Results 1 to 50 of 67
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August 27, 2020, 11:02 AM #1
end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
having spent the past 2+ years slowly and methodically building / upgrading my system, i must say that at this point i am really, really enjoying it. when listening critically, i no longer find myself thinking that i need to upgrade this component or that cable, etc. instead, i find myself thinking about things like the quality of the recording.
honestly, i do not think embarking on another upgrade cycle would increase my listening enjoyment one iota. so, i may have reached my version of the proverbial end-game.
however, that being said, the tinkerer/hobbyist/audiophile in me says this is a heck of a lot of fun -- keep going!!
just curious how others here know when they have reached or will reach their end-game -- and once there what do you do?viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | almarro a318b + air tight atc-5 (phono) | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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August 27, 2020, 01:08 PM #2
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Wadax Reference DAC and Server
CH Precision L10 PreAmp
CH Precision M10 Amplifier
Rockport Orion speakers
Nordost ODIN 2 speaker cables and interconnects
StromTank 2500 Power Supply
Shunyata Sigma QR power cords
Shunyata Everest power conditioner
Vicoustics Room Treatments
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August 27, 2020, 01:19 PM #3
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | almarro a318b + air tight atc-5 (phono) | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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August 27, 2020, 07:25 PM #4
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
When the hearse arrives to pick me up
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August 27, 2020, 07:41 PM #5
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
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- 2,104
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August 27, 2020, 07:50 PM #6
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
When you can no longer justify the costs associated with the next upgrade. The decision has nothing to do with having the funds rather is the expenditure asking you to cross a arbitrary line you have drawn in the sand for each component.
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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August 27, 2020, 08:41 PM #7
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 435
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I really enjoy changing different components and seeing what it does to my system. I have set a limit of about $10,000 per component as this allows me to sample more equipment. When will I stop? I'm not sure, I bought my first system in 1973 and the fun hasn't stopped yet.
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August 27, 2020, 08:42 PM #8
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
me too, in the modern era of internet, forums, etc it's easy to get 'sucked in' to the merry-go-round.
as an active and competitive shotgun shooter I've said the same thing when it comes to the latest and greatest clay gun, haven't bought a new shotgun in over a year, guess I'm due ..........Cheers ! …. Dave
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August 27, 2020, 08:46 PM #9
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- Nov 2014
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- 2,104
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
This Is akin to a relationship. When you are “there” you are happy. You don’t need anything else.
But... all relationships are dynamic; never static. Things can change with time and then who knows.
Spoken from the “happy” side... for now.
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August 27, 2020, 10:37 PM #10
- Join Date
- May 2017
- Location
- Ohio, USA
- Posts
- 181
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
My two vices in life are being an audiophile and a photographer. As an audiophile, I haven't reached end-stage system yet. Though I do have an end-stage system in mind and a plan to get there ...
As a photographer, however, I haven't upgraded my body/lenses in close to three years now because at a certain point, I realized that the image quality coming out of that camera was frickin' amazing and I felt like it wasn't the tools holding me back anymore.
I'm hoping to get to the same point with the stereo when I reach the same "plateau" as I did with my camera gear. Say, around 2023.Electronics: Pass Labs XP-22, Pass Labs X250.8
Digital: T+A DAC 200, Auralic Aries G1, Sony UBP-X800M
Analog: Pro-Ject X2 w/ Ortofon 2M Black, iFi Phono3 Phonostage
Speakers: Janszen Audio Valentina P8, SVS SB13-Ultra
Other: David Laboga Custom Audio/Shunyata/Audioquest cabling, PS Audio PowerPlant 15
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August 27, 2020, 11:44 PM #11
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Wow, boy can I relate... I think I am so close... I absolutely love the sound of my system... I am completely astonished that a step down in speakers would actually bring me to nirvana. Then something inside me says... but but, maybe just more power, or or this or that... but honestly at this point I am not sure where else I would go.
I was thinking that everyone says I need more power for the Magnepan's, but then I listen to the "little" T+A and see it provides more pure power than I will ever need and it sounds sooooooo good... but but but... then I realize this system sounds amazing to me.. maybe it is time to just enjoy...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) | Wyred 4 Sound ISO Recovery, DC Recovery | 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
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August 28, 2020, 07:35 AM #12
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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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August 28, 2020, 08:20 AM #13
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- Oct 2014
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- Tampa, FL
- Posts
- 126
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Or maybe have fun assembling a new system for another room. maybe base it on a different front end or a different type of speaker system. main system remains the primary and the new one opens up a lot of fun and tinkering. you could also go crazy and make it surround sound with video.
Aurender > Weiss > Audio Research > SoundField
Oppo > Lexicon > Hegel > SoundField
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August 28, 2020, 01:31 PM #14
- Join Date
- Jul 2016
- Location
- Maryland
- Posts
- 104
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I will stop when I cannot justify the upgrade cost. I will stop swapping gears when I stop reading posts (I have an itch for upgrade/change when I see someone saying good things about the gears they have) and just enjoy what I have.
Jim
‐--‐-----‐------------‐----------------------------------------------------------
Esoteric N-05xd, Luxman d08u, Gryphon Diablo-300, Revel Studio2
Conrad Johnson Premier15 phono, ART-2 pre, Premier8A mono, Lumin T2, VPI Classic3, Magnepan 3.7
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August 28, 2020, 02:06 PM #15
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- Aug 2014
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- lachen / sz
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- 1,061
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
if you are happy - dont touch it!
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August 28, 2020, 02:19 PM #16
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- Oct 2013
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- Sacramento
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- 1,129
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August 28, 2020, 02:47 PM #17
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
This reply isn't exactly what you are asking, but it works for most of my RoomPlay clients, and has for me for many years:
When I am voicing a client's system to their room, I am listening to tracks that I have heard many thousands of times. I actually think I know exactly what happens in the next few nanoseconds as the music unfolds.
Even so, when I find myself falling into this music that I have heard countless times, it's time for me to turn and say to my client, "we're done."DPT4ME - Dynamics, Presence & Tone for Musical Engagement; MBP (3) - stripped down for music only; Shunyata Omega & Sigma USBs; ISO REGEN w/short Curious USB links; Berkeley Alpha USB; Aqua La Scala II Optologic DAC; Schiit Yggdrasil - fully updated; Ayre Codex dac - updated; Pass Labs INT-60 integrated amp; Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE-2 preamp, Quicksilver Mono 120 amps w/Tung-Sol KT150s; Quicksilver Mid Mono amps w/Gold Lion KT77s; Fyne Audio 703s; Symposium Svelte Plus & Ultra Platforms; REL S-812 subwoofers; Duelund DCA12GA speaker cables; AV Room Service EVPs, Stein Music Harmonizers, Duelund DCA16GA & 20GA ICs; Shunyata Denali 6000S/V2; Tripp Lite PCs; Wyred 4 Sound power cords; AudioDharma cable cooker; dedicated custom room; various GIK & ASC room treatments; etc.
www.getbettersound.com
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August 28, 2020, 03:09 PM #18
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
lot of really interesting and insightful perspectives here.
i don't mean to say that i can't improve upon the SQ of my comparatively very modest system. rather, i just don't think there will be greater toe-tapping, head-bobbing and overall enjoyment from the listening experience with any further material system upgrades.
on the other hand, there are other parts of this hobby that i find quite enjoyable: the tinkering, research, learning, experimenting, etc with new or different types of gear and technologies. there is still plenty of fun to be had in this area. it is always the journey rather than the destination -- right?
just curious about the thinking of others on the topic ...that and maybe just looking to give myself permission to indulge further.
viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | almarro a318b + air tight atc-5 (phono) | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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August 29, 2020, 09:10 AM #19
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
The end game for me is when your health dictates your hobby goals, be it audio, photography, cars, golf, fishing or anything you enjoy. Its then that you know your priorities in life.
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)
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August 29, 2020, 11:49 AM #20
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Source Analog: Kuzma Stabi R w/4point 11 arm | Kuzma 50 Cartridge
Source Digital: Aurender N10 | Brinkmann Nyquist MK II
Amplification: Dan D’Agostino Momentum HD and M400’s | Boulder 508
Speakers: Wilson Alexias
Cabling: Nordost Leif, Norse, V2 and Odin
Power and Isolation: Audio-Ultra Home & Room Power Foundation Performance Package with StromTank S1000 | HRS
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August 29, 2020, 10:33 PM #21
- Join Date
- Aug 2014
- Location
- east of Seattle
- Posts
- 821
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
just saw this thread topic. seems like it was calling me.
i've been on a 26 year run of serious system building, including a no holds barred purpose built dedicated room. and i'm actually at that "know you are there" end game point right now. this last year i've added 3 more turntables and associated gear, and the last of those pieces (three cartridges, another turntable and arm, and 2 exotic cables) arrived in the last 30 days. a couple years ago i upgraded my digital, and two years ago added my 3rd tape deck. 5 years ago i finished tweaking my room, a year ago my long term amps were upgraded.
there was actually a strategic plan somewhat driving this; i'll retire likely in the next 20-30 months, and i did not want to be in acquire mode any more. and for my particular sonic tastes and speaker type, i'm where i want to be and there are really no forward jumps left. i'd need to change to horns or dipoles or some other driver tech to really take things in a different direction, and not interested.
my system fulfills my reference sound in my head, checks all the boxes, every time i listen it excites me. no unfulfilled gear lust. never wanted to listen more than right now. i'm happy. so i feel i have reached a system status where it's at the point to stop and smell the roses.
so for me it's a combination of (1) finishing my system plan completely, and (2) anticipated life changes. i did invest more than most into hifi, but got a big level of satisfaction too. and i'm not stopping my enjoyment or selling off my gear; now it's time to just listen. i will likely be buried in my room.
time to go fishing ('catching' is a different thing).my system on Audiogon; https://www.audiogon.com/systems/615
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August 29, 2020, 11:18 PM #22
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Fishing in your neck' means downrigging for salmon (boring). Mike, don't take this the wrong way but you're never 'there' I cant be the only person that has watched you and your system grow into what it is today. You managed to do it quickly and reach the pointy end in under a two decades--which takes most of us at least three, if not more. So, for the sake of being modest lets just say you're taking a respite until after you retire, then its back to no holds barred
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August 29, 2020, 11:33 PM #23
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Source Analog: Kuzma Stabi R w/4point 11 arm | Kuzma 50 Cartridge
Source Digital: Aurender N10 | Brinkmann Nyquist MK II
Amplification: Dan D’Agostino Momentum HD and M400’s | Boulder 508
Speakers: Wilson Alexias
Cabling: Nordost Leif, Norse, V2 and Odin
Power and Isolation: Audio-Ultra Home & Room Power Foundation Performance Package with StromTank S1000 | HRS
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August 30, 2020, 12:03 AM #24
- Join Date
- Aug 2014
- Location
- east of Seattle
- Posts
- 821
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
well......my neck of the woods extends to the Aleutians. and i was clear that the catching part was not significant. it's more where you are than what you catch. best cruising in the world from here to there......and i will have time. with some fishing thrown in. but not quite ready to do that yet. moving that direction.
as far as my system and whether i'm done, it's fair to say we have to just see how that goes. i know how i feel about it right now.
if you were me, what would you aspire to do to get to a higher level of hifi performance along the same path i've been on? show me what i should be thinking about. and not being a smart ass, just curious where i still need to go.my system on Audiogon; https://www.audiogon.com/systems/615
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August 30, 2020, 12:10 AM #25
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I don't know about anyone else, but...I listen to music. That's the whole point, IMHO. Not to be churning "gear."
So, given that, I'm pretty darn close....I am very intrigued by the Spatial Audio M3 Sapphires, though. If they are as good as I think they may be, I may flip my Harbeths for them. Or, maybe my big Dyns.
And then, I'll be done.
And that will be nice.
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August 30, 2020, 12:28 AM #26
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
In all honesty....
I could have easily stopped 3 years ago with my end game systems (as I have 2 I play with).
But .... I still have a job and like it. So I've been able to get even a better to my ears and toe tapping system since then.
So I'm HAPPY AS ..ck to have this as my end system. But ..... will I stop. HAHAHAHAHA. that's funny!!!!
At some point - my end system requirements will probably change. Just like my wife and I went from a 4,000SF house to a 1,400 sf house 5 years ago and love that change!!Jock
If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.
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House: Naim ND555/2PS, Naim 552, Naim 500, Studer A80/Doshi V3, Magico M2s, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Lumina IC/SC, Shunyata Everest and Omega PCs.
Workshop: Naim ND555/2 PS, VAC Master Pre, VAC Sig 200iQ, Border Patrol pre/power, Avant Garde Duo Mezzo XD, 2 Magico Q-Sub 15s, Shunyata IC/SC, Shunyata Typhon QR/Triton V3/Sigma PCs.
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August 30, 2020, 09:46 AM #27
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
IDK, My system sounds great and my whole excuse for spending so much(for me) was because it's my end game system, but change is fun so i'll probably build a smaller 2nd system, or another motorcycle. First world problems eh.
KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.
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August 30, 2020, 10:24 AM #28
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
In my view you are there when each time you are listening to music you get a big smile and think ‘WTF’. It took me about 30 years to get at this point. About 10 years ago a finished my dedicated room, wherein I made hardly any/no compromises and that provided me with a lot of relieve in my head. After that I upgraded by system in quite big steps and in a structured way. Currently no clue what I could do to improve it even further, but going back to the first sentence... if you have well recorded content and you are dragged into the music, you should be happy and conclude that you reached your end-point. Stop spending money on hardware and buy music.
JanDedicated room: Confidence Mansion
Electronics: Trinnov Altitude32 | VAC Signature 200 IQ mono’s | Parasound Halo JC-1’s + A51 | Synology DS918+/DX517 (48TB) | Oppo BDP-105D / UDP-203 CM Stufe2
Speakers: Von Schweikert VR10-MKII system | Dynaudio Confidence C4 | Velodyne DD-18
Projection: JVC DLA-NX9 CM | Stewart 123” StudioTek 1.3 G3
Various: Artesania Exoteryc 3L + Aire racks | Schnerzinger Emi + Giga Piccolo A3 | PS Audio Stellar Power Plant 3 | iPad Pro 12.9” (2018) | Roon
Cables: AudioQuest Huricane EC | Nordost Frey speakercable | AudioQuest Diamond RJ/E | AudioQuest Diamond HDMI
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September 4, 2020, 03:50 AM #29
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
If your neighbors love your music you're doing it right!!!
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September 4, 2020, 12:28 PM #30
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
My feeling is as Jan said. I sit down in my listening room and never cease to be stunned by the sound my system creates. I can be taken to the world of any performer that is playing at that time.
I'm sure there may be some power supply upgrades and possibly a cable or 2 that gets changed but I don't have any need to move on.Synology 1019D+ - SGC Sonictransporter I9 w Roon/HQ Player- UltraRendu- PBD Stream IF to Playback Designs MPS5 via fiber optic - ARC 40th Anniversary Pre - ARC 610 T's - Martin Logan CLX's - 4 Martin Logan Depth i Subs - Shunyata Hydra, DIY PCOCC interconnects, speaker cables and power cords with Furutech terminations. Blue Jeans CAT 6's. Acoustically treated room with one permanent chair.
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September 4, 2020, 04:14 PM #31
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
- Posts
- 2,104
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I used to play my music very loud while in college. Years later a person who lived in the same building told me that I played the music very loud and that he could hear it from several rooms/floors away. Then he said that he never complained because he really liked what I was playing. I enjoyed it too and did not even know that “high-end” existed.
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September 12, 2020, 04:10 AM #32
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I can relate to this. i had a neighbor that used to yell out between songs to turn it up. We moved into another house but eventually sold that & returned to our previous dwellings. The neighbors told me again that my music just seemed so good & don't be shy on sharing....
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September 12, 2020, 09:31 AM #33
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Earlier this year when I upgraded to the Wilson Alexx I realized after a while that I was no longer listening in terms of audiophile terms but just enjoying the music. Before the speakers I was always thinking I'm almost there as this or that isn't quite right ... Now I'm done with this version of the system as I have no desire to change anything at all. Also, ignorance is bliss! :-)
GeorgeWilson Audio Alexx|Pair of Rel No25’s
VAC Statement Preamplifier
VAC Statement 452 Monoblocks
Sonorus ATR10 MkII
Esoteric D-02X|Esoteric P-02X|Aurender W20SE
MIT Oracle MA-X SHD SC and IC
Transparent Reference Power
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September 12, 2020, 02:29 PM #34
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Probably depends if the hobby is the music or the gear. Having the ability to swap out components that accentuate a different spectrum of sound and make old songs sound different enough to be interesting again can't be dismissed.
My current system is the most natural sounding i've heard anywhere so I'm done right? hmm.KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.
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September 15, 2020, 09:51 PM #35
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I like the way Chris put it. It will never really end if I'm healthy, happy and have and income, and interest in audio. At the least, I will wear out a cartridge. Tubes will die. Something will fail. Something will need tweaking. I am already thinking I want new caps In my speakers. Will I make big component changes. Maybe, maybe not. I don't want to. I have other hobbies and activities that fulfill me too.
As for Mike L. His new quest should be to slowly shrink it all. Take it from the massive towers to a single driver and 2.7 watts😂
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September 16, 2020, 01:32 AM #36
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I have basically had six different systems in my listening room over the last 28 years. Three of the systems produced stellar sound quality and musicality and the other three were disappointments.
The moral of my story is breaking down a great sounding system and replacing it with a more expensive one does not always result in better sound. The winning systems were system one (Denon, Bryston, Apogee), system four (Esoteric, Pass Labs, Revel) and system six (MSB, Vandersteen, Vandersteen). Each of these systems produced magical sound.
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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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September 16, 2020, 02:03 AM #37
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Hi Carlos,
I hope all is well with you. I know you’ve had some amazing gear grace your listening room over the last several years. It would be interesting to hear where you’ve landed and if you are content or if further system changes are planned.
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
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September 16, 2020, 02:07 AM #38
end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Hi Ken,
Hope you are well and throughly enjoying your current wonderful MSB-Vandersteen system.
I can relate totally to your post. In many ways, for me the enjoyment of this hobby, aside from the pure listening pleasure, also comes from continually learning new things about audio, and applying that knowledge to hopefully improve the listening pleasure; even though the improvements quickly reach a point of decreasing marginal benefit per unit cost.
So I’m curious to hear your thoughts on what, in your case, motivated you to move from system 1 to 4 and then to system 6, although the two systems previous to 6 “produced stellar sound and musicality”? And what specific improvements do you feel you gained in system 6 versus 1 and 4?
Thanks
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkRockport Lyra speakers; TotalDac Amp-1 mono blocks; four box CH Precision L1/X1 pre/power supply monos; CH precision P1/X1 phono/power supply; TotalDac d1-driver monos; Pacific Microsonics Model 2 DAC; TotalDac d1-12 MkII DAC with two reclockers; Kodo The Beat Turnatable with LT Schroder magnesium tonearm and Lyra Atlas cart; Taiko Extreme server; Kalista Dreamplayer CD Transport; Taiko Audio Daiza Platforms; Nordost Odin2 Power Cords and Analog ICs; 512 Engineering/Tim Marutani Balanced Transformers (30 amp for sources; 50 amp for amps); Rives designed dedicated room.
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September 16, 2020, 03:15 AM #39
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Objectively I realize there is better everything out there. Emotionally, I feel I have reached my end game.
Bud
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD
Pass XP-22 pre, X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers, SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR for source, Denali 2000 (2) for amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson four shelf maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits.
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September 16, 2020, 08:40 AM #40
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- Aug 2014
- Location
- east of Seattle
- Posts
- 821
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
as far as shrinking it all, or a different amp/speaker approach, i suppose how my life evolves with pending retirement is maybe the significant issue. i'm prepared to continue this level of involvement in the hobby, and with this room and system, but when i don't have the 6 day a week work focus and stress, will i view all this as essential anymore? right now it fits perfectly as a balance to work.
anyway that is the prism i'm viewing this through. i'm not going to continue this approach as some sort of shrine, it has to be what i love to do to keep this up. i could see fewer turntables, i could see fewer tape decks. a different speaker/amp approach? the only reason i might do that is that i've gone as far as large dynamic cone speakers can take me, and do believe that my room/system is able to do horn-like or planar-like things already. but would a change be enough fun to go to the trouble? or might i move from my room for life style reasons and then be able to try something different for difference sake?
i have interests and repressed hobbies (i've not given the needed time or resources to) that might rise up and command more of my time and so could push hifi to a different spot in my life. no way right now to say for sure how that will go.
i will simply follow my heart and keep on keeping on.my system on Audiogon; https://www.audiogon.com/systems/615
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September 16, 2020, 10:46 AM #41
- Join Date
- Jan 2018
- Posts
- 78
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
This is a great thread with some interesting and good points!
Speaking for myself I have no plans for changes or upgrades as I am very pleased with the sound and use of the systems.
Following various people on various fora I have noticed some that make a high number of horizontal moves, changing this and tweaking that, without ever being fully satisfied. An endless merry-go-round and a lot of money sunk into it. So I promised myself that I would not change unless it was a significant improvement - and that means spending funds I dont have, this side of a lottery winner! My former system lasted 19 years...
In any case, listening to music is still the most important part, a point also made by others here. Enjoy.
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September 16, 2020, 11:17 AM #42
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
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Brian
Main System - Rotel RCD-1572 / Rega P3 > Luxman 505UX Mark II > Fyne Audio F502SPs > Synergistic Cables
Secondary - OPPO 93 > VAC CLA 1 MKII Pre > Odyssey Stratos > Dynaudio Audience 82s > Tara Labs Cables
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September 16, 2020, 11:48 AM #43
- Join Date
- Feb 2019
- Location
- Southeast Iowa
- Posts
- 992
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Right now I'm playing Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie over my new system and it just carries me to a wonderful place...no politics, no street violence, no escalating pandemic, no war, no global tensions. Just peace, tranquility, and a high like no other. Great music, great sound, great musicians. It just doesn't get any better.
Amplifier: Pass Labs INT 250 integrated.
DAC/Streamer: MSB Discrete Dual Power Supply.
Server: Roon Nucleus with lifetime subscription.
Speakers: Harbeth Super HL 5+ 40th Anniversary
Model.
Headphones/Amp: Focal Stellia phones, NAIM Uniti Atom Headphone Edition headphone amp/music player/server/streamer.
Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables,
Mackenzie interconnects.
Speaker Stands: HiFi Man.
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September 18, 2020, 09:51 PM #44
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
Hi Carlos,
System 1 with the Apogee Duetta Signature speakers provided the most lifelike vocals and piano I ever heard in my listening room. Just stunning realism. What eventually drove me crazy was too much brightness in the the treble. I didn’t know much about how to address these issues back at that point in time, so I moved on.
System 4 with Pass XA-100.5 monoblocks and Revel Salon 2 speakers sounded luscious after the amps had warmed up for 4 hours. A truly magical sound. The big negative was a lack of bass at anything but high volume levels. My normal listening preference is low to medium volume levels.
My current system with MSB Select 2 DAC and Vandersteen monoblocks and Model 7 Mk2 speakers has no weak points. Smooth effortless treble, organic and natural sounding midrange, and robust and perfectly tuned bass for my room. I can listen all day without any fatigue. No need or desire to bring in a new system again.
Best,
Ken"No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
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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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September 19, 2020, 02:39 PM #45
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
That’s fantastic Ken. Truly a balancing act including how to incorporate your own preferences and how they may evolve over time. Congratulations on reaching your endpoint!
I’ve been thinking about how to respond to your question without getting wordy yet capturing the basics - another balancing act! Will respond soon.
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkRockport Lyra speakers; TotalDac Amp-1 mono blocks; four box CH Precision L1/X1 pre/power supply monos; CH precision P1/X1 phono/power supply; TotalDac d1-driver monos; Pacific Microsonics Model 2 DAC; TotalDac d1-12 MkII DAC with two reclockers; Kodo The Beat Turnatable with LT Schroder magnesium tonearm and Lyra Atlas cart; Taiko Extreme server; Kalista Dreamplayer CD Transport; Taiko Audio Daiza Platforms; Nordost Odin2 Power Cords and Analog ICs; 512 Engineering/Tim Marutani Balanced Transformers (30 amp for sources; 50 amp for amps); Rives designed dedicated room.
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October 17, 2020, 08:28 PM #46
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 435
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I also went down in size and complexity in my system some years ago. I went to a pair of Maggie 1.7's and was driving them with a VTL ST80 ( or 85? ) and it was really, really fun to listen to. I had 2 other brands of speakers at the time that were highly admired ( and much more expensive). They were both for sale soon after. One of the panels came unglued and I shipped both to Magnepan to have them repaired. Their service and pricing is excellent. Playing with the the positioning and whether to use them tweeters in or tweeters out was part of the fun. BTW....I have had two of the Falcon NW PC's over the years. Their service is outstanding and if you have to call them you get the same guy every time. As long as you are having fun, congrats.
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October 17, 2020, 08:46 PM #47
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
I have an active dsp system that I enjoy and find no fault with with the exception that the hobby isn’t very interactive if I can’t throw money at it. Maybe I’ll send an email requesting chrome plated emblems or something. I can see why audiophiles have a second system.
KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.
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October 21, 2020, 06:40 PM #48
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
It should be mentioned (Jim Smith already alluded to it) that the "room" is as much a part of one's system as the components, so "end game system" should also mean you won't be moving or otherwise changing your listening room
Rob
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Tascam BR-20; Technics 1506 with tape path upgrades, FM head, DeHavilland 222 tape head pre; Modwright Oppo 205 full tube mod w/LPS; Euphony Summus server, EtherRegen, HDPLEX LPS; MSB Discrete DAC (dual PS, ISLPro, balanced out); Pass Labs XP-12, XA60.8 (pair); Daedalus Audio Apollo 11’s, VMPS Larger Sub; Daedalus/Wywires, Acoustic Zen, Sablon Audio, Wireworld, Shunyata Research cables; Core Power Equi=Power;
Adona rack, Stillpoints, IsoPods, ASC, GIK Acoustics accessories
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October 22, 2020, 11:54 AM #49
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- Minnesota
- Posts
- 1,369
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
When you are broke, destitute and divorced from spending all your money on audio gear.
Or
When you can finally sit and listen to music for hours at a time without looking for flaws in your system.My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.
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October 29, 2020, 02:42 PM #50
- Join Date
- Oct 2020
- Location
- Scottsdale
- Posts
- 5
Re: end game audio system -- how do you know you are there?
In my case it was pretty simple. At age 34 I failed a hearing test and was no longer able to be a consultant in the broadcast industry mainly radio. Simple aging in my case, I didn't hear as well as did in my twenties.
So goodbye AR-LSTs, hot rodded Great American Sound Amps and a fancy turntable.
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Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team
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