Results 1 to 50 of 73
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August 20, 2023, 07:25 PM #1
What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
OK guys - in your experience in this hobby, what's one of the biggest surprises you've had about a piece of gear or cable you've listened to - either good or bad?
"We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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August 20, 2023, 07:43 PM #2
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
"a piece of hear"....
If I'm inferring correctly, you're referring to a piece of "gear"....😉
1) My (original) Rega Planar 3 turntable from way back in the day was quite a revelation.
2) the importance of a good power distributor
3) the Altaira grounding hubs
4) The Sonore microRendu: implementing a well-designed network bridge brought vs. connecting a computer functioning as the music server" directly to a DAC via USB was significant.
5) Power cords: the improvement provided by audio-grade power cords vs. generic, black, "junk" PCs. That was a biggie.
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August 20, 2023, 07:59 PM #3
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August 20, 2023, 08:00 PM #4
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August 20, 2023, 08:50 PM #5
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,075
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
What always comes to mind for me with this type of question is my Aurender. I used a few streamers, up to $5k and not happy, I tried the ACS10 and was amazed, just what I wanted to hear.
Then I read Puma Cat's post and found we have similar experiences. The P3 was my first higher end table. Seems funny thinking of a P3 as high end today but at the time it was an ear opener. I've also found power products to provide a surprising nice improvement. I remember I borrowed a power conditioner the guy talked me into trying a power cord, I think I grabbed it just to appease him. Well I ended up bringing the conditioner back not liking what it did but bought a power cord for every piece in my system that allowed for one. I think the conditioner just couldn't feed my Krell amp. It took me awhile to find a conditioner that worked for me.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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August 21, 2023, 08:56 AM #6
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- Mar 2020
- Location
- Detroit area
- Posts
- 208
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
It was the first time I walked into Audio Dimensions in Royal Oak, MI and heard Maggies playing. I believe it was the 3.6r's, a pair of which I ended up buying and still proudly own. I kept looking around the room trying to figure out exactly where the sound was coming from. What I knew for sure was that I loved that sound, and I've been hooked ever since.
Another "Ah-ha" moment was in the same store, when Harry played a Holly Cole CD on the tiny Arcam Solo Mini feeding the Magnepan "Mini Maggies". Insanely good for the size and price.
A third would be how amazing music on Blu-rays sounded through a Marantz AVR and Emotiva power amp. Shocking, really.
Finally, the time as a teenager that I heard Bose 901's, which at that moment I thought would be my end-game. Things have changed. I have a feeling that they're going to change again if I make it to the Florida Audio Expo in February and hear the Clarisys speakers.
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August 21, 2023, 09:03 AM #7
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
"We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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August 21, 2023, 09:43 AM #8
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
For me, when I sat in Mike's upstairs two channel room and went, this is live. The sound was so accurate. It all just worked.
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 21, 2023, 10:03 AM #9
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I have had a few moments. I grew up around gear so had a reference for decent sound since I was 5 or 6. Also hung out at our local HE Store Soundex a lot.
The first was when I bought a Marantz CD-63SE MKII and an Audio Alchemy DDE V1.1 DAC and joined it to my Hafler 945-9180 Dynaudio system. CDs sounded decent.
Another was when I bought my Odyssey Stratos and got a pair of Groneberg Cables. Klauss touted them as on the Bass side. I used them to tame a bright system and realized you can use ICs as Tone Controlls and that all cables do not sound the same.-----------------
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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August 21, 2023, 10:28 AM #10
- Join Date
- Mar 2017
- Location
- North Carolina
- Posts
- 815
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Probably discovering the difference installing a 20 amp dedicated circuit made. Began my understanding and appreciation for the importance of good power.
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August 21, 2023, 12:57 PM #11
- Join Date
- Oct 2019
- Location
- The Netherlands
- Posts
- 260
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
1. My separated group for audio only in the fuse box. Clean power does alot.
2. My Singxer Su-6
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August 21, 2023, 01:02 PM #12
- Join Date
- Oct 2013
- Location
- Sacramento
- Posts
- 1,129
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Moving my equipment rack to a side wall leaving only amps on platforms between the speakers.
Contributor to stereotimes.com
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August 21, 2023, 01:56 PM #13
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Fuses did nothing.
Software in digital playback really matters.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk ProMy 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/
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August 21, 2023, 03:48 PM #14
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Going way back . . .
I was shocked that speaker cables made a difference - oh those original Monster cables.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 21, 2023, 04:25 PM #15
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Then it was damn Mod Squad Tiptoes . . . .
After that I decided that "Everything Makes a Difference" -- although most are NOT better.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 21, 2023, 11:22 PM #16
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I wasn't a true believer until around 2002/03. Had an Esoteric DV50S and bought a Shunyata King Cobra (later known as a version V1) and had two audio buddies over for a listen between the stock C15 and the KC. I played a track with the stock cord & then changed it to the KC. It literally took 15 seconds of listening before our jaws hit the floor. The air between instruments, tonality, dynamics, etc., was the eye opener.
That cable, when horizontal and then placed vertical made a sound like there were BB's inside -- it was actually some sort of hardened ferrite powder/balls (I used to know the name for it - but hey; that was 20 years ago).
Anyways, IMO that is the cable that made my friends & I a true believer & put Caelin & Shunyata Research on the power cord map.
Best to all,
BobAmps: VAC 450iQ Monos/HRS M3X2-1921's, G7 Footers/G-Links/Conecoasters.
Preamp: Ordered VAC Statement Pre.
Digital: dCS Vivaldi (APEX DAC, UpSampler +, Clock & Rossini Transport.
Analogue Preamp: VAC Renaissance SE Phono w/XLR Output option/Nordost Tyr 2 XLR's.
Analogue Sources: SME 20/2 w/V arm/Nordost Odin 2 TA cable/Palo Santos Presentation Cartridge/Akai GX-400D Reel-to-Reel w/relapped heads by JRF Magnetic Sciences. Akai RC-17 cabled remote.
Vibration Control: TT on HRS M3X2-1921.
Speakers: Ordered Wilson Alexia V.
Power Cables: 5 Nordost Odin Supreme Reference on amps/preamp/DAC/Transport. Ansuz C2 on Clock.
Power Distribution: Ansuz Mainz D3 Distributor
Power Outlets: 2 Furutech GTX-D NCF (R) 20A duplex outlets.
Speaker Cables: Nordost Odin 2 Supreme Reference/Sort Lifts.
Signal Cables: Nordost Odin XLR's on dCS Vivaldi DAC & amps. Nordost Odin 2's, 110-ohm AES/EBU on dCS gear.
Clock Cables: 3 each 75 ohm 1.25M Nordost Valhalla BNC/BNC Digital
RCM: Audio Desk PRO
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August 21, 2023, 11:45 PM #17
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
That material was Shunyata's proprietary Zr-Ca material. It was developed based on the e-field dissipation properties of rochelle salts, which were described in one of Shunyata's original patents.
BTW, I have a very similar story comparing the Diamondback PCs and stock power cords for audio friend.
The "backstory" is this audio friend happens to work at Cal Berkeley's Patent Office and a month or so prior, he provided me with Shunyata's original power cord patents to read. And, of course, as a scientist, I read them and came to the conclusion: "Okaayyy....these patents are written by a scientist who really knows what they're doing."
And as it happened, right around this time, Dedicated Audio was having a 2-for-1 sale on Diamondback power cords. So, I bought two of 'em, and as soon as I installed and listened to them in the system in place of the stock, generic black PCs, the improvement was very clearly obvious and not subtle, at all. The presentation was notably better "across the board."
I then called my audio friend who gave me the patents to read to come over and hear a "controlled experiment" comparing the generic black power cords with the Diamondback PCs.
When I first mentioned I wanted him to hear this PC demo first-hand, he said: How can a power cord connecting the last 5 feet of AC power from the wall outlet to a component possibly make any improvement in audio quality?".
I replied, "Just come over, we'll do an experiment."
So...he came over; we put on a reference track he knew well using the generic black PCs to power the preamplifier and amp. All well and good. Then, when I installed the two Diamondback PCs and played the same track, and I also saw his "jaw hit the floor", and he blurted out in astonishment: "If I had not heard it for myself, I would not have not believed it!!!"
Yep, Bob, I know first-hand what your friends experienced.
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August 22, 2023, 12:08 AM #18
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Amps: VAC 450iQ Monos/HRS M3X2-1921's, G7 Footers/G-Links/Conecoasters.
Preamp: Ordered VAC Statement Pre.
Digital: dCS Vivaldi (APEX DAC, UpSampler +, Clock & Rossini Transport.
Analogue Preamp: VAC Renaissance SE Phono w/XLR Output option/Nordost Tyr 2 XLR's.
Analogue Sources: SME 20/2 w/V arm/Nordost Odin 2 TA cable/Palo Santos Presentation Cartridge/Akai GX-400D Reel-to-Reel w/relapped heads by JRF Magnetic Sciences. Akai RC-17 cabled remote.
Vibration Control: TT on HRS M3X2-1921.
Speakers: Ordered Wilson Alexia V.
Power Cables: 5 Nordost Odin Supreme Reference on amps/preamp/DAC/Transport. Ansuz C2 on Clock.
Power Distribution: Ansuz Mainz D3 Distributor
Power Outlets: 2 Furutech GTX-D NCF (R) 20A duplex outlets.
Speaker Cables: Nordost Odin 2 Supreme Reference/Sort Lifts.
Signal Cables: Nordost Odin XLR's on dCS Vivaldi DAC & amps. Nordost Odin 2's, 110-ohm AES/EBU on dCS gear.
Clock Cables: 3 each 75 ohm 1.25M Nordost Valhalla BNC/BNC Digital
RCM: Audio Desk PRO
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August 22, 2023, 12:32 AM #19
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August 22, 2023, 07:00 AM #20
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Good/great surprises?
Muon Pro - earns THE top spot
Snake River cables (mix thereof)
Pro Series ANK 5.1 Signature DAC with Quad C cores
Placing my Rythmik f25's up on spiked Target MR Maximum Rigidity Speaker stands
Investing in speaker placement tools/speaker placement
Negative surprises?
Shunyata Alpha IC
Pangea PC's
Tom~ In search of accurate reproduction of music. Real sound is my reference and while perfection may not be attainable? If I chase it, I might just catch excellence. ~
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August 22, 2023, 01:02 PM #21
- Join Date
- Oct 2019
- Location
- The Netherlands
- Posts
- 260
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Demonstratie: Wandcontactdoos van de elektrische installatie - outlet electrical wiring - YouTube
This vid declares why a separate group in the fuse box helps. Sorry it is in Dutch and it is not an audiophilic vid, but it is a nice experiment how voltage to your gear can change by other electrical items.
Point is that other stuff hooked on that same group causes a voltage drop and variability’s in the power line
Separate your gear at the fuse box will result in a much cleaner and more stable power input
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August 22, 2023, 04:27 PM #22
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- Aug 2014
- Location
- east of Seattle
- Posts
- 821
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
back in 2012-2013 i had purchased a few Lp's with female vocals where i heard distortion in some vocal spots very noticeable. in 2 cases i returned the pressings as defective, were sent another, they had the issue too. i was very confused. but then moved on......
in 2012 i had upgraded my Evolution Acoustics MM3 speakers to twin tower MM7 speakers. the bass towers were -3db at 7hz and -6db at 3hz. they sounded great.
in early 2013 i decided to buy a Herzan TS-140 active isolation device for under my Wave Kinetics NVS turntable.
eventually i happened to play one of these female vocal tracks and i was very surprised that the distortion was gone. i had not previously connected the events, but my MM7 bass towers 6 feet from my NVS turntable had added enough bass energy to change the equation for proper isolation for it. the standard 'shaker' isolation platform for the NVS was not capable enough for my 'extreme' situation.
i was maybe the first guy (or one of the first) using an active device, now it's much more common. and my -5- current Taiko 'Tana Systems' are quite more advanced than the naked Herzan units were/are.
so if you notice an upper bass distortion in the grooves, careful where you point the finger.my system on Audiogon; https://www.audiogon.com/systems/615
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August 23, 2023, 08:33 AM #23
- Join Date
- Mar 2020
- Location
- Detroit area
- Posts
- 208
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
That's SO true about software, Mike. When I come across a product that just flat-out works as advertised - software and hardware working together like a well-oiled machine, I am a very happy camper. I can think of no finer example in my experience than the LUMIN D2 and T2 that I own. I'm so happy with the sound from these units that I have no desire to invest considerable money in Roon or any other software solution.
Saving up for what I hope LUMIN decides to make at some point - an integrated amp - something like the P1 and AMP in the same enclosure. I have no reason to doubt that the engineers at LUMIN can pull it off. Who knows if they're even working on such a product, but one can dream...
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August 23, 2023, 03:11 PM #24
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
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October 9, 2023, 09:33 PM #25
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 435
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
My biggest audio surprise in the last 10 years or so? How good this ridiculous Carver Black Magic 25 wpc amp sounds with my Volti's. I have been looking (kinda) for a "higher end" amp to replace this thing, but I just can't do it as sounds excellent. Second place goes to my Ayon preamp, it blew away my previous preamp so bad there were small groups of people gathering in my front yard holding candles....
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October 9, 2023, 11:14 PM #26
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
- Posts
- 227
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
1. Tannoy speakers with Dual Concentric drivers.
Early 2000s I was transitioning from headphones to dipping my toes into speaker waters, and most of the speakers I'd heard to that point had very poor "coherence" (for lack of a better term), where I found it hard to enjoy music. When I first heard these, it was like everything snapped into focus. I wanted to throw my new Polk LSi15 in the trash lol. I still run Tannoys today. Probably always will. I like both tulip and pepperpot driver variants - each has its pros and cons!
2. Koetsu cartridges.
Circa 2007, I first noticed these in the MusicDirect catalog at insane prices. They were pretty little boxes, but the prices were too ludicrous to be true. No WAY that price is justified, I thought. Then I got a chance to borrow a crusty old Onyx (vintage 80s/90s model) - why not? It completely blew away my new Ortofon Windfeld MC. I was gobsmacked. Pure, unfiltered music magic. It was like the Tannoy speaker thing all over again - like I was hearing all my music again for the first time. I was hooked. Now my little Koetsu collection is like family, and will not be sold. RIP Fumihiko Sugano.
3. Stax Headphones w/ T2 amplifier
After various sessions with SRM-007 left me unimpressed, I first heard SRM-009 with a DIY T2 amp (quite a beast) circa 2014, and it was quite clearly the pinnacle of headphone achievement. It still is IMO, though others have closed the gap and now compete as alternative flavors. The DIY T2 amp absolutely clobbers the (to be sure, excellent) Blue Hawaii SE in direct comparison.
4. VAC Master 300 Monoblocks
I didn't expect these to be a significant upgrade over my VAC 200iQ monos. My speakers are 96dB efficient! But I agreed to give them a listen at home - because that would cost me nothing, right (lol)? They were a freaking HUGE upgrade. Several months later and I STILL can't believe what I'm hearing. Absolutely transformative effects. Single most significant component upgrade in my history. The only amp I've heard so far that does EVERYTHING right and NOTHING wrong (other than price haha)
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October 10, 2023, 07:10 AM #27
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
"We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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October 10, 2023, 08:07 AM #28
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
-----------------
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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October 10, 2023, 10:58 AM #29
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Two surprises for me, both very good;
Westminster Labs Rei monoblock amps caused me to rethink my preconceived notions that Class A amps had to be enormous and run hot to sound exceptional.
And the PSI Audio AVAA active bass traps really work without dominating the landscape.Preamp; WestminsterLab Quest with w/ Audioquest Dragon source PC (C15)
Interconnects; Nordost Valhalla V2 XLR
SACD Player/DAC; Esoteric K-01XD w/ Shunyata Omega QRs PC (C15)
Music Server/Streamer; Aurender N20 w/ Shunyata Omega QRs PC (C15)
Digital cables; Shunyata Sigma V2 Clock (50 Ω & 75 Ω), Nordost Valhalla V2 S/PDIF
Amplifier;Westminster Lab Rei Monoblock w/ Westminster Lab Ultra PC (C15) x 2
Speakers; Magico A5 w/Apods, Westminster Lab Ultra speaker cable
Power; Shunyata Everest 8000 w/ Sigma XC PC (C19)
Grounding; Nordost QKore6 w/ premium and standard grounding wires
Master Clock; Cybershaft OP21A-D Ultra Precision OCXO 10MHz w/ UpTone Audio JS-2 Linear Power Supply
Network switch; Nordost QNET 5 Port Network Switch w/ QNet Stand and Nordost TC SORT Kones, Shunyata Omega Ethernet
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October 10, 2023, 04:15 PM #30
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
- Posts
- 227
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
If you want to compete with 105dB efficiency of LaScalas, then I imagine you've got to fight horns with horns. That would mean the Tannoy Westminster model, which is the only horn loaded Tannoy (at least until you go way back in time). LaScalas still win efficiency at 105 dB vs 99, but Westminsters kill LaScalas in bass extension (18 Hz !!). Not sure if you're using a sub in your setup? But that's the classic tradeoff - bass extension versus efficiency.
I have 15" Canterbury GR - same driver as Westminster, but in a more traditional / simple vented box. They're VERY effortless, dynamic, and room filling for a traditional box speaker - but I image it will still be a different feel than what you're used to with horns. Same deal with the Fyne Vintage 15, which is structured like Canterbury with some minor differences in porting and driver materials.
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October 10, 2023, 05:30 PM #31
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Thanks for the thoughts and I agree with what you've said. Yes I am running a 16" sub as the La Scala's as you mentioned drop like a rock below 50-60hz.
I've had my eye on Tannoy, but wonder if there will be a change since they recently moved the top of the line speakers over to China vs Scotland. I'm guessing yours are made in Scotland?
I agree there is next to nothing that will touch the efficiency of the La Scala's, so I would consider anything in the mid-90's on up for efficiency as that would still be really efficient.
Thanks again."We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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October 10, 2023, 05:41 PM #32
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- Nov 2014
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- 227
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Yes, mine are from 2017 and presumably made in Scotland. We're still basically in the dark about where Tannoy Prestige is actually made today - probably a bit here, a bit there. In a Facebook Group, someone posted photos of Prestige driver parts in boxes marked from China (not 100% verifiable, of course). BUT to their credit, they looked like the normal high quality, using the usual: paper/pulp cone, treated textile surrounds, pepperpot phase plug, large alnico magnet. Fyne is made in Scotland but still avoids using such costly materials? I've been a fan of Tannoy for 20 years and communication with & from Tannoy has ALWAYS been exceedingly poor, sadly
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October 10, 2023, 08:52 PM #33
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Many things have been awesome, but surprises include the Chord Professional, the DSAudio Grandmaster EX, various grounding things (Chord LineAray, CAD, Nordost QKore (multiple) and the impact of upgrading the breaker box serving my room (separate ground field), moving to 20 amp dedicated lines, and the list goes on. Things that I was expecting to be great and were in fact, great, include my TAD R-1 MK IIs, DartZeel Monoblocks and pre and REL six pack. Basically, virtually all of it amazes me every day.
Amplification: DartZeel 468 (2) // DartZeel NHB18NS Mk. II
Tuner: MagnumDynalab 108T/SE
Table/Cart: J.Sikora Reference // Integrity HiFi Tru-Glider - DSAudio GrandMaster EX // Integrity HiFI Tru-Glider - Ortofon A Mono
Equalizer/Phono Pre: DSAudio Master3
Speakers: TAD R-1 MkII, REL Six Pack of REL Carbon Specials
Power: Nordost QBase8 Mk3, QX4, Qkore1, 3 and 6 (chassis), QK1 (2), QV2 (2), Chord GroundAray (signal), Chord Line Aray (3), Chord Professional, AddPOWR EAU2 (2)
DAC/Serv-stream: LampiZator Horizon/ Taiko Extreme
Elrod Master Statement Diamond SE Speaker Cables
Elrod Master Statement Diamond PCs (7), Evolution Acoustics 50 ohm (Zeel Connection), Nordost Odin2 IC (2), Nordost Valhalla II USB, CH Acoustic X20 IC, Final Touch Audio Elara PCs (6)
AudioDesk Systeme RCM
CMS Ultra 2.0 Footers TT (2) and TD (2), Revopods (2) and SortKones and EVPs where they work
Critical Mass Systems Ultra-Q Rack > Silence Focus Amp Stands
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October 11, 2023, 04:30 PM #34
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- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 435
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I have already posted about which components were very surprising to me. However, my biggest surprise in this crazy hobby was going from big amps and inefficient speakers to small amps and high efficiency speakers. It's a whole different type of sound and I like it. Cheers all.
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October 11, 2023, 05:09 PM #35
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
"We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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October 11, 2023, 09:22 PM #36
- Join Date
- Mar 2018
- Posts
- 435
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
What's weird is you would think that the ability to get loud would be a high efficiency speaker's best feature, but it's not. The ability to use smaller (and quite frequently, better sounding) amplifiers and the smaller movements of the drivers which result in lower distortion is what I believe to be key advantages. Paul Klipsch said, "what this country needs is a good 5-watt amplifier" (or something like that).
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October 11, 2023, 09:30 PM #37
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Well said. Sometimes I listen at crazy high levels. And the absolute total lack of any distortion from my La Scala's, and how totally compression-free vocals sound make me want to hug the speakers sometimes.
My only issue is their slight lack of bass. I actually think the BEST sound I have gotten out of them to date was with a 20 watt Luxman tube amp. I miss that sound."We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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October 12, 2023, 08:05 AM #38
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Great listening experiences:
The first time I heard Ohm F's properly setup. Amazing. I still have a pair and think MBL 101E's would be my desert island speaker.
The first time I heard Klipschorns and McIntosh MC 30 tube amps. Didn't think they could sound as good as they did. Very dynamic.
The first time I heard Quad Electrostatics.
Surprises:
Speaker cables made a big difference in clarity and soundstage.
XLR interconnects didn't make any difference - couldn't identify $$$$ vs $ when a friend swapped them out randomly.
USB cables and isolators made a difference when I didn't think they should.
Fuses made zero difference.
An optical break prior to my streamer made a big difference in clarity. Changes upstream of that made zero difference.
Shunyata power cables made a big difference
My homemade grounding system made as much difference as the power cables.Tom
Audio:
Amati Futura Mains
Amati Homage VOX Center,
Proac Response 1sc Rears,
Three MC2301's for L,C,R
MC 602 for the rears
C 1100, MX 151, MCD 1100, MR 77
Nottingham Dais with Sumiko Palo Santos Presentation
SurfacePro 3, JRiver, WW Starlight Platinum USB, Schiit Yggdrasil, Benchmark DAC3 HGC
Video:
MX 151, OppO BDP-95, JVC RS-500 DILA projector, 106" diagonal Stewart Luxus Screenwall Deluxe with Studiotek 130 G3 material.
Lake House:
Ohm F, MC 275V, C2300, MR 80, Rega P3
OnDeck:
McIntosh MAC 4300v
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October 12, 2023, 08:19 AM #39
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
This is a big one. I was pretty shocked when I tested 15 different cheap switches (I did a series of videos on this) and found a significant sound difference between them.
Same with USB cables. If you believe the forum fools they say it's all 1's and 0's and can't make a difference. Glad I educated myself (with the help of Puma Cat) and decided to actually try listening with my own ears."We are all billionaires because of the huge piles sweet dough rolling in from our participation in the ongoing campaign to suck your collective brains through a stirrer-straw." - PTA Editorial Staff
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October 12, 2023, 12:12 PM #40
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,075
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
My friend has Tannoy, I forget the model. I was shocked at the bass response and it seems they do hold together very well at high volume. I think his are one of the high level 10 inch models.
Another speaker that was absolutely crystal clear at very high volume are Zu Audio. Also a speaker that requires a sub.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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October 12, 2023, 12:29 PM #41
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
- Posts
- 227
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
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October 12, 2023, 02:04 PM #42
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Two big surprises for me that stand out the most over the years...
1) The big, ugly, huge dual 15" open baffle subwoofers I designed and built 20+ years ago. Flat to 16 Hz on their own, EQ only used to tame down a slight peak around 60 Hz. The most natural, most realistic, most dynamic bass you could ever imagine. To this day, STILL the best sounding subwoofers I've ever heard at any price point by any manufacturer.
2) These beautiful Odyssey Audio Stratus monoblock amps. At nearly half the power of the stereo Emotiva amp that they replaced, these amps sound stronger and cleaner, and they make my Maggies and subs sound much larger and more powerful. Imaging and sound staging is much better as well.Pass Labs XP-20 | Auralic Altair G1 | Odyssey Audio Stratos Monoblocks | JVC XL-Z411 | Nakamichi DR-1 | Technics SL-1700MK2 | Magnepan 1.7i | SVS PB-1000 Pro x 2
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October 12, 2023, 02:42 PM #43
- Join Date
- Oct 2013
- Location
- Sacramento
- Posts
- 1,129
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October 12, 2023, 02:57 PM #44
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I don't think I would want to go back from having easy to drive speakers. Mine are 98dB, 16 Ohms and flat to 20Hz, using field coil drivers (Classic Audio Loudspeakers T3). When I heard the first version back in the late 1990s, I bought them right away and have yet to hear anything surpass them.
The next eye opener for me was the use of a Distributed Bass Array. The first person to seriously offer any such thing to high end audio was Duke LeJeurne of Audiokinesis, with a sub called the Swarm. Finally a solution for that pesky loss of bass at the listening chair, while the rear of the room would be just fine. So I use a pair of the Swarm subs in my system to break up standing waves. Really effective. If I had it to do over, I'd run four of his subs and the main speakers would be a bit smaller since no need to plumb the bottom octave, but I really don't want to give up that efficiency of the mains. Easy enough, but I already have the best speakers I've heard so I don't expect to make a move.
Finally class D offered something to me sonically a few years back that caused me to sit up and pay attention. I'd thought for years it was a sort of rising star in high end audio, at this point I realized that as a manufacturer, if we didn't get a handle on it we'd get left behind. From a designer's point of view, class D offers some solutions that are very difficult if not downright impossible with conventional amps: getting a really good Gain Bandwidth Product value, something essential if you want to apply feedback to an amplifier properly. We had avoided feedback in our OTLs precisely for this reason; if you don't have enough GBP in your design, the result is usually distortion rising with frequency. If distortion does not rise with frequency, the amp stands a much better chance of sounding like real music. Finally there's something out there that can give you the smoothness thru the mids and highs that you expect of an excellent tube amp without any tradeoffs except overload (which is otherwise instantaneous). Since I'm a tube aficionado, to me this also means that class D is able to take on A and AB solid state amps and still come out on top. The result of that in my own system has been great; no more tube worries, no heat, smaller size and best of all, better sound.
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October 13, 2023, 01:17 AM #45
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I heard those at AXPONA in Gary Leeds's room and they were superb. Using the big TOTL Lampizator DAC, the Horizon, too.
If memory serves, the Westminster Labs Rei monos were designed by Angus Leung, who also happens to work with Lumin, and if my hypothesis is correct, also designed Lumin's amp, named...AMP.
Given how good the Reis sounded, I'd love to hear AMP sometime, too.
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October 13, 2023, 03:46 AM #46
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Preamp; WestminsterLab Quest with w/ Audioquest Dragon source PC (C15)
Interconnects; Nordost Valhalla V2 XLR
SACD Player/DAC; Esoteric K-01XD w/ Shunyata Omega QRs PC (C15)
Music Server/Streamer; Aurender N20 w/ Shunyata Omega QRs PC (C15)
Digital cables; Shunyata Sigma V2 Clock (50 Ω & 75 Ω), Nordost Valhalla V2 S/PDIF
Amplifier;Westminster Lab Rei Monoblock w/ Westminster Lab Ultra PC (C15) x 2
Speakers; Magico A5 w/Apods, Westminster Lab Ultra speaker cable
Power; Shunyata Everest 8000 w/ Sigma XC PC (C19)
Grounding; Nordost QKore6 w/ premium and standard grounding wires
Master Clock; Cybershaft OP21A-D Ultra Precision OCXO 10MHz w/ UpTone Audio JS-2 Linear Power Supply
Network switch; Nordost QNET 5 Port Network Switch w/ QNet Stand and Nordost TC SORT Kones, Shunyata Omega Ethernet
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October 13, 2023, 10:33 AM #47
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
Flat to 20hz
Would love to see some data on these flat to 20hz transducers, heck any data period to back any of your claims Ralph , seeing in 25 yrs not one editorial has ever tested any of your products for real bench data to back up your claims ..
BTW the Bass array was around way before Duke , some of us were dumb enuff to try 4ch back when it was thought to be the way , guess how the subs were arranged
So feel free to post up some actual bench measurements of these greatest of all time audio gear ..!
Regards* An Audiophile is only as old as his latest Class D incarnation *
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October 13, 2023, 11:46 AM #48
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- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
- Posts
- 3,075
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
I was not impressed by the Westminster amp audition at Axpona. Especially when I put on some music that wasn't for going to sleep. I'm familiar with the Horizon. I thought Westminster may just not be a good match with VS. Another issue could have been if they were using the Horizon as preamp, in my opinion it's weak in that area.
I would have loved not ending up with a 100 lb amp again but that's where my ears are.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
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October 13, 2023, 12:00 PM #49
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
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/
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October 13, 2023, 12:18 PM #50
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
- Location
- St. Louis, MO, USA
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- 3,075
Re: What's surprised you gear or cable wise?
No, the music they played in that room was for going to sleep.
The sound of the system didn't have any punch or liveliness to it. Well, that would indicate sort of sleepy. Hmmm, it didn't seem slow more like a lack of transient response (balls). That system didn't do drums well. I played a small portion of a song that was pretty energetic before they changed it back to something slow. I could be wrong but I got the impression they knew something was off.
Enough people like the amps so I'm inclined to believe it was just not a good demo and hopefully I'll get a chance to hear them again.
I thought for a newcomer Class A amp the Infigo was much better based on my auditions.
Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables
HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
SVS PC13 Ultra
Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer
AudioShark - The Best High End Audio Discussion forum.
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.
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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
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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