Description

The ESP & VAC system has given way to a wonderful hot running BAT VK55 amplifier which is a better match to the speakers. I have supplemented the low frequencies with a pair of Gallo TR1D subs which flank the ESP speakers and are time aligned with a seamless blend. Each sub has its own deicated outlet and a Nordost Brahma cord.

Interconnects have changed to a combination of Audio Magic Illusion XLR to the amp and Morrow Audio MA from the cd players which results in a focused and stunning 3D presentation.

A Shunyata Triton was added for power and the Nordost Thor is piggybacked to it.

This system is exciting/engaging/relaxing all at the same time with any type of music you can throw at it.
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Components Toggle details

    • Valve Amplification Company REN-pre
    with 12ax7 tube phonostage, single ended and balanced inputs/outputs, solid aluminum casework, black and gold finish
    • Balanced Audio VK55
    55W Class A Triode amplifier with auto bias
    • Wyred 4 Sound ST 500
    class D amp with upgraded WBT speaker terminals
    • Origin Live Resolution Mk1
    Belt drive table with DC motor and speed control. It utilizes a steel subchassis with an acrylic platter. Michael Fremer called it one of the truly special products he has reviewed, regardless of price in over 18 years of reviewing analog.
    • Origin Live Encounter
    Aluminum tube arm with Rega style mounting
    • Benz Micro Glider HO
    new S version of the glider mounted on the humble HK table
    • Vacuum State JL TI MK 2
    swiss made solid state phono stage with wall wart power supply
    • Valve Amplification Company 22.1
    12ax7 Golden Dragon equipped tubed output stage DAC with HDCD
    • ESP Loudspeakers Bodhran se
    Bodhran SE in custom cherry veneer. The speakers use two 7" woofers, two 5" midrange, and two 1" tweeters per side. One tweeter is side firing and the forward tweeter and mids are configured D'Apolito style. It is a sealed box alignment with aperiodic venting. The speakers are designed for a preset 45 degree angle into the room. The soundstage and natural imaging are state of the art. The sonics are natural and engaging without boom and sizzle. They can rock and sound mean and nasty if the program material calls for it. They sound fantastic with my favorite jazz recordings. RMAF 2007 award winner.
    • Gallo Acoustics TR1D
    compact powered sub with sealed enclosure
    • B&W Nautilus 802
    finish is light cherry
    • Sony CDP-X77es
    used as a transport
    • Linn Karik
    used as a transport
    • Linn Numerik
    solid state DAC with separate clock input
    • Morrow Audio MA3
    1 meter interconnect with eichman terminations utilised between cd players and preamp
    • Audio Magic Illusion
    1 meter balanced from pre to amp
    • Music Metre Calibre
    interconnect from preamp to amp and phono stage to preamp
    • Shunyata Triton
    power conditioner
    • Nordost Thor
    power distribution block and filter
    • Nordost Brahma
    power cord from Thor to preamp, amp, and dac
    • Dedicated AC lines 12g
    dedicated outlets for stereo only with HD outlets
    • Mapleshade Samson v.2 Custom
    Custom Samson in cherry stain, 39Hx24.5Wx19D

Comments 19

Showing all comments by gpgr4blu.

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Very nice system. I've heard your amp and pre amp to great effect at Sound By Singer in NYC. Really sweet.

gpgr4blu