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  1. #251

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

    Damn right Ken, you need to downgrade! Congrats, I love that feeling & it is so hard to achieve but very easy to ruin. Enjoy before the chemicals from the passing of the audiophiles moon imbalance your judgement & you change something

  2. #252
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by La Dolce Vita View Post
    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).


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Not just third unfold, but aliasing filter to swith pre-ringing to post ringing. Tradeoff of frequency domain (pushed into ultrasonics) for time domain improvement. MQA seems to work best with 24-88/96 material vs 24-176/192 material, at least with chart readouts. Finally you get the green light that says the artist personally approved the release. This is the most bogus part though, as logistically this seems unrealistic and based on some private music I heard that people would not share with me, artists and families have BLOCKED the best audiophile versions and only approved the reverb filled compressed crap. You should hear the draw dropping unreleased versions!

    Of course, all of Berkeley/MSB and dCS claim to implement MQA differently, so no way to generalize about it.

    I agree with Mike here, if it sounds good to you, ROLL with it!
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  3. #253
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    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
    Right on Ken, congratulations for putting together a system that "does it" just the way you want. Beyond all the techie wizzardry, getting to the point your system "does it" is, after all, what we all strive and yearn to achieve with our systems.

    My own system has taken a giant leap forward on the digital side with inclusion of the Rossini DAC. Had a half dozen audio buds over last night to listen to the Rossini and nothing but glowing remarks. As my dealer said "the Rossini will kick your DAC8 squarely in the nuts with a steel-toed boot then laugh while it lies there moaning"—at that it does!

  4. #254
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I guess taste matters.

    The week before Sarasota, I spent the evening at a dCS dealer commercial launch event locally here in CH listening to the Full dCS Vivaldi stack. It was pretty nice, but not totally my cup of tea. Certainly no jaw dropping on my part, even with that atmospheric retail price.

    Attached Images Attached Images
    NORMAN
    Custom PC with Memory Player Software Suite/ Modded Denon CD transport>Lampi GG1 (and sometimes PACIFIC) DHT tube Dac> Rowen 850W Isolating Transformer/ Rowen SS Preamp and PA1 monoblocs/Lampi Silk power cond. with Phase flipper> Heil AMT KITHARA & Syrinx in parallel hookup. Swiss cables (Reference line) for PC/interconnects and speaker cables. Goldmund Sweetcord PC. FTA Callisto unpowered USB cable. Basic analog: vintage Lenco L78 TT with Rowen mat, Denon MM cart, iFi iPhono2 with 15v Hynes SR3 LPSU. Synology 12 TB NAS. 2nd system:KenWin Bluetooth speaker 3rd system TBI Millemnium amp with Aulos speakers and SB Duo hookup.

  5. #255
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Bobvin View Post
    Right on Ken, congratulations for putting together a system that "does it" just the way you want. Beyond all the techie wizzardry, getting to the point your system "does it" is, after all, what we all strive and yearn to achieve with our systems.

    My own system has taken a giant leap forward on the digital side with inclusion of the Rossini DAC. Had a half dozen audio buds over last night to listen to the Rossini and nothing but glowing remarks. As my dealer said "the Rossini will kick your DAC8 squarely in the nuts with a steel-toed boot then laugh while it lies there moaning"—at that it does!
    Hi Bob,

    Congrats on your Rossini DAC! It’s a tremendous addition to an already stellar system.

    Enjoy!
    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

  6. #256
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    How much is the Berkeley MQA Dac .... ??

  7. #257
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by a.wayne View Post
    How much is the Berkeley MQA Dac .... ??
    MSRP is $20K.

    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

  8. #258
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Bob - congrats on the DCS Rossini. Great piece!


    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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  9. #259
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Very nice Ken!

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

    Ken

    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"
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  10. #260
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Very nice Ken!
    Thanks Randy! I’m in source heaven over here with the Esoteric Grandioso K1, Berkeley Ref2 MQA DAC and ARC Ref CD-9. I’ve got something for every mood or format!

    How are your KEF R700’s breaking in? They are beautiful looking speakers. I bet they sound fantastic!

    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

  11. #261
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Hey Ken,

    I am very impressed with the speakers, especially at the price. I am hoping to eventually be able to get Reference 3's, or, dare I say, Blade 2's. But for now the budget would not allow it. The R series are what KEF refers to as Mini Reference. Very similar in design, borrowing heavily from the Blade 2 drivers, not quiet as robust cabinets and as all out build as the Reference, and made affordable by building them in their China factory instead of hand built in England.

    So a close facsimile.

    Your "New" speakers look pretty awesome. I bet the system sounds amazing!
    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

  12. #262
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Alpinist (Ken): Amazing system...beautifully setup and shown off as well!
    Legacy Audio Valor+Wavelet v2, Esoteric S-02 Amps HDPlex 300W, RevAudio Labs DC Umbilical, Esoteric Grandioso P1, P1PSU & dual D1 DACs, Cybershaft Prem Ltd OP21A 10 MHz Clock, Esoteric C-02X, Shunyata Everest 8000 & Altaira SG-NR hubs, Sigma SGC/CGC ground cables, VTX-Ag ground tails, AfterBurner8 duplexes, CSP Inc Q4B, S2B IEC plates, Shunyata Omega CLOCK-50 cables, Tubulus Concentus HDMI, Elrod Master Series Diamond SE & Masters Series Gold Power cords and Statement Gold XLRs, Diamond XLRs & Master Series Diamond XLRs, Shunyata OMEGA QR-s power cable, Anaconda Z-tron XLR, Elrod Statement Gold speaker cables, Adona Zero GX3, GX2, GX racks, Composite Audio CF-2010, Townshend Audio Podiums, HRS DPX Damping Plates, Stillpoints Ultra SS w/Ultra Bases, pArtScience 64-well, 2D QRD 3-inch SpaceArray Diffusors

    Travel/Rip: Apple MacBook Pro 16” 2023 M2 Max, 12-core CPU, 38-core GPU, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD for Audirvana+ v3, iTunes, REW Audio Analyzer, dbPowerAmp, DVD Audio Extractor

  13. #263
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I added an Esoteric Grandioso G1 Clock to my system today to go with my Esoteric Grandioso K1 Player. I’m using the Shunyata Sigma 50 Ohm Clock cable. I’ll post my initial impressions and a photo tonight. Break in time is 100 hours for the G1 Clock.

    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. #264
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    I’ve had the Grandioso G1 Clock on all day. It has already smoothed out some, compared to when I first turned it on this morning. The G1 has already improved clarity, articulation and bass response. Imaging is more holographic as well. I can’t wait until the G1 and Sigma clock cable are fully burned 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

  15. #265
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    That’s awesome news Ken! When you and I heard the K1 with and without the clock, there was no doubt the clock improves it big time.

    I’ve been clocking the K1 off the Femto 33 in the MSB with superb results.


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

  16. #266
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    That’s awesome news Ken! When you and I heard the K1 with and without the clock, there was no doubt the clock improves it big time.

    I’ve been clocking the K1 off the Femto 33 in the MSB with superb results.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Hi Mike,

    My G1 has a ways to go on break-in before it sounds as smooth as the G-01X we heard at RMAF. I’m sure it and the clock cable will get there over time. Your K1 must sound incredible clocking off your MSB Select II DAC. The Femto 33 is the king of clocks!

    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. #267
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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

  18. #268

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

    Hi Ken,
    How is the clock coming along? I have a Grandioso K1 player also. Interested to hear your thoughts on the additional improvement from the clock.
    Regards.

  19. #269
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alectiong View Post
    Hi Ken,
    How is the clock coming along? I have a Grandioso K1 player also. Interested to hear your thoughts on the additional improvement from the clock.
    Regards.
    The Grandioso G1 clock has made a huge improvement in the sound quality of my system. The clock has provided increased clarity and refinement, more holographic imaging and most importantly, greater realism. Once you’ve listened to it for a few weeks, there is just no turning back!

    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

  20. #270

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

    Hi Ken, I'm wondering if you have tried a music server like Lumin or Aurender over Mac Mini?

  21. #271
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by kzhtoo View Post
    Hi Ken, I'm wondering if you have tried a music server like Lumin or Aurender over Mac Mini?
    Not yet, but I hope to at some point in the future. I spin CDs and SACDs for all my critical listening and use the Mac Mini for background listening. Having said that, my Mac Mini sounds mighty fine with the G1 clock and my WW Platinum 7 USB cable.

    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. #272

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Not yet, but I hope to at some point in the future. I spin CDs and SACDs for all my critical listening and use the Mac Mini for background listening. Having said that, my Mac Mini sounds mighty fine with the G1 clock and my WW Platinum 7 USB cable.

    Best,
    Ken
    I see. Bet it sounds like a world class system that is.

  23. #273

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    The Grandioso G1 clock has made a huge improvement in the sound quality of my system. The clock has provided increased clarity and refinement, more holographic imaging and most importantly, greater realism. Once you’ve listened to it for a few weeks, there is just no turning back!

    Best,
    Ken
    That is awesome. I hope to try one out in the future if I can (afford it). Is the clock sensitive to power cords and the clock cables?

  24. #274

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

    Quote Originally Posted by kzhtoo View Post
    Hi Ken, I'm wondering if you have tried a music server like Lumin or Aurender over Mac Mini?
    I started with a Mac Mini based system some years back, which was bettered by quite a margin when I replaced it with an Aurender. This year I replaced the Aurender with a powerful NAS with a Roon Core installed on it and again had a significant SQ improvement.


    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.

  25. #275

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I started with a Mac Mini based system some years back, which was bettered by quite a margin when I replaced it with an Aurender. This year I replaced the Aurender with a powerful NAS with a Roon Core installed on it and again had a significant SQ improvement.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    NAS with Roon installed sounds better ? Can ask which model are u running on ?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

  26. #276
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alectiong View Post
    That is awesome. I hope to try one out in the future if I can (afford it). Is the clock sensitive to power cords and the clock cables?
    Yes, extremely sensitive. I have the Shunyata Sigma 50 clock cable and Audience AU24SE MP power cord. Unfortunately, there was just an 18% price increase. The G1 is now a whopping $26K U.S. MSRP.

    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

  27. #277
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    I started with a Mac Mini based system some years back, which was bettered by quite a margin when I replaced it with an Aurender. This year I replaced the Aurender with a powerful NAS with a Roon Core installed on it and again had a significant SQ improvement.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Which Aurender did you own?

    Thanks,
    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. #278

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Which Aurender did you own?

    Thanks,
    Ken
    Just the lower-end 100H one, due to the better power supply.


    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.

  29. #279

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

    Quote Originally Posted by kiat View Post
    NAS with Roon installed sounds better ? Can ask which model are u running on ?


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    It is a Synology with a Quad Core processor, 8 GB RAM, 250 GB fully dedicated SSD for the Roon Core and a 275 GB on-board SSD fully dedicated to cache, 24 TB HDDs and in-box wall wart power supply exchanged for a 200W HDPlex LPSU.

    A mom&pop NAS won’t do.


    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.

  30. #280

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    It is a Synology with a Quad Core processor, 8 GB RAM, 250 GB fully dedicated SSD for the Roon Core and a 275 GB on-board SSD fully dedicated to cache, 24 TB HDDs and in-box wall wart power supply exchanged for a 200W HDPlex LPSU.

    A mom&pop NAS won’t do.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Thanks @kuoppis. I’ve been thinking of moving my roon that’s running on synology 1517+ with 16 go and separate ssd drive for roon core. To a stand alone roon ROCK

    Have not made the jump yet


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro

  31. #281
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    It’s been awhile since I’ve updated this thread. My only source now is the MSB Select II DAC with two mono power bases, Femto 33 clock and Renderer V2 digital input module. I no longer have an external preamp as the Select II sounds best using only its internal preamp module. Sad to see the Ref 10 go though. I had my Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks rebiased per Richard Vandersteen’s recommendation. They run much cooler now and sound even better. The Vandersteen 7 Mk2’s continue to blow me away with their tonality and transparency. The power conditioner is the Niagara 7000 and the power cords are all AudioQuest Hurricane Source and High Current. Interconnects are AudioQuest Wild Blue Yonder and speaker cables are proprietary Vandersteen/AudioQuest Perfect Surface Silver.

    The Network starts with the Roon Nucleus Plus core server. The NAS is Synology DS3018xs and the Router is a Netgear Nighthawk X10 AD7200. The Roon Nucleus Plus has a Keces P8 power supply. I have a DJM GigaFoilv4 Ethernet Filter with a Keces P3 power supply. The power supplies have Audience AU24SE MP power cords. All ethernet cables in the network are AudioQuest Diamond.

    I’m hoping to add another Keces P8 power supply for the Router with power cord. I’m also looking into the SOTM audiophile switch with accessories. That’s all folks!

    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. #282
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Outstanding system Ken. I’m so happy you are loving the sound. Superb source with awesome speakers. Must be awesome.
    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.

  33. #283
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Outstanding system Ken. I’m so happy you are loving the sound. Superb source with awesome speakers. Must be awesome.
    Thanks Joe! Would like to hear what’s new with your system too. There’s almost always something new to report on the amplifier front. How are things going with your AG Duo XD’s?

    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. #284
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Thanks Joe! Would like to hear what’s new with your system too. There’s almost always something new to report on the amplifier front. How are things going with your AG Duo XD’s?

    Best,
    Ken
    Ha!

    Between the Misho Wooden combo, GAT2, SIT3, Valvet E2 and Luxman MQ-300, I’m ecstatic. I really like my Bricasti dac, but I think a new dac is on the horizon for hopefully next year.
    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. #285
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Nice Ken. Happy to hear that. Would love to hear your speakers one day


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Paul

  36. #286
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Ha!

    Between the Misho Wooden combo, GAT2, SIT3, Valvet E2 and Luxman MQ-300, I’m ecstatic. I really like my Bricasti dac, but I think a new dac is on the horizon for hopefully next year.
    You have the perfect speakers for sampling a myriad of low power amps. How are you liking the First Watt SIT3? I’ve heard that it’s a special amp. Is the GAT2 the new CJ preamp or something else?

    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

  37. #287
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    You have the perfect speakers for sampling a myriad of low power amps. How are you liking the First Watt SIT3? I’ve heard that it’s a special amp. Is the GAT2 the new CJ preamp or something else?

    Best,
    Ken
    Yes, CJ GAT2 preamp.

    The SIT3 is, for my taste, absolutely wonderful. Sooooo musical, quiet, very natural, detailed yet very smooth and sweet. It just draws you in without drawing attention to itself. IMO, best solid state for highly efficient speakers.
    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.

  38. #288
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Ken - Nice update! Glad you have reached audio Nirvana. 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

  39. #289
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Awesome system Ken! A meticulous approach toward perfection.


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

  40. #290
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Yes, CJ GAT2 preamp.

    The SIT3 is, for my taste, absolutely wonderful. Sooooo musical, quiet, very natural, detailed yet very smooth and sweet. It just draws you in without drawing attention to itself. IMO, best solid state for highly efficient speakers.
    Joe,

    The GAT2, SIT3, Duo XD combo must sound insane!

    Enjoy,
    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

  41. #291
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Awesome system Ken! A meticulous approach toward perfection.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Thank you Mike. I couldn’t have done it without your help.

    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. #292
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    Re: Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

    It absolutely does

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Joe,

    The GAT2, SIT3, Duo XD combo must sound insane!

    Enjoy,
    Ken
    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.

  43. #293
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
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    SE Michigan
    Posts
    3,765

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

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    It’s been awhile since I’ve updated this thread. My only source now is the MSB Select II DAC with two mono power bases, Femto 33 clock and Renderer V2 digital input module. I no longer have an external preamp as the Select II sounds best using only its internal preamp module. Sad to see the Ref 10 go though. I had my Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks rebiased per Richard Vandersteen’s recommendation. They run much cooler now and sound even better. The Vandersteen 7 Mk2’s continue to blow me away with their tonality and transparency. The power conditioner is the Niagara 7000 and the power cords are all AudioQuest Hurricane Source and High Current. Interconnects are AudioQuest Wild Blue Yonder and speaker cables are proprietary Vandersteen/AudioQuest Perfect Surface Silver.

    The Network starts with the Roon Nucleus Plus core server. The NAS is Synology DS3018xs and the Router is a Netgear Nighthawk X10 AD7200. The Roon Nucleus Plus has a Keces P8 power supply. I have a DJM GigaFoilv4 Ethernet Filter with a Keces P3 power supply. The power supplies have Audience AU24SE MP power cords. All ethernet cables in the network are AudioQuest Diamond.

    I’m hoping to add another Keces P8 power supply for the Router with power cord. I’m also looking into the SOTM audiophile switch with accessories. That’s all folks!

    Ken
    Ken
    Could we get a photo of your system. That is one excellent set of gear you acquired.
    Jim

    D'Agostino Momentum M-400's MxV’s & HD Pre-amp
    Wilson Alexandria X2 Series 2 speakers
    Digital: dCS Vivaldi APEX DAC, Clock & Upsampler
    Analog: SME 20/3 with Esoteric E-03 Phono
    Transparent Opus Speaker Cable & Interconnects & Opus Power Cords
    Power Cords on Digital: Shunyata
    Power Conditioner - Shunyata Everest

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Alpinist (Ken) - how is your new system?

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