosh, Gaz I was only joking! My apologies if that wasn't clear.
As for the Mini T, after reading this and other threads I think I'm pretty much decided on one for my second system. One came up on the wam for 50 notes the other day but it got snapped up immediately.
Gosh, Gaz I was only joking! My apologies if that wasn't clear.
As for the Mini T, after reading this and other threads I think I'm pretty much decided on one for my second system. One came up on the wam for 50 notes the other day but it got snapped up immediately.
I know buddy... :ner:
I read your blog, funny stuff!
never thought about the connection with Stretch Armstrong and the Pope....makes sense when you think about it!
Some great photos on Flikr too...
The T-Amps a cracker, as Jerry says there is something special about the mids and top end...it just lets more music through.
Cheers
Gaz.
Is this the Mini-T ? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Mini-T-T-Amp-HiFi-Amplifier-2A-PSU-TA2020-UK-SELLER-/170569197037?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item27b6b765ed
This looks to be the same pcb and components but a fair bit cheaper if any use to you Gaz, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NEW-Class-T-Amp-TA2020-Amplifier-Tripath-Chip-TA-2020-/250731423634?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item3a60c1e792
I'd have to see the full inside the miniT to be sure but the pic showing part of the miniT pcb looks the same as whats shown on the cheaper one
Is this the Mini-T ? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Mini-T-T-Amp-HiFi-Amplifier-2A-PSU-TA2020-UK-SELLER-/170569197037?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item27b6b765ed
This looks to be the same pcb and components but a fair bit cheaper if any use to you Gaz, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NEW-Class-T-Amp-TA2020-Amplifier-Tripath-Chip-TA-2020-/250731423634?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item3a60c1e792
I'd have to see the full inside the miniT to be sure but the pic showing part of the miniT pcb looks the same as whats shown on the cheaper one
It looks remarkably similar...I doubt it would work out much cheaper when you add the cost of the postage, the additional power supply, and the import duty, there's little difference in cost. The UK one does have the advantage of a warranty
Its worth searching around, from experience many of these cheap amps and dacs use the same pcb, just different enclosure and badge .
Either way I'd use the best linear based psu I could find , the Tripath based chips respond well to clean power and deserve better than a noisy SMPS
Ali Tait
19-12-2010, 01:08
I was going to get a couple of these to drive my OB's via a Behringer DCX2496, but in the end plumped for the Bantam Golds. Should get them Monday,weather permitting.
jandl100
19-12-2010, 07:52
This looks to be the same pcb and components but a fair bit cheaper if any use to you Gaz, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NEW-Class-T-Amp-TA2020-Amplifier-Tripath-Chip-TA-2020-/250731423634?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item3a60c1e792
Yep - both that seller and the Mini-T seller claim improved components for their products. Certainly there seems to be different sound quality between the Muse and the Mini-T, the Mini-T sounding like a 'model up' in the range. Although there is definitely a similar house-sound to all of the TA2020 chip amps - they are the most transparent and detailed t-amps that have come out yet, I think, and are a serious challenge to some very expensive conventional amps out there! :eyebrows:
And at £33.50 the one you linked to, Leo, is pretty damned stunning vfm! :eek: But bear in mind it is an import from China - with all the potential baggage (including import duty) that that brings, whereas the Mini-T (and some other TA2020 amps, like the Muse) are available in the UK.
I have to say though that the Mini-T's asking price has escalated surprisingly over the last couple of months .... :scratch: .... surely that is not in response to the good press it has been getting on the forums? :rolleyes:
Is this the Mini-T ? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Mini-T-T-Amp-HiFi-Amplifier-2A-PSU-TA2020-UK-SELLER-/170569197037?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item27b6b765ed
This looks to be the same pcb and components but a fair bit cheaper if any use to you Gaz, http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NEW-Class-T-Amp-TA2020-Amplifier-Tripath-Chip-TA-2020-/250731423634?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Amplifiers&hash=item3a60c1e792
I'd have to see the full inside the miniT to be sure but the pic showing part of the miniT pcb looks the same as whats shown on the cheaper one
Thats the one Jerry was talking about and the one I have...
that other one DOES look exactly the same, thanks Leo.
Also, you mentioned using a good linear supply for best results?
The website of Jerrys T-Amp mentions that the amp can be run at 13.8V for better effect and I've read on DIYAudio about using a 13.8V supply as the "sweet spot" for these amps.
I'm using the Maplins CB Radio Linear supply with my Caiman..
http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?moduleno=231
looks like this one would tick all the boxes for the T-Amp also?
A good upgrade from the noisy switcher you think?
Would the 3A version be enough?
After some research I've noticed that some say 13.8v is borderline for frying the chip, but i checked the TA2020 spec sheet and it says Supply Voltage (Typical)=13.5V, (Max)=14.6.
So it would seem the Maplin supply would be no problem voltage wise? :scratch:
ta.
I have to say though that the Mini-T's asking price has escalated surprisingly over the last couple of months .... :scratch: .... surely that is not in response to the good press it has been getting on the forums? :rolleyes:
Its the "Jerry Effect", a now infamous internet phenomenon :)
Its worth searching around, from experience many of these cheap amps and dacs use the same pcb, just different enclosure and badge .
Either way I'd use the best linear based psu I could find , the Tripath based chips respond well to clean power and deserve better than a noisy SMPS
Hi leo,
Interesting you should say that, as well as the mini-t I also have a muse m21 and upgraded 60w linear psu (@12v 5A), which is currently at the doctors, there's another thread on the subject in DIY.
The M21 amp with postage was about £35, and the PSU almost twice that at £65, so the cost starts to rack up a little. As far as the import duty goes they can sing for it...I had a nasty experience with some of my possessions when I moved back from HK, but that's my own little issue.
The difference in sound quality when using the Muse with the PSU as opposed to a standard switching type (excuse my terminology here) was quite remarkable. Initially it sounds as if someone has just turned on a sub (it's that obvious), not to mention overall depth. Even the missus was amazed, and that's a good benchmark.
Now as you've probably gathered I'm an electronics numpty, but as my new mini-t is also running from a 12v 5A switch unit, I'll be interested to see what it sounds like running from the muse PSU, when it is repaired, assuming that I can get a compatible connector.
Any words of caution with regards to connector polarity etc.
I'm sure there are other PSU's available, but the Muse one might be a good generic 'upgrade' for any t-amp of this type (as long as it doesn't blow up on you!!!)...or am I being too simplistic?
One word of caution about getting things directly from china however, is that at this price point, sending faulty goods back is prohibitively expensive, so it can be a gamble.
Be watching this one Will to see how the Mini-T responds to a linear PSU.
Me too, the Mini-T is a quite remarkable sounding little amp:)
How do you find the Bass Andy?
I have also taken the plunge with the mini T (teeny isn't it?) and would also be interested in how it performs with a beefier PSU. I have the 2amp version (45 quid off a bloke from the wam, can't complain).
I've barely given it a moment's trial yet, and as I've just sold the PMCs and reverted to the unfamiliar ProAcs, it's hard to evaluate critically. However I can say that a) it works, and b) it doesn't sound half bad.
As others have observed the 'on' light is at least the second brightest thing in the universe.
...Muse PSU repair will be after new year, parts held up in the crimbo jam.
Just got up after a very messy night, my mates 40th, some unrecognisable people crashed out in the living room. The fuse on my DAC has blown (repaired and fully functional now), and all of my squeezebox devices are connected to mysqueezebox.com...what on earth happened!!!
Oh my head...;)
Top tip, Never try to operate a network music system whilst pissed!!!
Hi Ali :)
I was wondering how you got on with the Bantam Golds.
I’m having a bit of a reconsider with regard to my not so ongoing active speaker experiments.
I’ve got a couple of people interested in my Quantum kit. Basically I’ve got 2 pre amps and 3 power. Both preamps are in reasonable condition and standard while two of the power amps have no cases. One guy is interested in the full kit but the other is happy to re-box the powers.
I was thinking of the Bantams as replacements so anything you can tell me about the performance compared to whatever you’ve had in the past would be appreciated.
Ali Tait
24-12-2010, 13:29
Hi John,
I was going to put a post up about them when I'd properly evaluated them as I just got them yesterday.I got two of the integrated amps, not the power amps.I'd have liked the powers,but I would need four as I'm running them via a Behringer DCX2496 into my two-way OB's, and that would have been a little expensive just for AV use.
First impressions-These things are TINY! Looking from the top they are smalller than a cd cover. Great for tucking away somewhere, could even be put inside a speaker. They look and feel well made too,with a nice quality finish. Socketry looks good too.
I'm using them biamping horizontally,one doing L and R bass,and the other driving the L and R B200's,which take over from the Eminences at 200 Hz on up.
When I first plugged them in I was very unimpressed, but they obviously need to run in, so I suspended judgement. After a few hours,the sound really opened up and the bass has become deep,tight and fast. They are sounding even better today,after being left on overnight. Soundstaging and imaging are very good,if not up with the best valve amps I've heard.
It's difficult to compare to the Hlly I had,as I didn't get to hear the Hlly with these OB's,but I get the impression these are comfortably better. They certainly seem better than the pair of DPA Enlightenment amps I recently sold,and they were rather good, which would seem to make these something of a bargain. It would be interesting to compare one to the mini-t. Perhaps if Gary gets one we could get to hear both sometime. Note I'm driving mine with my tweaked WAD Pre 2,which IMHO is a very good pre and may be improving the sound. It certainly did with the Hlly.
I also have a good linear supply which I will try on the amps when they've had a chance to run in for a few days, that should further improve the performance.
On possible caveat, these OB's are about 95Db/w/m,so that may be one reason they sound so good. You may need the extra power of the monos for more conventional speakers.
That's my initial impressions, I'll post more when they've had a chance to burn in more. Any questions,just ask.
...Muse PSU repair will be after new year, parts held up in the crimbo jam.
Just got up after a very messy night, my mates 40th, some unrecognisable people crashed out in the living room. The fuse on my DAC has blown (repaired and fully functional now), and all of my squeezebox devices are connected to mysqueezebox.com...what on earth happened!!!
Oh my head...;)
Top tip, Never try to operate a network music system whilst pissed!!!
Shame theres not a playlist "history" on the squeezebox..see what was played last night..
Might find out someones a closet Charlotte Church fan
(you DO have that in your collection I take it..?) :)
p.s. lots of Tramadol and hot chocolate during the day works for me. :cool:
Hi John,
I was going to put a post up about them when I'd properly evaluated them as I just got them yesterday.I got two of the integrated amps, not the power amps.I'd have liked the powers,but I would need four as I'm running them via a Behringer DCX2496 into my two-way OB's, and that would have been a little expensive just for AV use.
First impressions-These things are TINY! Looking from the top they are smalller than a cd cover. Great for tucking away somewhere, could even be put inside a speaker. They look and feel well made too,with a nice quality finish. Socketry looks good too.
I'm using them biamping horizontally,one doing L and R bass,and the other driving the L and R B200's,which take over from the Eminences at 200 Hz on up.
When I first plugged them in I was very unimpressed, but they obviously need to run in, so I suspended judgement. After a few hours,the sound really opened up and the bass has become deep,tight and fast. They are sounding even better today,after being left on overnight. Soundstaging and imaging are very good,if not up with the best valve amps I've heard.
It's difficult to compare to the Hlly I had,as I didn't get to hear the Hlly with these OB's,but I get the impression these are comfortably better. They certainly seem better than the pair of DPA Enlightenment amps I recently sold,and they were rather good, which would seem to make these something of a bargain. It would be interesting to compare one to the mini-t. Perhaps if Gary gets one we could get to hear both sometime. Note I'm driving mine with my tweaked WAD Pre 2,which IMHO is a very good pre and may be improving the sound. It certainly did with the Hlly.
I also have a good linear supply which I will try on the amps when they've had a chance to run in for a few days, that should further improve the performance.
On possible caveat, these OB's are about 95Db/w/m,so that may be one reason they sound so good. You may need the extra power of the monos for more conventional speakers.
That's my initial impressions, I'll post more when they've had a chance to burn in more. Any questions,just ask.
Hey Ali,
be getting one after New Year, be good to do a comparison with the Banthams..If the Banthams is waay better I'm sure I could pass the TAmp on no problem.
Give you a shout once the Hogmanay hangover clears up Ali, be good to hear your full Range speeks too if you dont mind lugging them in the van!
New kitchen fitted this week, Decorating all done by then! :)
Ali Tait
24-12-2010, 13:44
Sounds good! Gimme a shout when you're ready. I can certainly bring the OB's.
Sorry for the late reply Gazjam, the bass from the Mini-T into Harbs in a small room is comfortably the best l have heard in my small room, full, round and very, very controlled, in my system tastes it really reminds me of the Lavardin IT l had on loan a few years ago- and l am not joking,Merry Christmas, and l am sober.
Shame theres not a playlist "history" on the squeezebox..see what was played last night..
Might find out someones a closet Charlotte Church fan
(you DO have that in your collection I take it..?) :)
p.s. lots of Tramadol and hot chocolate during the day works for me. :cool:
Thankfully one of the major benefits of using the receiver is that no one can hack into your system, as long as you keep your phone well hidden that is...so my Charlotte secret is still safe ;)
I’m sorry to butt in yet again chaps but who here has the most knowledge and experience with D class amps or gainclones?
I'm about to sell my soul and I want to make sure i get my monies worth :eek:
The next potential step up for the T-amp'ers is adding a beefier PSU, probably linear.
Not a lot of opinion on this floating around here, apart from you Will with your Muse PSU, but not much on the Mini-T...
A couple of interesting opinions over on the Wam though, in Jerry's monster Mini-T thread he says he didn't find much benefit from adding a beefy linear PSU...which made me think if indeed theres any benefit from it.
On the suppliers Ebay site he also seems to suggest theres no benefit from adding a better supply to it, yet adds that the amp can be used with 13.8V no problem?
From my own experience with the Beresford Dac and audio benefits from added voltage, I'm taking it pumping more volts through the Mini-T will benefit the sound?
Whether adding a linear supply as opposed to the switcher that comes with it will bring benefit is smething I guess only those with experience of trying it out can answer....
Anyone had a play with linear supplies at higher voltages with the mini T?
I can try this out myself later as I've got the Maplins CB Radio linear supply feeding my Caiman...I can reduce the voltage and hook it up to the Mini-T and use the original supply with the Caiman.
Not a case of all things being equal, but will at least give me an idea.
But I'm asking if anyone's done this already, would be good info to have for T-Amp fans.
(including myself!)
Ta.
Ali Tait
29-12-2010, 11:17
I've yet to try one of my linear supplies on the Bantam Golds, I'll get round to it. They do sound very good as is though.
Hi Chaps, still no ETA on the Muse PSU, parts are still on back order, I'll keep you updated.
As an electronics numpty I'm a bit confused with regards to the optimum power supply, and compatibility for these amps.
The Bantam Gold's standard supply is 15V & 3A, the Muse's original was 13.5V & 4A, the mini-t is 12V & 5A.
The muse 60W linear PSU is 12V & 5A.
What are the risks of using the Muse PSU with any of the amps, what about polarity etc? I'd rather not blow anything up again!!!! :doh:
What supply do you intend to try with the Golds Ali? Glad to hear that you're happy with your purchase by the way...
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 14:01
Hi Will,
Your supply will be fine as long as it can supply the rated current of the amp,so don't worry that the Muse supply states a higher amperage, this is just the maximum it can supply. Whatever you use it with will just drag as much current as it needs. The only problem would come if you tried to power something that needed more amps than the power supply can give- you would then burn out the supply.
The only other thing to watch out for is the polarity of the d.c. plug. Most things are center positive, so if your dc plug that you plug into the amp is a hollow tube, the inside of the tube is positive, and the outside is negative. It should say on the back of the amps next to the dc socket which way round the polarity should be- you should see a little picture of a line going into a cup shape. The line may say positive,and the cup shape may say negative- this is center positive. As I said, most things are center positive, so just check in case it's the other way round but it's unlikely.
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 14:04
BTW, I asked John about voltage for the Golds- they will work with 9-18v.
Hi Will,
Your supply will be fine as long as it can supply the rated current of the amp,so don't worry that the Muse supply states a higher amperage, this is just the maximum it can supply. Whatever you use it with will just drag as much current as it needs. The only problem would come if you tried to power something that needed more amps than the power supply can give- you would then burn out the supply.
The only other thing to watch out for is the polarity of the d.c. plug. Most things are center positive, so if your dc plug that you plug into the amp is a hollow tube, the inside of the tube is positive, and the outside is negative. It should say on the back of the amps next to the dc socket which way round the polarity should be- you should see a little picture of a line going into a cup shape. The line may say positive,and the cup shape may say negative- this is center positive. As I said, most things are center positive, so just check in case it's the other way round but it's unlikely.
Cheers for the info Ali...that's a great help :cool:
Gaz, you'll be happy to know I'm about to replace the QED silver anniversary currently connected to my mini-t with maplins OFCopper ones...I'll report back in an hour or so...now where are those pliars...:eyebrows:
Hey Will,
yeah...the QED might be affecting your treble somewhat, getting some copper in theres a good shout.
Ali,
did John reckon theres an "ideal" voltage for running the Banthams with?
The Maplins linear PSU can deliver 15V, which sits in the middle(ish) of the operating range.
ta.
Hey Will,
yeah...the QED might be affecting your treble somewhat, getting some copper in theres a good shout.
Ali,
did John reckon theres an "ideal" voltage for running the Banthams with?
The Maplins linear PSU can deliver 15V, which sits in the middle(ish) of the operating range.
ta.
Interesting effect, and certainly a positive one, even at this early stage...
There's no additional sub bass, which I was worried about as my desk surface already resonates a bit at higher volumes.
The most noticeable change is that there's more beef in the lower midrange area, less bright at the top end, and I'm already listening to stuff a bit louder, which is nice. It seems a little more tolerant with more 'compressed' recordings, e.g. the new 'Arcade Fire' album 'The Suburbs' sounds much improved
I suppose the QED Silver might be OK with a 'warmer' amp, but doesn't suit the characteristics of these T-Amps, it completely neutered the Bantam Gold when I tried it. Perhaps I'll try it with my Audiolab 8000S, or even better send it back to ebay from whence it came.
:cool:
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 16:52
Hey Will,
yeah...the QED might be affecting your treble somewhat, getting some copper in theres a good shout.
Ali,
did John reckon theres an "ideal" voltage for running the Banthams with?
The Maplins linear PSU can deliver 15V, which sits in the middle(ish) of the operating range.
ta.
He didn't say Gary, though I guess it'll just mean a little less or more output power, so the ideal voltage would be totally system dependent. The linear supply I will be using is 15v too. The supplied PS is 15v too, so I guess they think this is the best voltage to use it at.
Interesting effect, and certainly a positive one, even at this early stage...
There's no additional sub bass, which I was worried about as my desk surface already resonates a bit at higher volumes.
The most noticeable change is that there's more beef in the lower midrange area, less bright at the top end, and I'm already listening to stuff a bit louder, which is nice. It seems a little more tolerant with more 'compressed' recordings, e.g. the new 'Arcade Fire' album 'The Suburbs' sounds much improved
I suppose the QED Silver might be OK with a 'warmer' amp, but doesn't suit the characteristics of these T-Amps, it completely neutered the Bantam Gold when I tried it. Perhaps I'll try it with my Audiolab 8000S, or even better send it back to ebay from whence it came.
:cool:
Copper cables are certainly less bright and can tame some systems but silvers can be a joy in others with the opposite effect, just proves again that you don't have to spend fortunes on cables to get results, you could always try 2.5 flat twin and earth for speaker cables as well
Copper cables are certainly less bright and can tame some systems but silvers can be a joy in others with the opposite effect, just proves again that you don't have to spend fortunes on cables to get results, you could always try 2.5 flat twin and earth for speaker cables as well
Jon this Hi-Fi malarkey never ceases to confuse me, I'd always used copper speaker cable in the past, the only silver I possessed were my interconnects, a chord chameleon, and a couple of QED Qunex 3s.
Both of which I really like, plenty of bass & detail, so I was trawling on ebay for bi-wire cable for some new Mission 780SEs, and it's all QED Silver anniversary, (I now realise why), so I took the plunge, what could go wrong?.
It's not a good match with these new T-Amps (particularly for guitar/rock), with the Mini-T it's not too bad, as it has loads of bass, but with the Bantam Gold oh dear what a bad combination.
As I said I'll give it a whirl on my Audiolab 8000S and see if that's a better match.
Will,
how would you compare the Mini-T against the Bantham?
Will,
how would you compare the Mini-T against the Bantham?
That's a tough one Gaz, in the context of the systems I've used them in the Mini-T seems punchier with more bass etc, and the Muse for that matter.
Because I'd had the Bantam Classic beforehand I had really high hopes for the Gold, being twice the price, but I found it a bit lacking in bass, but at the same time very detailed and precise.
It probably needs some more careful matching than the mini-t...how's that for a cop out.
I'd like to hear it with the PSU ;)
How do you find the volume on the Mini-t, is it loud enough for you on a main system?
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 21:31
I'm using a pair of golds on 95Db/W/M Ob's, and there is no shortage of bass.
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 21:35
... so I'd say the gold needs speakers with an easy load.
... so I'd say the gold needs speakers with an easy load.
...and there is that big advantage of the extra gain if you want to blow the wax out of everyone's ears.
:)
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 21:58
Not sure there is any extra gain? Better separation between mid/top and bass perhaps.I'm only using two as my actively driven speakers need two stereo amps.
Not sure there is any extra gain? Better separation between mid/top and bass perhaps.I'm only using two as my actively driven speakers need two stereo amps.
...ah I'm not making myself very clear.
If you use it as an integrated amp, you can reset it to a +6 gain pre-amp setting by holding the power button in for 30 secs until it flashes, then turn it back on and put your fingers in your ears...:)
It's not a well documented feature...
Reid Malenfant
30-12-2010, 22:08
Not sure there is any extra gain? Better separation between mid/top and bass perhaps.I'm only using two as my actively driven speakers need two stereo amps.
Actually there is ;) An active system can be much louder than a passive even with amplifiers of exactly the same power :)
Because you are splitting things each amplifier can generate up to "X" volts in the load. With a single amplifier doing all frequencies power to the tweeter will obviously be produced at the same time as any mid & bass & it'll add extra voltage output to the amp, meaning it'll clip earlier or at lower volume...
Split it & you might get a 6Db increase in volume due to each amp doing it's own frequencies..
95Db speakers 1W 1M :eek: Not a lot of power needed to go very loud :)
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 23:46
Yes I was aware of the added 6Db, but I don't think it'll make a big difference in practice. Anyhow, there is plenty volume available!
Ali Tait
30-12-2010, 23:47
...ah I'm not making myself very clear.
If you use it as an integrated amp, you can reset it to a +6 gain pre-amp setting by holding the power button in for 30 secs until it flashes, then turn it back on and put your fingers in your ears...:)
It's not a well documented feature...
Cheers Will, yes I was aware of that, though they say best sound quality is on the lower scale. Output is fine as is! :)
Cheers Will, yes I was aware of that, though they say best sound quality is on the lower scale. Output is fine as is! :)
Indeed...
Not much use in your configuration Ali, but it can be useful when it's used as a stand alone integrated amp... :)
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 09:57
Gave it a try last night on the high gain setting. Can't use it as I get a little hiss from the Behringer crossover, which you can't hear on normal gain unless you put your ear up to a cone, but on high gain I can hear it across the room. It is a lot louder though, I could only turn the vol pot about 20mm.
That's a tough one Gaz, in the context of the systems I've used them in the Mini-T seems punchier with more bass etc, and the Muse for that matter.
Because I'd had the Bantam Classic beforehand I had really high hopes for the Gold, being twice the price, but I found it a bit lacking in bass, but at the same time very detailed and precise.
It probably needs some more careful matching than the mini-t...how's that for a cop out.
I'd like to hear it with the PSU ;)
How do you find the volume on the Mini-t, is it loud enough for you on a main system?
Will,
volume wise the Mini-T is more than ample into my 90db speakers.
Any further than 11 o'clock on the pot and its too loud.
The good thing when compared to my Cambridge amp is that the T-Amp gets more dynamic as the volume pot goes up..not just louder.
Just wish there was that extra low end weight..it'd be perfect!
The T-Amps balance is spot on, its just every now and again I'm reminded that theres some welly missing at the bottom end.
Maybe bi-ampings the way to go? One amp to each speaker I think it is?
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 10:30
Or if your speakers are biwireable you could use one amp on l+r bass and the other on l+r mid/top.
I think I try out the Mini T see how it compares against a big valve power amp
Is it better to go for the one with the bigger power supply
I think I try out the Mini T see how it compares against a big valve power amp
Is it better to go for the one with the bigger power supply
Hi John,
Err...as it was only a £5 difference I went for it for 'piece of mind'/'hi fi paranoia', I think the one Gaz/Jerry have is the same.
Not sure if anyone on here has done a comparison, but it would appear that this type of amp benefits from a better power supply.
Worth a punt I would say :)
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 11:28
Can the mini t be bridged?
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 11:45
Scratch that, found the answer- it's no as it's already bridged.
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 11:51
... which thinking about it may be the cause of the bass light sound some are reporting. Bridged amps will supply more power, but don't like low impedance loads, and modern ported speakers often have a dip in impedance at bass frequencies.
The Bantam Gold is the same I think,but my OB's present an easy impedance load, so bass is not an issue.
... which thinking about it may be the cause of the bass light sound some are reporting. Bridged amps will supply more power, but don't like low impedance loads, and modern ported speakers often have a dip in impedance at bass frequencies.
The Bantam Gold is the same I think,but my OB's present an easy impedance load, so bass is not an issue.
Not sure about others experience with the mini-t, but since my change to copper wires (yesterday) the bass is even more in evidence (using mission 780SEs).
I'm wondering now how to stop my desk top from resonating!!!
More potted plants I think (excuse the mid decorating) :)
Ali Tait
31-12-2010, 16:10
Good stuff. It was just a thought. May not be an issue in practice.
Good stuff. It was just a thought. May not be an issue in practice.
Probably depends on the speakers as you say...
dave2010
31-12-2010, 21:07
Just spotted this thread. The HLLY 90 is rated at 45 Watts versus 25 Watts/channel for the Bantam Gold. I'm still coming to terms with the Bantam G, as the missus doesn't go out often enough for me to connect it up and belt things out. My guess is that the HLLY should go louder if that's an issue - with the Bantam it's not unbearable even at close to full power, and that's feeding it direct from a Caiman.
There are certainly a few parts of some CDs which sound absolutely amazing through the Caiman/BG combination at moderate to high levels.
My reservations about the HLLY were perhaps largely due to buying from China. A very slight reservation about the BG is that the volume control knob - if you use that - which you probably should do - might be slightly loose. It sure runs cold that amp though. Ah - I should mention that there isn't enough power from the headphone outputs of the Caiman - the ones with the volume control in the circuit - to drive the amp. You have to use the regular outputs, and use the volume control on the BG. There is a fix to give the BG a higher output level at the expense of more distortion, but I've not tried that yet. To do that the ON button has to be held in until the LED flashes.
Guys - thought I'd just ask whether anyone had made progress with the beefy PSUs and if you have any results to share.
I've been using the mini T now for a few weeks with ProAc Ref 8 Signatures and it sounds terrific. It's really good on its own, but through my modded Caiman it is better (strikingly more bass presence).
I do sometimes get a bit of interference through the speakers when I adjust the volume. Is that a common experience? I suspect I need to make the speaker attachments more secure.
Ali Tait
07-01-2011, 23:11
I am currently using the pair of Golds I have with their supplied SMPS, with which they sound very good. I do have a high quality regulated linear supply which I'm going to try on the amps tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.
Guys - thought I'd just ask whether anyone had made progress with the beefy PSUs and if you have any results to share.
I've been using the mini T now for a few weeks with ProAc Ref 8 Signatures and it sounds terrific. It's really good on its own, but through my modded Caiman it is better (strikingly more bass presence).
I do sometimes get a bit of interference through the speakers when I adjust the volume. Is that a common experience? I suspect I need to make the speaker attachments more secure.
Still waiting for the muse PSU to be repaired...parts on back order :(
I've not heard any noise at all when adjusting the volume on the Mini-T, as you say it could be the speaker connections, they are a bit fiddly :)
daveyboy
10-01-2011, 19:43
I have not posted for aaaaaaaaaaages, but I concur, I have a modded 7510 beresford used as the preamp, and using NAD C352 as the power amp. The improvement in sound quality has been massive
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.3 Copyright © 2026 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.