The Summit

Owner

I just installed my new to me Kometsu Vermilion cartridge, and I am amazed by it! I've listened to more LP's lately than I have for some time, and many more happy listening left in this life!

islandmandan November 03, 2023 18:28

Owner

Turntable sounds great, but my tonearm cable has gone bad, making for way too much noise. Ordered a new Ortofon from Acoustic Sounds, it's coming Monday. I'll be glad to be able to spin some vinyl again.

islandmandan October 19, 2023 16:45

Owner

I just finished installing the new SPH pivot bearing in Garrard 401. Lots of cleaning and polishing involved also, and drilling out my brass LP weight to get the longer spindle to fit.

Letting it run in for a while before I test it for speed, reinstall my Dynavector arm, and give it a listen. About as much as I want to tackle these days, it's pretty heavy when it's all in one piece.

I'm pleased at how well the bearing is made, looking forward to my first listen with it installed.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 19, 2023 18:06

Owner

Crap, I meant to add I've lived in thiis house for 30 years, I feel very lucky in that regard.

islandmandan August 13, 2023 12:42

Owner

Oh, I meant to mention my listening room. Pretty much just perfect on its own, I just had to move my wood stove from the end wall to a a side wall. I guess I have enough furniture and junk in here make it sound the way I think it's meant to.

Dan

islandmandan August 13, 2023 12:34

Owner

mjcmt,

My system sounds the best it ever has, and to a large degree due to upgrades in preamps and power amps. The Herron pre's (line and phono) are the best I've ever been able to buy, mostly due to their age, but they still sound good.

The other standout is the 812 power amp from Paul Birkeland, just outstanding in my view.

I have hopes that I will be able to die smilimg.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 13, 2023 12:30

Owner

I should mention the designer/builder of the amp, Paul Birkeland of Bottlehead. He really is a genius!

islandmandan July 07, 2023 11:22

Owner

Ignorant? Than certanily seems to be the case, I can't even spell anymore.

Oh well, I'm getting old, ha ha!

Dan

islandmandan July 06, 2023 15:47

Owner

Yeah, I'm a bit of an ignoant beast myself, don't know much about 'em, but I know what sounds good!

It helps to have a good builder to listen to also!

Best,

Dan

islandmandan July 06, 2023 15:38

Owner

Thanks, Jaytor!

Dan

islandmandan July 06, 2023 14:12

Owner

Thanks John, it's just a joy to have and use daily!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan July 03, 2023 22:39

Owner

Tonearm issues are all resolved, new arm lift mechanism from a 507 MKII was installed by reaming out the hole in the support structure of the 501 arm. The new lift mechanism works beautifully, I'm very pleased to have my analog front end back in tip-top shape.

islandmandan January 11, 2023 14:58

Owner

After nearly a week of struggle tearing my analog system apart, re-leveling and adding sand in my Brightstar Audio BigRock2 platform, leveling the turntable to perfection, and fine-tuning my Dynavector 501 set up, I took a chance and played some music without having the arm-lift system available (worried my stroke-effected body may have a disastrous misstep in handling the ART 9 cartrdge).

This morning I did something I've enjoyed doing for years, playing in early AM Horowitz In Moscow. Pure bliss and relaxation, but sounding better than it ever has. Life is good.

Best regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 02, 2022 12:13

Owner

edsel95,

My system, and the music it allows me to enjoy so greatly, is a constant pleasant source of enjoyment that never lets me down.

Having built a good part of it myself added another large bit of satisfaction and enjoyment as well.

Enjoy that fine system!

Dan

islandmandan September 17, 2022 13:55

Owner

Goheelz, thank you for your positive comments regarding my system. The Herron replaced a Modwright Line Stage that had been rebuilt at the factory, and had the main tube board replaced, and I was really happy with it's sound.

I unexpectedly bought the Herron Line Stage VTSP -3A (rev02) 360, and spent more money than I had ever allowed myself to spend on a component, but it's made the most discernable improvement in sound quality I've ever had in fifty years+ in this crazy hobby.

I don't think you have to spend crazy amounts of money to get great sound, but it sure depends on where you spend it.

My Phono Stage is an older model Modwright SWP 9.0 Phono Stage with an upgraded factory made power supply. The Herron made its performance better as well.

Thanks and regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 24, 2022 14:18

Owner

I'm surprised I didn't mention my new (to me) Herron VTSP 3A line stage. Most significant sound improvement any one component has ever provided, but I would have never afforded it if I bought it new.

Now, rather late in life, music sounds the best it ever has, so I'm very happy.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 23, 2022 16:39

Owner

Over the past few weeks, I had purchased a Class D Audio GaN amplifier. Two of them had problems, apparently due to parts in the power supply that were out of spec for their purpose.

Tom, the owner of the company, was very good to work with, and the last amp he sent me has been working beautifully for a couple of weeks now. It sounds beautiful, and for $749, it sounds amazing. It has been powering the two-channel section of my system for a couple of weeks now, which is meaningful, in that it is standing in for my excellent 3C24 tube amp.

Believe me, it it didn't sound very good, it wouldn't have stood in for my great-sounding 3C24 amp.

So, I am happy to report the GaN amp has eaned its spot in my line-up of power amps. I am glad to have it.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 13, 2021 15:01

Owner

latitk, Thank you for you kind remarks. I have wanted to try something different than the spikes, and the Podiums have more than filled the bill in that regard.

More appreciation can be given for what they do sonically, completely isolating the speaker from the floor, and from the floor to the speaker. The speakers seem to float, making music an even more intense and emotional experience.

Expensive, yes, but for what they do, they are worth the cost.

Thanks and regards,

Dan

islandmandan June 06, 2021 16:57

Owner

Townshend Audio Seismic Isolation Podium system added under my Custom Tannoy 200lb. speakers.

They have made me very happy with them in the superb results in sound quality, in spite of their cost. They also give the speaker a more finished and refined look.

islandmandan June 05, 2021 19:21

Owner

Arj, The subwoofers are there to enhance the music listening experience, which they do in my quite large listening room.. While I do have a home theater setup, it's main purpose is for listening to multichannel music, although it's set up for music, it also does a nice job for HT.

A while back, I had to replace my Primare pre-pro with a used Arcam unit, it turned out to be amazing when used for 2 channel music run through the Arcam pre-pro.

I never liked listening to stereo music run through a pre-pro before, but with the old Arcam, it is just very pleasant to listen that way.

Thanks again for your comments, regards,

Dan

islandmandan April 16, 2021 12:46

Owner

My choice of plinth design is most likely related to what I did to make my living. I was a heavy equipment operator, and relate to mass as being a very positive thing.

I've never tried using a suspended turntable since I started using vinyl again a dozen or so years ago now. I just appreciate how mass deals with things such as vibration, resonance, and being able to pass along undesirable properties along to the platform they are connected to. It works for me.

Good luck in your pursuit of a Garrard 401 turntable system. Enjoy the process, and the result!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan April 12, 2021 11:50

Owner

Scar972,

Thank you so much for your kind comments, they are very much appreciated.

Jim, thank you for looking at my system photos. It was a labor of love. I had quite a time with my table saw after a bad problem with the finish, I'd just cut it off and put more wood on it, and try it again. You learn from your mistakes, and the table saw makes the mistakes go away, so wood is a great medium to work with. If it was steel, or something like it, it wouldn't be so easy.

I just keep on trying until I get what I can live with..

Thanks again to you both, regards,

Dan

islandmandan February 07, 2021 13:20

Owner

Hi Jond, many thanks for your comments, it's much appreciated. Those projects you mentioned were due to a limited budget, and my enjoyment of DIY.

I never was a cabinet maker, but I did build my own home back in the '70's. That means I had to buy the tools to build my turntable, and learn how to use them. I found the most difficult thing to do was to obtain a quality finish on whatever I built.

I finally wound up using twelve coats of tongue oil on the turntable plinth, which with 24 hours between coats, was a long, involved project. I've learned to really appreciate the guys are that really good at it. That's not me, but I persevere..

Thanks and regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 25, 2020 13:12

Owner

lalitk, I'm getting along with my ART 9 very well. Can you tell me a bit about what the Hana cartridge does for you? I've been curious about them too, but I'll have to live vicariously through your experience with your Hana, since I've pretty much gone over budget buying the ART 9.

I'm really enjoying my cartridge, how is your Hana treating you?

Best regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 13, 2020 11:25

Owner

I just added a new Audio Technica AT ART-9 Moving Coil Cartridge cartridge. After only two hours, it's already my favorite cartridge I've ever owned.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan September 23, 2020 13:41

Owner

A few days ago, I bought an Audio Technica AT440Mlb cartridge, due to curiosity about their cartridges. After getting it dialed in on my Dynavector 501 tonearm, after a few hours on the new cartridge, It has opened my eyes (and ears) to sound quality I've never heard from my system before.

I'm so impressed, I just ordered a new AT ART 9. I think I will be very pleased with the new cartridge.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan September 16, 2020 11:37

Owner

Added birch ply support board under 3C24 amp, along with Vibra Pods/Cones.

islandmandan July 10, 2020 16:44

Owner

Added nighttime photo of 3C24 amplifier.

islandmandan July 02, 2020 12:31

Owner

A couple of nights ago, an output tube fried on my new 3C24 amp. Paul said to bring it down, he wanted to make sure the SMPS devices didn't cause the tube to go bad.

So, I made the long drive yesterday, and it turned out it was just the tube itself that went bad, and not the switch mode power supply. He had always used a tube power supply before for the tube heaters.

When I got it hooked up and warmed up, I put on a new CD of "Debussy * Rameau" by Vikingur Olafsson, on Deutsche Grammophon, and heard the most beautiful piano sound I've ever heard on any system. 'Course, I don't get out much, but I've still heard some pretty good audio systems in over forty years, so to me, this is significant.

Yes, I really do love this amplifier.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan June 20, 2020 11:34

Owner

Al, thank you so much for your comments. This amp/speaker combination is the ultimate destination for me in regards to this aspect of system performance.

The past year or so has been a transformative time for me. I came across Paul when I called and talked to Dan Smalle, owner of Bottlehead, when I was searching for a tech that could do some repairs on my SET 300B amp, Dan suggested I contact Paul Birkeland, a designer/tech for Bottlehead. I did so, and wound up taking my amp to him.

Paul replaced some bad caps and then adjusted the filament voltage to match the EML XLS 300 B tubes I was using. He did this work as I watched, and when he finished, I asked him how much I needed to pay. He said twenty bucks! I paid him $120, which I thought was still underpaying him. All my dealings with Paul have gone this way.

As I mentioned earlier in system comments, Paul brought several amps to my home (about one-and-a-half hours away from my home on Whidbey Island, a week ago last Saturday) for me to try. I had been searching for some time for the ideal amp, and thought the SET 845 was the one I needed. Finding an affordable one was not doable. Paul designs his amps to run well with affordable tubes, and he proved it to me with his visit.

To answer Grannyring's question about the cost of my new amp, it was $3400. Paul gave me $900 on a trade-in for my SET 845, and nice collection of tubes for it. It's the best money I've ever spent in all my years in audio.

So for me, meeting Paul Birkeland was a Godsend. He has earned my trust and respect and admiration as well. And, my thanks for Dan Smalle of Bottlehead, who made it all possible. I'm very grateful for their help. And Al, for you and Atmasphere, and so many others on this forum, my appreciation goes out to you as well. Thanks for all you do for our community.

My very best regards,

Dan Thomason

islandmandan June 16, 2020 11:26

Owner

Grannyring, Paul doesn't really have his own website.

If you PM me, I can get you in touch with him.

Regards,

Dan

Oh, and thanks for your comments re my system!

islandmandan June 15, 2020 13:07

Owner

I asked the designer/builder of my new amp, Paul Birkeland, how it was possible to make what would appear to be quite a low-powered amp, to deliver the beauty and impact that it provides. It just doesn't seem that it should be feasible, though it surely does do just that, in spades.

His reply is on this page.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan June 12, 2020 15:38

Owner

Well, back in the early 90s, the Japanese started resurrecting audio amplifier technology from the 30s, you will see this referred to as the "triode renaissance". These were 45, 2A3, 50, and 300B amps that were really simple, zero feedback single ended amps, and they are the basis for a lot of what we still sell at Bottlehead to this day. The huge downside to all of this is that these little directly heated tubes don't make a whole lot of power unless you get really big ones (845/211) and run them at really high voltages. Even then, most of those big tubes will only give you 15 to 20 watts running off a 1kV power supply on output transformers that are very difficult to manufacture properly.

There are some ways around this though. The traditional directly heated single ended triode amps run the output tubes in class A1, where the grid of the output tube never draws any grid current. If you design an amplifier to push the output tubes into class A2, you can get a little extra power. In order to do this, the circuitry behind the output tube needs to look more like its own power amp, so the designs get a bit more involved and complicated. The grid of a power valve when transitioning from A1 to A2 becomes a really low load that's quite difficult to drive. To press things even further, there are many directly heated transmitting triodes like the 3C24, 811A, 801A, 810, and even the 211 that can be biased so that they draw grid current at idle, and this opens up some operating points that allow for far higher power output. While a tube like a 300B with a plate dissipation of 40W won't deliver much over 10W, a tube like the 811A with a plate dissipation of 40W is capable of nearly 20W of output when run in class A2.

For driving the grid positively, a coupling capacitor is no longer an adequate means of connecting the power valve to the driver stage. Instead, such amplifiers will use an interstage transformer, a directly coupled cathode follower, or a directly coupled solid state device. From my experience, interstage transformers perform much better when they have a predictable load impedance on the output side, which is far from what happens in this kind of amplifier. The solid state directly coupled option is totally workable, but not all that ideal given the voltages present and the need for a monster heatsink, so I use a directly coupled cathode follower. This technique was well developed by Michimori Hirokuni, although I opt to use choke loaded cathode followers rather than actively loaded cathode followers.

Still, a big challenge remains with these transmitting triodes. They have very, very high internal impedances. To cope with this, you can use really high impedance iron (iron that is impossible to make well), or you can implement some feedback to mate these transmitting valves with a more conventional output transformer. Within the subset of feedback amps like this, many use feedback around the entire amp, some use cathode feedback around just the output stage, and some use local feedback. From my experiences, putting feedback around the entire amplifier results in highly conditional stability. An amp like that might play just fine on a Magnapan speaker, but the amp would oscillate on an ESL. While cathode feedback around the output stage is effective at dealing with the issues specific to the output valve itself, there are other issues that creep up in terms of driving the transmitting triode itself, and cathode feedback doesn't resolve these issues. When studying Hirokuni's work, I noticed that as his projects developed, he would take all the local feedback he could get and ultimately use just enough global feedback to get the amp to work properly.

For the 3C24 amps and other similar amps that I make, I use a local feedback loop that goes from the plate of the transmitting triode back to the plate of the first stage driver tube. When done properly, there is no longer any requirement for global feedback. I can set this up to get the maximum allowable power from these valves while using an output transformer that is not all that crazy to produce. In my 811A SET amps, as an example, the plate impedance of the 811 is around 35,000 ohms at my operating point, but with the local feedback I drive this down below 1000 ohms so I can mate the 811A to a 3K output transformer. These designs are not so sensitive to the speakers used and the exclusion of the output transformer from the feedback loop maintains more of the character of a more traditional zero feedback SET amp.

What you end up with is an amp that's a little snappier than a 300B or 2A3 amp, but not quite as mellow and relaxing. You also get dirt cheap old stock output tubes, as you've now noticed!

islandmandan June 12, 2020 15:29

Owner

I also finally found out a new item added to your system description won't make to the Virtual Systems page. As far as I remember years ago, a new item was just added to your system page and description, and went on to the forum page. Not so anymore, takes an old dog a long time to learn new tricks.

islandmandan June 10, 2020 16:42

Owner

June 8, I added to my system the new 3C24 amp Paul Birkeland built. He actually brought four different amps to try, 811 mono-blocks, shunt regulated 300B mono-blocs (I really considered buying this pair), 3C24 mono-blocks, which sounded nice but ran out of power a bit too soon to consider, and the 3C24 stereo amp.

The 3C24 stereo amp had everything I wanted in an amp. It was the best-built of all the amps, with much better parts quality, and plenty of power to be a good match for my custom-built Tannoy HPD 315 speakers.

The tonal quality was the best I've heard from any amp, anywhere. After several days and nights listening to this amp/speaker combination, it is like a wonderful gift has been given to my system, with beautiful frequency response and tone, and great ability to produce dynamic response.

I love this amp.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan June 10, 2020 16:23

Owner

Lalitk, thank you for your comments, they are much appreciated.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 10, 2020 11:16

Owner

Just replaced my old Kef Rederence 100 center channel with Kef Q 650c. Much better for multi-channel and home theater. Been wanting this for many years, along with upgrading my surround speakers, which was also done recently with Andrew Jones designed, Kef built Pioneer S-Z9 speakers.

Multi-channel and HT listening is much improved.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 10, 2020 11:04

Owner

Purchased a pair of Andrew Jones designed bookshelves, built by KEF for Pioneer, to be used to upgrade my old surround speakers, KEF Q 15.2.

They look and sound good (along with new 32" tall stands) The speakers have a concentric tweeter/midrange and a bass driver. This purchase has made a nice upgrade to my multi-channel system.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan April 14, 2020 09:55

Owner

Jet, I still love the sound of my SET 300B, it's a bit more refined in how it sounds compared to the SET 845. The 845 just wakes up my Tannoys and makes them kick butt in a way the 300B just can't do.

I was listening to Reference Recording's "Mephisto & Co;" last night, and at a pretty high SPL, and it's hard to describe, but there is a "wholeness" to the sound that comes with the 845 that my HPD 315's really like.

My tech I found last year (Paul Birkeland, designer and builder for Bottlehead, gives me a hard time about it, since it's what he calls a $500 Chinese amp, I affectionately call my 100lb. boat anchor, really sounds spectacular. I would love to have a $30,000 845 amp, but that's not going to happen in my lifetime. Paul has done a great job, at very reasonable prices, of keeping it up and running. He's replaced all the caps, his last job was to replace the undersized diodes in the amp, using circuit boards he designed, and had built.

I feel very lucky to have found Paul, and he is within driving distance, so I hope any other problems that come up he will be able to rescue me once again. I've had it on a lot lately, but I enjoy it so much I can't help myself. 845 tubes rule!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan March 22, 2020 12:47

Owner

Hi, the 845 amp is a Renaissance Audio I bought from a friend, I haven't had it very long. I had it recapped, and It came with two sets of 845 tubes, both Psvane 845 that are identical, so I haven't tried changing output tubes.

It also came with two sets of Psvane 300B tubes. I am amazed at how good this amp sounds, I think it's now my favorite, the Tannoys just love the SET 845 amp.

Thanks for your nice comments, it's appreciated. Regards,

Dan

islandmandan January 26, 2020 18:13

Owner

Uber,

Thanks much for your kind words. The copper mat Is something I used bare for years, but I heard (read) you guys talking about Steve's MY MAT, and decided to try it. This mat is the only one in all these years I've heard a difference with. It's not a great improvement but discernable.

It seems to have reduced the amount of static electricity that builds up on the LP surface, so I guess it stays. I think I'd like it better if it were clear, though, as I like how the TTW mat looks.

I finally discovered how great a cartridge the Acutex is (M320 STR III). I don't know why, but it took me years to finally be wowed by it, and am I ever! I must not have had it set up right, but what a difference. My favorite cart right now, and it will probably remain that way, until something better comes along.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan January 26, 2020 14:51

Owner

Lately, I've been getting a great deal of pleasure from my system. Last time I tried my Acutex LPM M320 cartridge, it was making some horrible sounds. Looking at the stylus, I found some fuzzy-looking material (under magnification), which I removed, and was rewarded with great, and enjoyable, sound. Sometimes we forget how good something is, until we give ourselves a reminder.

This cartridge, up 'til now, hadn't been used with the new Modwright 9.0 SE Line Stage and the SET 845 amp, which also is sounding wonderful since it's recent rebuild by Paul Birkeland.

Lots of fun with my system and music these days. Regards,

Dan

islandmandan November 16, 2019 15:10

Owner

Noromance, tell me more about this bearing, if you please. It might be time to replace mine, after around 50 years, although it still sounds quite good to my old ears.

Thanks,

Dan

islandmandan October 14, 2019 13:56

Owner

The Modwright SWL 9.0 Line Stage has worked out very well. It's turned out my assumption of my preamp being the weak link was correct. The new line stage has taken my system to the state I've always been searching for.

I believe I really am "Done For Now". I think I may be "Done Forever"!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 09, 2019 11:40

Owner

I'm making a change in preamps, going from my kit-built pre, to a newly upgraded Modwright SPL 9.0 preamp, with upgraded power supply, new tube board with the new MWI cap upgrades. This will match my phono stage, my still great-sounding SWP 9.0 Signature.

Probably have it early next week, I'm looking forward to it.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan September 17, 2019 15:10

Owner

I just added a Benchmark DAC 1 Pre to the system, that I picked up on US Audiomart. It just might be the best $500 I've ever spent in this hobby. I know there are supposed to be much better DAC's available, but this thing is so good, it's almost scary. I also found out (after twenty years!) my Sennheiser HD 600 headphones are much better than I thought they were. The old Musical Fidelity X-CANS just wasn't doing justice to the HD 600's.

My digital front end has taken a substantial upturn in sound quality. I'm happy.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 09, 2019 13:02

Owner

Saturday (04/20), I picked up an Audio Renaissance (Mr. Liang) SET 845 Integrated that I bought from my good friend Hermann. Included were two pairs of Psvane 300B tubes, a pair of Electron Tube (Shuguang), and a new, unused, pair of Psvane 845 tubes, along with several NOS Tungsol 6SJ7-GT small tubes.

To my total surprise, this amp is extremely quiet, and makes my custom Tannoy HPD 315's sound so much better than ever before. Music is richly enjoyable in a way I've never heard from my home system before. Absolutely no regrets buying this bargain-basement tube amp. I never expected much sound quality and enjoyment from such an affordable amp.

As always, best regards,

Dan

islandmandan April 22, 2019 12:53

Owner

Due to y Primare SP 31 Pre-pro going on the fritz, I've just added an Arcam FMJ AV 9 Pre-pro. Ebay to the rescue.

islandmandan April 14, 2019 14:26

Owner

Since getting my Modwright SWP 9.0 Signature phono stage back from being checked out by Dan Wright, my cleaning of all connections and contacts, and rearranging some interconnects and power cables, what I'm hearing from my analog front end is the best it has ever sounded. It makes me wonder if Dan did some secret upgrades while he had it on the test bench.

I'm sure he didn't do anything except measure all parameters of performance, and declaring it a sound unit, and also that it sounded very good. It was probably the cleaning, cable arranging, and checking cartridge overhang (it was a bit off on both my Zu Denon103R and Dynavector XX2MKII). Sometimes it's good just to go through everything and clean and adjust to get your LP playing system operating at its best. I can attest to the fact it has never sounded this good. This TT, arm, cartridge and phono stage is actually better than I ever thought it was, and it has me smiling a great deal these last few days.

Regards, and Happy Holidays,

Dan

islandmandan December 26, 2018 15:31

Owner

Hello Noromance,

I replaced the original idler with the Audio Silente. I didn't seem to notice a great deal of difference, either I'm tone deaf, or the original was in pretty good shape yet.

Posted a few new photos taken with my new 105mm Micro Nikkor lens. Thanks for the nice comments.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 24, 2018 15:22

Owner

bullot, the crossovers were designed for me by the late Dr. Arthur Loesch of Tempo Electric, which he donated to me through a mutual friend. I built them, using the best innards I could afford, though I did wind up redoing them not too long ago. They were the first thing I ever tried to build, I barely knew how to solder, and they were a mess.

I studied the art of soldering, got much better soldering equipment, and after a couple of DIY projects, I was ready to tackle the rebuild. I'm much happier with them now.

Thanks,

Dan

islandmandan September 12, 2018 12:56

Owner

An update on the situation regarding my Esoteric DV60 universal player. I've decided to keep this player in the system for listening to Redbook CD and stereo SACD's, in which it has had no equal in my home system.

To solve the missing multi-channel playback dilemma, I just purchased an Arcam FMJ DV139 for $600. I'm happy with how it sounds, although it's maybe not quite the Esoteric's equal, it is nonetheless very close.

It was quite a comedy of errors getting it set up, it has the most non-intuitive remote control button layout I've ever seen. After many frustrating hours of attempting set up, I finally stumbled upon the on-screen setup menu. Phew!

So that's the end to that story (I hope). Thanks to all who posted their concern, and commiserating with me.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan July 25, 2018 11:33

Owner

Thank you, hddg, for your kind words. I am very "at home" with my system these days, the angst of years past are long gone, nothing but hours of daily listening and enjoyment nowadays.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan September 04, 2017 11:12

Owner

We just enjoyed a very gratifying visit with Mike and Patty Ruegamer of Vancouver, CA. Our first ever meeting was such a pleasure, even more so since it's been nearly five years since anyone visited our system, and us, in an audio-oriented capacity, so a rare and welcomed visit with such fine folks.

Thanks for coming, Mike and Patty!

Best regards,

Dan & Tina

islandmandan September 03, 2017 14:02

Owner

Added the just-completed project build of DIY Audio's BBtx version of an Ultrasonic Record Cleaner. I couldn't be happier with it, records I'd deemed unplayable are now quite listenable.

What a difference!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 19, 2017 12:28

Owner

Sbayne,

Thank you for your kind words, sir, they are appreciated. The 401 plinth was truly a labor of love, I've now gone as far as I can go in the realm of LP playback, but luckily, I am in a very satisfying place re analog.

Best regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 10, 2017 12:00

Owner

New photos of my re-done plinth added.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan March 26, 2017 15:17

Owner

I've been listening exclusively to my recently reworked Garrard 401 for a few days now. The combination of tasks performed on the plinth made for a much greater improvement than I had expected. It is by no means a small betterment in performance, much more like a dramatic improvement in every aspect of performance.

I can unequivocally say, that I am now done with the Garrard 401 project. It's perfect.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan March 25, 2017 12:15

Owner

Posted comment and photos of just-completed reworking of plinth for the Garrard 401. Problems with the finish caused me to remove the face and top pieces, replace with solid slabs of Purpleheart, inlay with Australain Mallee Burl, new arm board, and refinish with Gloss Waterlox Tung Oil.

Serviced motor, and did upgrades on the bottom of plinth for better interface between chassis/plinth, plinth/footers.

islandmandan March 22, 2017 13:40

Owner

Hi Tuan,

Good to hear from you. I've been wrapped up in finding a cure for a problem in my analog system, which was thought to be some kind of grounding issue between the tonearm to the phono stage.

Yesterday, I visited Hermann, an 83 year old mutual friend of myself and Micheal and George, who lives on Camano Island, about an hour and a half drive from my home here on Whidbey. The tonearm cable tested good, it turned out to be a bad rectifier tube in the phono stage power supply. Hermann had a spare replacement tube, and I was able to get it up and running last night. It was good to be able to listen to records again.

It appears your system is working well for you, keep on enjoying your music.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan January 12, 2017 12:47

Owner

Yes, those are Edensound Bear Paws. The copper mat is from the now-defunct TTW. I've tried a few other mats, but the copper is a fixture that just stays and stays. I have a ground wire hooked to the bottom of the spindle bearing housing, run to ground. I believe it helps some with static electricity on the LP's.

Your PNB 'table is gorgeous as well. Enjoy,

Dan

islandmandan October 23, 2016 14:46

Owner

Posted photos of newly refinished Garrard 401 plinth.

islandmandan October 21, 2016 17:11

Owner

Chris, I don't think you'll have to worry about the certain person causing problems at the border, the wall will be built on the southern border. No matter who wins, we all lose in this election, I'm afraid.

Dan

islandmandan October 16, 2016 13:34

Owner

Dave, it is truly a pleasure to converse with you. I'm wondering where you are ensconced, I am on the left coast of the U.S; on Whidbey Island, Washington State.

Our friend Chris is beyond our reach for anything beyond email, perhaps the case is different for us?

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan October 15, 2016 14:06

Owner

Hello Dave,

You have no idea how much your comments mean to me. It has been a labor of love, with many trials and tribulations.

I couldn't be happier with how much enjoyment this modest system gives me. Just normal upkeep is needed at this point, a far cry from the angst I was going through a few years ago. (Impeded by a lack of any audio dealers nearby, to help in evaluating and preparing for equipment purchases).

There have been perhaps hundreds of "Doh! moments for me over the years, but at least we can learn from them, right?

Thanks so much, enjoy,

Dan

islandmandan October 14, 2016 15:03

Owner

Just finished a nearly week-long sanding/polishing of my custom Tannoy enclosures. Although they looked ok, the finish needed to be sanded and polished to attain a smoother, more polished look.

They could be better, but overall, I'm happier with how they look now.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan July 24, 2016 19:27

Owner

A couple of nights ago, I had a Homer Simpson Doh! moment, as I was studying the connections on my DBX 223 XS EQ. Although I was pretty happy with how things sounded, I realized I had connected the output from the EQ to the Crown XTi 2002 amp, at the HF outputs, instead of the LF outputs.

Holy crap! It made a hell of a difference, as you would think it should. Bass is so much better, I could pinch myself. It helps when you pay attention as you are doing things, but, I eventually got it right.

Doh!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan June 13, 2016 16:05

Owner

Kenny, I'll have to try that, it's kind of a convenience factor, as the Power Plant is closer to my amps than the wall outlet, but it's worth trying, especially since I live out in the country with a pretty clean source of power.

I've been planning to try some speaker repositioning, plugging the amps directly into the wall would be a good thing to try as well.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 11, 2016 12:45

Owner

I just completed a complete rewiring of my crossovers, and the internal wiring of the Tannoys. I fabricated my own terminal board from 1/4" X 1/2" Teflon, and male double ended spade connectors at the speaker, and a terminal block at the vicinity of the original crossovers, that can still be used if it becomes necessary.

The results are a startling improvement in clarity, detail and dynamics, making my one-off Tannoys an even greater joy to listen to.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 10, 2016 10:59

Owner

Honestly, I haven't used the Acromat in years. Although I didn't notice much difference in how they sound, I like the looks of the TTW copper mat and weight.

I don't know if that means they are both good at what they do, or my perception is flawed.

Thanks and regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 06, 2016 12:28

Owner

Kenny, your comments are appreciated, thank you. The difference between the VPI Scout Signature, and the Garrard 401/Dynavector 501, is night and day. Not even close, the 401/501 combo is in a completely different league.

Also, I had become quite tired of the VPI tonearm wobble, the Dynavector arm is precise, and a fine tracker, and a joy to use.

As far as DIY is concerned, I suffer from a lack of experience in things electronic, and in smarts in general. It's only dogged persistence, and trial-and-error, that I get through some of the projects I take on. I enjoy it immensely, in spite of the many setbacks I've suffered through over the years. No engineering in my background, but a great love of science in general, and hands-on involvement in audio, besides the enjoyment of music, is what I find especially rewarding.

Best regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 05, 2016 10:48

Owner

It's been six years since I built my Tannoy HPD's, and I'm still refining their sound. I've changed the 12 gauge Alpha Core inductor in the HF circuit from .68 mh to .82 mh, and the 27 Ohm resistor back to 37 Ohms.

Further listening is required, but I believe I have finally nailed it. Snare drums have the requisite snap, and now there is sparkle in the HF that has been missing in action.

Sometimes, it's hard to know what's missing until you actually hear it.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan February 27, 2016 15:08

Owner

Some time ago, I scored in Portland a collection of six LP's of Sarah Vaughan on Pablo. I decided it was time for another listen, and wow, I'd forgotten how quiet the pressings are, and how superb the SQ of the recording is.

Her singing is simply great as usual, also. What a find.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan January 01, 2016 17:33

Owner

Jet, I just checked, they are the MRA12. As you stated, a very clean, and involving, sound quality to them.

Thanks,

Dan

islandmandan December 12, 2015 15:15

Owner

Thanks, Jet. As I get more listening hours since the change, the improvement is nothing short of profound. What my speakers, and the rest of my modest system is delivering now, is astonishing.

There is a completeness to each and every note, now made whole. I am nothing less than thrilled, it's almost as though it's a completely new, and better system.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan December 11, 2015 12:49

Owner

Recently, I've been thinking something was missing, either it's due to HF hearing loss, or perhaps what was needed was to increase the resistance in the HF circuit of my custom crossovers for my 12" Tannoy HPD's.

For quite some time ago now, I had changed that resistor from 50 Ohms, to 27 Ohms. It had seemed to be an improvement at the time, so I lived with it that way.

Yesterday, I decided to add an additional 10 Ohms in the HF circuit, with some Mills resistors I had on hand, making 37 Ohms resistance in the HF circuit.

What a difference! It wasn't my ears (but more what's between my ears), and I feel now I've struck just the right balance in the high frequencies, more air, better dynamics, just much more life in the music. Much happier now. I may, at some point, order an appropriate Dueland resistor and install it, to match the rest of them. This sounds so good though, I may not bother with it.

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan December 10, 2015 14:41

Owner

I've installed a Goldpoint selector switch in my Transcendent Sounds GG preamp, The cheap one provided in the kit had an intermittent contact problem.

Now the knobs match. It's good to have quality parts in a bargain piece of equipment, all the ones I've done on this preamp makes it sound very, very, good.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan October 02, 2015 12:31

Owner

Hello Goheelz,

The stylus on the XX2MKII lasted many years. Eight, if I remember correctly, and being used a few days a week, a few hours at a time. Many hours, I would think.

The ruby cantilever and stylus made this cartridge sound much better than it did when new. The only drawback is the amount of time it takes for Peter to get to it. Mine was gone for the better part of three months, before getting it back. Peter made a good cartridge into a great one, so the time and money were well worth it.

At the time I inquired, Dynavector wanted around $800 for a retip, making the Soundsmith service a bargain.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 08, 2015 12:48

Owner

Thanks Jet and Dave,

I seem to forever be up against the "outer limits" of my abilities in much of what I attempt, which adds to the satisfaction when things go right, and the agony when they go wrong...

Not enough to keep me from trying, though.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 01, 2015 11:42

Owner

System edited: After much wailing and gnashing of teeth, I was able to finally get my Esoteric DV 60 up and running. It all started when I replaced the optics in the transport, and thereafter, the audio worked fine, but not the video. I found I had bent and broken some pins on the flexible cable connector on the video board. I tried reconnecting the cable after removing the broken pins, and neither the audio or video would work. Next came the task of selecting the right replacement connector among the 13,000 to choose from. After six tries, I managed to get the right parts in, and solder the new terminal onto the video board. Kudos to Digi-key's tech support, without whom I'd never have found the correct part. At this point, I thought all was lost, as I kept getting TRAY ERROR! message on the display. I figured something was misaligned in the tray, so I took the transport apart, and reassembled it, and everything works perfectly now. What a great relief! A new video board was over $500, so I couldn't be more pleased, now that the ordeal is over. I really appreciate this player, even more so now that everything works. Regards, Dan

islandmandan July 31, 2015 13:07

Owner

Jet, I thought you would like this cable. It's a stiff cable to work with, but when you need a long power cable, as I did (I built two twelve footers for my Class D amps) they really do a good job of keeping the cable shielded from RFI/EMI.

Thanks for letting me know, and happy listening!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 25, 2015 12:08

Owner

At a later point in time from the post above, it dawned on me that the Etna cartridge is a Lyra, and the Dynavector cartridge I was trying to recall was an XV-1S. I guess I can blame Father Time for my memory lapse.

Yesterday, I received, and installed, the Class D Audio CDA 254 amp module. I wired it up appropriately, in bridged mono mode, in the same chassis with its matching module, and using the same power supply.

Remarkably, the sound they provided seemed identical to when I was using two separate amps in bridged mode using two separate power supplies.

I played a superb recording of Warren Vache` and Bill Charlap, "2gether", on the Nagel Heyer label. It's sound was the closest to live music I've heard yet on my system, with great clarity and power.

Part of the reason, of course, is the excellent DAC in my Primare SP 31 pre-pro, and great-sounding Esoteric DV 60 player.

I really am done now.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 16, 2015 12:32

Owner

Albert, I can't thank you enough for your kind remarks regarding my Garrard 401. It compares very favorably with a couple of friends systems, one of which has a Transrotor Fat Bob, Tri-Planer VII, and Dynavector cartridge, (the model escapes me, next one below the Etna). My other friend has Transrotor Fat Bob Reference, SME 309 arm, and again the cartridge model escapes me.

David, your places of navigation are beyond my ken, but I imagine they represent opposite ends of a spectrum. I think the only courage I display is to proudly announce to the audio world that such inexpensive components (such as in Class D Audio), on a forum that is highly representative of perfectionist audio aspirations, is on a par with, or perhaps better than, most of the quality makes of amps I have owned over these many years.

Thanks again, and best regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 10, 2015 19:52

Owner

A month after converting one of my Class D Audio amps to three channel, it occurred to me I could convert my remaining amplifier into a 500 Watt stereo amp, simply by adding another CDA 254 amp module to it.

This will be very easy, I won't have to use any additional inputs and outputs, just wire one half of them to the new module.

Hearing my Tannoys with 500 Wpc with two CDA 254 amps bridged into mono is not something I will soon forget, and now, by just adding another module @ $162.22 (shipping included), I will be hearing them again with effortless power behind them.

This represents to me an extreme value, in the insane world of $200K components and speaker systems.

To quote Sam Tellig, when I'm listening after the mod, "I will laugh my evil laugh"; and enjoy the hell out of myself. Again, no ties to Cladd D Audio, just a happy user. And yes, I still love my SET 300B!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 10, 2015 14:03

Owner

System edited: Just completed, converted one of my CDA 254 amps to three-channel by adding another CDA 254 amp module. Power supply is adequate to support the additional channel, and there are even terminals provided on the power supply board, making the conversion a cakewalk. The amp works flawlessly, my KEF Reference 100 center speaker is sounding the best it's sounded in over ten years of use, with 500 Watts on tap in bridged mode, and the surrounds are well served also. This just adds another dimension to how much of a bargain these remarkable amps are. I can now save my SET 300B for special occasions, without worrying about having to replace some very pricey tubes anytime soon. Regards, Dan

islandmandan May 16, 2015 14:43

Owner

System edited: I have just added the rebuilt (by Randy Vikan), Primare SP 31 preamp-processor, which has added significantly to my enjoyment of multi-channel high-res music, and television programming. All the caps were replaced, new video board, calibration and updates were done. The sound quality is superb, in either analog or using the DAC for Red Book CD listening. Dolby Digital Music mode is also very excellent for enhancing CD listening. Done For Now is the right category for my Virtual System. Regards, Dan

islandmandan May 05, 2015 15:07

Owner

Jet,I think you will find this wire will do a great job for you. It's a bit stiff to work with, but it's not as big as a garden hose (it doesn't need to be, with the foil and woven copper insulating layers).

I just used some blue flex jacketing, and shrink tube on the ends. I guess you could ground the insulating layers if you wanted to, but I didn't bother, and there didn't seem to be any ill effects.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 05, 2015 12:49

Owner

Now that the trauma of having to replace a failed old pre-pro, and five-channel Adcom amp, with a rebuilt Primare SP 31 pre-pro, and Class D Audio CDA 254 driving the surrounds (still operating without a center channel), the multi-channel aspect of music listening is far better than with my previous preamps and amps.

The Primare took a bit of getting used to, the way it operates is different than any others I've had, but now that I am, I've found it to be a great sounding precision piece of gear, with an outstanding DAC.

I enjoy the diversity of having the choice of all-tube analog SET listening, and well done two-channel or multi-channel digital.

Plainly put, it's a good time to be me.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 23, 2015 12:47

Owner

The other night, I treated myself to an evening of all-tube listening, SET 300B amp, Grounded Grid preamp, and Modwright SWP 9.0 SE phono stage.

Source was my Garrard 401, Dynavector arm, and Dynavector XX2MKII cartridge. First up was Annie Lennox's new "Nostalgia", and the "Ellington's Masterpieces", Analog Productions.

I've been enjoying my new Esoteric DV 60 and the Class D Audio CDA 254 (two of them, bridged into mono, only 500 Wpc), not the 3000 Wpc recommended by Charles (sorry Charles, I couldn't help myself!)

So now I am reminded how great the SET 300B sounds. I am glad to have this capability, it's a pure pleasure to listen to.

I'm also glad to be able to do a great deal of enjoyable listening via the Class D amps, and not have to worry about replacing very expensive tubes anytime soon.

I am at the point now where my interest in the high-end audio pursuit is waning, due to the amount of pure enjoyment afforded me every day by my current system. A far cry from a few years ago, when I kind of knew what I wanted, but just didn't know how to achieve it.

It's been a rough couple of months, some of my older equipment finally quit on me (old Adcom multi-channel amp, old Fosgate pre-pro, and even my McIntosh MVP 871, which I repaired and sold, and replaced with the Esoteric DV 60.

Everything is getting back to normal, with no worries about equipment (hopefully) for a while, just happy listening.

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 17, 2015 11:41

Owner

Hi Ray,

As you know, audio involves a very circuitous path. With the SET, I bid on here on A'gon, and to my surprise, I won it. With new caps (Jupitor 720077 Beeswax), and new resitors (Kiwame carbon film), it turned out to be a great sounding amp.

Hearing my Tannoys with an SET 300B driving them, was a goal of mine, one the Audio Assemblage met, and met well, the other part of my goal there was to do it affordably.

What led me to Class D Audio was again, I was in a bit of a tight spot financially (new roof for the home, car breakdowns, etc.) I needed to sell some equipment, so the First Watt M2 had to go.

I like to have a back up amp that is solid state, and my curiosity led me to Class D. With their low prices, quality parts, and USA manufacture, I ordered a complete kit.

The first amp sounded so good, I decided I'd build another one, for bridged-mode operation. The rest, as they say, is history.

Thanks Ray, enjoy and regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 19, 2015 13:16

Owner

Hi Al, Jet, Charles,

Thanks for the congrats, it's appreciated! Surprisingly enough, the sound of these two very disparate amp topologies is more similar than it is different. Both are very involving and warm sounding, with the Class D having better bass response, along with an intensity in each note the SET can't quite match.

If someone had told me a few years ago I would be using Class D amps bridged into mono, and loving it, I would have thought them crazy. I wasn't impressed with what I had heard about Class D back a few years ago, and to be able to have this kind of performance with only $860 spendt, It's a path I highly recommend trying.

The SET 300B still takes my breath away when I first fire it up after a long absence from the system, there is much beauty to enjoy there.

Jet, regarding the Belden wire (the 83803), I read about it on a DIY forum years ago, and built one when I went to using amps in two different locations. This particular Belden wire is stranded copper, 12 gauge, with a heavy weave of plated copper inner sheathing, and an outer foil sheathing. It is completely free of RFI and EMI. For the two Class D amps, I needed 12' cords, so buying a name-brand power cable would have been cost-prohibitive. It sounds superb, so my take is you don't always get your dollar's worth with cable purchases.

I think that is quite an understatement.

Thank you, my friends, and good listening!
Dan

islandmandan March 18, 2015 18:08

Owner

System edited: I completed building the second Class D Audio CDA 254 amp yesterday, and after finishing a DIY Belden 83803 12 gauge power cord (Marinco plugs), I hooked up the two Class D amps to run in bridged mode, 500 Watts into 8 Ohms. My expectaions were more than fulfilled, the things I appreciated about the stereo CDA 254 amp were multiplied by the pair of them in bridged mode. All concerns regarding a problematic impedence mismatch between my Grounded Grid preamp (100 Ohms output impedence), and the bridged Class D amps vanished, with clean, pure, warm sound, with the best bass response ever heard through my Tannoy HPD's, which is one of their strong points to begin with. I couldn't be happier with these two DIY amps. What an incredible bargain they are! Regards, Dan

islandmandan March 18, 2015 12:59

Owner

Thanks, Dave. It's always a good feeling when you press play, and the music comes forth, just like it's supposed to. I don't know if you noticed, Dave, but I sold my First Watt M2 in favor of a Class D Audio CDA 254L that I built.

I'm really liking it.

islandmandan February 14, 2015 19:13

Owner

I have sold my McIntosh MVP 871 player, after the transport went on the Esoteric DV 60. Funds from the Mac went towards the new transport for the DV 60, which I successfully replaced yesterday.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 14, 2015 13:40

Owner

System edited: Pictures added, my recent completed build of Class D Audio CDA 254L amplifier. It is quite a contrast with the SET 300B, but none the less musical. Music through the Class D is forceful, and very lively sounding. Make a great departure from the 300B. Will add more later.

islandmandan February 08, 2015 18:00

Owner

Hi Jet, all. I'm not sure how to describe my initial impressions regarding the new Class D amp without sounding like a schill or a fool.

So first I'll give you the usual diclaimer, I have no affiliation with Class D Audio, other than being a customer.

This amplifier is so scary good, and at $429 including shipping for the complete kit, it's a scary great deal as well.

As far as how it sounds, my Tannoys have NEVER sounded better than they do with this little amp. Music has vitality and intensity, gorgous tone and timbre, and sounds warm, and smooth also.

If you are at all curious about how class d amps sound, I heartily recommend trying out one of these amps. Separate components can be puchased (modules and power supplies), complete kits, or complete amplifiers, all ridiculously inexpensive, and parts and chassis quality are very high.

More to come later.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 08, 2015 12:13

Owner

I just now completed my build of the Class D CDA 254 L amplifier. I have it hooked up in home theater mode until tonight, when I will give it its maiden voyage with two channel music. Will post pictures and impressions later.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 07, 2015 16:06

Owner

This may sound like heresy to some, but I'm in the process of building a Class D Audio CDA 254L amplifier. While quite a departure from the SET 300B, it will make an intersting comparison with the SET amp, or even the First Watt M2. Stay tuned.

On another note, on my way home from spending a disappointing Superbowl Sunday with my son(s), (where was Beast Mode?), I made a rare stop at Definitive Audio in Bellevue.

The salesman was kind enough to hook me up with Wilson Alexia's, D'agostino Momentum integrated, and Lynn music server. A rare one-on-one treat for me, I don't get to the Big City very often, it's been years since my last visit, and only one audio show for me, '07 RMAF.

Unlike my first exposure to Wilson speakers (Maxx 2's), which I didn't enjoy, (too hyper-detailed for me), I found this experience to be very pleasureable, which was a surprise, especially at how good the source sounded.

Well, back to reality, which isn't so bad, after all. Except for the Superbowl.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 04, 2015 11:40

Owner

Thanks Guystp,

I've tried a FunkFirm Achromat, a Trans-Fi mat (rather disappointing, that), and a rubber mat.

Honestly, I haven't heard that much difference between all of them, but the copper mat is consistently good, and I like the way it looks as well.

The Trans-Fi mat was a bit of a kludge, and being quite flimsy, not my cup of tea. I'm not in the habit of making changes in my system, once I find something I like, and that works well, I tend to stick with it a long time.

Regards, enjoy your listening,
Dan

islandmandan January 26, 2015 11:37

Owner

Since picking up the Esoteric DV 60 a week and a half ago, I've been listening to it exclusively. Its sound has grown on me, and after listening to Reference Recording's "Mephisto & Co." last night, I think the DV 60 has earned a permanent place in my rack.

This disc sounded very fine, and scared me out of my reverie several times, which is what it should do.

I've given thought to doing some mods on the DV 60, but I can't decide who to send it to. Suggestions are welcome.

I've taken the McIntosh MVP 871 to the Mac service center on the Key Peninsula (the most confusing place I've driven in in a long, long, time), to have the track display repaired.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 21, 2015 14:23

Owner

Guystp, sorry, I didn't see your post until now. Thank you for your comments regarding my 401 plinth. I't always nice to hear positive remarks regarding your work.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 21, 2015 14:09

Owner

System edited: I bought an Esoteric DV 60 player yesterday, to replace my ailing McIntoish MVP 871, from a member that lives in the region. We met yesterday, and I picked it up and brought it home. Upon first listening, the sound is quite lush, and beautiful to listen to. Subsequent listening will reveal more of its sonic personality, but, so far, so good. Regards, Dan

islandmandan January 12, 2015 16:50

Owner

Yildiray,

Thank you so much for your kind comments on my system. The plinth for the 401 was a labor of love, I had to buy the tools, learn to use them, and then execute the changes I wanted to make as I learned. It took time, but my patience was rewarded.

The SET experience has been the most beneficial change I've come across in forty plus years in this hobby. You can teach old dogs new tricks!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 07, 2015 16:27

Owner

Thank you, Samhar, same to you, my friend.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 29, 2014 09:37

Owner

Jet, it is difficult to leave. My listening sessions start in late evening, and last until I start falling asleep, sometime between 2:00 to 3:00 am. It's a pretty fine life, after all.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 13, 2014 13:22

Owner

System edited: The Crown XTi 2002 amplifier has transformed the 15" passive Tannoy sub into what I was looking for in a sub all along. Superbly musical, it helps make the music even more addicting. Incredible.

islandmandan December 12, 2014 16:03

Owner

Jet, sorry for the late reply, I couldn't access the forum thread through my regular browser, I finally tried Google Chrome, and was able to get here.

As far as where the resistors are going, I'm not really sure what stage they are going in, just where Dan indicated on the circuit board.

I'm still an ignoramus on most of this stuff, I'm trying to learn as I go, but it's hard to teach old dogs new tricks. Especially if they were as dumb as a fencepost to begin with.

islandmandan December 07, 2014 13:05

Owner

Chris, big is good, as long as it's proprtionate with the system it's in. All things in moderation.

Besides, the idea is for better, not more bass.

Speaking of bass, I'm in contact with Dan Wright about adding a rumble filter in my SWP 9.0 phono pre.

With the Acutex LPM 415 MM cart mounted up, a warped LP was causing my SET amp to clip (hmmm, the Crown probably would't clip!)

So, I'll be soldering resistors where Dan has indicated to see if that helps. It's the first real instance of clipping I've encountered with the SET 300B.

Oh, by the way, you're the one with dog lips all over you, I don't have one of the furry friends any more. (Though I do like dog lips!)

Take case, and give Koaltar a pat on the head for me.
Dan

islandmandan December 05, 2014 14:54

Owner

System edited: Have added Crown International XTI 2002 ampifier to power my tannoy 15" passive subwoofer. I will run it bridged to a single channel, where it outputs 1600 Watts into 8 Ohms.

islandmandan December 03, 2014 18:18

Owner

Jet, David, Charles, and Brett, what can I say, but a very big thank you, coming from men I respect so highly.

I know If I were to have a listening session at any of your homes, my mind (and ears!), would feel right at home.

I wish you could all come, I think we would have an enjoyable time listening together.

Charles, last night was very good, with a 1951 session involving Miles, Rollins, McLean, Walter Bishop, Tommy Potter and Art Blakey, and a live event, with Miles, Herbie Hancock, George Coleman, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams, all on good vinyl, sounding right "there".

Charles, when vinyl is working right, it's a tall order for digital to match, and I do enjoy my digital.

Men, thanks again, here's to an unlimited amount of fine listening for you.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan November 04, 2014 16:06

Owner

System edited: Added updated system photo.

islandmandan November 03, 2014 13:59

Owner

The M2 does a very nice job with my HPD's. Now discontinued, but I spoke to Nelson Pass about it, his comment was he wasn't surprised with the good pairing, as the amp was designed and voiced using 15" Tannoy HPD's.

The M2 has plenty of oomph, but then, I think my SET 300B does too. I've gone from one extreme to the other, when I first got my HPD's up and running, all I had was a modified Aragon 3002 (300 Wpc SS, I was using for my Dynaudio's), and now down to 9 Wpc, I haven't yet heard an amp my Tannoys sound bad with.

These HPD's are hybrids though, having been converted to "Hard Edge" surrounds, and the 150 liter bass-reflex enclosures seem to be ideal for them.

The M2 helps to extend the life of the EML 300B XLS tubes in my SET 300b amp. It is pleasant to listen to, with a bit better bass.

Enjoyable, but no SET.

Thank you for your reply, regards,
Dan

islandmandan October 25, 2014 12:10

Owner

Thank you, Needfreestuff, your system is great, and far, far, away from being Freestuff, I'm sure you get a great deal of enjoyment from it on a daily basis.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan October 14, 2014 12:40

Owner

The new Tannoy Definition 15 subwoofer is working out extremely well.

My remade Velodyne with 12" Eminence sub driver, plate amp, and dual 3" rear ports has turned out to be a devastatingly good, and musical sub. It was boomy and not too articulate, but now, the spider and surround have loosened up, making it a pleasure to use.

I am now blessed with the perfect balance of bass that is in balance with the rest of the musical spectrum, that is articulate, and yet can be felt, along with sounding great.

The Tannoy sub is not as powerful in the low bass as the Velodyne EQ Max 15 it replaced, but it is so much better for music.

I know this has been said before, but I am truly Done For Now.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan October 06, 2014 12:19

Owner

System edited: Added a Tannoy Definition 15 DS15i sub, with Tannoy iw SA 500 subwoofer amplifier. Superb match with the HPD 315's, great bass without the usual "boom" prevalent with every other sub I've used up 'til now.

islandmandan September 28, 2014 16:47

Owner

Thank you, Pradeep, I get a lot of satisfaction from hearing what a nearly 50 year old machine can do, and from working on it as well.

Thanks again,
Dan

islandmandan September 14, 2014 11:59

Owner

Thank you, Sal!

islandmandan August 23, 2014 11:55

Owner

Hello Sam,

Thanks so much. I do get a lot of enjoyment doing these types of projects. I've been catching up on my vinyl listening, and enjoying that, too.

I just looked at your system, I forgot how beautiful those Joule amps are. Your set-up is elegant, and has to be a joy to listen to.

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 22, 2014 11:56

Owner

System edited: Updated photos.

islandmandan August 20, 2014 12:18

Owner

Gentlemen, I deeply appreciate the high praise from you. It means a lot, coming from those with such discriminating taste.

Peter, you were right, it does take a lot of effort to effect a highly polished finish, but it was well worth the effort.

If I ever do this again, I may use lacquer, I think it probably dries to a harder surface, and will polish better.

Again, thanks, and regards,

Dan

islandmandan August 19, 2014 10:35

Owner

System edited: Posted new photos, Garrard plinth now has polished high-gloss finish. Regards, Dan

islandmandan August 18, 2014 18:19

Owner

Douger, it's to the point now where I almost have to pinch myself to see if I'm dreaming or not. Really enjoying myself.

I've torn my turntable apart again, and I decided to refinish it with a deep, high-gloss finish. It's getting there, in the final stages. I'll be glad when it's done.

Thanks for the cheery message, it's much appreciated.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 10, 2014 18:36

Owner

I installed a new display on my MVP 871 player (which, by the way, didn't fix the problem), but at the same time I installed some Black Diamond Racing Cones and pads under the player.

It sits on a Brightstar Audio Bigrock 2. I didn't realize what a fundimental improvement it would make from the IsoPods and Cones I had been using.

I posted on the Art Of Martha Argerich retrospective I've been enjoying lately, it escapes me how to describe what I'm hearing on these discs, except to say it sounds very much like a concert grand piano is in my room, with Martha playing just for me.

I wish I had installed the BDR Cones and Pads long ago now, they were on my now-defunct Marantz DV 8300, and had just been sitting in a drawer.

I'm not happy the display isn't fixed, but I'm mighty pleased how the MVP 871 sounds now. Come to think of it, I may have to put BDR's on my Musical Fidelity DAC and Genesis Digital Time Lens too now, which, after all these years, is still better than the DAC in the 871. (Both have been extensively modified).

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 02, 2014 12:59

Owner

Charles, Jet,

It's great to hear from both of you. Haven't heard from Brett in quite a while, have either of you?

Audio is a great hobby, but it's also a great learning experience. I always knew I wanted a fine sounding audio system, but I didn't have a clue as to how to accomplish it.

I knew from exposure in the early '70's, that Tannoys were very good speakers. (Some friends of mine in a band had a remote recording studio, and used 12" Monitor Golds for their playback). I bought a pair of MG's, and used them for 18 years, after that, they went away with my marriage.

But anyway, Tannoys are back, and somehow, I wound up with a system I could only dream of a few years ago. It helps to have like-minded friends (I mean you fellows) to learn from, and put ideas in my thick head.

I'm very glad I was lead down the path to tubes, great musical pleasure lies in that direction.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan July 15, 2014 11:56

Owner

Hi Jet. The First Watt has turned out to be one of the best sounding amps I've ever spent any time with. I can't seem to decide which amp I prefer, though they are different.

The M2 has terrific balance from top to bottom, a presentation that is very easy to listen to. There isn't a drop of harshness anywhere, with a very non-fatiguing sound that I really like.

Thanks, and regards,
Dan

The SET 300B is more realistic sounding, more musical, up to where it runs out of oomph, but it routinely gets to near realistic volume levels before that occurs.

The two amps were sharing about equal time in use, but lately the 300B has been seeing more duty. I can't find fault with either one of them though, I'm glad I have them both.

islandmandan July 14, 2014 18:11

Owner

System edited: I had been hearing some graininess from my vinyl rig, so over the weekend, I checked cartridge overhang again. As suspected, it a bit off (long). Either the light was just right or I was holding my mouth right, but this time, I was able to nail it perfectly using the MintLP. I also changed phono cable to a silver one I had made up. This made a great improvement, clearing up the last bit of nastiness remaining in vinyl playback, sound is superb, and very addicting.

islandmandan July 14, 2014 13:51

Owner

I'm evaluating a change of resistor value in my crossovers, from 50ohms to 27ohms in the HF circuit.

This made a profound difference in how these speakers sound. More listening is needed for me to even be able to describe, it is so different. It does sound good, though.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 28, 2014 12:09

Owner

The arm lift on my Dynavector 501 arm quit working, the lift post had become too short. Since it was brass, I was able to slide a section of brass tube over the post, and then solder that, and a section of brass rod inside the tube. The cylinder that holds the mechanism had to be drilled to accept the larger post/

I measured the precise length it needed to be, and cut to length. A hole was then drilled to accept the plate fastener. I then filed a very small square on top, which had to be the precise depth, size, and oreintation.

Thankfully, this worked beautifully. Dynavector has no parts available for these arms, so I feel as though I've dodged a bullet.

It's still a great old arm!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 15, 2014 12:54

Owner

Listening to the new LP's from Portland, "The Worlds Best Jazz Concert", on Pablo, and Sarah Vaughn "The Complete Pablo Years 1978-1984", surfaces are pristine, quality of recording uniformly excellent, performances out of this world. What a find.

islandmandan June 11, 2014 11:23

Owner

I spent the weekend in Portland, visiting my friends Michael and George, and their respective systems. George's Ascendo speakers are sounding amazing, as are Michael's big Ushers.

Both men use Transrotor TT's, George with a Fat Bob Reference, Michael a Fat Bob S, both beautiful to look at and hear.

A great time was had, fine listening and camaraderie, and I even got to buy some fine old (and rare) jazz records.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 09, 2014 12:17

Owner

Lately I've been enjoying Jazz At The Philharmonic, Seattle 1956. Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, Stan Getz, Modern Jazz Quartet, Sonny Stitt, Dizzy Gillespie, Herb Ellis, Ray Brown, Roy Eldridge, Flip Phillips, Illinois Jacquet, Jo Jones, and Gene Krupa Quartet.

The recording is a bit sketchy at times, but many of the performances are over the top good. Ella Fitzgerald is at her best, and ends the show playing the harmonica!

This concert has not been previously released.

Regards, and enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan June 03, 2014 10:16

Owner

Thanks much, Jet it means a lot, coming from you.

islandmandan May 20, 2014 12:23

Owner

Thank you, Raymonda. I feel I have nearly unobtainium performance at a very real-world price, plus the added enjoyment of using my spare time, doing something I love.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 19, 2014 12:24

Owner

Charles, I couldn't agree more. I just wish I was able to share what I hear daily with like-minded folk that appreciate good sound.

I really do feel fortunate to be able live with this system.

Thanks, and regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 18, 2014 14:01

Owner

System edited: I built a VH Audio Flavor 2 AC cord for use with the Transcendent Sound GG preamp. Not sure what has made the most difference, the Clarity Caps MR 450 output caps, the NOS Amperex 12AU7's, the Goldpoint attenuator, or the mil-spec silver hook-up wire, but I've never heard my system sound as good as it does right now. This little DIY preamp is mind-blowingly good, and has earned a permanent home in the system. I think my long association with TVC passive linestages may be over. Regards, Dan

islandmandan May 18, 2014 12:37

Owner

Charles, right now the active is what's to my liking. There is a difference in presentation, the Grounded Grid seems a bit easier to listen to, and hear into the music.

I think the passive, though, presents the most pristine signal, but I must like what the 12AU7's are doing. I am having fun, though.

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 11, 2014 09:52

Owner

System edited: Yesterday, the Clarity Caps 1.0uf MR caps arrived, so I replaced the output caps in the Transcendent preamplifier, along with an additional set of RCA inputs. I don't know if these caps have a long break-in period, but they sound great, right from the start. I'm really beginning to enjoy this preamp, especially with the Goldpoint attenuator, NOS Amperex 12AU7's, and Bent Audio remote volume control. I don't know if furthur modifications will be done, but I'm pretty happy with this kit. Regards, Dan

islandmandan May 10, 2014 20:07

Owner

System edited: I finished building the Transcendent Sound preamp. It sounds very nice, I'll probably do some cap and resistor upgrades at a later date. Using NOS Amperex 12AU7's, mil-spec silver hook-up wire, and Goldpoint attenuator (with Bent Audio Remote Volume Control) helped to make this preamp sound good, and it's quiet as a tomb.

islandmandan May 05, 2014 10:21

Owner

I was inspired by Harold-Not-The-Barrel's thread yesterday, to have a listen to my Acutex LPM M320 III STR again. I hadn't used it for several months, my two MC's were in rotation. A trip to the hardware store was necessary though, as I had to get some kind of flexible adhesive to affix (though not permanently!) the removable stylus assembly.

I could not nail down overhang, as the stylus kept moving in and out, due to being loose, as these Acutex carts are known for.

Finally got everything set up, and was again reminded just how good this cartridge is. And actually, even better than it has been, due to better, more accurate set up, and recent improvements in arm location and more precise, and solid, mounting procedure.

Bass is tremendous, as has always been the case with this cartridge, but it's much more textured and nuanced than before. All frequencies, though, were better than has been the case. Impressive.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 26, 2014 11:11

Owner

System edited: Had a few days before my preamp project begins, so I decided to further refine the 401 plinth with much more sanding, and rounding of all corners. I like it better this way, I had been thinking about this as I did the first remake, so to the router table it went. I think it's an improvement. On to the next project. Regards, Dan

islandmandan April 22, 2014 11:49

Owner

I will, I'm looking forward to it. It should be educational to see the differences between my current transformer-based passive, and an active linestage which I haven't had for five years or more.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 18, 2014 15:25

Owner

Just ordered the Transcendent Grounded Grid preamp. Also, a Goldpoint stepped attenuator, and Bent Audio Remote Volume Control, Amperex E80CC (12AU7) tubes.

It's time to build something.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 18, 2014 14:41

Owner

System edited: Added First Watt M2 amp, deleted VAC PA 35.35, which has gone to a new home. New system photos added.

islandmandan April 10, 2014 13:41

Owner

Charles,

I don't think that's going to happen. I briefly hooked up the SET 300B for a listen, and again was astounded at the amount of musical information it provides.

I need someday to try and hear a cost-no-object SET 300B amp, just to see if I'm missing out on anything, but maybe it's best I don't. I do wonder how much better than this it can get, though.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 07, 2014 11:48

Owner

Right now, I seem to be getting more from listening to the M2, but it's certainly not a night/day kind of difference. The VAC can be compelling to listen to, and is, actually, but not to the degree the SET or the M2 is.

I think I was due for a change too, I enjoy having different experiences in music listening, and I can't go anywhere else to do it, unless I want to drive 2 1/2-6 hours for the privilege.

I really am enjoying the First Watt, I've been putting it through its paces the last couple of days.

I guess I've made up my mind, so the M2 it is (and the SET 300B).

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 05, 2014 16:44

Owner

Charles, it's not quite on par with the SET regarding naturalness and presence. I haven't hooked the SET up since the M2 arrived, as I know for certain I will be keeping that amp.

I can't keep all three, as is usually the case for me, if I buy something new, something else must go to finance the new toy. Don't have room for all of 'em anyway.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 05, 2014 10:21

Owner

The M2 is a very impressive sounding amplifier. It sounds a lot like the SET 300B, but with better bass and more detailed. HF's are beautiful, as well.

Now I've got to decide what to do. I know how special the VAC is, but the M2 is just what I was looking for, in an alternative amp. What a pickle I've got myself into.....

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 04, 2014 11:26

Owner

Pdreher, thanks for the advice. The M2 arrives today, I will give it a good listen. Depending on what I hear, I may pull the ad for the VAC.

The old PA 35.35 is truly a great sounding amp, but it just can't compare to the SET 300B. Both these amps are hard to beat in their own catgory, but it's like comparing apples to oranges in their differences. I find it hard to put into words the characteristics that make them so different, but they truly are, yet they both sound exceptional in what they do.

Where the Pass M2 will land in that hierarchy, I will have to wait to see.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 03, 2014 11:17

Owner

Hello Charles,

After listening to the VAC last night, I think I need to have my head examined to even think of selling it. Curiosity makes us do strange, and sometimes ill-advised things. I'll know in a couple of days.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 02, 2014 12:32

Owner

System edited: I have just purchased a First Watt M2 amp, and placed my trusty old VAC up for sale.

islandmandan April 01, 2014 15:19

Owner

Hello Pradeep, thank you very much. The plinth weighs around 45 lbs; the Edensound Bear Paws are 6.5 lbs. X 4=71 lbs. Add the 401, 3 lb. copper mat, and TTW brass weight 2.5 lbs; for a total of 76.5 lbs.

Hi Chris, thank you, but I didn't feel all that talented while spending much of my time trying to fix my mistakes. Wood is good to work with though, as long as you have extra for those unfixable things.

Most of my carpentry experience was in building a house, and some outbuildings on my property. Fine woodworking is another skillset I'm trying to learn, with recent purchases of a router and table, band saw, disc/belt sander, etc.

There are varying theories of which plinth type is more suitable, the skeleton type, or the high mass type, which obviously is the version I ascribe to.

With the sand isolation box on a wall-mount platform, and the high mass plinth, I only seem to hear what's in the grooves, and that works for me.

The 'tables appearance is growing on me as I use it, I'm not so acutely aware of my errors, especially in the semi-gloom I usually listen in.

Thank you gentlemen, your comments are so very apperciated!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 28, 2014 12:03

Owner

Thanks Jet, that means a lot from a master DIY'er such as yourself!

islandmandan March 26, 2014 11:18

Owner

System edited: I just completed a DIY three week modification project on the Garrard 401 plinth. Purpleheart on three sides, with a center section of the original Bubinga left for effect. Purpleheart top trim pieces and armboard were made, the finish being "Cabernet" stain, with Teak Oil hand rubbed. I left a bit of quarter-sawn Bubinga veneer on top as well. In spite of my many mistakes, I find the results appealing, and the 'table sounds better as well, with a heavier, larger armboard.

islandmandan March 25, 2014 14:04

Owner

What surprises me is this is supposed to be a mono recording, but you'd sure never know it. It sounds much better than many of my better stereo LPs. Love this stuff.

Dan

islandmandan March 03, 2014 17:25

Owner

Hi Charles,

Yes, Clifford's playing is superb. Funny situation last night, I changed back to the Zu Denon 103R/ESCCO-modded cartridge, and checked every set up parameter again. Everything was spot-on, the only thing that changed, was a bit less VTF, and a bit of VTA change. (With the Dynavector arm, Riggle VTAF system, and carts all mounted on their own headshells, change-outs are quick and painless.

Anyway, I played the Sarah Vaugn/Clifford Brown LP again, and damned if it didn't sound a whole lot better! No trace of sibilance, just gorgeous music-making. Go figure.

I also broke out the King James Sheffield Labs, really had my toes tapping! Also Lee Morgan's "Tom Cat" (45 RPM version) and Oliver Nelson's "The Blues and The Absolute Truth" (also 45 RPM). Now I think I better check the XX2MKII.

So, it turned out to be one of the best nights of listening for some time, and the best the 103R has sounded yet. Very happy camper.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 03, 2014 12:06

Owner

Hi Charles,

I haven't heard all that many different systems (I don't get out much!), but Clifford's trumpet sounds, to me, like a trumpet should. I know that's somewhat of an inane response, but I'm tucked away on an island, 100 miles away from the nearest large city (Seattle), so it's very rare I get to listen and compare systems. (and trumpets!)

I've got friends in Portland five or six hours away, and one friend on Camano Island, about an hour and a half drive, and that's it. Pretty much cloistered away here, new audio friends are always welcome.

I don't know, my system sounds good to me with any type of music I throw at it, which to me is a requirement of any good system. I think trying to optomize a system to suit a particular type of music is defeating the purpose of having a good, all-around system. That's what I think anyway, but whatever floats your particular boat is what's right for you.

I don't know if that answers your question, I hope so, aside from being overly long, for which I apologize.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 02, 2014 19:53

Owner

After reading Charles1dad's comments regarding Sarah Vaugn's Emarcy MG-36004, I decided it was time to revisit this recording. I had swapped the Dynavector XX2MKII back in, and had a listen.

As most of you know, this is a very "hot" recording, that will make you fully aware of any shortfalls in your playback chain.

It sounded the best it's ever sounded, with some sibilance on one of Sarah's vocal tracks. The extremely hard to track flute crescendo on the end of side two was nearly perfect, just the slightest bit of sibilance.

Prior to that I played Black Lion's reissue of Dexter Gordon's "Both Sides Of Midnight", which comes with both 33 1/3, and 45 RPM versions. The 45 RPM was what I played, each time I play this, the more I come to appreciate the job Black Lion did on the reissue, and, of course, the excellent playing on this live date in Copenhagen.

This all made me realize I need to revisit cartridge set-up on the ESCCO modded Zu 103R, as it sounds a bit "grainy", compared to the XX2. Or, the Dynavector is just that much better, but it bears some checking out to be sure. Good stuff.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 02, 2014 14:05

Owner

I will be interested in your impressions of the Tempo Silver cable. I won't be at all surprised if you order your own immediately. Thousands can be spendt, but for my money, these can't be bettered.

They make those EML's sound even better!

Enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan January 25, 2014 12:27

Owner

System edited: Added Tempo Electric 12 gauge solid-core siver speaker cables (two pair, one pair for each power amp). This has made for resolution and detail I didn't know my Tannoys were capable of. Amazing cables, at a very down-to-earth price. Also added a Velodyne eq Max 15" subwoofer. Tympanis, when struck, now have all the impact they should have, without an artificial "boom", as many lesser subs have. Regards, Dan

islandmandan January 22, 2014 12:45

Owner

Charles, with the silvers, the VAC sounded better than I ever knew it could. Detail, resolution, and presence that I did not know it, and the Tannoys were capable of.

The VAC doesn't quite equal the SET, I don't think, due to the nature of 300B tubes in general, and the XLS 300B in specific. It is astonishingly good, though, it makes me very, very glad I didn't sell it. Kevin and Brent at VAC can be proud of the upgrade work they did on it for me.

This is the kind of performance I was hoping to have for all the many years I have enjoyed and been in audio. The VAC and SET 300B are very close in performance (in fact, the VAC sounds very SET-like with the silver cables).

What the silver did for the VAC, it does for the SET. I believe I am now getting the full measure of what the EML 300B XLS tubes are capable of (at least with my little modded Assemblage SET 300B).

This, to me, is an incredible turn of events. Hearing music like this in my home was not something I thought I would ever experience, due to shallow pockets. It goes to show, it's not how much you spend, it's what you spend it on.

Dave, I didn't have any specific reason to choose 12 gauge for the silver cables, I have just always used 10-12 gauge speaker cables. It has nothing to do with specific electrical values, just personal preference. I am a real layperson when it comes the very technical stuff.

I can't say enough about Tannoys.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 12, 2014 16:24

Owner

Hello Brett, Charles, Dave,

I tried the VAC/Auditorium A 23 together last night, and while it sounded very good, it's not in the same league as with the TE Silvers. Guess I'll have to give Joe Levy a call for another set of silver TE cables.

While I would love to get together for some quality listening here, we are unfortunately quite a far-flung group. Maybe some day!

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 12, 2014 14:11

Owner

The Tempo Electric solid core/teflon tube cable went on the SET 300B/Tannoy setup last night, and the improvements were on the same level as with the VAC/Tannoys.

Cello and piano were huge in my listening room with Onslow sonatas, acoustic jazz was reproduced in the same fashion.

I heard detail that I did not know Tannoys were capable of. Needless to say, the Tempo Electric silver cables will stay on the SET/Tannoy combination. I will decide after I listen to the VAC/Auditorium A23, if that matchup works well enough to keep it that way.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 11, 2014 13:15

Owner

That's a great idea, but then that'd take away money for system upgrades, to keep travel times short at about 120 MPH.

islandmandan January 10, 2014 13:05

Owner

Brett, all I can say is, jump on a plane and come see for yourself!

It's only about 3000 miles, isn't it?

islandmandan January 09, 2014 12:48

Owner

Hi Dave,

I think the EML's are pretty much broken in, as you know they are amazing. I have been focusing on the VAC PA 35.35 lately.

My initial asessment of the solid-core silver cable was way off-base. Just my second session with them last night. I put on Ultra Analog's sampler CD, and lo and behold, the sound was top to bottom, beautifully balanced.

After that, Roy Hargrove's "Parkers Mood" was the best I've ever heard it. These cables have made the push-pull VAC sound much more SET-like.

I now wish I had tried the silvers on the SET 300B amp first before buying the Auditorium A23's. At under $900 for three meters, it's an amazing bargain.

I think the SET is going to love the silvers.

I'll let you know if the XLS' improve any more, I think they are at around 100 hours now, and also how the SET likes the silver cables.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 08, 2014 12:52

Owner

Well, I still can't edit my VS. Hope the A'gon mavens can help.

Yesterday, I added Tempo Electric solid-core 12 ga. .9999 silver w/teflon tube insulation to my system, for use with my VAC PA 35.35/Tannoy HPD system, an alternative amp to my main SET 300B w/EML XLS 300B tubes, with which I use Auditorium A23 speaker cable.

The silver cables are replacing Supra Classic 6, with Furutech Rhodium locking bananas.

The amp end uses bare wire, but the Furutech bananas had to be used on the outboard crossover connections, as the copper Cardas speaker terminals don't have holes to accept bare wire. (I have Walker Reference HDL's attached using spade connectors, so a j-hook bare wire connection wouldn't work for me).

There is a difference with the new cables, however, it is a bit subtle. Bass-response seems to be better, high frequency response seems a bit recessed from what I remember with the Supra's.

First impressions are good overall, very smooth, will take a little time to adjust to. I didn't know what to expect here, but I'll report later if I notice any change. I may switch the silvers for the A23's, and see if the SET likes the combination better than the VAC.

islandmandan January 07, 2014 13:28

Owner

Charles, Chris, Brett, please read my last post!

Thanks,
Dan

islandmandan December 30, 2013 16:39

Owner

I've added Herbies Tube Dampers to my EML 300B XLS tubes, but I can't edit my system for whatever reason it is this time.

Several CD's I ordered from ECM in Germany arrived yesterday, and I have to say, they have very satisfyingly scratched an itch I didn't even know I had.

So far, I have heard "Quercus", by June Tabor on voice, Iain Ballamy on saxaphones, and Huw Warren on piano. The pieces seem to be folk and traditional songs from Great Britain.

This is without a doubt, some of the most beatiful and engaging music I've ever heard. Wave after wave of endorfin-induced pleasure, I can't really describe it, but it's something to be experienced.

Tomasz Stanko, New York Quintet, "Wislawa" was next, a double CD release, is also very good, despite some squealing and squonking from Stanko's trumpet, is also very satisfying.

Still to come is Stefano Battaglia Trio, "Songways, and last, but not least, will be Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, and Jack DeJohnette on "Somwhere". I actually started out with the sampler (free with enough CD's, 4 or 5). The sampler has a 1975 recording of Jarrett, Jan Garbarek, Charlie Hayden, and a String Orchestra, from members of Radio Symphony Orchestra, Stuttgart, which is also some of the most gorgeous music-making I've ever heard. Jarrett is sensational.

Just some extremely gratifying listening lately, good stuff.

Happy New Year!
Dan

islandmandan December 30, 2013 14:38

Owner

Thanks, Charles, and same to you!

Dan

islandmandan December 25, 2013 11:17

Owner

Jetrexpro, you are going to love those tubes! You'll be glad you got 'em!

Have a great Christmas,
Dan

islandmandan December 24, 2013 14:50

Owner

Hello Arj, all,

As far as cables go, I'm using Auditorium A23 speaker cables for the SET amp, and I've ordered silver/teflon speaker cables from Tempo Electric (12 gauge), for use on the VAC amp.

It'll be interesting to see if it makes a difference from the Supra Classic 6 cables I've been using.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 22, 2013 13:53

Owner

I think a guy needs multiple wives like he needs another hole in his head! My apologies to the ladies, but IME, all women are as crazy as s*it-house rats (on acid!).

But then again, most women are far too sensible to spend vast sums of money on a hobby such as ours. (Maybe jewelry).

The EMLs keep getting better, the presentation smoother, but just as detailed.

Some new vinyl I'm enjoying, Thelonius Monk, "Brilliant Corners", T Monk, "Monk's Dream, Miles Davis, "Dig" (a 1951 recording) Miles Davis "Four and More", Oscar Peterson, "Night Train", Jimmy Smith, "The Cat", and John Hammond "Wild Horses Rock Steady", which, unfortunatly, is warped so badly the stylus won't stay in the groove. I was given a credit for this, as all copies seem to suffer from the same condition.

It's too bad, as this early fusion music, and the recording itself, was done very well. I may have to attempt some kind of flattening first-aid.

Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!
Dan

islandmandan December 21, 2013 12:37

Owner

Well, gentlemen (and women), I address you red-faced. I recently decided to give my VAC push-pull PA 35.35 some listening time. Great.

So, while listening, I thought I'd try the 4 Ohm taps. I soon discovered why the SET 300B was sounding so much better than the trusty old VAC. I'm sure most of you have figured out that, yes, I had the VAC wired out of phase.

DUH! Anyway, this brought the sound of the two amps much closer together, but with the usual strengths and weaknesses presented by the two different approaches to amplification.

Besides feeling stupid, it's a good feeling having the VAC sounding so much better. A while back, I had swapped speaker cables between the SET and the VAC, so ever since then, I haven't used the VAC much, as it wasn't sounding anywhere near as good as the SET amp.

I'm thinking of making some new speaker cables for the VAC, using the silver wire and teflon tubing Tempo Electric sells.

This will replace the Supra Classic 6 with the rhodium locking Furutech bananas I made up a couple of years ago.

On another subject, I listened last night to the newly-arrived Thelonius Monk's "Brilliant Corners", and holy smokes, it's the best T Monk LP I've heard yet, performance-wise, and sound quality-wise.

If you like TM, and don't have this LP, you should treat yourself to this release.

Best regards, have a happy Christmas,
Dan

islandmandan December 18, 2013 12:38

Owner

As Chris suggested, I ordered and received two CD's from Ultra Analog (they usually only sell reel-to-reel tapes, but Edward Pong put these CD's out to try and help the artists).

Edward sent me the Beetoven, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff sampler, and and another CD he burned for me. Both are by the musicians Yun-Yang Lee (piano) and Sietse-Jan Weijenberg, (cello).

These recordings are top-notch, as are the performances. Thanks, Chris, for the heads-up!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 11, 2013 12:51

Owner

Last night, I listened to Dexter Gordon, "The Other Side of Midnight", a superbly quiet piece of vinyl, and the live performannce was very upbeat and engaging.

The Black Lion reissue is a good one.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 08, 2013 13:03

Owner

System edited: Added EML 300B XLS tubes to system thread.

islandmandan December 06, 2013 15:22

Owner

Yesterday, some new LP's showed up. Miles Davis, "Four & More", live from the New York Philharmonic,Thelonius Monk, "Monks Dream", and Dexter Gordon, "Both Sides of Midnight", a Black Lion reissue.

The Miles Davis is suberb, I've not heard a live concert performance of Miles before, he really lets loose here. Monks Dream is also really good, The Dexter Gordon will get its first play tonight. Looking forward to it.

The LP's I played last night sounded great, very much like live music. Not quite, but certainly close enough to forget it's just an LP. I like that.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 06, 2013 11:29

Owner

Thanks so much Charles, I'm still flabbergasted, but it sure feels good. No way I thought this was going to happen. I feel these tubes are a steal at $700 a pair, considering what the Takatsuki's cost.

This may take some of the fun out of it for me, as I'll really have to search to find something to tinker with. It will be a lot of fun listening to music, though!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 05, 2013 20:03

Owner

Hello Charles, and others. As I stated on Charles1dad's system thread, I installed the EML 300B XLS tubes yesterday. I first listened to a CD of Beethoven Complete String Quartets, String Quartet Number Two.

At first, the upper reigister of the violin sounded a bit harsh, but this improved as the evening wore on.

The lowest notes on the cello were astonishingly real sounding. This is the closest to live sounding music I've ever heard, anywhere. I am in a near state of shock, never expecting this level of transparency, and sense of live music, just due to changing a couple of tubes. Wow.

Now all the extra effort of care in the construction of the enclosures for the HPD drivers is showing those benefits. The laminated 1 7/8" MDF wall thickness (those lower cello notes were very intense, and would have surely excited resonance frequencies in the sidewalls, if they were not up to the task), the conversion of the woofer cones to "Hard Edge", the donated design for the crossovers by Dr. Arthur Loesch (thanks goes out to Roger S. for that), and high quality parts installed therein, have all contributed to what I am now able to hear.

Until yesterday, I didn't know what I really have. Now, I do. It's exactly what I was hoping for, for all these years.

I wish to give thanks to Charles, Dave G, Kiddman, Isochronism, and so many others that have encouraged and helped me along this direction. This, for me, once and for all, has settled the question of tube/solid state. This is music.

Best regards, and thanks,
Dan

islandmandan December 05, 2013 13:58

Owner

Hi Chris,

Thanks for the PM, I have ordered the CD. I know I made a recommendation for you, and I will repeat it here for the benefit of other members.

Hilary Hahn, "The Encores", just came yesterday, may be the best digital recording I've yet heard. Just violin and piano, the playing is superb, goose-bumps practically a given. Highly recommended.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Regards,
Dan

islandmandan November 28, 2013 12:24

Owner

Hi Chris!

Well, the new EML 300B XLS lights are less than half the price of a pair of Takatsuki's, so that's something to celebrate.

I think I've gone as far as this particular road will take me, but it's a very comforable and fulfilling spot to be in. Without making big changes, and big expenditure, I am really Done For Now.

The only way I would consider going from here is a high sensitivity horn system, but as things stand, I'm enjoying my current set-up so much, I'm not much entertaining the notion of changing anything.

So, how are you getting along with your B&W 800's?

Stay well and happy, and Happy Holidays!

BR,
Dan

islandmandan November 27, 2013 15:18

Owner

Hello Charles,

I have just ordered a pair of EML XLS tubes from RAM Audio Labs. I spent a couple of hours looking into these tubes, I like what I read regarding their sound characteristics, but was somewhat concerned about reports of reliability issues.

I believe this was regarding early production models, I found nothing reported recently. It will be interesting to see what difference they will make.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan November 25, 2013 16:13

Owner

Thank you, Charles, for your suggestion, I will look into the EML tubes.

Chris, it may not be the Devil at all, just insanity on my part. $1658.34 is the current price. How much better they are than the excellent Chinese mesh-plates I'm currently using, I have no way of knowing. All I really know about them is that they sound superb, and were sourced from Upscale Audio.

I will continue to wrestle with the dark forces trying to get me to spend my limited resources. Hmmm....

Thanks, fellows,
Dan

islandmandan November 25, 2013 12:42

Owner

I must admit, the Devil is working on me to purchase the Takatsuki 300B tubes for my Assemblage SET.

Even though it's been factory upgraded, these tubes will cost more than the amp (nearly double, in fact). I wouldn't normally even consider such an expenditure on such a component, but I have found its performance to be astonishing. Nothing I've had even comes close.

If anyone wishes to help the Devil along, or try to dissuade him, I welcome your thoughts. I will let you know what I decide, if I buy them, I will share my findings.

Best regards, and Happy Thanksgiving,
Dan

islandmandan November 24, 2013 14:13

Owner

System edited: Added new Auditorium 23 speaker cables, which just arrived. My first impression is very favorable, although much more listening will reveal their true character. On two solo guitar cd's, Alex DeGrassi, "The Water Garden", and "David Russel Plays Bach", were superb. The excellent recording of Dvorak String Quartets on Suprhaphon, "American", by the Pavel Haas Quartet, was next, the best I recall hearing this recording sound. So far, the new cables are a nice improvement on the Synergistic Research Resolution Reflex FX's I was using between the SET 300B and the Tannoys. It is gratifying when upgrades in ancillary equipment can be discerned and appreciated, especially when not overpriced, such as the Auditorium 23's. Regards, and enjoy, Dan

islandmandan November 07, 2013 13:56

Owner

System edited: Just purchased Auditorium 23 speaker cables. It is my first cable change in nearly ten years, I greatly look forward to them.

islandmandan October 24, 2013 12:48

Owner

Isochronism, I received my copy of Carla Bley's "Sextet" a couple of days ago, and as stated, it's excellent. I'm really enjoying it.

Thanks for the recommendation!
Regards,
Dan

islandmandan October 11, 2013 11:10

Owner

Brett,

Hop a plane, and I'll do my best to fix you up!

islandmandan October 10, 2013 11:20

Owner

Thanks Charles,

I feel that I have truly reached my goal of the kind of connection to music that I was looking for, all those years ago. It took SET to make finally it happen, thanks to folks like you, and I have to include Art Dudley here, as he was the first to twist my knickers about tubes.

I also have him to blame for my venture into restoring and using the Garrard 401. Curiosity is a dangerous thing, but it can lead to very good outcomes.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 30, 2013 10:38

Owner

I'm hearing improvement from the Assemblge SET 300B, due to new caps and resistors settling in. I have trouble describing this, just more emotional connection with the music.

Solo piano, at near concert hall sound levels, with no discernable distortion present. Lovely.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 29, 2013 10:30

Owner

Thanks, Arj. The more I listen to to it, the more bowled over by it I become.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 13, 2013 09:30

Owner

System edited: I got my Zu Denon 103R back from ESCCO yesterday, where it had their sapphire cantilever and Paratrace stylus upgrade. After the truama of mounting and setting it up, I found the upgrade makes this venerable cartridge among the best I've had the pleasure of hearing. Much improved inner detail, and it rides much quieter in the groove than I recall it doing before. Very pleased, and impressed. Thanks goes out to Spiritofmusic for his recommendation of this upgrade! Best regards, enjoy, Dan

islandmandan September 11, 2013 11:22

Owner

Charles,

Thanks for your comments, I really am in a happy place regarding my system, and listening in general.

As it turns out, both camps are right regarding Tannoy and amplification. At one time, I was using a modified 300 Wpc Aragon on my HPD's, and they sounded quite good.

However, at this time, I prefer the SET 300B. It offers nearly the dynamics of the SS amps, but as you know, the SET 300B is in a class by itself for sheer musicality.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 04, 2013 13:40

Owner

Thanks Arj, I'm glad you noticed! I've been in this hobby a long time, but I didn't really get serious until I was getting close to retirement.

I realized in order to have the kind of system I wanted, it had to be done before I retired. So, I sold my Dynaudio Contour 5.4 speakers, and bought my Tannoy drivers on Ebay UK.

I wanted to make them as good as I could possibly make them, as I know from a past DIY effort with 12" MG's, if the enclosures are inadequate, the speakers will never sound as good as they could, but it had to be done on a small budget.

One of the motivating factors was, I wanted speakers that could be driven with low-power SET amplification.

I was lucky enough to get to know a friend of Dr. Arthur Loesch, and he got the good doctor to design my crossovers for me. It has been a great experience in the last few years, and the result of the process is, I get to enjoy the most rewarding listening I've had in forty years.

I finally no longer have the need to upgrade, and it's a good feeling.

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 02, 2013 16:48

Owner

System edited: Zu Denon 103R is being shipped back today from ESCCO, where it had their white sapphire/Paratrace stylus upgrade. It should make for a substantial improvement on an already very good cartridge.

islandmandan September 02, 2013 15:57

Owner

I had been troubled for some time by a mechanical-sounding hum heard from my speakers, being generated by my Garrard 401, which I took to be motor noise being transferred to the plinth.

After investigating, I discovered it was not motor noise at all, but due to a poor ground connection at the main arm. I disassembeled the arm enough to check the wiring, and the only place I found that could possibly be the problem, was the afore-mentioned main arm ground connection, which is connected to the anti-skate fastening nut on the arm underside.

While not exactly loose, a good connection was not being made due to the arm's paint. After a proper tightening, I am quite pleased to report there is blessed quiet now, especially in those quiet areas of recordings.

Quite a relief to finally eliminate this noise. I had at one time thought I'd have to remove the turntable chassis, and look for an area where the motor was contacting the plinth.

What a blessed relief!

Cheers,
Dan

islandmandan August 18, 2013 11:38

Owner

Thanks, Hcalland. Just to clarify, my TT is a vintage Garrard 401 idler-drive turntable I've done a DIY restoration on.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 15, 2013 08:21

Owner

Hi Chris,

We've had a beautiful summer here in the Pacific Northwest (sometimes, it seems as if we don't have summer).

The music is sounding it's all-time best (especially analog). I'm really impressed with Soundsmith's retip of the XX2MKII.

What cart did you have them do for you?

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 12, 2013 12:33

Owner

System edited: The Dynavector Soundsmith-retipped XX2MKII has really settled in nicely, I haven't felt the urge to use another cartridge since it returned from Soundsmith. Still waiting on the ESCCO-modified Zu Denon 103R, which I sent in at the end of May. They say another 2-3 weeks yet, I'll be interested to compare it against the Dynavector.

islandmandan August 11, 2013 15:58

Owner

System edited: My Dynavector XX2MKII cartridge just returned from Soundsmith, where it had their top OCL re-tip. After the first few hours, I have concluded it's now my best cartridge, but that may change when my Zu Denon 103R returns from ESCCO with its upgrades.

islandmandan July 28, 2013 21:06

Owner

Pradeep,

Thanks for the update, I'm glad you're enjoying your 401 so much.

As I mentioned before, try the platter dampening rings avaiable on Ebay. I do think the copper mat helps dampen ringing on the platter, rather than exacerbate it.

Things like alternative mats are generally rather inexpensive to try, and easy to resort back to the original. Just have fun with it!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 27, 2013 12:36

Owner

Hi Chris,

I have the obvious concern of interfering with the idler wheel under the platter, which would limit the area for bonding addtional material to the platter.

I am enjoying the Reso-Mat used on top of the copper mat. One caveat, though, I have to eyeball center of the record weight, due to the spindle not being long enough to engage the bottom of the weight (I made a spacer to support the weight). The Reso-Mat sounds better with the copper mat under it, I believe it helps dampen resonant frequencies in the platter.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 26, 2013 10:56

Owner

Hello Pradeep,

The mat that came with my 401 was in unusable condition, so I can't comment on how it sounded.

I checked, and it appears you are correct about the copper mats by TTW, they are no longer available. After some research, I found the Tenuto mat, offerred by HiFi Wigwam, made of a copper gunmetal alloy, and appears to be gold in color, very attractive, I think.

I have tried several different mats on my 401, the Funk Firm Achromat, the TTW copper, and most recently, the Reso-Mat, made by Vic at Terminator Tonearms, which seems to work better in tandem with the copper mat. The Reso-Mat shows promise, but further listening is required to reach a conclusion on its benefits.

I won't say the differences between how these different mats sound is earthshaking, very subtle to my ears. I enjoy the looks, and the added mass, of the copper mat.

I think record weights fall roughly into the same catagory, where with my heavy brass weight, it looks nice, and provides added mass, a good thing, in my book. The only downside is extra wear on the thrust pad and spindle interface. I like to inspect mine once or twice a year, to see how it's holding up.

For an aftermarket platter, I found one avaiable at Peak HiFi, made by SMC Acoustics, in the UK.

On my original platter, I use o-rings that are available on Ebay, that are used around the circuference of the platter, and help damp any ringing.

I hope this information helps.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 24, 2013 15:00

Owner

Pradeep,

I just commented on your system thread, I'm so pleased you're happy with your Garrard, it looks great.

The switch faceplate on my 401 apparently was an early one, it was silkscreened with some graphics that were in very rough shape, so I cleaned it off with a sandblaster, and polished the stainless steel plate with fine sandpaper, and a metal polishing wheel.

You may be able to find a new re-issue faceplate, keep a lookout on Ebay.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan June 23, 2013 14:07

Owner

System edited: As a bit of a side project, I modified an old boomy Velodyne subwoofer, consisting of a new Dayton SAP 500 plate amp, an Eminence Lab 12C subwoofer driver, 2 1/2" egg crate foam insulation, and two 3" X 12" ports. The 15" passive radiator was also removed, and the hole covered. Besides being an enjoyable project, the sub is now saisfyingly musical, yet powerful as well.

islandmandan June 11, 2013 12:50

Owner

Hi Marc,

The Denon arrives at ESCCO today, I'm hoping they will be able to get to work on it right away. It's looking like my old Dyna XX2MKII is going to need a retip. I found some problems tracking the new RR Doug MacCleod LP with it, that went away with the Acutex M320 LPM.

That leaves me a bit thin in the cartridge dep't, until the 103R returns from ESCCO.

I'm glad you are enjoying your Strain Gauge so much, I've admired the ingenuity behind it since seeing/hearing it at RMAF '07. Great design.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 30, 2013 11:57

Owner

Been having trouble posting, let's see if this works.

Pradeep< congratulations on your Garrard 401 project, may it have a place of honor in your stellar analog front end.

I've sent my Zu Denon 103R to Expert Stylus and Cartridge Co. for their sapphire cantilever and Paratrace stylus upgrade. A better sounding 103R will be a very good thing.

islandmandan May 28, 2013 17:27

Owner

testing purposes.

islandmandan May 28, 2013 11:00

Owner

testing

islandmandan May 27, 2013 19:58

Owner

System edited: Changed systm description, to reflect the change to all- tube amplification, and other recent upgrades.

islandmandan May 16, 2013 12:26

Owner

Charles, with that description, you have nailed down what I listen to every night.

I have sold my Plinius SA 100 MKIII, (one of my friends thinks I'm nuts for not keeping one SS amp), and the idea of selling my prized VAC has occurred to me. That's not a good idea, though, it's good to have a more than adequate back-up amp.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 05, 2013 11:36

Owner

Charles,

Luckily for me, there didn't seem to be any barriers to get past. I've been in this game long enough to know when I hear good sound, and good sounding music.

Up to this point, my VAC had been the best amp I have owned, and while it has outstanding ability to produce music with great clarity, power, and detail, it's missing something the SET has, although, at this point, I can't quite put my finger on it, not that that matters any.

I enjoy what I'm hearing more now, than at any previous time, in spite of my hearing loss, which comes with age and noisy occupations. I feel fortunate to have gotten to this point, I'm glad I took the ride.

Thanks for your help and support.
Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 04, 2013 18:41

Owner

Thanks Charles,

I have found that to be true, and I'm very pleased I was able to obtain the upgrade with tubes costing around one-half as much as many mesh plate 300B's.

I still haven't used my VAC since the SET went in, there's something magical about how the Tannoys sound with it driving them. I'm darned if I can find anything lacking, either, due to the mere 9Wpc it provides.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 04, 2013 13:32

Owner

System edited: Yesterday, I changed out the RCA connectors on the SET 300B amp, to Top-Line WBT's, and also, in went a new pair of Mesh Plate Platinum 300B tubes from Upscale Audio. Result is clearer and better location of instruments in the sound stage, and greater overall clarity. Very worthwhile changes, this first experience with an SET 300B is better than I'd hoped, especially with the modest cost of the Assemblage (Sonic Frontiers) amp. Regards, Dan

islandmandan May 04, 2013 10:24

Owner

System edited: Went down to Portland to visit my audio buddies there, had a great time. My friend Michael has made many positive changes, an Acoustic Solid Fat Bob, Tri-Planer MK VII, Dynavector VS 1 Cartridge, and Usher CP 8871 (as near as I can remember). Michael's system is now my favorite among the systems I am currently familiar with, including my own. I congratulate him, an outstanding job setting up the Tri-Planer and VS-1 cartridge, and the Ushers sounded beautiful. I won't soon forget his system. Tuan's Tannoy Turnberry's, using Joule Electric mono-blocks, also sounded great, as did Georges' ESP speakers with MBL amps. All-in-all, a great trip, great music and hospitality to burn, visits to audio shops, who could wish for more? Thanks to all, Dan

islandmandan April 22, 2013 13:20

Owner

System edited: Audio Assemblage back from repair/factory upgrades, added photos. The amp sounds very pleasing now, and should improve as the new caps and resistors burn in. Sounds surprisingly powerful, with great clarity, and seems a good match with my custom built Tannoys. Regards, Dan

islandmandan April 17, 2013 15:17

Owner

The amp is an Audio Assemblage, that was offerred as a kit, and was designed and produced by Sonic Frontiers. This particular unit was described as a factory built, Signature model, with certain upgrades.

It was supposedly made for some audio "insider", for what that's worth, though the factory did confirm it had the Signature upgrades.

It has some pretty heavy iron on it. By the way, how hot do you think the power supply transformer should get? I put an oven thermometer on it last night, and it runs at 140 degrees, hot enough to burn if touched for more than a few seconds. This may be normal for this amp, but still, that's pretty hot.

I'll try to post pics a bit later.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 17, 2013 14:58

Owner

Thanks Charles, now I know it's working out ok, I think I'll sell my Plinius SA 100 MKIII, it won't see much use any more, and it's taking up valuable real estate. It did make a fine back-up amp though.

All tubes now. I would have never thought it possible, just a few years ago. I think only a few SS amps, that I couldn't afford anyway, would be able to do what these two amps do for me. Funny how things change.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 17, 2013 12:15

Owner

Hello Charles,

Well, good news on the SET 300B front. It arrived today, from the factory, with it's all new caps and resistors. I called to ask if they had tested the tubes that came with the amp, and the answer was yes, and they all tested good.

So, I hooked it up, turned it on, and right out of the box, it sounded beautiful. Also, it doesn't seem to be lacking in power to make the Tannoy HPD 315's perc right up.

I'm very pleased with how the amp sounds, in a few hundred hours, it should be pretty special, I think.

More thoughts after a few more hours on the amp.

islandmandan April 16, 2013 18:21

Owner

Hello Charles,

I couldn't afford the caviar-priced mesh plate tubes, so I bought a pair of JJ Electric, but I'm not at all sure I made the right choice, but at their price they seemed to have the most positve press, but that means very little.

The tubes that came with it are Electro Harmonics, but they didn't test very strong, they're at the end of their lives.

I'll post more as I experience life with the SET 300B.

Dan

islandmandan April 16, 2013 09:25

Owner

Thank you Charles. I enjoy reading your many posts as well, you have much knowledge to share.

The SET 300B arrives tomorrow. While it was at Parts Connexion, I had them replace/upgrade the caps/resistors. I didn't specify which parts to use, I just let them do their thing, so I have no idea what the results will be.

The power issue is up in the air, but know going in, I won't be able to listen as loud as usual, but in this case, with this amp, it will be tone and timbre that I will be looking for.

For highly dynamic music, my other two amps (VAC PA 35.35, Plinius SA 100 MKIII) offer up plenty of dynamic slam, when that becomes necessary.

I've heard, for many years, of the magic of the 300B tube, and that was a large part of the motivation to return to Tannoy. At one time, I used a Sophia Baby that I upgraded all the caps on, and at 10Wpc, it was pretty listenable, so I'm thinking the match-up will be at the least, enjoyble.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 15, 2013 11:56

Owner

Hello Isochronism,

I did wind up getting the amp, but unfortunately, it arrived DOA. It has been sent to Chris Johnson for repair, so I'll report on its efficacy after it returns.

Thanks, and regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 06, 2013 12:08

Owner

Saturday, friends from out of state, Michael, George, and Susan (Portland, Ore.). Also, Hermann from Camano Island, and Zsolt Mathe (of Z-Infinity Audio, Redmond, Wa.) were over for an extended listening session.

Zsolt Mathe brought his new tube preamp for us to enjoy, it turned out to be a great event, with like-minded friends, with lots of music, food, and fun.

Michael and George and I try to get together about once a year, but it had been two years since our last get-together, so there was much audio-related discussion going on.

So, it's on to Portland, with Hermann, and perhaps Zsolt, in tow, to return the favor. Soon, I think, lots of new gear to check out at Mike and Georges'!

Kudos to all, it couldn't have gone better, thanks!

Dan

islandmandan March 03, 2013 17:15

Owner

Marc, would you please contact me via a pm? I need to discuss something with you, if you would.

Dan

islandmandan January 18, 2013 13:00

Owner

Marc, I'll give my email to you, if you ever care to contact me directly.

[email protected]

islandmandan January 17, 2013 14:19

Owner

Hi Marc,

I just heard from them today, and they didn't mention shipping details. Just said, "We look forward to hearing from you in May". I'll mail them again, see if they need anything more.

I'm confidant the cartridge will be everything you've said it will be. The way it's been sounding lately has me excited about how it sounds now, with the Dynavector 501, so Im sure it should be much better with the improvements.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 17, 2013 14:17

Owner

Hello Marc,

I just heard from them via email, and I emailed them back, telling them to set me up. Won't be until May.

I also asked if they need the cartridge the whole time, or can I send it in time for the appointed date, that way I'll have the use of it until it has to go.

After the last few stunning listening sessions I've had lately with the Zu 103R, I can't imagine how it will sound after the modification. Should be very special, indeed.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 15, 2013 13:06

Owner

Hi Marc,

I emailed ESCO yesterday, but no reply yet. From what I've read, they seem to prefer the telephone rather than email, so I've got to get coordinated onto their time zone, and call at the right time. Eight hours difference from me, I gather.

As you say, this is a no-brainer, which I intend to pursue. Thanks for the heads-up!

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 14, 2013 15:24

Owner

Yesterday, I decided it was time to re-visit set-up on the three cartridges currently in rotation. I checked overhang and alignment using my MintLP, then checked azimuth with the Fosgometer. The Dynavector XX2MKII was spot on, as was the Zu Denon 103R.

The last cartridge checked was the Acutex M320 LPM III STR, which I found azimuth was way off. I had to use a small, brass shim under one side of the cartridge. Azimuth was then much closer, and it then sounded much, much, better.
Great little cartridge.

Regards to all,
Dan

islandmandan December 20, 2012 11:43

Owner

Hi Al,

Thanks for the nice comments re my Tannoy project, I do indeed enjoy them. I seem to get more enjoyment due to a hands-on approach. And, I'm able to have a better system than I could afford otherwise.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 20, 2012 10:28

Owner

Hi Chris,

That's probably why I haven't done it yet. I'm mulling over what to use that will be un-doable if the need arises.

Cheers,
Dan

islandmandan December 10, 2012 10:59

Owner

Romeo,

I've heard this information before, so I should take heed and do it, when next I use the M320.

Thanks, and regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 08, 2012 15:11

Owner

Found broken ground wire in tonearm wiring, broke the arm down, and rewired it with Cardas, also made new headshell leads from the Cardas wire.

Silver tonearm wire seems to get brittle after soldering, causing breaks internally in the tonearm. This is why the switch from silver to copper. Doesn't seem to sound markedly different.

islandmandan November 29, 2012 13:08

Owner

System edited: Added new Acutex, photo.

islandmandan November 06, 2012 17:52

Owner

Yesterday, a NIB Acutex LPM M320 III STR cartridge arrived, I had purchased on Ebay. I mounted it up, and, as I had been told by a couple of Audiogon stalwarts that tend to hang out on Rauls' thread, Who Needs Moving Coils etc, etc; that this cartrdge is outstading in every way you care to mention.

It is a great addition to my small stable of carts, and I am tending to think it may be the best of the bunch.

Thanks to the MM mavens that led me in this direction. Price does not necessarily equate to better sound, but knowledge shared is priceless.

Thanks to Dave and Chris and others that have helped me on my way.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan November 06, 2012 16:57

Owner

System edited: Just an update on the Acutex STR 415 III cartridge. This flimsy, lightweight cartridge has become the mainstay in my vinyl setup, of late. It has proven to be shockingly good, proving you can't judge a book by its cover. I am told the M320 III is several stages better, hard to imagine, but the search is on for one. This kind of thing is what makes analog so rewarding and enjoyable, along with great sounding music. Regards, and enjoy the music, Dan

islandmandan October 24, 2012 12:06

Owner

System edited: Added Acutex STR 415 MM cartridge, an extremely light cart that just seems to get the music right. Not as detailed or dynamic as my other carts, it just sounds right.

islandmandan October 20, 2012 15:20

Owner

System edited: Needfreestuff, Thanks for the kind words, they are greatly appreciated. Hoping you also "enjoy the music"! Regards, Dan

islandmandan September 24, 2012 09:46

Owner

System edited: I just completed a power supply upgrade on my Modwright SWP 9.0 SE phono stage. Upgrade designed by Dan Wright, and purchased through Modwright. I listened to it last night for a couple of hours, and it did not disappoint. Sound was much improved, more immediate and transparent. A worthy upgrade, well worth the money and time.

islandmandan September 22, 2012 11:25

Owner

Hello Phil,

Thanks for you comments, they are much appreciated. Analog-wise, there were a lot of long, dark days, until I figured out what was needed to make it sound like something I'd like to hear on a regular basis. It was fun learning, and the build was enjoyable.

I can't say enough about the Tannoys, so I won't, but I do love 'em!

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 29, 2012 10:17

Owner

I've been having problems being able to post directly to any threads, including my own, with the exception of editing my Virtual System thread. I'm hoping this will be posted.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan August 18, 2012 11:07

Owner

System edited: After the disappointment of finding out my newly-acquired used Mcintosh MVP 871 player had a defective DVD mechanism, I ordered a replacement unit, which turns out to be a Denon DVD 2930 transport. Such crap in an otherwise great sounding player. McIntosh (and their parent company), should be ashamed of themselves, and should recall all players having this transport, and upgrade them to something commensurate with how the rest of the player is built. But, to put my ranting aside, I was able to install the new transport ($93 and change) and the unit works as it should. When asked how much McIntosh wanted for a new transport installed at the factory, it was over $400! Sheesh! At least I can listen without interruption now. Regards, and enjoy, Dan

islandmandan August 17, 2012 12:37

Owner

System edited: Installed Pete Riggle VTAF, and uplaoded photos. I haven't had a chance to have a listen yet, but I don't expect any big changes. I'll report again after using the VTAF for awhile. Regards, Dan

islandmandan July 29, 2012 15:01

Owner

System edited: I haven't been able to post any threads lately, but for some reason, I can edit here. Today, I received the VTAF I had Pete Riggle make for me, I'll report after I get it installed. Hello to all, I miss being able to post! Regards, Dan

islandmandan July 27, 2012 17:12

Owner

System edited: Added photos of DIY overhang gauge for Dynavector tonearm.

islandmandan May 30, 2012 16:56

Owner

System edited: Modified plinth by recessing chassis into plinth for a smoother appearance. New photos of turntable added.

islandmandan May 29, 2012 12:35

Owner

System edited: Yesterday, I received and installed a Zu Denon DL 103R. Amazing cartridge, and a great match for the Dynavector 501 arm. Art Dudley got it right, this cartridge is the bomb!

islandmandan May 10, 2012 10:59

Owner

Hello,

Yes, I have a schematic for those crossovers. It is published on Hans Hiberinks Tannoy website. If you look at the photos section, under "Custom Heavyweights for HPD's", you should find the schematic. If you use it, though, replace the .82mh inductor with a .68mh. With the .82mh in, the treble was too prominant.

You will find other schematics on the site, the original Tannoy HPD, along with those of alternative design. And, tons of information on all things Tannoy. Let me know if I can furthur assist you. Good luck on your project.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 30, 2012 15:50

Owner

Yup, Chris, complete with arm lift! I'm having a VTA adjuster made for it, they are in the design stages of it now. Thanks for the nice words. When I compare it to Chris Harban's plinths, though, ugh! Does the job, though.

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 29, 2012 13:08

Owner

System edited: Updated photos of turntable project.

islandmandan April 26, 2012 15:33

Owner

Hi Jason,

Thanks much. The speakers are 150 liters, consisting of two layers of MDF, inner layer is 3/4", bonded to an outer 1 1/8" layer. They weigh in at 192lbs. each, less drivers.

The crossovers have made an improvement, for sure. It took a considerable time for them to break in, and at the same time, I had reconed the drivers with the new, "Hard Edge" surrounds, as is in the current Prestige line, and they took many months to loosen up and sound their best. So, it's a bit hard to quantify exactly what led to what improvement. All I can say is they are exactly what I'd hoped for, and more.

Thanks again, and best regards,
Dan

islandmandan April 11, 2012 12:36

Owner

Thanks Ry,

The upgrades made on the PA 35.35 by Kevin and company have made this amp one I will keep. They took a good-sounding amp, and made it a great-sounding amp.

I use NOS Telefunken 12AU7's and 12AT7's that I really like. What have you got extras of?

Thanks and regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 30, 2012 11:17

Owner

Thanks, Chris. The room is our living room, and my wife kindly puts up with it. I'm lucky in that I've been able to place the speakers well out into the room. I located them using the Cardas recommendations. I'm also fortunate that the room/speaker interface seems to be a good one, it seems very balanced to me.

Best Regards,
Dan

islandmandan March 21, 2012 11:41

Owner

System edited: System revised, photos added. The McIntosh MVP 871 just arrived, after purchasing, the seller shipped the unit to Dave Schulte of The Upgrade Company, for a Signature Upgrade. I wound up listening 'til 3:00am, and with each hour it was sounding better and better. By the time it gets 600 or so hours on it, it should be sounding phenomenal. It has already outclassed my thrice-modified Marantz DV 8300 (their first universal player), which I always thought to be a very good-sounding player. I'm very happy with the player, and the work done by David. It is my first McIntosh component, I'm glad I made the purchase. Regards, Dan

islandmandan March 15, 2012 14:34

Owner

System edited: Have added a McIntosh MVP 871 universal disc player, the transport finally died on my Marantz DV8300. I purchased the MVP 871 on this site, it's in the process of getting a Signature Upgrade by David Schulte of The Upgrade Company. I'm looking forward to its arrival soon.

islandmandan March 02, 2012 12:44

Owner

Thanks, M. It's sounding pretty darned good, but I still have a bit of tweaking to do yet, but it's getting there.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 28, 2012 11:26

Owner

System edited: Marantz DV 8300 transport finally died, so a McIntosh MVP 871 was bought here on Audiogon, and is having an upgrade by David Schulte, of The Upgrade Company, I'll be glad when it arrives.

islandmandan February 26, 2012 14:04

Owner

Just completed my project Garrard 401 project, it's nice, I like it a lot. I sent my VAC PA 35.35 amp in to the Vactory (sorry, I couldn't help myself), for a factory upgrade. I've been waiting weeks for parts. Kevin emailed me today, says it's ready. He also said it sounds very nice, I'll be glad to have it back. Sure wish I could post on my Virtual System, but the new, improved? Audiogon won't let touch my own system. They say they are working on it. I won't hold my breath!

Enjoy your music, regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 03, 2012 18:20

Owner

Hi Sam, and Happy New Year to you! (And everyone else, for that matter!) I haven't posted anything on this yet, but here goes: I have begun a turntable project, with a Garrard 401, a Dynavector DV 501 arm (I'll be using the Dyna XX2MMII cart), and a plinth built for me by Frank Wyatt of Wyatt Acoustics, and is CNC'd MDF with solid Bubinga wrap on the sides, and Bubinga venneer on top.

The table is disassembled, it will go out for a gloss black powder coat job shortly. Waiting for parts from the UK now.

Anyway, I'm having fun, and hope to finish and have a listen in the near future.

Best regards to all, (hope someone buys my Scout soon!)
Dan

islandmandan January 01, 2012 15:45

Owner

Hi Sandstone,

With the Genelex KT 77's, things became clearer, punchier, and better all around. I need look no furthur for output tubes, these are the ones I'll stick with. No second mortgage required, they can be had at the better tube suppliers for $180/matched quad. I got mine from Jim McShane.

My VAC I sent to the factory for a refresh and upgrades, I won't see it until late January/early February. It is waiting on parts from their supplier, but I have to believe it will be worth the wait.

islandmandan December 27, 2011 13:20

Owner

System edited: Installed matched quad of Genelex KT 77 reissue output tubes in VAC PA 35.35. Very nice improvement.

islandmandan October 04, 2011 18:36

Owner

System edited: Added Power Plant Premier to replace now-defunct P 300, which has been sent to PS Audio for service.

islandmandan September 29, 2011 15:50

Owner

Thank you David, Ray. The Scout has come a long way from when I first got it. Makes some fine music, now.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan July 14, 2011 13:17

Owner

System edited: Installed Edensound Audio's largest version of their Bear Paws, for an additional 26lbs. on the Scout Signature table. Very cost effective, in that the improvement was akin to dropping several thousand dollars on a more expensive table. Very impressed and pleasantly surprised with the result.

islandmandan July 07, 2011 17:52

Owner

Shadorne,

It's nice to hear from you. The drivers are ca 1975, although I have reconed them using the newer "Hard Edge" surround from the current Prestige line, and of course, the outboard crossovers that were designed for me by Dr. Arthur Loesch, which I susequently built.

I have long had an attraction to the powered ATC seakers, and Genelex as well. I admire your knowledge of acoustics and how you are able to measure your own room, and then make necessary changes by interpreting those measurements.
I'll bet that ATC sub is a Deausie. Enjoy that beautiful system.

islandmandan June 04, 2011 13:11

Owner

Hi Chad ('n Liz),

As I recall, your Dad had purchased a new Aesthetic power amp. Does he still like and use it? The TTW Heavy Clamp, with the copper mat, has at least dressed the Scout up nicely, even though it seems to help the quality of sound from the Scout, I put the old Funk Firm Achromat back on, and it seems to sound just as good.

I haven't checked on your system in quite a long time, I'll have to check it out, and see what's new. I hope you're enjoying yourselves!

islandmandan June 04, 2011 12:56

Owner

Hello Tim,

Well, my system is a cobbled up sort of affair. Not having very deep pockets, I have had to make do with mid-fi components, then modifying them to bring them up to a higher level. Most of my front end equipment and amps were bought here on Audiogon, and the Tannoy drivers were purchased from Ebay UK. I couldn't have done it otherwise, I just don't have those type of resources.

You, Tim have put together a system I admire. You haven't spent a fortune, yet you have a system that really works for you, and that is no small achievement. Nicely done!

islandmandan June 04, 2011 12:18

Owner

Have added a Modwright SWP 9.0 SE phono stage, it nosed out my modded Simaudio Moon LP 5.3. Vinyl is becoming my favorite format, when it's good, it's very good.

Enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan March 14, 2011 12:58

Owner

I have made some minor changes, but they don't add up to minor improvements, they were major upgrades at bargain prices. First, I received my Fosgometer a couple of days ago, and after dialing in azimuth, the improvement in lp playback was not subtle. Then, yesterday, I received from Brent Jesse an order of a matched pair of Telefunen 12AU7 NOS tubes, and a matched quad of Mullard reissue EL 34's, branded Groove Tubes, and couldn't believe what I was hearing from my old VAC PA 35.35. I didn't know this amp was this good! I don't know which tubes made the biggest difference, as I swapped them all at once, but what a difference! The Electroharmonix's will be staying in the boxes for the duration. These new tubes are great!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan February 27, 2011 13:44

Owner

Since my custom crossovers have now broken in, the high frequencies were sounding a bit relentless, so I changed the .82mh Alpha Core 12 gauge inductors in the HF section to .68mh, now everything is nicely balanced, top to bottom. My system is performing top-notch, so I'll sit back and enjoy it. I now have more time to do exactly that, as I retired back in December. I highly reccommend it!

Enjoy!
Dan

islandmandan February 03, 2011 15:28

Owner

System edited: Plinius SA 100 MKIII added to system, after being repaired by Roger Hug (Seattle). It arrived damaged, broken windings on one of the trannies, plus some internal structural damage. All was ably repaired by Roger, and the amp sounds phenominal. I believe it is now my favorite, but the VAC is so good, it's almost a toss-up. While I was at Roger's, I had him diagnose my DIY crossovers, seems I had made some connection errors, which he sorted out for me. (Tannoy has a confusing star grounding system). My God, what a difference they make, working correctly at last. This morning, I removed the Sylvania 12AU7's, and installed the 12AU7 Golden Dragons. I then replaced the Winged "C" EL 34's with the Golden Dragon '34's. After listening to the Plinius, the VAC was sounding a bit too smooth, changing these tubes helped out quite a bit. I enjoy having two fine amps, both acquired via Audiogon. Having the time of my life now musically, it doesn't get much better than this. Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan September 16, 2010 11:58

Owner

System edited: A few weeks ago, I added a TTW Brass Clamp (VPI version), which I had to modify to make the threads engage the spindle threads. After making the rubber washer thinner by squeezing and baking, the clamp now pushes the perimeter of lps to make near-perfect contact with the edge of the copper mat, as well as the Mapleshade Integrated Record Coupling System. Highly recommended for VPI user's. Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan July 14, 2010 10:12

Owner

System edited: Added outboard power supply for modded Simaudio LP 5.3 phono stage. The difference is unbelievable, had goose bumps after the first few bars of Keith Jarret's '73 Bremen solo concert. Best dollar/results improvement investment I have ever made in audio. Happy I am. Dan

islandmandan July 14, 2010 09:32

Owner

System edited: Just added a HiFi Tuning Silverstar fuse in the VAC PA 35.35 amp. The improvement has been more than expected, from using them in other amps. Sound is now much smoother, cleaner, more linear and even more dynamic. Very good small tweak, that makes a large difference. Dan

islandmandan June 20, 2010 20:51

Owner

System edited: Just added this weekend, VAC PA 35.35, an El 34 based Push-pull amp. Beautifully drives the custom HPD 315's, with increased depth, clarity and dynamic response. Thanks to Matt, who drove it 100 miles to my home, and let me audition it for a week in-house. How can you beat that for an Audiogon sale? Thanks, Matt! Dan

islandmandan May 01, 2010 11:28

Owner

System edited: This week-end, I reconed the woofers with the new hard edge conversion, which I ordered from Lockwood Audio in the UK. The results were instantly recognizable, with tighter bass, and smoother mids. They are supposed to take several hundred hours for the surround to break in and loosen up, but they have already made for a major improvement. These sweet-sounding old drivers have gotten substantially better, I am now well satisfied with the sound of this system, I'm set for many years of enjoyment, as long as my front end(s) hold up. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan March 22, 2010 13:48

Owner

System edited: Recently added Audio Prism Ground Control. It adds greater clarity and cleaner highs.

islandmandan March 22, 2010 13:38

Owner

System edited: I have made several minor changes/additions lately. I put a pair of old stock Western Electric 396a's in the Sophia Baby, they gave it added clarity and depth, making this outstanding little amp even better. Put Mapleshade Audio Integrated Record Coupling System on top of the TTW copper mat, for a nice upgrade to analog sound. I also removed the 47ohm external resistance, putting the resistance at 75ohms, which gave added air, sparkle, and life in lp listening. This is now possible oweing to the beautifully clean signal generated by the Dyna XX2MKII cart. Finally, last but by no means least, I was finally able to track down and fix a channel imbalance problem between drivers, which turned out to be a wiring problem caused by myself, and changed the layout in the crossover geograhpy. I moved the 2.2mH inductor to the outer end of the board by changing locations with the 22uF Mundorf capacitor, thereby spreading the large 12 gauge Alpha Core inductors to the maximum amount possible. All these changes add up to a very large improvement, making my custom Tannoys sound gorgeous. The only other improvement will be to recone the woofers with the hard-edge conversion offered by Lockwood Audio in the UK. This is said to greatly increase the quality and quantity of bass, and improved detail and transparency in the mid range. Then I should really be done for now. Regards, Dan

islandmandan March 02, 2010 17:35

Owner

I finished the cap replacements in the Sophia Baby amp, new Cardas RCA inputs, and built a 10' power cord of Belden 83803 12-3AWG wire. This wire is double-insulated with foil wrap inside, heavy weave tinned copper outside, then the outer insulation. Used Furutech IEC, and good quality hardware store male termination. The Baby loves it, instant improvement in clarity. Stiff but thin, excellent power cord for the money. In addition, I just ordered a matched pair of Western Electric 396a output tubes, this little amp is amazing me with its sound, and power delivery in spite of its 10wpc output.

Also, I happened to win a set of Mit AVt-1 speaker cables, and two pair of AVt-1 interconnects. Having fun seeing how they sound in various applications. They won't touch my constants,the Synergistics, but it's nice to have extra cables with two power amps to run. Thanks, Mit.

Enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan January 30, 2010 19:35

Owner

System edited: Just completed installing upgrade parts. Time to hook it up and see if it blows up, or has been improved! Wish me luck. Regards, Dan

islandmandan December 20, 2009 15:02

Owner

Greetings, Nick.

The lens I bought had already been upgraded, so I don't know what it sounded like stock. Dave Schulte of The Upgrade Company had done all the modification work on my system, and with out these upgrades my system would sound mediocre at best. Due to his fine work, my system is way beyond satisfactory, it performs superlatively. David wants me to send my Time Lens back for an update, he has found a way to make them much better than the way he was previously doing them. Now would be a good time to send one in and get it done, or buy one from him that has the latest upgrades.

Thanks for the kind words, it means a lot to me.
Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 16, 2009 16:01

Owner

System edited: Just editing system pictures. Lotta joy in this system these days. Thanks for looking. Regards, Dan

islandmandan December 15, 2009 18:54

Owner

Thanks Mingles,

I appreciate the comments. The right side crossover was layed out differently, with the large inductors on their narrow sides, facing north and south, with the small center laying flat. After further advice I layed them all flat, and yes they are close together, but that is why they were wrapped in aluminum foil tape. I hear no major difference between the two, other than the right side has more break-in time on it.

Not including the cost of the fabirication of the crossover boxes, the cost of both crossovers is around $1400. I used the Mundorf caps, as they are the best I can afford, Duelands being out of the question on my budget. The internal hook-up wiring is DH Labs Silver, which ain't cheap, and as you know, it all adds up. I am very happy though, these speakers and I are lifers now.

Thanks again, regards,
Dan

islandmandan December 05, 2009 17:17

Owner

System edited: I finished the left crossover, laying out the Alpha Core inductors flat, as recommended by sources. There seems to be two different schools of thought about this (like everthing else in audio), so I don't know yet if there is really a right way or wrong way to do it. All I know is they both, as the newly-built left crossover is breaking in more and more, is that they both sound beautiful. Just shows a great design, and the best parts, really make a difference. Thanks to Roger, Arthur, Dave G., Mike F., and others that have made this jouney into DIY audio such a successful one. My system is now the very best out of 40 years in the hobby. I am proud to own and priviledged to enjoy this system on a daily basis. I enjoy the fact that it is not cookie-cutter in nature, being either hand built, or modified to perform at a higher level at a lower price point. I can't say enough about the thirty five year old Tannoy drivers, which are making incredible sounding music thanks to complimentary cabinets and crossovers. I've wanted to hear these speakers with a tube amp, but the budget just wasn't there for much, but I found a demo Sophia Baby amp at half price. After getting a good power cord on it, it opened up and sang sweetly, and quite adequately loud in spite of its meager 10 watts. It is very enjoyable, and I have already ordered upgrade caps and input RCA's for it, I think it will really shine when that is done. Tannoys really DO like tubes! Thanks for taking the time to look. Regards, Dan

islandmandan December 03, 2009 15:36

Owner

Thanks Mike, I looked at the info you sent me on inductor layout, so I started the left side laying all three inductors flat, the middle one upside down from the other two. I'll see if there's much difference, if there is, I'll change the right one to match.

Thanks for all the help,
Dan

islandmandan November 23, 2009 18:30

Owner

Hi Pat,

Thanks so much for the kind words. Just like any endeavor we undertake, you get out of it what you put into it. (After you get past your mistakes, that is!) Pat, I notice how good your system is looking these days, hope you're having fun and enjoying great sounds.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan November 23, 2009 00:39

Owner

System edited: After furthur listening with the new crossover in the right channel, I am just floored by what a transformation has taken place in the the quality (and quantity) of what I am now hearing. This is the smoothest, sweetest, best balanced and purely musical speaker I have ever heard. Period. Sensitivity has improved as well, the Mundorf Silver-In-Oil caps, Dueland resistors, and Alpha Core 12 gauge inductors have all contributed to an amazing sound. Happy I am! I found out today that the design for the crossover was drawn for me by a Phd engineer named Arthur, a friend of a fellow Tannoy enthusiast I know, at a barbeque they were attending. It may literally have been drawn on a napkin, and then emailed to me, no charge, by Roger, my acquaintance. All I can say is a great big thank you to these two fine men, willing to share for the love of the hobby. It's this type of generosity that makes this hobby great! Best to all, Dan

islandmandan November 17, 2009 17:40

Owner

System edited: Just completed custom crossover for right speaker. Took some time to suss out the correct wiring scheme for the Tannoy driver, the crossover has four wires outbound, while the speaker has only three, positve, negative, and ground. Sound is more dynamic, yet smoother and more refined. I'll be able to tell more whem the left side is done, and I expect things to improve as the new crossover parts break in. Mundorf Silver-in-Oil capacitors, Alpha Core 12 gauge ribbon inductors, and Dueland resistors were used. Hook-up wire is DH Labs Silver Solid hook-up wire, with Cardas Quad Eutetic solder for all joints. This upgrade now has put me where I want to be, to use those famous last words, I'm Done For Now. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan November 15, 2009 14:36

Owner

System edited: Added new TTW Solid Copper turntable mat. Not only cool to look at, it solidifies bass, makes for greater clarity and impact. Highly recommended. Regards, Dan

islandmandan November 11, 2009 12:30

Owner

Update: Made "sinks" that attach to the Brightstar Audio lid, four for the turntable section, and one for the motor section. I made them from 1" aluminum angle stock, and attached them w/stainless machine screws and locknuts.

Motor noise is now non-existent, helpful additional draining of noise and vibration from plinth into sand.

Vinyl, I can say with assurance finally, sounds more real and alive than high-res digital. Vinyl is now my favorite format for serious music listening. Oh what a feelin'!

Enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan September 20, 2009 20:09

Owner

I decided I wanted to try adding another 3ohms cartridge loading to the 47ohm reisistor already externally added. I had a couple of 3ohm Mills on hand, so I soldered them in. I wasn't expecting much of a difference, so when the first lp sounded so much smoother, with better bass, and just the sound I was hoping for, it was just a very pleasant surprise that keeps going with each side I play. I've now become a confirmed vinyl lover.

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 12, 2009 19:17

Owner

Hello Mingles,

The Tannoys I am most familiar with are 12" Monitor Golds, which I had for 18 years, and now, the 12" High Performance Dual, (HPD), which is from the mid seventies. The Dual Concentric driver came about in the mid 1940's, and the same basic technology is still in use in their Prestige line of loudspeakers made for home use. Variations of it are used in the professional and other monitors in use today.

To familiarize yourself with Tannoy, try the official website, and better yet, Han's Hilberink's Tannoy website for all kinds of information on vintage Tannoy. The history makes for interesting reading. Newer Tannoy lines in the Prestige and DC Series have been favorably reviewed, you may want to read some of those.

I recommend that you try to listen to some Dual Concentric Tannoys first hand somehow, whether it be new ones at a dealer's, vintage at a friend's, or if those options are not available, try a used pair of speakers that can be had fairly reasonably on auction at the usual places. Older drivers are subject to the surrounds disintegrating, so be sure they have been repaired or are in good shape. Also be advised that the cabinets provided by the factory were not built to very high standards, at least on older versions (unlike the drivers), so you will want to build better cabs, or like I've done, commission some made. The Dual Concentric and HPD come in different sizes, in 10" 12" and 15". You will find, though, even in the old cabinets, that magical Tannoy sound, that can only improve with better cabinets, wiring, and improvements to the crossovers.

Stick your toes in the water, you may like it, as many of us Tannerd's (as Han's calls us on his site), have found.

Best of luck,
Dan

islandmandan September 05, 2009 14:00

Owner

Hi Mike,

The Tannoy's in their new cabs keep amazing me with their musicality. I couldn't be happier with them, I have to think if more audiophiles heard speakers like these first, many more folks would be enjoying Tannoys instead of what they have. There is no looking back for me. I have decided on no more crossover mods, I'll wait until I can build new from scratch. Thanks for the input, Mike.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan September 03, 2009 21:14

Owner

System edited: I received my Starsound Audio Points today, custom thread length on Points for turntable, and small points to thread in on VPI motor. I couldn't install the points under the motor yet, need a trip to the hardware store for proper size tap, but I did get the Points under the Scout table, and OMG, at first listen, it sounds like an order of magnitude better in clarity, definition and detail, you can fill in the blanks, audio jargon's not my strong suit, but I sure like the difference these Audio Points have made. They finish the job the NanoMount System by Mapleshade started, draining everything now into the BrightStar Audio BigRock. Incredible. Enjoy! Dan

islandmandan July 31, 2009 21:31

Owner

System edited: Updated and renamed system. Also just completed upgrading l/h crossover with Mundorf Silver-in Oil capacitors and Mills resisators. I didn't care for the way the Mills' sounded, so I replaced them with the original Tannoys. Now both channels sound pretty much identical, inspite of the new caps on left side. I am hoping as they burn in, I will notice improvement in the left channel. After burn-in I will evaluate the sound, and install the new caps on the right side at that time. I also wanted to make removing the crossovers easier, so I installed a high quality 20 amp barrier strip, and soldered on copper terminals, which I then cleaned and applied Mapleshade Sil-clear to before connecting, so wiring can disconnected more conveniently. So that's it for now, I'll report more as caps burn in. Thanks, and enjoy! Dan

islandmandan July 11, 2009 11:51

Owner

Well, Mr. Stiltskin, you're welcome any time you can arrange it!

Dan

islandmandan June 26, 2009 18:25

Owner

Thank you, Michael, for such fine feedback, I'm rather floored by it. It was such a pleasure to have the three of you visit, and you are to be commended for raising such a fine son, what a great young man he is. I thought I had something going where my Canadian friend, Stiltskin, might be coming for a visit, and thought we couls make a tour south, but he's no can do. We will put something together soon, I hope.

Best regards, and enjoy the music!
Dan

islandmandan June 26, 2009 07:53

Owner

System edited: Added new photos.

islandmandan June 20, 2009 15:25

Owner

System edited: After extensive listening to the new (old) custom Tannoys, I have been a bit disappointed in their sound. Lacking in bass, and clairity in the mids and highs. Last night, I decided to do some moving about with them. I moved them back about 10", and spread them slightly from how they were. I made sure they were positioned the same distance from the wall behind, and from the side walls, as well as the same distance to each speaker from the listening seat. The result was improvement such as I've never heard in a system by merely repositioning the speakers, in over 40 years in this hobby! The bass is much improved, as would be expected from moving them closer to room boundaries, but what really surprised me was the clarity, transparency, detail and coherence I was hearing. Imaging is much better, closer to the excellent Dynaudio Contour 5.4's they replaced, which were imaging champs. I am very pleased with how the old Tannoy's sound now, and my expectation is that they will only get better as I overhaul the crossovers with new caps and resistors. Thanks for looking, and enjoy, Dan

islandmandan June 20, 2009 11:20

Owner

System edited: I'm happy to report that the left channel is now working perfectly, the old Tannoy workhorses are making sublime sounds, next, crossover updates. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan June 13, 2009 11:02

Owner

System edited: Finally got the crossovers back, installed drivers and crossovers. Hard wired L/H speaker, but found it didn't sound right. I installed R/H speaker with stock wiring and connections, it sounded better. Removed L/H speaker, and carefully rewired it. After reinstalling it, L/H speaker still didn't sound quite right. After further listening, L/H speaker started opening up and sounding better. I then realized the problem was that the drivers had new surrounds installed, and weren't run in yet. They are starting to sound wonderful, clean clear highs, smooth mids and excellent bass. New crossovers are in the planning stages, and should make these thirty-four-year-old speakers perform as never before, I'm glad I've made a new start with old speakers! Thanks for looking, regards, Dan

islandmandan June 10, 2009 11:13

Owner

System edited: Added a couple of new photos. Still waiting on crossovers. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan May 26, 2009 11:02

Owner

Thank very much for the kind words, Samhar! Your system is to be envied, it is gorgeous, and must make music sound that way as well, how could it do otherwise?
I had to do justice to the Tannoy drivers, that's why the cabinets are built to be as non-resonant as possible. I didn't have the opportunity to provide that on my first go-around with Tannoy, so that's not going to happen this time.

Thanks!
Dan

islandmandan May 18, 2009 12:44

Owner

System edited: Posted photo of cabinet with driver installed.

islandmandan May 17, 2009 12:52

Owner

System edited: Work continues on installation of internals on custom cabinets/Tannoy's, just installed polished platinum binding posts, model WBT 0702. Still awaiting crossovers, also drilling cabinets for driver installation. Will more post as things progress. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan May 15, 2009 15:37

Owner

Thank you, Roxy54, Frank (Frank Wyatt of Wyatt Woodworking), can be justifiably proud of these custom beauties he has made for me. I just hope they sound as good as they look!

Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 06, 2009 10:34

Owner

System edited: Received new photos of custom cabinets, ready for shipping tomorrow.

islandmandan May 05, 2009 20:17

Owner

Had bad luck with photos, can't get them normal size from the thumbnail size, probably has to do with zippered delivery, can't figure it out. Anybody got any ideas?

Thanks,
Dan

islandmandan May 01, 2009 13:52

Owner

System edited: New photos of nearly finished/ready to ship custom enclosures. These weigh an un-dainty 192lbs each, w/o drivers or crossovers. Upon arrival, I will wire and install crossovers and drivers. Finish is said to be the same as used on Steinway pianos, and was a very long, involved prcess with any hand-rubbed coats. I expect to receive them within a weeks' time. Enclosures were custom crafted by Frank Wyatt of Wyatt Woodworking in Pennsylvainia. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan April 30, 2009 10:17

Owner

System edited: Sadly, had to have a send-off for my Dynaudio Contour 5.4's. The new owner is a swell guy, thanks Rudy! We had a proper listening session, and Rudy and friend left with a fine example of Dynaudio's handiwork. Now I have to wait 2-3 weeks for my custom Pommelle Sapele cabinets to be completed and shipped to me, to house my Tannoy HPD 315's. Change is in the air! Dan

islandmandan March 21, 2009 21:48

Owner

Correction to update, outer MDF to be 1 1/8", not 1 7/8", as stated.

Dan

islandmandan March 12, 2009 15:59

Owner

System edited: Custom cabinets for the HPD 315's are being made by Frank Wyatt in Pennsyslvania. They will be made of an inner layer of 3/4" MDF, and bonded to an outer 1 7/8" MDF. Three front edges will be beveled 45 degrees to minimise diffraction. Dimensions to be 48"x16"x20". They will have a beautiful Sapele Pommelle veneer. WBT polished platinum binding posts with a silver mounting plate will be above the crossover enclosure, which will be in an enclosure at the bottom rear of the cabinet, which will be flush with the rear cabinet wall. The crossovers will be mounted to a Sapele covering plate, which can be removed to access and servive the crossover. These will be special, one-off speakers, and I hope to enjoy them until the end of my days.

islandmandan March 12, 2009 15:41

Owner

System edited: New photos

islandmandan February 28, 2009 10:01

Owner

Hello Pat,

I found this basic speaker positioning on the Cardas website. As the name implies, I have moved my system from along the long wall of my room, to the short wall, so the main speakers are firing into the length of the room.

On the Cardas site, there is a segment on speaker positioning, with a formula using your room dimensions. I had my Dynaudios much closer to the wall behind them at first, but I thought they would sound better by working on positioning. I found the information, and tried it out, and in my room, it really worked out well. I'm sure, though, with smaller drivers, they would most likely have to be somewhat closer to the back wall to get enough bass out of them. I don't envy you your room, by the way, not that it isn't a nice room, but it does look difficult as far as acoustics are concerned. Your system is superb, however. You might see if the Cardas information can help your situation, I hope so.

Best of luck, enjoy,
Regards, Dan

islandmandan February 23, 2009 23:34

Owner

System edited: I owned and enjoyed tha sound of 12" Moitor Golds in DIY cabinets from 1970-1988, and I got to yearning to have them again. I never got to hear them with a quality front end or amplification, so I just purchased a pair of HPD 315's on Ebay UK. I am in the process of having custom enclosures made by Frank Wyatt, of Wyatt Woodworking. While I have enjoyed my current speakers, the incredible Dynaudio Contour 5.4's, there is something special about the sound of the two-way horn treble Dual Concentric Tannoy drivers. Sometimes, change can be a good thing. Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan February 22, 2009 12:29

Owner

Hi Shadorne, thanks for the kind words! I think it sounds good, but it's a little tricky to get a stable, noise-free sound out of it. It takes some getting used to. If the thread is over-tensioned, speed instability or cogging-effects are very evident, and also motor noise seems to travel through the thread to the platter. The thread has to be just tight enough so that it doesn't slip, and then all is well.
Benefits are greater purity of tone, and tighter bass. I'm still in the process of evaluating the conversion, but I think it was a worthwhile challenge.

Thanks again,
regards,
Dan

islandmandan January 22, 2009 21:07

Owner

System edited: New pictures added.

islandmandan January 21, 2009 22:59

Owner

System edited: Finally, after some trial and error, I completed my comversion to thread drive. Nice improvement. Many deserved thanks to Dave G. for all his help, couldn't have done it without him. Dan

islandmandan January 19, 2009 15:00

Owner

System edited: Recently added DIY resistors, ala Grant, and thanks to you, cartridge loading is now perfect. The help is appreciated, as always, simple things can make large differences, and hats off to all that have helped make my modest analog setup sound great, so far from its humble beginnings. Couldn't have done it without all the kindly given support and sharing that is prevalent on this site. Happy New Year! Dan

islandmandan December 26, 2008 17:52

Owner

Finally completed surround and center channel installation. Although surround speaker location is not ideal, the results are quite good, the system re-location making a very beneficial change.

My system is now all I ever wanted in an audio system, recent equipment updates to amp, uni-player, and DAC, have made performance in all formats, including vinyl, to be what I always wanted and hoped for. Now all there is to do is enjoy it daily for many years to come.

Thanks for looking, enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan November 16, 2008 15:47

Owner

System edited: Finally completed surround and center channel installation. Although surround speaker location is somewhat less than ideal, the result, due to system re-location, actually worked out well. My system is now all I ever wanted in an audio system, and years of audio contentment is what I am looking forward to. Thanks for looking, enjoy Dan

islandmandan November 16, 2008 15:37

Owner

System edited: System update. I sent my Musical Fidelity A3/24 dac, Aragon 3002 amp, and Marantz DV8300 back to Michigan to David Schulte of The Upgrade Company for updates. They have been back in my system for just a little over a week, and the results are spectacular. My system now has incredibly fine detail, dynamics, and transparency. Imaging and soundstaging are nearly, or as good, as anything I have heard. Speakers seem to disappear, making each listening session an enjoyable experience. Gone are the days when the angst of feeling "it should be better than this", or "what's missing?". Now there is only great enjoyment of a complete musical experience, leaving for me, nothing to be desired. I wish to thank David Schulte for making this happen. Also, Kudos to all the Audiogon members who have contributed their time and great knowledge to my cause. Couldn't have been done without all your help. Man, am I happy! Thanks to all, and enjoy! Dan

islandmandan October 05, 2008 11:43

Owner

Hi Mark,

Thanks for the suggestions, I need to get at least one just to see what this combo can really do. And enjoy some good music. Enjoy you demo!

Regards, Dan

islandmandan July 21, 2008 21:17

Owner

Hi Mark,
I've bought a few reissues and bargain used lps from Better Records, but no Hot Stampers. I got into vinyl partly because of the chance to get used lp's cheaply, and enlarge my collection and choices by having two formats available. I can't quite bring myself to pay $200-$400 and up for one used lp, no matter how good it sounds. Can't afford it anyway. Wish I could. I take my chances with auctions and such, and have found quite a bit of good recordings and music that way. I have been interested in the Blue Note reissues, but don't know which one to try. I'm not that familiar with many of the old jazz musicians in the Music Matters series. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the post. By the way, I'll bet you're loving that new system. Did you buy those new speakers yet? Say, have you ever had a chance to hear Gershman speakers? I heard 'em at RMAF last year, and was really impressed by them. Their newest and lowest in their line was oustanding, extremely good for their $3000 (I think) price tag. Sound quality just went up from there, with their larger, more expensive offerings.

Good to hear from you Mark, stay well,
Dan

islandmandan July 20, 2008 19:01

Owner

More notes after further listening following set-up with Mintlp Tractor. Vinyl sounds more grain-free, smooth yet very lively and dynamic. Placement of instruments in soundstage much more precise than before, and imaging the best it's been with current system.
There aren't likely to be any more upgrades in the analog department, other than inexpensive ones, may try string drive or something along those lines, but right now, vinyl listening has reached such a high plateau, I'm just going to listen and enjoy for a while, and maybe try to increase my lp collection. The Mintlp BestTractor is a great way to go, highly recommended!
Regards, and thanks for looking,
Dan

islandmandan July 20, 2008 12:37

Owner

System edited: Just set up my arm/cartridge with the Mintlp Best Tractor, great tool, set-up was easy and precise. Analog front end has reached its zenith, getting all I can now without going nuts and spending a ton of money I don't have. Very happy with the Signature Scout and modded Simaudio LP 5.3 and Dynavector XX2MKII. Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan July 19, 2008 18:34

Owner

Good morning, Abe,

It's funny you should ask about that, since I got my HD 600's, they have been my benchmark for how to quantify the progress in sound reproduction through my loudspeaker system. It's been years in the process, but the two have finally reached parity. What can easily be achieved through quality phones is not easily achieved through speakers. The addition of the Cardas made a nice improvement in 'phone listening.
I have not had the pleasure of hearing the Special 25's, but from what I've read, they are very good. The 5.4's have kept me happy ever since I got them, about four years ago now. I don't think about what it might be like with other speakers, since the 5.4's always readily reveal improvements elsewhere in the audio chain, and just satisy in all the ways that count. You shoud hear them, if you can. Also, the new Sapphire speaker from Dynaudio is one to check out.
Thanks for your interest, regards,
Dan

islandmandan July 18, 2008 08:14

Owner

That's great, Mark! New set-up all the way around, and all top-drawer stuff, too. Too bad one of us doesn't have a tele-porter, 'cause I'd sure like to hear that new table, not to mention speaks and amp and all the great stuff you've acquired over the last year. Now that it's over, it must have been well worth the wait, right?
Try to get some pictures posted, and a Vitual Systems thread, so we can all drool over it! Congratulations on a great year of audio acquisitions.

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan July 08, 2008 20:39

Owner

Hi Mark, Drubin,

As far as what Dave has done, it's a mystery to me. All I know is that it sounds outstanding, and by any measure I have heard. For some reason the cheeses at A'gon have it in for Dave, so posting a thread on mods by him would never be posted. I have tried before, and they discriminate against him. I don't know if it's all modders, or just Dave, but they won't post anything about him, except here on my personal VS site. Sad, really, as he's a great guy, and does superb work.

Mark, have you been able to fine-tune that new table, arm, and cart yet? That's a dream set-up, you must be in hog heaven now.

Thanks for the posts, guys, enjoy!
Dan

islandmandan July 07, 2008 18:43

Owner

Bit of an update, been doing some set-up refinements, and the last one put me over the top. I am now hearing fine detail, clarity, and lack of distortion that I've only heard on very well set-up high-end vinyl rigs. I couldn't be more pleased, I didn't think this Scout would ever sound this good. One major factor is my Simaudio Moon LP 5.3 is on its third week of break-in after a Signature Upgrade by Dave Schulte. I'm telling you owners of the 5.3, you have a gold mine if you just spend a few hundred more bucks on an upgrade. Just wipes out the stock unit all to hell. Scout, and all the tweaks, are here to stay.
Just ordered a custom made Mintlp Tractor for more refinement on set-up, don't know how much better it can be, but I'll enjoy finding out.

Regards, and enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan July 06, 2008 22:24

Owner

Hi Mark, good listening indeed. So when will you have the arm and cartridge set up? You must be on pins and needles about now. Hope it arrives and gets set up soon, better than Christmas, right?

Regards, and enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan May 31, 2008 19:45

Owner

System edited: System edited, installed Simaudio LP 5.3, purchased on Audiogon, replacing home audition JLTi, which sounded great, from Jay at Audio Revalations, (thanks Jay!). Vinyl is sounding absolutely superb now, more in line with what I expected when I first ventured back into analog. It's a learning experience, and there are refinements and upgrades that can and do make major improvements in what even a modest VPI Scout can do. I am very pleased with my analog front end now, and strange as it may seem, I can't think of anything I'd like to change at the moment. That's a good feeling, I better enjoy it, 'cause I don't know how long it may last!

islandmandan May 31, 2008 11:39

Owner

I'm running with the large pack of other sick puppies, while you're running in the pack of the sick BIG DOGS!

When I grow up, I want to be a big dog too!

Regards,

Dan

islandmandan May 26, 2008 18:15

Owner

Hi Mingles,
The JLTi is sounding very good at this point, the best I've heard in my system so far. Much more involving and more complete musical picture than with the little Dyna, although the Dyna deserves credit for outdoing it's much larger and more expensive predecessor, the GCPH from PS Audio. I just bought the LP 5.3 day before yesterday, and haven't received it yet. I will post again with an update on how the JLTi fares vs the Sim.

Thanks, and enjoy,
Dan

islandmandan May 25, 2008 07:51

Owner

Oops, I did it again. I'm trying out a JLTi phono stage, sounds very good, and just purchased a Simaudio LP 5.3. The winner gets to stay. Should be interesting to compare the two. The JLTi may be hard to displace, though. I probably should move my system back over to Ever Evolving, since it doesn't remain static for very long at a time. It sure is fun to try new things, though, especially when they sound better.
Thanks for looking,
Dan

islandmandan May 24, 2008 13:39

Owner

Hi Mark, great to hear from you! Yes, listening is much more enjoyable now, the frustration of not hearing what I thought I should be hearing pretty much a thing of the past now. Been a long road, and yes, it has been financially pretty much ruinous, (I covet that Raven table and Phantom arm you are putting together!), so you may be right about that. (Ouch!)

Thanks for the post,
Regards,
Dan

islandmandan May 15, 2008 15:24

Owner

System edited: System edited, finally got around to listing my headphones, after one channel of the original cord went out. I'm exceptionally pleased with the Cardas replacement cord, made listening to my phones a real treat. Dan

islandmandan May 15, 2008 09:12

Owner

System edited: Bought here, a PS Audio P300 Power Plant for use in my analog front end. It has made the difference from me wondering what was wrong with vinyl, to wonder from what is right about it. First thing on the platter was Artur Rubenstein, Liszt, Sonata in B Minor/Schubert, Wanderer Fantasy, RCA Red Seal Dynagroove. Never heard piano sound like that on this system, especially on vinyl. Now, you just hear the music, your attention is not stolen away by speed variations and other distortions. I would lke to thank Cytocycle, and so many others that have helped me make this modest front end sound so good. Best regards to all, Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan May 09, 2008 19:35

Owner

System edited: Installed Mapleshade Nanomount System, a surprisingly good (better than good!) tweak that drains unwanted vibrations from the cartridge, through the arm, and into the plinth. Music is much livelier, clearer, with better resolution. Much more than I expected. Highly recommended. Dan

islandmandan May 06, 2008 23:35

Owner

System edited: System moved ninety degrees clockwise, to allow the speakers to couple with the room as they should be.

islandmandan April 19, 2008 18:39

Owner

System edited: Late March, added JMW9 Signature arm. Outstanding upgrade, I should have had it from the beginning. Added dampening fluid, against VPI's advice to use none, or very little, found that on a second application of the heavy-viscosity goo, whereupon I filled the well nearly completely, it suddenly transformed the sound to a smoother, cleaner sound. I am liking what I am hearing now, much more like the fine analog systems I have heard at dealers and shows. I tore my system down completely today, in preparation for a long-awaited move of the woodstove and a/v system, so speakers can be situated in a much more suitable location. That should make a dramatic change for the better. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan March 23, 2008 22:25

Owner

System edited: 2/16/08 Update-Photos of Scout set up on Brightstar Audio BigRock, supported by suspension springs (thanks, DGarrettson), with Dynavector XX2MKII, new Dyna P-75MKII. The addition of the XX2MKII and P-75 MKII has added superb synergy in vinyl playback. The P-75MKII is more full-bodied sounding, a better match for my system. I have just ordered new VPI JMW9 Signature arm, expecting that in about three weeks. Thanks to Charlie (aka Crem1), I have been steaming my lp's lately, with excellent results. So good, in fact, I am no longer in the market for an RCM. That's it for now, things just keep getting better, what more can you ask, except for a pile of money to make it better yet? Thanks for looking, enjoy, Dan

islandmandan February 16, 2008 13:40

Owner

Hey Pedrillo, I'll win the race for sure! I'm already broke, and dipping into retirement monies to feed my addiction! Not really, but it's tempting.

Thanks to dgarrettson, who suggested it, I've got my table set up on a Brightstar Audio BigRock, and that isolated on four coil springs. The difference was not subtle after doing this. I feel that the table is performing optimally as far as being free from vibrations from the floors/walls, etc.

I'd like to go to a table that would support at least a 10" arm or longer, so that's in my sights, but I'm not in a position to pull the trigger, have to win the lottery first. Oh, I guess you have to play to win. I guess I'll have to think of a different way.

Enjoy, Dan

islandmandan January 20, 2008 12:25

Owner

What kind of wall are you going to mount it to? You just have to make sure the wall is plumb, and get appropriate wall anchors to do the job. The ones Target includes are not adequate. Go to the hardware store and get the right hardware for the application. Without knowing what type of wall surface you have, I can't help any more, but they should be able to help at the hardware store.

Good luck, Dan

Perrillo, once that bug bites, it's for life, I think. I already want a better turntable. Worse than Malaria or the plague, I think. I'm bound to die broke, I'm sure.

Thanks, Dan

islandmandan January 20, 2008 01:21

Owner

System edited: Most recently added a Dynavector XX2MKII cartridge, it has muscled its way (although with a great deal of finesse), to the top of my listening preferences. Great cartridge, and it cofirms my belief that the ordinary Scout turntable can support a very good cartridge, indeed. Analogue is more rewarding than ever before, I'm going to spin another LP right now. Thanks for looking, Dan

islandmandan December 02, 2007 22:46

Owner

I needed to upgrade the outlets for my dedicated cicuit for my audio system, so I decided the Soloist might be a good choice. A little more protection and less noise sounded like a good thing, and is has worked out that way. System sounded a little cleaner after install, and I couldn't believe the build quality for a product selling for under $200. I say the system sounded a little better, because I already had a passive line conditioner in the circuit, so it already sounded good. I would recommend the Soloist. Good luck, Dan

islandmandan November 15, 2007 22:51

Owner

The target shelf is not hard to hang, but the wall anchors supplied with it are not adequate to support the shelf and any subtantial turntable, not to mention a decent isolation platform. It's best if you can mount directly into studs (assuming you have a stick-frame house). I could not do that either, so I went to the hardware store and bought substantial expandable anchors (don't know just what they're called, but they kind of mushroom out and expand like a flower petal, if you know what I mean). I guess I should update the photos of my analogue system, because I now have my Scout table, which is around 30 lbs., and a Brightstar Audio BigRock sand-filled box, 45lbs., all supported without any trouble by said wall anchors. The Target does an excellent job of keeping floor-derived noises and motion from the table. Under the sand box are 4" long tempered-steel springs that nearly completely eliminate noise and vibration from walls, floor, and table support. Just don't use the supplied anchors, and you shouldn't have any trouble. Good luck, Dan

islandmandan November 04, 2007 15:14

Owner

System edited: Recently added to the mix is the Sonic Euphoria PLC, passive pre, which gives me the true sonic portrait of what my sources are giving me. Like straight from source to amp, with just necessary attenuation of the signal. Revelatory in clarity and detail, transparent to the source. One of the better purchases I've made, and one that will endure the test of time, I'm sure. Dan

islandmandan November 03, 2007 10:48

Owner

I have finally reached the point where upgrade-itus is not continuing to rear it's ugly head. I did discover that by re-orienting my speakers to the end wall, (a trial experiment), the quality of sound has doubled, with the superior coupling of of speakers to room. I now get better bass, and much better imaging and soundstaging. With speakers as shown in the photos, there were no side-wall reflections, so imaging really took a beating. To make this arrangement permanent, I will have to move my wood stove, which is located in the center of that end wall. This is in the early planning stages, and I hope to get it done within the next couple of months. Thanks for the post, Dan

islandmandan August 11, 2007 07:45

Owner

Thank you for the nice post, and yes I really do love these speakers. The return to vinyl though, has been a real eye opener. With a modest investment, and a commitment to maintaining a very hands-on format, the rewards are great. I am enjoying music more now than ever before, and even enjoy domestic duties like cleaning records and styli. Very worthwhile endeavor, and I feel fortunate to have what gives me so much pleasure. Thanks, and enjoy, regards, Dan

islandmandan July 21, 2007 22:47

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Merch

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Room Details

Components Toggle details

Arcam AV 9 Pre-amp Processor

Benchmark Media Systems DAC 3 DX

Oppo UDP 203 with Linear Power Supply

Esoteric DV 60 Universal Player

Herron Audio VTSP-3A (rev02) 360 Line Stage

Herron Audio VTPH-2 Vacuum Tube Phono Preamplifier

Garrard 401 with DIY Plinth

Dynavector DV 501

Audio Technica AT ART-9 Cartridge

Audio Technica AT 440Mlb

Acutex LPM M320 III STR

Denon Zu Denon 103R

Dynavector XX2MKII

Acutex STR 415

TTW Copper Mat

TurnTableWeights VPI Heavy Brass Clamp

Pete Riggle VTAF

Orsonic AV 101b

Mint LP Best Tractor

DIY Ultrasonic Record Cleaner

VH Audio Flavor 2 DIY Power Cord

Paul Birkeland 812 Power Amp

Audio Assemblage (Sonic Frontiers) SET 300B

Emission Labs 300B XLS

Class D Audio CDA 254

Class D Audio CDA 254

Musical Surroundings Fosgometer

Custom built crossovers Custom DIY

Tannoy HPD 315 w/Hard Edge Conversion

Townshend Audio Number Four Size Seismic Podium

KEF Q 650c

Pioneer S-Z9 Designed by Andrew Jones

Crown International XTI 2002

Tannoy Sub 15i

Tempo Electric Big Twist Silver/ pair for each amp

Synergistic Research Various cable models

DH Labs Silver Matrix

Vibra Pods various

Walker Audio Reference Hi-Def Links

Audio Metallurgy AG-0

Quasi-DIY Velodyne/Eminence

Tannoy Crossover Schematic

Dynaudio Sub 500

Panamax M5400-PM

Hypex Electronics UcD 400 Stereo Amplifier

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