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  1. #101
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by FlexibleAudio View Post
    Awesome Ken! I am really happy for you. Can't wait to here more but its cool if you do nothing but eat, sleep and Vandy for the next few days.
    Thanks Paul! The Vandy 7 MkII just take my breath away. I had an ear to ear grin all evening while listening. Even my wife, who thinks I'm crazy for changing, said wow, they are amazing.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  2. #102
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Congrats Ken, a "dialed in" Vandy system can be something special to hear.
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

    Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810

    Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.

  3. #103

    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hi Mike,

    I'll take some pics as soon as the Raidho D3's aren't blocking the view...literally!

    There is a certain rightness to voices and the timbres of instruments with the Vandy 7's that's hard to put into words.

    Hope you're having fun at the Munich Show. My wife and I are talking about possibly going next year. She's an opera buff and the trip would be half high-end audio and half opera.

    Best,
    Ken
    another soulution moment

  4. #104
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I was listening to Kenny Barron (piano) and Dave Holland (bass), The Art of Conversation last night. The dual 12 inch powered subwoofers in each speaker deliver amazingly powerful, detailed and articulate bass. I'm sure the Soulution components upstream are playing a big part in that delivery. However, the bass is in no way overbearing and integrates beautifully. It builds a cohesive and seamless foundation for the midrange and treble.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  5. #105
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    How did I miss the big announcement ??

    Ken, I'm so sorry to be late to the party, but CONGRATS on a world class set of speakers!!

    When we spoke a few months ago I had the feeling that this was where you'd land. I've demoed the 7's in Atlanta a few years ago, they sounded fantastic. I'm sure the latest version is off the charts.

    Enjoy them in good health for many years!!!
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  6. #106
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Thanks Mark! I love the sound, size and looks of these speakers. They don't need to be in the near field listening position, so their optimal location gives me several feet of my room back. Right now, I just have some bamboo screening around the room that the dealer loaned me. The speakers sounds awesome and very smooth across the entire frequency range. I am planning to do additional room treatments though.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  7. #107
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Vandersteen 7 MkII are in the house and set up!!!!

    They are truly beautiful looking speakers in tungsten silver, which shows off their great lines.

    I'm already impressed as heck with the ease of their sound.

    Ken

    Congrats Ken! These Vandies are wonderful speakers. Haven't heard the MKIIs - did like the original 7s.

    Enjoy in good health!
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  8. #108
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Hi Ken, how many hours thru break in for the Vandy 7's? How are the 501's pairing up w/ them so far?
    Le Roy

    Austin, Tx : Soulution 520 preamp, 501 mono blocks, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D3.1, Lumin U1, Uptone Audio Modded Mac Mini w/ MMK fanless kit & JS-2 LPS, Regen, Ansuz DTC loom (complete), Oppo 105D, QNAP TS-451+

    Chicagoland : Soulution 725 preamp, 711 stereo amp, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D5.1, Naim UnitiServe 2TB, Aurender W-20 Ansuz DTC later generation wire, Teac X1000 R2R, QNAP TS-451+

    Foundation:
    Raidho Rack system, Ansuz DTC Mainz8, Ansuz (2) Supreme Mainz D8 Distribution, 20 amp dedicated outlets via subpanel

  9. #109
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Hi Le Roy,

    Not too many hours today or overall yet. Many hours of break in still to go. I was busy most of the day. The Soulution 501 monoblocks are sounding excellent so far. The speakers are so transparent, you can really hear the amps, preamp and source, and the music of course. The Vandy 7 MkII's are a very clear window upstream. Similar to my Salon 2's but greater transparency, a bigger soundstage and greater ease. In addition, the midrange is more involving. It just draws you into the performance and doesn't let you go.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  10. #110
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken. We won't believe you until you prove it with pic !!!Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Paul

  11. #111
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Paul View Post
    Ken. We won't believe you until you prove it with pic !!!Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Paul,

    When I get the chance, I'll slide the Raidho D3's out of the way and take one.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  12. #112
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Oh man, the Vandy 7 MkII's just draw me in. Zero listening fatigue, I mean zero. Smoothest and least colored tweeter and midrange I've ever heard. They just strip away all the bad stuff and only the music remains. The bass is wonderful too, what a foundation they lay down. I'm having a lot of fun.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  13. #113
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Congrats Ken! The sound will get even better as the speakers break in. Enjoy them in good health! I suppose you are still driving them with the Soulution 500's ?

  14. #114
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by CharlesL View Post
    Congrats Ken! The sound will get even better as the speakers break in. Enjoy them in good health! I suppose you are still driving them with the Soulution 500's ?
    Thanks Charles! Yes, still driving with Esoteric K-01X, Soulution 520 Pre, 501 monoblocks and Kimber Select cabling. With the low sensitivity of the Vandy's, I was a little concerned that the 501's might not have enough power. However, it was no issue at all. The 501's don't even break a sweat!

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  15. #115
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I'm glad everything is sounding great Ken!!! It's cool when a plan comes together. I suspect you found your happy place.

    I'm just happy my old vintage speakers are still sounding decent
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  16. #116
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    I'm glad everything is sounding great Ken!!! It's cool when a plan comes together. I suspect you found your happy place.
    I'm just happy my old vintage speakers are still sounding decent
    Hi Mark,

    You crack me up! The Salon 2's are anything but old or vintage. How about classic. The fact that Harman, with all the R&D they have to leverage, has not been able to materially improve on the Salon 2 design in 8 years speaks volumes about the quality of their engineering. Still one of the flattest frequency responses that Stereophile has ever measured, coupled with one of the best sounding beryllium tweeters on the market. All offered at a price that makes the other manufacturers blush.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  17. #117
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I was just teasing. But I do suffer from new speaker envy!
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  18. #118
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    I was just teasing. But I do suffer from new speaker envy!
    I do to, speaker envy, amp envy boat envy , envy everywhere
    2chl : Vincent Sp331MkII, W4S STP-SE Stage 2, Kef 201/2, KEF 140, Vapor Breeze, Lumin, Bryston CD, BHA-1, Quicksilver Headamp, HD650, HD800s, HD820's, Dan Clark 1.1, Focal Stellia, OPPO 203, 105. ( Boxed up: Pass Xa-30.5, VPI Classic, Dynavector DV-20XL, Manley Chinook, Cadenza Bronze)

  19. #119

    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I wish someone would buy Ken's Raidho's so we could see some pictures of his new Vandy's!


    Congrats again Ken! What a beautiful system.

    ~Mike
    ~Mike

    McIntosh
    C2300 preamp, Gold Lion 12AX7A Tubes, MC601 amps, MR88 tuner, Bryston BDP-1, BDA-1, BHA-1 Magnepan 3.7i speakers, Mye stands, Sonus Faber Guarneri Mementos, JL F110 Subs, Sound Anchor Sub stands, Nakamichi 480 cassette deck, Tandberg 9141X reel to reel, Bang & Olufsen 1700 turntable, Wireworld Silver Eclipse 6 balanced IC's, Silver Eclipse 6 speaker cable, Shunyata venom 3 power cable Headphones Audeze LCD 2 ver.2 with Q-Cable, Grado SR-60i, GIK room treatments

  20. #120
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mgard View Post
    I wish someone would buy Ken's Raidho's so we could see some pictures of his new Vandy's!


    Congrats again Ken! What a beautiful system.

    ~Mike
    Thanks Mike! Hopefully I'll be able to post some photos before too long.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  21. #121
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Paul

  22. #122
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    He must be in Vandy heaven.

    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  23. #123
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Had the system playing all night breaking in the Vandy 7 MkII. It is sounding really fine. The distortion, coloration and mechanical noise of the speakers is the lowest I've ever heard. It is quite amazing when you strip all that away and just hear the music. In a word, intoxicating! Due to the speakers high level of transparency (they really don't have a sonic signature in my opinion), I'm considering adding some warmth (i.e. tubes) upstream. I'm attending a Vandersteen, ARC and AudioQuest listening event today where I will get the opportunity to hear the Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks, ARC Ref 6 preamp and ARC CD-9 digital player on the Vandersteen 7 MkII. It should be interesting to hear how all this gear sounds together and how the system's sonic signature differs from mine.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  24. #124
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Had the system playing all night breaking in the Vandy 7 MkII. It is sounding really fine. The distortion, coloration and mechanical noise of the speakers is the lowest I've ever heard. It is quite amazing when you strip all that away and just hear the music. In a word, intoxicating! Due to the speakers high level of transparency (they really don't have a sonic signature in my opinion), I'm considering adding some warmth (i.e. tubes) upstream. I'm attending a Vandersteen, ARC and AudioQuest listening event today where I will get the opportunity to hear the Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks, ARC Ref 6 preamp and ARC CD-9 digital player on the Vandersteen 7 MkII. It should be interesting to hear how all this gear sounds together and how the system's sonic signature differs from mine.

    Ken
    Love it!! So happy for you. Love your descriptions of what you're hearing as well.

    I dream of that GS150. What an amp! Total tube porn for the eyes and the ears. Enjoy your time today and let us know your listening impressions.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  25. #125
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Love it!! So happy for you. Love your descriptions of what you're hearing as well.

    I dream of that GS150. What an amp! Total tube porn for the eyes and the ears. Enjoy your time today and let us know your listening impressions.
    Thanks Mike! The GS Pre/GS150 is a sweet combo and I can't wait to hear the Ref6 again but on the Vandy monoblocks this time. It should be a fun event. I hope they have food...I'm really hungry.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  26. #126
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Attached Images Attached Images
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  27. #127
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Very pretty speakers Ken! Glad you are enjoying them. Thanks for sharing.
    Avanti Audio

    arc sp-11 or ls27 | arc d130 | vpi classic 2 w/periphery ring w/Si3N4 bearing & sapphire thrust plate & 2x jmw 10.5i | phoenix engineering eagle & road runner | ortofon cadenza bronze, miyajima zero mono | sentec eq11 w/ Sylvania 5751 TMBP & CBS 7318 | auditorium a23 | canton ref 9 dc | 2x m&k v125 | oppo bdp-95 | chord qutest | lumin d1 & sbooster | avanti audio vivace cables

  28. #128
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by MikeCh View Post
    Very pretty speakers Ken! Glad you are enjoying them. Thanks for sharing.
    Thanks Mike! The bamboo screens are just temporary. I'm planning on getting some RPG acoustic treatments in the future.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  29. #129
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Super Ken ! Very nice. Thanks for sharing it.

    Are those grilles are removable too ?
    Paul

  30. #130
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    one year and 126 posts and finally ............ a picture ! beautiful looking speakers, enjoy them for years to come. FWIW I second John Rutan's credibility, I bought my Plinius SA-102 off him years ago.
    Cheers ! …. Dave

  31. #131
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken,

    Absolutely stunning. Congratulations again. I am sure they are amazing. I am surprised they can be placed so far apart and so close to the side walls, but love that arrangement.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  32. #132
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Mike - awesome! Love the color. They look perfect for your room. Nice! Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  33. #133
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Ken,

    Absolutely stunning. Congratulations again. I am sure they are amazing. I am surprised they can be placed so far apart and so close to the side walls, but love that arrangement.
    Hi Joe,

    My dealer is the Vandersteen 7 expert and he set them up using laser alignment and the Vandersteen protocol. He is normally an easy going and affable guy but when I asked him if he could move them to a different location, his eyes bugged out and I thought we were going to rumble until I agreed not to move them...LOL!

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  34. #134
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Oh I know. Setup is critical. I am sure it's done perfectly. It's almost like a Raidho setup. I heard the 5A carbon (?) and could recognize the greatness right away.

    Bruce keeps telling me the 7's are the only way to go, really. You made a superb choice. I'm jelly.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  35. #135
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Joe,

    I heard the Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks today. Very musical with an organic sound and lots of bloom. You could certainly hear the advantage of its design, not having to produce an appreciable amount of bass and passing that work over to the subwoofer monoblocks. The Ref 6 preamp sounded brilliant again as usual.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  36. #136
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Oh I know. Setup is critical. I am sure it's done perfectly. It's almost like a Raidho setup. I heard the 5A carbon (?) and could recognize the greatness right away.

    Bruce keeps telling me the 7's are the only way to go, really. You made a superb choice. I'm jelly.
    Joe,

    I guess that makes me peanut butter!

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  37. #137
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Just beautiful Ken!

    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  38. #138
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Paul View Post
    Super Ken ! Very nice. Thanks for sharing it.

    Are those grilles are removable too ?
    Paul,

    The grilles can be removed but they're an integral part of the design and need to stay on.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  39. #139

    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken, congrats! You & Mike should get a photo class or 2 in together between peanut butter & jelly sandy's

  40. #140
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ha!

    Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  41. #141
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by bzr View Post
    Ken, congrats! You & Mike should get a photo class or 2 in together between peanut butter & jelly sandy's
    Kev,

    Is the photo that bad? The light was low so I had to use the flash. The rack came out pretty well but the photo did not capture the beauty of the speakers and their finish. They are indeed gorgeous. Maybe some closeups are in order.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  42. #142

    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    try about twenty.....

  43. #143
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Attached Images Attached Images
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  44. #144
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Gorgeous Ken! Wow. I love that finish on the Vandy 7's.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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  45. #145
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Absolutely beautiful Ken! Congratulations!
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  46. #146
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Beautiful Ken! Lot of forethought and design went into that system. I bet it sounds that way too!

    Congratulations!
    Le Roy

    Austin, Tx : Soulution 520 preamp, 501 mono blocks, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D3.1, Lumin U1, Uptone Audio Modded Mac Mini w/ MMK fanless kit & JS-2 LPS, Regen, Ansuz DTC loom (complete), Oppo 105D, QNAP TS-451+

    Chicagoland : Soulution 725 preamp, 711 stereo amp, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D5.1, Naim UnitiServe 2TB, Aurender W-20 Ansuz DTC later generation wire, Teac X1000 R2R, QNAP TS-451+

    Foundation:
    Raidho Rack system, Ansuz DTC Mainz8, Ansuz (2) Supreme Mainz D8 Distribution, 20 amp dedicated outlets via subpanel

  47. #147
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Thanks guys! I love the finish of the speakers and the way they reflect the light. They disappear in low light but shine beautifully when the sunlight hits them.

    I've been working on tidying up the system and cables today, and it finally looked worthy of some photos.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  48. #148
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Yes...very nice.

  49. #149
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Looks great Ken! There looks to be room for a turntable
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  50. #150
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Very nice Ken! The Vandersteen 7s are fantastic sounding - so musical!
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

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Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

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