Later... distortion problem with Pass XP-12. The ML 38s is back in.
Replaced ML no 38s with the Pass XP-12. The 38s is getting very long in the tooth.
The Bryston is now back in. The CAD-120s is a fine amp. I just can't
hear much difference between the two. So I've decided to use the Bryston
since it is much lower maintenance.
Replaced the Bryston Amp with a Cary CAD-120s 60/120 W Tube Amp.
Replaced the bookshelf speakers with the Usher V-604 Towers.
Two Turntables. complete up to the common Levinson 38s preamp.
1. Koetsu RS with an outboard pod using a Micro Seiki MA-505L arm, 10x Transformer, Phono Preamp stage of a Paragon System E. Technics SL-1200G table.
2. Shelter 901 MK III with the stock SL-1200G arm amplified the same as the Koetsu.
3. Grace F9L on a Denon DP-57L, stock arm. Apt Model 2 preamp as the phono pre.
Jeff, I'm still searching but I really enjoy the Koetsu RS on the SL-1200G using a Micro Seiki MA-505L tonearm mounted outboard the table. Presently I'm using a DIY SUT with th Cinemags and the Paragon System E tube preamp as the phono preamp. About as sweet as one can get.
The Sansui tuner is the TU-X1, arguably the best tuner Sansui ever made and one of the greatest tuners all time. I have also repaired the Sansui TU-919, 717, and 9900 as well as Kenwoods and other brands.. All Sansui tuners are wonderful tuners. I've learned how to repair and align, so I can keep the tuner in top shape. Every tuner in the Sansui line will meet or exceed the specs if they are properly aligned. And they stay aligned. The Kenwoods have a lot of adjustments and can perform better than the Sansuis, but the adjustments are temperature sensitive and will drift after a short while.
Alas, there are no good stations in this rural location in the Sierra foothills in CA. I've got a high gain rotary antenna on the roof from which I can get great signal from a tower about 100 miles away that broadcasts classical all day. Local stations are mostly country, religious or Spanish speaking. Not my cuppa.
I like that you are using equalization. I do mine in the digital realm, but I don't know that is any better. So many rooms are problematic, and so many records are poorly recorded. I think it is worth making some adjustments to reel them in on occasion.
More importantly, please tell me about your tuner. Which Sansui is that, and what do you have for good stations near your house?
kevemaher on 