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  1. #1
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Several posts are out on various network switches, optical filtering devices, etc.

    Spend some time learning what’s out there, you will be blown away what digital is capable of. Breaking it down, all in will gain you a lot more than the cost of a mid to high level power cable, brand depending The Front End Digital Foundation

    There are several brands of network switches; the top contenders are AQVox (German) SOtM (Korea) and The Linear Solution (Washington, USA).

    Gigafoil v4 is a top contender in optical filtering, and TP Link makes a filtering device at much less then the Gigafoil.

    I highly recommended the use of a linear power supply (LPS) and not to forgot the aftermarket AC and DC power cables, plus isolation feet. There are a lot of companies making LPS with several options and price points.

    One of my largest system gains at the lowest outlay of cash was incorporating the LPS on the modem, network switch and optical filtering with decent cables just adds a natural refinement to the sound, it’s beyond amazing. My system has never sounded so good with all the cables and components that have settled in nicely. Not to mention the collateral benefit of playing with modems and such are the Apple TVs and regular cable through the home which has all upped their game.

    I chose Ghent cables, located in China to make my DC cables and he uses high end Japanese cable and connectors. These cables are way beyond reasonable. I just updated to the Gotham series at under a $100 each for 1M.

    Purpose of this thread is to lump the digital foundation all into one conversation.

    Enjoy Your Sound The Front End Digital Foundation




    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  2. #2
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Thanks Ed
    First Sound Mark3SI preamp. Audion Black Shadow 845 SET Monoblocks. Mojo Audio Deja Vu Server. Mojo Audio Mystic 3 DAC. Linear Solution Ethernet Switch. Gigafoil with LPS. STST Motus II TT with Vertere SG1 arm, Hana ML Cartridge, Allnic H1201 phono pre. Pure Audio Project Trio 15 Horn speakers with Mundord Supreme oil caps. Power via 10 awg Oyaide cable from panel to custom distribution strip feeding front end. Oyaide dedicated10 AWG branch circuits from panel to each amp. Inakustik speaker and interconnect cables, Genesis Interconnect.
    Kingrexelectric.com Lyncole certified grounding specialist.

  3. #3
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Today I repurposed a PS Audio ($50.00) receptacle outlet I had to the cheap Home Depot receptacle in my mechanical room where my Arris Surfboard 10/100/1000 modem resides.

    It may be a coincidence but things got quieter, will need to validate this.

    I have a better than cheap distribution ($75?) plugged into the PS Audio receptacle, and from the power cable into the first receptacle is a PS Audio Noise Harvester ($75.00), then a Shunyata plug in conditioner ($199.00) then the Nordost Red Dawn ($400) feeding a Keces P8 ($699) that runs Ghent Gotham cables ($100 each) to the modem and switch. I use Audio Quest Vodka RJ45s until the AQVox SE switch.

    Very happy with these results, and posting this for people to think about the front end and how you can go at in pieces.

    Starting over, I would change the outlet first, where I did this dead last.

    It all matters has been has been my experience and none of this is anywhere near the crazy costs once you get into the music room where the 2 channel resides.




    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  4. #4
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Very interesting.

    I try to avoid having my music going through the network completely. I have all of my music on internal SSDs in my server. I go directly out through AQ Coffee USB cable to a W4S Recovery, back out through another Coffee to the DAC. Every component is connect through an AQ Niagara power conditioner and I do have a Linear Power Supply on the Recovery and I also have two PS Audio Noise Harvesters attached to the same power outlet as the Niagara. It all sounds quite to me and friends from the audio club usually comment on how "black" the back ground is in my system.
    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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  5. #5
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Very interesting.

    I try to avoid having my music going through the network completely. I have all of my music on internal SSDs in my server. I go directly out through AQ Coffee USB cable to a W4S Recovery, back out through another Coffee to the DAC. Every component is connect through an AQ Niagara power conditioner and I do have a Linear Power Supply on the Recovery and I also have two PS Audio Noise Harvesters attached to the same power outlet as the Niagara. It all sounds quite to me and friends from the audio club usually comment on how "black" the back ground is in my system.
    Hey Randy - Makes sense on what you did especially with all your music on your SSD.

    I may have 100 albums playing off my SSD, and found I rarely pick up a CD and have drawers full from when I started back in the 80’s.

    Streaming is just too easy for me and with recordings making or breaking playback I wanted to be sure to have a very stable playback and operation and IMO Tidal/Quboz make it simple, with being more favorable to Quboz.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  6. #6
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Certainly I can understand what you are accomplishing with your network if streaming is important to you. Since I prefer to own and play all of my music locally the network does not come into play for my playback (other then the control tablet, Surface Pro 6 in my case).

    I figure I have a hard enough time picking out what I want to listen to as it is with almost 1000 albums (mixture of downloads, flac and DSD up to DSD256, CD Rips, and SACD rips) that I could not imagine determining what I would like to hear from Tidal or Quboz .

    All of my disks get a single spin to rip and copy to the server and backup drives. So my spinner doesn't get used a ton any more ....
    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

  7. #7
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Certainly I can understand what you are accomplishing with your network if streaming is important to you. Since I prefer to own and play all of my music locally the network does not come into play for my playback (other then the control tablet, Surface Pro 6 in my case).

    I figure I have a hard enough time picking out what I want to listen to as it is with almost 1000 albums (mixture of downloads, flac and DSD up to DSD256, CD Rips, and SACD rips) that I could not imagine determining what I would like to hear from Tidal or Quboz .

    All of my disks get a single spin to rip and copy to the server and backup drives. So my spinner doesn't get used a ton any more ....
    We all seem lucky to only have first world problems The Front End Digital Foundation


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  8. #8
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I have Stillpoints Ultra Mini under my Keces P3 and moved my Ultra SS from my Transport I hardly use to the P8 - I’m not sure if my mind is playing tricks on me but things sound like they tightened up in the mid and low end even more.

    Stillpoints are controversial for me as they have removed midrange before in my system and speakers. Right now I am hearing the opposite to this plus low end tightening as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  9. #9
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I saw Shunyata recently announced the Sigma Ethernet cable. I would be interested in trying this out or hearing if others have?
    DeVore O96 / Leben CS600X / Rossini DAC & HiFi Rose 150B / Gigafoil v4 w/ Keces P3 /Denali 6000S
    Technics 1200G with EMT TSD15N, A23 Hommage T2 SUT, Leben RS30EQ, A23 interconnects

  10. #10
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by UltraFast69 View Post
    I chose Ghent cables, located in China to make my DC cables and he uses high end Japanese cable and connectors. These cables are way beyond reasonable. I just updated to the Gotham series at under a $100 each for 1M.
    Which cable did you order to go from the Keces P3 to the Gigafoil? This resulted in an improvement? I'm keen to possibly give it a try.
    DeVore O96 / Leben CS600X / Rossini DAC & HiFi Rose 150B / Gigafoil v4 w/ Keces P3 /Denali 6000S
    Technics 1200G with EMT TSD15N, A23 Hommage T2 SUT, Leben RS30EQ, A23 interconnects

  11. #11
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Sablon Audio

  12. #12
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by lostinla View Post
    Which cable did you order to go from the Keces P3 to the Gigafoil? This resulted in an improvement? I'm keen to possibly give it a try.
    Ghent made up for me the Gotham series which I use for all DC cables.

    It’s contributed to better sound, subtle mind you but then I added Nordost power cables and recently now Stillpoints and you will hear more then a noticeable difference!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  13. #13
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    So the nordost cables are a lot better than the Ghent

  14. #14
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Two different things.
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

    Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810

    Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.

  15. #15
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by UltraFast69 View Post
    I have Stillpoints Ultra Mini under my Keces P3 and moved my Ultra SS from my Transport I hardly use to the P8 - I’m not sure if my mind is playing tricks on me but things sound like they tightened up in the mid and low end even more.

    Stillpoints are controversial for me as they have removed midrange before in my system and speakers. Right now I am hearing the opposite to this plus low end tightening as well.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    On my LPS, it is easy to feel the vibration despite the unit, IMO being well built, it is durable and cast in aluminum.

    Day 1 after placing it was apparent things were tightening up the low end and further pronouncing the mid range, like wicked good, but I wanted to be sure it was not what I was wanting to hear.

    Now a few days later, and shortly after putting on Lost and Lookin’ on Sam Cookes, The Man that Invented Soul (found on Tidal and highly recommended) there is a clicking relay sound of sorts somewhere with the first 30 seconds into it, it is more faint now then previous and it can easily be missed if your not looking for it.

    I use select tracks that I am very familiar with, and take notes as well when critically listening.

    The Ultra SS under the P8 feeding the modem and switch has bettered by sound, with a controlled low end and crazy good mid range building on what was stated earlier.

    My hunch now is isolation does go through a break in period but what I “think” is happening is the vibration is finding its way to the isolation feet, kinda like water taking the least path of resistance. I use Ultra Mini, Ultra SS and Ultra 6 trying many combinations as I believe they are not good for everything, like my amps and speakers.

    I am betting I will realize a little more change, and hope it’s in the current direction.

    Side note: Critical Mass claims their Center Stage requires a number of days to settle, and now I am seeing if that’s the case with all isolation - in theory they all do the same but differ by materials and such kinda like power cables.

    Disclaimer; I am not legally high or under the influence of alcohol, however, your experience may differ The Front End Digital Foundation



    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  16. #16
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Clicking noise ?

  17. #17
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Hey Rex - In the Song within 20-30 seconds.
    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









  18. #18
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I might be double posting, but I'm asking if you know what's making that clicking sound.

  19. #19
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    I might be double posting, but I'm asking if you know what's making that clicking sound.
    Rex, it’s recorded in the song, not the system. It plays about 7 - 8 seconds from the start.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  20. #20
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Tomorrow I’ll have the new Audioquest 3 distribution and surge protector that will replace a Panamax distribution and plug into the PS Audio receptacle to support the modem and switch.

    Both distribution pieces appear similar with an attached power cable with in and outs for Ethernet and Coaxial but AudioQuest seems to take it a lot further claiming to reduce noise with linear filters, dedicated receptacles addressing different inputs, a directional cable and non destructive surge protection.

    I will try my current Nordost Red Dawn and an Audioquest something I have into the P8. I believe matching brand cables with brand distribution for no reason other than that to me is synergy.

    I like Audioquest, they make a good product. A few years ago, I had the Niagara 7000, and that was a nice component, this is about $6000.00 less coming in at $299.00, and will have no where near the load as the 2 Channel.

    Stay tuned...



    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  21. #21
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Any particular reason you think you need power conditioner on the Keces?
    First Sound Mark3SI preamp. Audion Black Shadow 845 SET Monoblocks. Mojo Audio Deja Vu Server. Mojo Audio Mystic 3 DAC. Linear Solution Ethernet Switch. Gigafoil with LPS. STST Motus II TT with Vertere SG1 arm, Hana ML Cartridge, Allnic H1201 phono pre. Pure Audio Project Trio 15 Horn speakers with Mundord Supreme oil caps. Power via 10 awg Oyaide cable from panel to custom distribution strip feeding front end. Oyaide dedicated10 AWG branch circuits from panel to each amp. Inakustik speaker and interconnect cables, Genesis Interconnect.
    Kingrexelectric.com Lyncole certified grounding specialist.

  22. #22
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I’ve pondered that and curious to find out, everything done thus far has been some of the cheapest cost items delivering positive results.

    Worst case I can take it back or repurpose it to the living room A/V
    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









  23. #23

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Very interesting.

    I try to avoid having my music going through the network completely. I have all of my music on internal SSDs in my server. I go directly out through AQ Coffee USB cable to a W4S Recovery, back out through another Coffee to the DAC. Every component is connect through an AQ Niagara power conditioner and I do have a Linear Power Supply on the Recovery and I also have two PS Audio Noise Harvesters attached to the same power outlet as the Niagara. It all sounds quite to me and friends from the audio club usually comment on how "black" the back ground is in my system.

    Since streaming is essential to me, unless there’s someway to use streaming in an off-line mode from the network, then I have to throw my energies and cleaning up the network.

    I’m going to put an LPSU from small green computer on my modem where the fiber optic comes into a utility room below the house. I then have 100 feet of Cat 7 buried Between the house and my studio where the audio system is.

    It just occurs to me that it might be a good idea to run a dedicated line for the modem in this utility room as it’s now sharing the circuit with A water Filtration pump which I figure has got to be noisy.

    And then at the studio/ listening room I’ll put in the Uptone EtherRegen switch when it’s ready.
    Source: Taiko Audio Server, Cisco 2960 Switch, Gigafoil, Lampizator Pacific Dac. Amp: Bakoon 13r Speakers: AvantGarde Duo Mezzo XD, Cables: Alan Maher Designs Power, Duelund Speaker, Shunyata Sigma IC's Audioquest Diamond ethernet. Room Treatment Vicoustic.

  24. #24

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    [QUOTE=

    Streaming is just too easy for me and with recordings making or breaking playback I wanted to be sure to have a very stable playback and operation and IMO Tidal/Quboz make it simple, with being more favorable to me.
    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro[/QUOTE]

    My experience is also that recording quality is by far the most important factor, regardless of format Or delivery method. But someday, I’m going to take the time to start comparing some of my favorite recordings as streamed or rips and see if there’s a meaningful difference.
    Source: Taiko Audio Server, Cisco 2960 Switch, Gigafoil, Lampizator Pacific Dac. Amp: Bakoon 13r Speakers: AvantGarde Duo Mezzo XD, Cables: Alan Maher Designs Power, Duelund Speaker, Shunyata Sigma IC's Audioquest Diamond ethernet. Room Treatment Vicoustic.

  25. #25
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Well I received the Audioquest Power 3 today. Very nicely built, heavy gauge directional power cable and a template made the mounting screws a snap.



    I just turned on the system, and have qualified that the Linear Power Supply is affected by what it’s fed. First I installed a PS Audio receptacle a few weeks back, and now updated distribution to the Audioquest Power 3.

    I changed out the stranded copper Nordost Red Dawn for the time being and in its place an Audioquest NRG 2 solid core power cable, decision is to stick with synergy.

    After 10 minutes of listening my low end is much lower and the mid’s a tad faded, but song depending. I’m not paranoid anymore about the Stillpoints UItra SS taking away the midrange.

    I can hear this needs a little break in between the distribution and power cable, I’ll stream the Aurender N10 all night and weekend.

    Eventually I will ask Rex to run a dedicated circuit to the mechanical room and get off the main panel as it’s obvious to me paying attention to this part of the digital front end to support streaming is not an option.

    This picture is not the best - its a little cleaner then it looks.



    Stay tuned!





    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  26. #26
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    If your streaming, I highly recommend consideration on what I have been mentioning on this Lone Ranger Thread.

    I was no different, the eye candy is addicting. Many of us put the money into the power, speakers, components, cables, isolation, treatment and rightfully so as you get to immediately hear the results.

    If your following what I have done and I hope you have as I’m that passionate about it, I truly believe you’ll be amazed if you go down this road.

    It’s day 2 and I’m BLOWN AWAY on what is happening and what I’m hearing inserting the Audioquest distribution and cable, as the next piece to square away the modem and switch, total $399.00.

    Is this feeding cleaner power on a house panel shared circuit to the Keces P8, oh yes. I can’t wait until I install a dedicated breaker for this.

    Everything is so much more natural while sounding more alive then it was before. I’ve been building this system over the years, I have always benefited from the attributes of a good system on what it was and is putting out, after all this is a high 6 figure system. But now, it’s gone into a different league.

    Inky black, check
    Smoother, check
    Amazing timbre, check
    Upper end resolute and complimenting, check
    No sacrifice to mid range, check
    Tight controlled low end, check

    Despite me still thinking can it get any better? My hunch is I’m going to get more over the next few days as there is only close to 25 hours on the distribution and power cable feeding the Keces, if this follows the route my high dollar cables went down, we are talking another 75 plus hours or progressive sweetness.

    I believe most of our gear purchased as high fi is already heads and shoulders over low and mid fi systems, you just have to work it. While I’m way past any budget originally set out years ago, it does not have to be crazy priced to get the most out of it.

    Paying attention to what feeds what from the beginning cannot be overlooked, if you want more and don’t want to spend high 4 and 5 figures.

    How your modem is powered from the wall pays huge dividends, plus everything else in the house is benefiting as well.

    I won’t imagine putting a Nordost QRT system at the modem, but I do wonder.

    More Later, Peace!




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  27. #27

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Ultrafast, this is interesting. I've never given it much thought to try to eliminate noise at the Modem. My efforts have been at the Switch and the DAC. But, I imagine the Att Modem is a very noisy device.

    If I understand correctly, John Swenson, engineer at Uptone Audio, says he does not believe any filtration, cable and linear power supply upgrade will be needed at the Modem or above their network switch ("EtherRegen" still in development). He says their switch will clean up any noise coming into the switch.

    However, nevertheless, I'm going to see what my spare Topaz Iso transformer along with a spare filtering power cord feeding a lpsu might do.
    Source: Taiko Audio Server, Cisco 2960 Switch, Gigafoil, Lampizator Pacific Dac. Amp: Bakoon 13r Speakers: AvantGarde Duo Mezzo XD, Cables: Alan Maher Designs Power, Duelund Speaker, Shunyata Sigma IC's Audioquest Diamond ethernet. Room Treatment Vicoustic.

  28. #28
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Willco View Post
    Ultrafast, this is interesting. I've never given it much thought to try to eliminate noise at the Modem. My efforts have been at the Switch and the DAC. But, I imagine the Att Modem is a very noisy device.

    If I understand correctly, John Swenson, engineer at Uptone Audio, says he does not believe any filtration, cable and linear power supply upgrade will be needed at the Modem or above their network switch ("EtherRegen" still in development). He says their switch will clean up any noise coming into the switch.

    However, nevertheless, I'm going to see what my spare Topaz Iso transformer along with a spare filtering power cord feeding a lpsu might do.
    Yes it is interesting, my take is it’s all cumulative and the better it is at the start the better it is as it goes through the system.

    Your hardcore grounding efforts is parallel to this


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  29. #29
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    The Lone Ranger comes back with even more...The Front End Digital Foundation

    On a different thread, it was asked if power cables improve a LPS.

    I was completely sold using a lower offering power cable from AudioQuest out of my new Audioquest distribution into the Keces P8 replacing a Nordost Red Dawn, it was a solid core replacing a stranded to support the modem and switch for streaming.

    So I said to myself there’s an Ansuz C sitting in my Transport I only use for Apple TV and it’s was not a cheap cable to do little to nothing, so into the Audioquest Distribution it went and out to the Keces 8 powering the modem and switch it now does.

    The result is staggering, I literally just hit pay dirt in streaming. I’m not sure if you can do better for all the money that is now sitting from the wall to the switch, but most of this stuff was already here.

    I’ll be back here over the weekend to see what else is gained between now and then. I’m sure he Ansuz needs to settle a bit with its new role.









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  30. #30
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Well follow up to the changing power cables to the LPS

    First up was Nordost Red Dawn, it allowed a natural sound, smooth and warm

    Next was the Audioquest NRG, it was a bit more pronounced and revealing, the sound was its own in a good way, and was slightly warm but not as much as the Nordost

    Then the Ansuz, and it was very resolving, lowered the noise floor to ridiculous levels, but it was argued that it was not as natural when I ran the Nordost, followed by the Audioquest when I ran a comparison confirmed with a long time Audio Junkie friend of mine.

    I ended up putting back the Audioquest, the least expensive of the three back on the Keces 8, figuring that it had to still burn in a bit.

    The Ansuz C is a great cable, and I think it’s best purposed for the high current of amps, and now I know what Shunyata means by their classes of cables, it has to be.

    Simply said, Ansuz was too much of a good thing.

    In the end, my path of what is mentioned in this post ain’t no joke, and is solid for streaming all day long!

    Good luck out there, happy listening The Front End Digital Foundation




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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    An interesting read Ultrafast69.

    I love these sorts of commentaries.

    I think the digital front end is the next great exploration ground to open up possibilities and unlock further potential of our systems. Keep it up.
    Borresen Acoustics Loudspeakers, Borresen Model 01 Compact monitor loudspeakers with Ansuz Darkz T2s Supreme resonance control, Audio Video Manufaktur GmbH (AVM) Inspiration amplifier & streamer, Innuos Zen MKII music server, Ansuz Acoustics cables & accessories. Please visit my system thread hosted on Audioshark for more details. Disclosure: The author is materially connected to Ansuz, Aavik & Borresen Acoustics via friendship with an owner.

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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by kiwi_1282001 View Post
    An interesting read Ultrafast69.

    I love these sorts of commentaries.

    I think the digital front end is the next great exploration ground to open up possibilities and unlock further potential of our systems. Keep it up.
    Totally agree and I just updated with some clarity.


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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    very informative and useful thread which i have been following with interest -- you are certainly on a mission to extract every last bit of SQ from your digital source. thanks for reporting your findings and progress here.

    based upon my experience as well, there are huge gains in SQ to be had by addressing the front-end digital infrastructure with the simple goal of making it transparent and, thereby, allowing the rest of the system to perform at its potential. having the benefit of starting from scratch, i was able to implement a quite minimalist digital front-end (described in this thread) which yielded a system SQ improvement far beyond my initial expectations.

    looking forward to hearing more results from your project -- as well as the experience of others here.
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  34. #34
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    With such big gains on a power cord, it makes you wonder what a better PS might do. Keces from the talk I hear is a good middle to top of middle performer. There are others that are better. More money yes.

  35. #35
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    With such big gains on a power cord, it makes you wonder what a better PS might do. Keces from the talk I hear is a good middle to top of middle performer. There are others that are better. More money yes.
    I honestly did not believe a power cable would have any affect on a linear power supply, but it so did.

    Can you get a better power supply, of course. The question is how better do you need to run a modem and switch?

    A $5000 Ansuz power cable on a $100 modem puts things into perspective from the point that too much of a good thing can be deadly, it was just way too much for me, so there has to be a balance in there somewhere. Personally I think the Audioquest checks that box and I am so happy with what I did and what I am hearing.

    Now once you install the dedicated line in the mechanical room, I can’t help but wonder if it will emulate the Ansuz - we will both see.

    Luckily it’s only money The Front End Digital Foundation


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  36. #36
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Why would anybody pay $5000 for a re-badged Chinese built switch?
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

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  37. #37
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Jack View Post
    Why would anybody pay $5000 for a re-badged Chinese built switch?
    ?


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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Heres more support why everything matters, and some things don’t with the caveat of system and ears depending...

    I stole my Ultra SS Stillpoints from under the transport and put them under the Keces 8 when I got it, now I had the idea to pull the Ultra SS from under the AQVOx switch in the audio room and replace them with a HRS Nimbus isolator puck and repurpose the Ultra SS under the transport - HUGE MISTAKE, everything flattened out. The Ultra SS went back under the AQVox and everything came back. This shows to me that those little switches are noisy M’Fkrs.

    Earlier I tried to use Stillpoints under the Gigafoil, and I lost dynamics, so the Gigafoil only sits on a small piece of stone,

    The Stillpoints did work on the Transport, but since I hardly use it was the reason to see if the change would work.
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  39. #39
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Latest updates, sound is dialed in very nice, and here is where I should leave well enough alone.

    So, knowing this, I threw in a single Stillpoints Ultra 6 under the AQVox SE, let it play for a day and out it came, the Ultra SS proves to be the best in my system.

    It seems higher end tweaks don’t get the performance when used for ancillary support to components. The Ansuz C Power Cable and now Ultra SS failed the sound test. Maybe simpler is the best path.

    So now I’m waiting for KingRex to put a dedicated circuit in my mechanical room for the modem, router and switch.

    Ethernet cable: It has been said for distance run a cheap cable to the Gigafoil and high quality out, and I did this and it works.

    Now, I am going to have Ghent make me a 15M Ethernet cable, going from the mechanical room to the music room to see what a better Ethernet cable does, it’s under $300 and much better than what I have. I refuse to put in a Nordost Heimdell at this point The Front End Digital Foundation


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  40. #40
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    F#@K - It’s the Tweaker, Audio Junkie updating on my latest efforts to maximize sound quality for streaming!

    Running through my last combinations is not to get a different sound but better results or back it goes.

    By applying this practice, I have reversed a few trials as mentioned in earlier posts simply as they emitted poor SQ results.

    I’m gonna let my recent changes settle over the weekend, and don’t want to be fooled like the Ansuz did to me mentioned a few posts up, but as I process what I am hearing, I would be embarrassed to stand up if friends were over unless they were a couple of blonds.

    Here’s what I did;

    I moved my AQVox SE switch from the Music room to the Mechanical room, sitting on a hunk of Marble.



    It now connects a 15M generic Cat 6 cable to the Gigafoil v4 in the music room and also connects the main network switch supplying Cat 5 through the home, the results are even crazier on Apple TVs around the home, faster load, and stunning graphics.

    The Keces P3 in the Music Room now sits on Stillpoints Ultra SS versus the Stillpoints Minis - no change to the previous AC/DC cable updates.

    In the Mechanical room, the AQVox SE sits on Ultra SS, now with bases, next to the Keces P8 that is only used to power the Arris Surfboard modem and a Netgear switch feeding the home other than the Music Room.

    The AQVoxSe connects the Netgear home switch with a AQVox top of the line Ethernet cable - no change to the previous AC/DC cable updates.

    I moved the Shunyata Defender power conditioner to the PS Audio outlet, that sits above the Audioquest 3 Distribution hard wire cable/plug.



    I am waiting for my new 15M Shielded Belden Ethernet cable with German Matrix Shielded termination plugs to arrive late next week, plus a new 1M Gotham, made by Ghent for a total of $375.00.

    The new Ethernet cable will replace the Generic Cat 6 Ethernet, this will tell us if the Gigafoil benefits from a better cable, I think it has a chance, but will be patient and take a listen. From the Gigafoil, there’s no change using Nordosts top of the line Heimdell.

    I’ll use the existing 15M Generic Cat 6 fed from the AQVox SE to hook up a new Netgear switch in the Music Room tnst will feed Apple TV and Oppo using Nordost Heimdell cables. The Netgear will be powered by the second rail of the Keces P3 using a new Ghent Gotham DC 1M cable, and I will ground the Netgear switch with a Nordost QKore cable giving it a better then average start - eventually, I’ll Stillpoints the switch and ultimately replace it with Audio grade as the performance is hard to beat once I see the picture on the TV.

    After all this, I’ll wait for KingRexs installation of a dedicated circuit in the mechanical room to happen whenever and stick a fork in it, it’s Salmon season for me and my focus will be on this years bounty that pays for all of this.

    Happy Listening The Front End Digital Foundation







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  41. #41

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Nice experimentation UltraFast. A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do. Once you start diving into details, there’s no end. But I know the feeling when a tweak works for you The Front End Digital Foundation.

    Happy hunting!


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  42. #42

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Way to go ultrafast! That’s some seriously impressive audiophile discipline. Lots of moving parts.

    I too have recently tried to address the Utility Room front end with the iso transformer, filtering cables, LPSU and vibration EVP pads for everything ( from Norm Varney of AV Room Service.)

    And everything is sounding great. However, I don’t have the mental discipline or desire to AB any of these different moves.

    I love everything about Audiophilia except for the AB comparing process.

    Theoretically, if it makes sense and as long as everything sounds really good, I’m happy with it.

    But I wonder about the AT&T modem itself. Maybe someone needs to do an audio mod of these utility modems?

  43. #43
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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I have to hand it to you Ed. Few people would painstakingly dig into the network, power, cable, tweak conundrum we all face in digital audio. And it comforts me knowing that someone else is doing it.
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  44. #44
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    The Front End Digital Foundation

    In the hunt to wind things down is another change, what’s new, right?

    I popped out both Audioquest Vodkas from the modem to the router to the AQVox SE switch, and repurposed with Nordost top of the line Ethernet, Heimdell 2.

    I put the top of line AQVox Ethernet replacing Heimdell between the Gigafoil and the Aurender N10.

    The existing Audioquest Vodka now connects the home Cat5 via the AQVox SE giving a boost to the house despite using a second switch.

    I have one remaining Audioquest Vodka sitting neatly coiled awaiting its new mission to either compare against the AQVox Ethernet, and the Heimdell before it or go on to my bedroom system - I get exhausted doing this s#$t.

    Much like I learned power from the wall to distribution, I rethought what I have where and applied this method with Heimdell - this was a solid move forward, what a difference!

    I let things play at the onset, and could hear it was off to a good start really adding more sense of naturalness is the best way I can describe it and gave the new configuration 7 hours to settle, I’ll let the Aurender stream overnight, where I usually stop streaming only leaving the player on - the modem and switch work 24/7.

    IMO the cables take a bit to settle when repurposing I am thinking to address the new signals being passed.

    Lesson learned for me, place your best cable from beginning to end, evaluate for performance.

    I am really curious when my new Ghent 15M arrives later this week, and I’m not worried about noise on such a run, first because I am already doing this with a cheap Cat 6 cable and have no audible noise, and second I have created a very solid foundation supporting the ability to stream like nobody’s business!

    One thing is I’ll not be using a Netgear to address Apple TV and Oppo, lesson learned again, never use more than you need to. I’ll be using the existing long run going direct into Apple TV versus a switch, and not worry about Oppo.

    I will try the Ghent first into Apple TV to see what I get before putting it onto Gigafoil, and if it works well for $270.00, I’ll run a second.

    HiFi Streaming:

    Modem/Router > RJ45 - AQVox SE Switch > RJ45 to Gigafoil > RJ45 to Aurender Out > AES to DAC

    Video Streaming:

    Modem/Router > RJ45 - AQVox SE Switch > RJ45 to Apple TV > HDMI to Oppo Digital to to DAC

    Almost there, hope this helps and Happy Listening The Front End Digital Foundation






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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    I have a HDplex linear PS on it's way to me. Should have it in a few days. It does 19v and 12v so perfect to address my router and modem. Thanks for all the encouragement Ed.

    We need to compare the HDplex and Keces. I will bring it by one day. It will be a couple weeks before my schedule opens up.

  46. #46

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    I have a HDplex linear PS on it's way to me. Should have it in a few days. It does 19v and 12v so perfect to address my router and modem. Thanks for all the encouragement Ed.

    We need to compare the HDplex and Keces. I will bring it by one day. It will be a couple weeks before my schedule opens up.
    I do have an HDplex powering my NAS and that works well.


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    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    I have a HDplex linear PS on it's way to me. Should have it in a few days. It does 19v and 12v so perfect to address my router and modem. Thanks for all the encouragement Ed.

    We need to compare the HDplex and Keces. I will bring it by one day. It will be a couple weeks before my schedule opens up.
    Good deal on the HDPlex!

    Yes, let’s do a comparison, I look forward to it.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    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









  48. #48
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Nov 2018
    Location
    Auburn, Washington USA
    Posts
    419

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    My WIFI router is the only piece in my digital chain that still uses the factory wall wart. It's 12v 2.5A. I was just looking at the HDPlex, Teddy 12/2A or Teddy 12/4.5A power supply. I'm not sure which of the Teddy is best suited for the 12V 2.5A?

    As a side question. Why are so many people from the Seattle area into power supplies?
    Speakers: Magico S3 (23')
    Integrated:Gryphon Diablo 300 plus DAC
    Streamer: HiFi Rose RS150b
    CD/DVD: Oppo 205
    Cables: Cardas-Shunyata-AudioQuest-Supra
    Roon Core: sonicTransporter i7 powered with HDPlex 200w linear PS, running AudioLinux for Roon--Tidal and Qobuz with iPad Pro

    Time is just a tool humans created to measure movement and record events

  49. #49

    Re: The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by Kingrex View Post
    I have a HDplex linear PS on it's way to me. Should have it in a few days. It does 19v and 12v so perfect to address my router and modem. Thanks for all the encouragement Ed.

    We need to compare the HDplex and Keces. I will bring it by one day. It will be a couple weeks before my schedule opens up.
    Quote Originally Posted by UltraFast69 View Post
    Good deal on the HDPlex!

    Yes, let’s do a comparison, I look forward to it.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    I look forward to hearing about this comparison.
    Anthony
    Analog: VPI Clearaudio Innovation Wood/Kuzma 4Point/Ortofon A95> ASR Basis Exclusive HV---->

    Digital: Antipodes CX (Oladra Upgrade)> Cary DMS-600 DAC/Streamer---->
    ...........Cary 306 SACD Professional Disc Player---->

    ===> Cary SLP-05 (Ultimate Upgrade edition)----> Clayton M-300----> MARTIN LOGAN SPIRES/REL 212SX x2

    [Synergistic Research/Nordost/Wireworld/Furutech/SRA/Adona/Stillpoints/Track Audio/GIK Acoustics]

  50. #50

    The Front End Digital Foundation

    Quote Originally Posted by UltraFast69 View Post
    Rex, it’s recorded in the song, not the system. It plays about 7 - 8 seconds from the start.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    That "clicking noise" that you refer to is actually made by the bass player when playing the instrument. It is not a really a 'technical' or recording error.

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