Recent content by 2FarGone

Just because you’ve been to the mountain’s summit doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view on the descent.

I had a CJ ET3SE for a while that I eventually replaced with the Von Gaylord LAD-L2. I thought the CJ was a very good sounding preamp, but it was far too complex for my needs. The VG has a volume control and an input selector on the front panel - that’s it, which is perfect for what I use it...

That much seems obvious, but what is not obvious is the human factor. I’m uncomfortable with absolute statements regarding nearly anything in audio. A guy moves into a home, and chooses to set up his system in this room as regards to that room. He puts his speakers where he puts them. Maybe...

I agree with this completely. There have been several occasions when I had to utilize the volume control functions of my Directstream, and always breathed a sigh of satisfaction when I put the Von Gaylord back into the system. There’s no question in my mind that a top flight system deserves a...

Yes, that’s exactly how I’ve run it in multiple setups. Simply connect a digital cable from the Node’s digital output to the Schiit DAC, and you’ll be able to set volume from within the BluOS app. Don’t disable the preamp function in the Node, however - you’ll bypass MQA, but you’ll also lose...

Or yet another, “With age comes wisdom, but sometimes age comes alone.”

I also have a Node 2i that I’ve used as a streamer only (bypassing the MQA circuitry) in a fairly high-end setup, and it was fine. I also ran the digital feed into a pretty good DAC and controlled volume with the BluOS app. That also sounded good to me, but I should note that I tried the analog...

A few questions - budget? Will you run an external DAC? If not, it may be the DAC in the WiiM that you hate, and it might be fine as a streamer only.

You certainly raise a valid concern. I wonder if I should consider sending the 10 in to have it checked out and refreshed as needed before that option no longer exists…

So we’ve heard that the amplifier/room/speakers/preamp are each the bedrock of a system. Nothing new there. I’d submit that many of us can walk into a room and know what it will take, however. Experience has its benefits.

I’m not sure how much you gained with that 70 lb integrated. But I do get the motivation. I’m 72 years old. I have two sets of speakers that weigh in at about 90 lbs per speaker, a 90 lb SET and two SVS subs at 100 lbs each. The subs and one set of those speakers made the trip back to my cabin...

I have a model 10 amplifier, and had some communication with him regarding said amp. To the best of my knowledge, it’s business as usual there at Rowland Design Group.

Somewhat less photogenic than the Aric, the Von Gaylord LAD-L2 is also a two-chassis minimalist preamp. There’s much to be said for a pair of 6SN7 tubes (currently some lovely Raytheon VT-231s. Thanks, Michael!) backed up by a 25-pound power supply.

In my mind, preference requires no justification. Period.

I rather liked this one: “Snake oil salesmen are people who try to convince you that their opinion is more valuable than your experience.” It appears applicable to the people who whine most about snake oil salesmen. ;)