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  1. #201
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    My Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps have arrived!!!

    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. #202

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

    Hi Ken,
    Glad your amps arrived. I'm sure many Sharks look forward to hearing your impressions of the sound of Vandersteen Speaker/Amp combination.

    Also, after the electrical work is done, please post details about the make & model of breakers, wire, power switches etc. This may be helpful to any sharks who are thinking about upgrading their electrical wiring etc.lines.

    Thanks,
    Duke97

  3. #203
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    My Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps have arrived!!!

    Ken
    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/

  4. #204
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Duke97 View Post
    Hi Ken,
    Glad your amps arrived. I'm sure many Sharks look forward to hearing your impressions of the sound of Vandersteen Speaker/Amp combination.

    Also, after the electrical work is done, please post details about the make & model of breakers, wire, power switches etc. This may be helpful to any sharks who are thinking about upgrading their electrical wiring etc.lines.

    Thanks,
    Duke97
    Thanks Duke! I'll be sure to post feedback about the sound of my new amps once they've broken in as well as information about my power upgrades when they are completed.

    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

  5. #205
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken

    How about some pics while we wait?

    Kerry

  6. #206
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Musicfirst View Post
    Ken

    How about some pics while we wait?

    Kerry
    Hi Kerry,

    They are at my dealer. He did send me a photo of the wooden crates.

    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. #207
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken
    Audio in crates is like a beautiful woman in a parka. Still exciting on many levels....

  8. #208
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken

    The V7s were very close to the Rockport Cygnus for me and, even though I chose the Cygnus, I'm sure the V7s (which I heard) together with their dedicated amps (which I didn't) will be very special indeed. Congratulations my friend.

    Kerry

  9. #209
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Musicfirst View Post
    Ken
    Audio in crates is like a beautiful woman in a parka. Still exciting on many levels....

  10. #210
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Two dedicated 20-amp power lines being installed right at this moment! Two Audioquest Edison NRG duplex outlets and two power switches that totally disengage any connection when turned off for additional peace of mind.

    Hoping to have the Vandersteen monoblock amps installed this Friday with the Vandy 7's 11-band subwoofer equalization set for my listening room.

    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

  11. #211
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Dedicated lines are finished. The Electrician did beautiful work.

    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. #212
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    Wink Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken

    If you had offered me some of your world's best Bagels, I would have been happy to bring my sledge hammer and arc welder over and do the job for you for free!

    Kerry

  13. #213
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Hi Kerry,

    Glad you liked the bagels. My wife and I really liked the wine you gave us too.

    How is everything going with the Cygnus and your array of subwoofers?

    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

  14. #214
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hi Kerry,

    Glad you liked the bagels. My wife and I really liked the wine you gave us too.

    How is everything going with the Cygnus and your array of subwoofers?

    Best,
    Ken
    I couldn't be happier.

  15. #215
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Musicfirst View Post
    I couldn't be happier.
    Kerry,

    That's great news! Taking your time and listening to a lot of different types of speakers was a very smart move that has really paid off for you.

    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

  16. #216
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    The Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps are in my room and playing. Rest of system is ARC CD-9, Ref6 and Audioquest Fire Silver Interconnects. Vivaldi's Four Seasons just blew me away. Huge soundstage, wonderful separation between instruments, organic and musical, terrific bass weight. Hands down the best sound I've ever heard in my room.

    Best,
    Ken

  17. #217
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Congratulations Ken. It must be special! Now we need photos, tons of photos ...
    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

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  18. #218
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    The Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps are in my room and playing. Rest of system is ARC CD-9, Ref6 and Audioquest Fire Silver Interconnects. Vivaldi's Four Seasons just blew me away. Huge soundstage, wonderful separation between instruments, organic and musical, terrific bass weight. Hands down the best sound I've ever heard in my room.

    Best,
    Ken
    Many congrats Ken...so very happy for you!! Great to hear you are enjoying the new gear. Huge soundstage, separation between instruments, etc... Sounds blissful!!! Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Enjoy! Now you need a Lampizator. Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

  19. #219
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    The Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps are in my room and playing. Rest of system is ARC CD-9, Ref6 and Audioquest Fire Silver Interconnects. Vivaldi's Four Seasons just blew me away. Huge soundstage, wonderful separation between instruments, organic and musical, terrific bass weight. Hands down the best sound I've ever heard in my room.

    Best,
    Ken
    Ken - You're a patient man and your patience has been rewarded! Congratulations!! We will need pictures you know!
    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/

  20. #220

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

    Ken, congrats & thanks for the constant updates/responses to this thread. A friend is getting Vandersteen amps in about 3 weeks (to go with his Model 7ii's). I can't wait to listen to that combination. In the meantime, I look forward to hearing your impressions of the Model 7s with M7-HPAs, and related gear.

    Best,
    Duke97

  21. #221
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Thanks everyone! Doing a lot of listening right now. Pictures will follow, I promise!

    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

  22. #222
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Initial impressions are amazing tonality. Midrange body, weight and bloom. Tremendous ease without a hint of solid state type edge. Vocals float in space and wonderful separation between instrumental lines. Very wide and deep soundstage depending on the recording. Bass is very robust and goes down to subterranean levels. Deep pipe organ notes are felt to the core. It feels like I'm in a cathedral. Female jazz vocals are as smooth as silk, zero sibilance. Trumpets really have that blatt sound. Violins sound like wooden boxes, not glass ones. Terrific system synergy between ARC CD-9, Ref 6 and M7-HPA mono amps. Pure silver Audioquest cabling is providing detail and nuance but no additional treble or midrange brightness.

    Best,
    Ken

  23. #223
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken - A fantastic system. Glad you are very happy with the results. Enjoy the music!
    _______________

    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

  24. #224
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Also posted under "The (good) old CD player" thread.

    I have to admit it, I am loving the sound of the ARC Reference CD-9 player that I am borrowing. First, there is zero digital artifice on the redbook CDs I have played. The sound is truly analog-like in its presentation. Second, there is wonderful tonal density in the midrange providing tremendous body to vocals and instrumentals. Third, its provides a soundstage with amazing width and depth and holographic images. Last but not least, there is huge synergy with the ARC Reference 6 preamp and the Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amps. There is some real magic happening there. It's a shame that this component doesn't play SACDs or DSD files or I would be in in in.

    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

  25. #225

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

    Hi Ken, after two weeks, do you have any additional comments or thoughts about the sound/synergy of the Vandersteen Model 7ii + H7-MPA combo?

    Also, for your current set-up, are you using/experimenting with any power products like Audioquest Niagra, Shunyata Denali, etc.?

    Thanks,
    Duke

  26. #226
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Perfectionist indeed........., I believe I can trust your ears.


    _o scar

  27. #227
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Duke97 View Post
    Hi Ken, after two weeks, do you have any additional comments or thoughts about the sound/synergy of the Vandersteen Model 7ii + H7-MPA combo?

    Also, for your current set-up, are you using/experimenting with any power products like Audioquest Niagra, Shunyata Denali, etc.?

    Thanks,
    Duke
    Hi Duke,

    No changes to report. The synergy between the ARC gear (CD-9 & Ref 6), the Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks and the Model 7 MkII speakers is off the charts great. I'm currently plugging the M7-HPA monoblocks and the Model 7 Subwoofer monoblocks into one 20-amp dedicated line and all other components are plugged into my Audience AR6-TSSOX power conditioner, which is plugged into the other 20-amp dedicated line. Very low noise floor, ultra smooth treble and terrific dynamics. It sounds so good, I could very easily leave it "as is". However, I will eventually audition the Audioquest Niagara 7000 and Shunyata Denali 6000 in my system to see if they offer any improvement over the current setup.

    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

  28. #228
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    My ARC Ref 10 preamp now has over 200 hours on it. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Smooth and effortless treble. Liquid midrange with terrific body and dimension. Bass that goes very deep with both weight and pace. Very linear across the entire frequency band. Huge soundstage, both wide and deep with holographic imaging. Dynamics are fast and powerful. One of the best sounding components I've ever owned, period.

    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. #229

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

    Hi Ken,
    Have you had a chance to try Denali? I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

  30. #230
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Hi Kzhtoo,

    I haven't had the opportunity to try the Denali yet but I am interested in eventually adding it to my system. I'm looking to add a tube DAC and music server first before the Denali.

    Best,
    Ken

    Quote Originally Posted by kzhtoo View Post
    Hi Ken,
    Have you had a chance to try Denali? I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
    "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

  31. #231
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    My ARC Ref 10 preamp now has over 200 hours on it. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Smooth and effortless treble. Liquid midrange with terrific body and dimension. Bass that goes very deep with both weight and pace. Very linear across the entire frequency band. Huge soundstage, both wide and deep with holographic imaging. Dynamics are fast and powerful. One of the best sounding components I've ever owned, period.

    Best,
    Ken
    I'm running the ARC Reference 10 preamp with the Vandersteen M7-HPA mono amplifiers (300 watts RMS into 8 ohms; 600 watts into 4 ohms). These Vandersteen amps do have two small tubes for voltage gain in the input stage but the current gain in the output stage is achieved through solid state with bipolar transistors. The ARC-Vandersteen combination sounds absolutely wonderful with tremendous synergy. One of the main reasons is the Vandersteen amps were voiced with ARC preamps.

    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

  32. #232

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

    Pics or it didn't happen.... You know the rules Ken.

  33. #233
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Bad weather day today so I stayed inside and listened to my system for the entire day. The system is sounding truly remarkable. So liquid, so lifelike and zero fatigue. All components are breaking in beautifully. The Ref 10 now has 226 hours on it and sounds better every day, if that's possible. Full break in is 600 hours. All music is being spun via CD and SACD on the Esoteric K-01X.

    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

  34. #234
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken, what a great way to spend a day: with a world class system. Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    P.S. Any thoughts about a vinyl rig addition? Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?
    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/

  35. #235
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Ken, what a great way to spend a day: with a world class system. Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    P.S. Any thoughts about a vinyl rig addition? Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?
    Thanks Mike and guys, it was a fun day indoors.

    I've never been a vinyl guy since I was a kid and I don't see that changing. Besides, the latest DACs, especially the tube ones to my ears, are producing such analog-like sound with all the convenience of digital that I don't see any need to move into the vinyl realm. I'm pretty focused on getting a tube DAC, music server and new power conditioners, in that order.

    All the 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. #236

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

    Hi Alpinist.

    What cable lifters are those? And have you compared them to any of the competitors?

    Anyhow, sweet looking system. I have yet to hear the Vandersteen 7's !
    Scansonic MB-1, Aavik U-300, Sony CD Player as transport, mixture of ansuz cables in different qualities, Ansuz Mainz X Power Distribution, Ansuz Power Distribution for DTC cables

  37. #237
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    New racks and configuration for my system.

    Ken

    Attached Images Attached Images
    Last edited by joeinid; October 17, 2017 at 07:38 PM.
    "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

  38. #238
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Nice!! Are you thinking room treatments?


    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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  39. #239
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Nice!! Are you thinking room treatments?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Mike,

    You’re a mind reader. I was thinking perhaps Vicoustic VicTotem on either side of the racks.

    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

  40. #240

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    New racks and configuration for my system.

    Ken

    Superb looking system Ken, really nice. I bet the sound is immaculate.

    Also like the racks, have been considering that alternative as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  41. #241
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Superb looking system Ken, really nice. I bet the sound is immaculate.

    Also like the racks, have been considering that alternative as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Thanks Kuoppis! I’m really enjoying both the Esoteric Grandioso K1 and Berkeley Ref2 MQA DAC as sources. The K1 delivers a broad soundstage with terrific layering and refinement, while the Berkeley offers a tube-like presentation with wonderful texture and delicacy.

    What I realized at RMAF is the Esoteric master clock significantly raises the performance of the Esoteric players in terms of realism and enhanced soundstage. So the Grandioso G1 master clock has now been added to my wishlist, along with the Aurender N10 MQA when it comes out. It never ends!

    As for the Solid Tech Radius Racks, I love them. They are solid as a rock, you can order custom length columns and they are reasonably priced and don’t break the bank.

    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

  42. #242

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

    I wonder how the Grandioso sounds with the separate clock, as nice as it is already without.

    And I was not aware of a N10 MQA version coming out, hopefully they do that for the other models as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  43. #243
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I wonder how the Grandioso sounds with the separate clock, as nice as it is already without.

    And I was not aware of a N10 MQA version coming out, hopefully they do that for the other models as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    I heard the Esoteric K-01X Player with and without the G-01X Master Clock at RMAF. I would say it resulted in at least a 20% improvement in sound quality, no exaggeration. It made the K-01X sound like a different component in terms of both realism and imaging.

    I spoke with the Aurender representative at RMAF and he said they expect the MQA version of the N10 and W20 to be out in January 2018. They already have the MQA beta version working but still need to get approval on the MQA licensing. They expect to pass on a small charge to the customer for the MQA software upgrade of approximately $50 to cover licensing fees.

    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

  44. #244
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    I heard the Esoteric K-01X Player with and without the G-01X Master Clock at RMAF. I would say it resulted in at least a 20% improvement in sound quality, no exaggeration. It made the K-01X sound like a different component in terms of both realism and imaging.

    I spoke with the Aurender representative at RMAF and he said they expect the MQA version of the N10 and W20 to be out in January 2018. They already have the MQA beta version working but still need to get approval on the MQA licensing. They expect to pass on a small charge to the customer for the MQA software upgrade of approximately $50 to cover licensing fees.

    Best,
    Ken
    Thanks Ken. Congrats on a beautiful system. So as I already own an N10 at some point I can pay to have it upgraded? I am currently passing MQA through to my Mytek DAC.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

  45. #245
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by La Dolce Vita View Post
    I am currently passing MQA through to my Mytek DAC.
    If you're already using a MQA certified model of Mytek DAC, having MQA Core decoding in the transport does not bring any benefits. In fact the transport will automatically turn off its MQA Core decoding once it sees that you have a USB MQA Full Decoder DAC.

    If your DAC is not a MQA Full Decoder, then having MQA Core decoding in the transport is very beneficial for the playback of MQA music, compared to no decoding at all.
    Peter Lie
    LUMIN Firmware Lead

  46. #246
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by wklie View Post
    If you're already using a MQA certified model of Mytek DAC, having MQA Core decoding in the transport does not bring any benefits. In fact the transport will automatically turn off its MQA Core decoding once it sees that you have a USB MQA Full Decoder DAC.

    If your DAC is not a MQA Full Decoder, then having MQA Core decoding in the transport is very beneficial for the playback of MQA music, compared to no decoding at all.
    Thank you! Very helpful. So the N10 MQA will add benefit when using with my Lampizator DAC but not with my Mytek (which is already decoding the MQA). Right? Thanks again...


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  47. #247
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Yes, if the N10 adds MQA Core decoding as the Lumin U1 already does, then both will benefit LampizatOr. The LampizatOr needs to be PCM-capable for this to work. For a DSD-only LampizatOr, you need the transport to be able to upsample everything to DSD (which Lumin U1 is capable of).
    Peter Lie
    LUMIN Firmware Lead

  48. #248
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by wklie View Post
    Yes, if the N10 adds MQA Core decoding as the Lumin U1 already does, then both will benefit LampizatOr. The LampizatOr needs to be PCM-capable for this to work. For a DSD-only LampizatOr, you need the transport to be able to upsample everything to DSD (which Lumin U1 is capable of).
    But you need a DAC that can render MQA in order to get full MQA.
    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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  49. #249
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    But you need a DAC that can render MQA in order to get full MQA.
    Exactly - So to recap... the Mytek fully decodes MQA so I’m getting complete and comprehensive unfolding or decoding there with the N10 even now.

    If the N10 becomes a N10 MQA in January or the like it will work well and provide some benefit with the Lampizator but not fully decode MQA, in effect stopping before the third unfolding (only a licensed DAC with the right hardware can do this).


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  50. #250
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Listening to Telarc’s Rhapsody in Blue, Eric Kunzel and Cincinnati Pops, William Tritt on piano. Playing through the Berkeley Ref2 MQA DAC. It sounds startlingly real. I really can’t wrap my mind around what I’m hearing. Total immersion. I feel like I’m sitting tenth row at Lincoln Center. I’m not worthy.

    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

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Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

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