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  1. #1
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    Soulution 520 Preamp

    I was just wondering if anyone here had experience with the Soulution 520 preamp? I'm trying to get an idea of how much of a bump I'll get in performance if I put one in front of my Soulution 501 monos. Right now I'm running directly from my Esoteric K-01 to the Soulution 501's and I have to say, it sounds pretty darn good.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  2. #2
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    I always prefer a preamp in the system. I feel I get more musicality, air and dimension. I have not heard the Soulution gear, but there are a few members here who own it and always speak highly of it. I am sure it will be amazing.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  3. #3
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Ken, I've heard it many times, it's a great pre !

    David has even paired it with the Hegel H30 and said it was fabulous

    I'm sure Kev will chime in, he loves his.
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  4. #4

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    As far as any preamp goes, it's worth owning!

  5. #5
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Thanks guys! I took a long road trip to audition the 520 / 501 combo yesterday. The dealer connected the 540 player directly to the 501's and then introduced the 520 in the signal chain. The improvement was significant; increased transparency, nuance, texture, musicality and dynamics. The 520 is a wonderful sounding preamp! Hopefully, this will be a 2015 addition to my system.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  6. #6
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    The 501's are SWEET!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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

  7. #7

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Thanks guys! I took a long road trip to audition the 520 / 501 combo yesterday. The dealer connected the 540 player directly to the 501's and then introduced the 520 in the signal chain. The improvement was significant; increased transparency, nuance, texture, musicality and dynamics. The 520 is a wonderful sounding preamp! Hopefully, this will be a 2015 addition to my system.

    On an interesting side note for the 501 owners out there, the dealer stated that he had the 701 monoblocks in his showroom but didn't care for their sound. Consequently, he sent them back to Soulution. He said that he much prefers the sound of the 501's...go figure.

    Ken
    Ken, it really is a gem of a pre-amp & I love mine, but i also liked these when I heard them yesterday too. The rest of the system wasn't too shabby either!





  8. #8
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by bzr View Post
    Ken, it really is a gem of a pre-amp & I love mine, but i also liked these when I heard them yesterday too. The rest of the system wasn't too shabby either!




    Wow Kev,

    That is one heckuva system! Wouldn't you love to slide that into your living room. Thanks for the feedback on the 520. It seems like this decision is turning into a no brainer.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  9. #9

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    ... your welcome, but alas, I'd have to buy a new house & rewire everything to get up to this pay grade. The power is straight to the system on a seperate line from the road.

  10. #10
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Hey Everyone,

    My Soulution 520 Preamp is in the house! I'm so excited that it came today. I can't wait to place it in my system with the Esoteric K-01, Soulution 501's and Revel Salon 2's. The timing worked out nicely because I'll get to listen with the Salon 2's for several days before I add the Raidho D3's. Much more fun to add one component at a time to hear the difference each new component makes.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  11. #11
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Congrats Ken!

    I can't believe you're being this patient with the new speakers.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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

  12. #12
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Congrats Ken!

    I can't believe you're being this patient with the new speakers.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    LOL Mike. Hopefully they'll be in my system sometime next week. In the meantime I get to play with my new Soulution 520 and see what it adds to my existing system. That should keep my mind off the tall boxes sitting in the corner of my room.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  13. #13
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hey Everyone,

    My Soulution 520 Preamp is in the house! I'm so excited that it came today. I can't wait to place it in my system with the Esoteric K-01, Soulution 501's and Revel Salon 2's. The timing worked out nicely because I'll get to listen with the Salon 2's for several days before I add the Raidho D3's. Much more fun to add one component at a time to hear the difference each new component makes.

    Best,
    Ken
    Fantastic Ken !!
    You're going about it the right way.
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  14. #14
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Congrats Ken. What a world class system you've assembled. Enjoy the music!
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  15. #15
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    Congrats Ken. What a world class system you've assembled. Enjoy the music!
    Hey, thanks Mike! With all the gear that's been flying in and out of here lately, there are still a lot of loose ends to tie up. Cables, granite bases, dedicated lines, grounding, isolation, etc. But once I address the first two, I can take my time on the last three.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  16. #16

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Congrats, Ken . I hope it's way better than you expect.

  17. #17
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hey Everyone,

    My Soulution 520 Preamp is in the house! I'm so excited that it came today. I can't wait to place it in my system with the Esoteric K-01, Soulution 501's and Revel Salon 2's. The timing worked out nicely because I'll get to listen with the Salon 2's for several days before I add the Raidho D3's. Much more fun to add one component at a time to hear the difference each new component makes.

    Best,
    Ken
    Ken, I predict many late nights for you. Congrats on the system coming together. You've been waiting for this day! I just moved my Soulution 530 from Chicago to Austin. Thought that would make me a happy camper. I was until David afforded me the opportunity pre out into his 501's. Wow I never thought using the 520 pre inside the 530 into the 501's would make such a difference! It is so much better. Clear step up. The 501's in this somewhat smaller room in Austin sound great on the Raidho D2's.

    Keep us informed on how the D3's sound with the 520/501 combo when you get it set up.

    I'd love to hear your impressions on the Salons too, when you come up for air
    Last edited by Odyssey; February 14, 2015 at 06:32 PM. Reason: semantics
    Le Roy

    Austin, Tx : Soulution 520 preamp, 501 mono blocks, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D3.1, Lumin U1, Uptone Audio Modded Mac Mini w/ MMK fanless kit & JS-2 LPS, Regen, Ansuz DTC loom (complete), Oppo 105D, QNAP TS-451+

    Chicagoland : Soulution 725 preamp, 711 stereo amp, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D5.1, Naim UnitiServe 2TB, Aurender W-20 Ansuz DTC later generation wire, Teac X1000 R2R, QNAP TS-451+

    Foundation:
    Raidho Rack system, Ansuz DTC Mainz8, Ansuz (2) Supreme Mainz D8 Distribution, 20 amp dedicated outlets via subpanel

  18. #18
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Odyssey View Post
    Ken, I predict many late nights for you. Congrats on the system coming together. You've been waiting for this day! I just moved my Soulution 530 from Chicago to Austin. Thought that would make me a happy camper. I was until David afforded me the opportunity pre out into his 501's. Wow I never thought using the 520 pre inside the 530 into the 501's would make such a difference! It is so much better. Clear step up. The 501's in this somewhat smaller room in Austin sound great on the Raidho D2's.

    Keep us informed on how the D3's sound with the 520/501 combo when you get it set up.

    I'd love to hear your impressions on the Salons too, when you come up for air
    Thanks Le Roy!

    I just placed the Soulution 520 in my system with the Kimber KS-1116 interconnects between my K-01 and the 520. The 520 is just out of the box and I am already hearing a substantial improvement over running direct from the K-01 to the Soulution 501's. There is an increased smoothness and natural warmth to the sound. Vocals on Ella Fitzgerald Sings the Duke Ellington Songbook (192 kHz/24 bit WAV) sound absolutely liquid. I was not expecting this sort of improvement right out of the box. It sounds much better than the system I auditioned it on. I am mightily impressed with the 520.

    I'm glad to hear that you had the chance to run the 530 as a preamp with the 501's. The 501's are indeed very special amps. Do you think you might add them to the stable? I bet it sounds outrageous with the D2's. It's going to be several days before I get the D3's set up. I'll let you know when they're up and running.

    All the best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  19. #19
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    I bet the Salons are really singing now
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  20. #20

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Ken, congrats! That's a great system you have assembled there. Happy listening!


    Allen



  21. #21
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    I bet the Salons are really singing now
    Hi Mark,

    The Salon 2's have never sounded better than they do right now and the 520 preamp is not even burned in yet. The place where I auditioned the 520 sounded broken in comparison. That's how great the Salon 2's are because every other component was essentially the same in their system as mine. I've said it before and I'll say it again, there is no maximum on what the Salon 2's can deliver as you continue to improve the components driving them. Wow!

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  22. #22
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by socfan12 View Post
    Ken, congrats! That's a great system you have assembled there. Happy listening!
    Thanks Allen, I'm having a lot of fun this weekend!

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  23. #23
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hi Mark,

    The Salon 2's have never sounded better than they do right now and the 520 preamp is not even burned in yet. The local dealer's system where I auditioned the 520 sounded broken in comparison. That's how great the Salon 2's are because every other component was essentially the same in their system as mine. I've said it before and I'll say it again, there is no maximum on what the Salon 2's can deliver as you continue to improve the components driving them. Wow!

    Best,
    Ken
    Ken, truer words have never been spoke regarding the Salons. Mike is tired of me saying the same thing.
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  24. #24
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Second full day running the K-01/520/501/Salon2 system. The sound has already changed some from yesterday. The main difference is the top end has opened up some and bass seems tighter. The treble remains very smooth with just a hint of warmth. There is more density to midrange and bass than without the preamp. There is also more air around instruments and voices. None of the treble brightness I experienced when I added previous preamps. The 520 is a very fine preamp, much more than I expected. Kevin, you were right!

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  25. #25
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Second full day running the K-01/520/501/Salon2 system. The sound has already changed some from yesterday. The main difference is the top end has opened up some and bass seems tighter. The treble remains very smooth with just a hint of warmth. There is more density to midrange and bass than without the preamp. There is also more air around instruments and voices. None of the treble brightness I experienced when I added previous preamps. The 520 is a very fine preamp, much more than I expected. Kevin, you were right!

    Ken
    Isn't it great when you hear so much more information coming out of the speakers that you are so intimately familiar with than you thought was possible?

    Have you found your second set of hands to maneuver the D3's into place this week?
    Le Roy

    Austin, Tx : Soulution 520 preamp, 501 mono blocks, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D3.1, Lumin U1, Uptone Audio Modded Mac Mini w/ MMK fanless kit & JS-2 LPS, Regen, Ansuz DTC loom (complete), Oppo 105D, QNAP TS-451+

    Chicagoland : Soulution 725 preamp, 711 stereo amp, 541 SACD/560 DAC w/ Network Streaming, Raidho D5.1, Naim UnitiServe 2TB, Aurender W-20 Ansuz DTC later generation wire, Teac X1000 R2R, QNAP TS-451+

    Foundation:
    Raidho Rack system, Ansuz DTC Mainz8, Ansuz (2) Supreme Mainz D8 Distribution, 20 amp dedicated outlets via subpanel

  26. #26

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Ken, I am really happy for you. It is such an uplifting experience to realise that having a world class preamp is way better than you would have thought possible. I honestly believe it is the soul of the system. I've tried to sell my 520 3 times now & just can't bring myself to do it. Congrats again!

  27. #27
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Odyssey View Post
    Isn't it great when you hear so much more information coming out of the speakers that you are so intimately familiar with than you thought was possible?

    Have you found your second set of hands to maneuver the D3's into place this week?
    Definitely, Le Roy. It sounds like an entirely different system with the 520 than I've been listening to for the last 3 months.

    It must be tough being away from all that fine gear in Chicagoland, especially with the new 725/711 combo. I bet you can't wait to get back up there when it gets a little warmer. But you're definitely not hurting with the Austin system.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  28. #28
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by bzr View Post
    Ken, I am really happy for you. It is such an uplifting experience to realise that having a world class preamp is way better than you would have thought possible. I honestly believe it is the soul of the system. I've tried to sell my 520 3 times now & just can't bring myself to do it. Congrats again!
    Thanks Kevin! You were all over it telling me I would be blown away when I was contemplating the purchase. You were so right. It does sound like the soul of the system. Now I know why used 520's usually sell in one day in the USA. But don't ever sell yours unless you are getting the 725.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  29. #29
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    I should find out tomorrow if my local dealer is going to help me with the D3 setup. They first indicated they would but now seem to be balking at the prospect. If they decide not to, I think I can handle it myself. I believe Cincy set up his D3's on his own. I'll just really take my time if I'm doing it myself.
    Congrats on all the new gear Ken.

    I have to say, your note that I've quoted above sure seems strange. Did you purchase the D3's from this local dealer that is balking at helping to set them up?
    Avanti Audio

    arc sp-11 or ls27 | arc d130 | vpi classic 2 w/periphery ring w/Si3N4 bearing & sapphire thrust plate & 2x jmw 10.5i | phoenix engineering eagle & road runner | ortofon cadenza bronze, miyajima zero mono | sentec eq11 w/ Sylvania 5751 TMBP & CBS 7318 | auditorium a23 | canton ref 9 dc | 2x m&k v125 | oppo bdp-95 | chord qutest | lumin d1 & sbooster | avanti audio vivace cables

  30. #30
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    No, I didn't.
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  31. #31
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Thanks Mike!

    No, I didn't purchase from my local dealer. He's not a Raidho dealer. That's probably why he's balking.

    Best,
    Ken

    Ok, gotcha that would explain the hesitation. Looks like you'll need to fly an AS member out to help instead!

    p.s. I'm free toward the end of this week.
    Avanti Audio

    arc sp-11 or ls27 | arc d130 | vpi classic 2 w/periphery ring w/Si3N4 bearing & sapphire thrust plate & 2x jmw 10.5i | phoenix engineering eagle & road runner | ortofon cadenza bronze, miyajima zero mono | sentec eq11 w/ Sylvania 5751 TMBP & CBS 7318 | auditorium a23 | canton ref 9 dc | 2x m&k v125 | oppo bdp-95 | chord qutest | lumin d1 & sbooster | avanti audio vivace cables

  32. #32
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Are the stands attached already or do you have a 3rd box with the stands in it? The reason I ask, is: My walnut D3s didn't have the stands attached and I needed to attach them, but my black D3s (2nd version) had the stands already attached an they were really fairly easy to unbox and position once the box is in the same room as the final position.

    Good luck.
    Jock

    If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.

    ---------

    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.

  33. #33
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by the professor View Post
    Are the stands attached already or do you have a 3rd box with the stands in it? The reason I ask, is: My walnut D3s didn't have the stands attached and I needed to attach them, but my black D3s (2nd version) had the stands already attached an they were really fairly easy to unbox and position once the box is in the same room as the final position.

    Good luck.
    Hi Jock,

    They are new Walnut D3 V2 and there is a third box with the stands. Are the stands difficult to assemble and attach to the speaker cabinet? Do you think one person can safely do it?

    Thanks,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  34. #34
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hi Jock,

    They are new Walnut D3 V2 and there is a third box with the stands. Are the stands difficult to assemble and attach to the speaker cabinet? Do you think one person can safely do it?

    Thanks,
    Ken
    Ken,

    I hate to tell you this, but only the stands for the v1's came in a separate box. The v2's shipped in bigger boxes with the stands on.

    You may want to confirm, but I bet Mark, Jock, David and others will confirm.

    Mike
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  35. #35
    Behavior Moderator (be nice police!)
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    For some strange reason, I think the Walnut stands have to be attached, the Black came fully assembled.
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
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  36. #36
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Definitely, Le Roy. It sounds like an entirely different system with the 520 than I've been listening to for the last 3 months.

    I should find out tomorrow if my local dealer is going to help me with the D3 setup. They first indicated they would but now seem to be balking at the prospect. If they decide not to, I think I can handle it myself. I believe Cincy set up his D3's on his own. I'll just really take my time if I'm doing it myself.

    It must be tough being away from all that fine gear in Chicagoland, especially with the new 725/711 combo. I bet you can't wait to get back up there when it gets a little warmer. But you're definitely not hurting with the Austin system.

    Best,
    Ken
    If it doesn't work out with the dealer may I recommend Stirling Trayle, that's what he does for a living. You can call him at 707 494-5482 or can see his web site at Audio Systems Optimized Turntable Set Up - Loudspeaker Set Up (beta mode). Nothing better than having SOTA speakers and system installed by a professional.

    He does post once in a while on AS.
    Dan

    The older I get the more I know how little I know!

  37. #37
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    The stands are not hard to put on. There are 2 bolts that you screw the stand on to the speaker from the bottom of the speaker/stand.

    I had my wife help me lift them out of the box and place horizontally on a foot stool we have for our couch. I bolted the stand on and then easily stood them up. I then walked the speaker the remaining 5 feet into position. You could also use some pillows or something to get the speaker 6 or 7 inches off the ground so it's easy to bolt the stand on.

    I think Mark is correct - Walnut are shipped with stands not on and Black are shipped with the stands on. No clue why????
    Jock

    If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.

    ---------

    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.

  38. #38
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by the professor View Post
    The stands are not hard to put on. There are 2 bolts that you screw the stand on to the speaker from the bottom of the speaker/stand.

    I had my wife help me lift them out of the box and place horizontally on a foot stool we have for our couch. I bolted the stand on and then easily stood them up. I then walked the speaker the remaining 5 feet into position. You could also use some pillows or something to get the speaker 6 or 7 inches off the ground so it's easy to bolt the stand on.

    I think Mark is correct - Walnut are shipped with stands not on and Black are shipped with the stands on. No clue why????
    Hi Jock,

    This is terrific information. Thanks so much!!! We own a long ottoman that we could lay the speakers down on and attach the bases. All in all, it sounds pretty simple. We may just do it ourselves like you did.

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  39. #39
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    For some strange reason, I think the Walnut stands have to be attached, the Black came fully assembled.
    I confirmed today. You are correct. Phew!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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

  40. #40

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    Hey Everyone,

    My Soulution 520 Preamp is in the house! I
    Best,
    Ken
    Congratulations, Ken !
    Soulution makes gear which measurements are top notch.

  41. #41

    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Do you have any photos of your room by the way?

  42. #42
    Senior Member
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    Re: Soulution 520 Preamp

    Quote Originally Posted by PacMan View Post
    Congratulations, Ken !
    Soulution makes gear which measurements are top notch.
    Thanks PacMan! The 520 is a wonderful preamp and has provided a much bigger bump in performance than I ever could have expected when combined with the 501 mono amps. The music has become much smoother and more nuanced with greater air around voices and instruments than without the preamp. It will be staying for a long time!

    Best,
    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

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