Kenny's System

Owner

jaytor,

Thank you. You have an extremely well thought out system and setup. And, it looks like there’s no stopping you from tweaking ahead with your given background. The GR Subs really added the foundation I was looking for to bring my system not only truly full range, but virtually distortionless.

Kenny

kennythekey July 27, 2023 04:40

Owner

Cooper222,

Here’s a direct link to the open baffle “H”frame sub cabinets.

https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=14099

Kenny

kennythekey March 12, 2022 17:43

Owner

Hey cooper222,

Sorry, for the slow response, but Captainhemo from Audiocircle has designed various cabinets for the GR Subs. He’s in British Columbia and built my cabinets and shipped them, because I needed him to do the veneer that I shipped to him. I just don’t have a shop set up to do it myself. I installed the speakers and wired them up.

Here’s a link: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=9434

Kenny

kennythekey March 12, 2022 16:42

Owner

Thank you for the accolades and kind words. However, I must admit that my nature as a person were developed from past experiences both good and bad. Except for Audiogon, I have real issues in becoming a "joiner." So, I tend to run away from the crowd. This is why I tend to seek out boutique gear and sometimes unique DIY solutions.

Again, thanks for all of your help and kind words.

Kenny

kennythekey October 20, 2017 18:21

Owner

Yeah, it all worked out really well and met all my expections which were specific. Seems like a magic trick thinking about it.

Thanks bdp24 for all your support and help along the way. Thanks, Jay. And, thanks to everyone else that helped to facilitate my sub project.

Kenny

kennythekey October 19, 2017 03:51

Owner

Hi Rick,

I built my rack a number of years ago and it was on the pricey side back then, because of the heavy brass hardware used. I think it was something like $1,100. I also removed two of the shelves after I moved my digital gear elsewhere. The full-length top and bottom shelves I had made up by a woodworking company. The middle shelves are butcher block cutting boards from Overstock. All the shelves are hard maple. The feet are from Mapleshade and I had a machine shop tap them for the heavy rod thread. The drawer was DIY and my daughter made the G-clef that's glued on as a Christmas present.

I love how adjustable the rack is, but I've changed my philosophy somewhat when it comes to vibration control due to my suspended floors. I'm heading into the direction of individual equipment isolation instead of trying to solve it all somehow with a rack. I've been looking at the isolation products from Townshend Audio and others, as I've had fantastic success with their Seismic Isolation Bars that are under my subs.

Kenny

kennythekey October 17, 2017 15:29

Owner

Hi Ed, how are you doing?

I just saw your comments here. You already have a very fine system, so perhaps the bug is bitting? Damn, I hate/love when that happens. (LOL)

The TW 300Bs are very special to me. Now, anything I try out in my system is revealed. And, tonally spot on for me. That's my best explanation.

A 16x20 room as you describe, can be turned into a great listening room with not much effort. At the same time, my open floor plan has added detail to my sound and with the subs, I've added the fill-in and bass that was somewhat lost. I'm in a good place with my system and will be upgrading my line stage soon to a Tron Ultimate. Next, will be my phono stage. That's all I need, besides some new wire! (LOL)

Kenny

kennythekey October 17, 2017 03:18

Owner

Spencer,

Yup, the rack was quite a project to figure out exactly what I wanted. You have a very nice system, and it looks like both of us are trying to finish them off, if that's even possible.

Kenny

kennythekey August 15, 2016 19:33

Owner

Joe - I checked out your system and it's beautiful. Great job!

Mitch - I totally missed your comment. Thank you for your kind remark.

Kenny

kennythekey August 14, 2016 17:19

Owner

Hey Joe,

Thanks. I am extremely pleased with how things have worked out in my new home. The one exception, is my loss of some bass energy due to my open corners, but I have gained additional detail and my soundstage is big.

I am working on DIY project to add fill-in bass by adding two open baffle/dipole subs. Hopefully, these subs using h-frame cabinets and components designed jointly by GR Research and Rythmik will do the trick without taking away any of the magic.

Kenny

kennythekey August 14, 2016 17:11

Owner

Dan,

It's great to know of your success with your sub experiment, because those DIY adventures are most rewarding when they deliver. Congratulations!

My room, is 31' long and just under 18' wide with a cathedral ceiling, so similar. My system cuts this room in half, or thereabouts. The sub recommendation came from my dealer, who has customers who have paired Horning speakers, like mine, with subs. He recommended MJ Acoustics subs whose staff used to work for REL, but he does not sell these. I would definitely have to try a loaner, before committing to something.

I am also trying to complete my system with a new line stage, and that expense is being weighed against the subs. Things, are also complicated, because my old Boulder line stage, somehow sounds so damn good in my system. This is causing me to stumble around and be indecisive about my next step.

I'm happy, that your efforts provided great results. That's cool.

Kenny

kennythekey May 01, 2016 17:44

Owner

Hi Dan,

We're not getting alerted of new posts to our virtual systems, so sorry for the late reply.

Thank you!

After adding the 300B, the best overall improvement was simplifying and dedicating my power. The loss of some bass due to missing rear corners, was more than made up and surpassed by a virtual realism due to pulling out my regenerator and plugging my 300B and Tron Seven straight into the outlets. For safety, I added an all house surge protector, and for sound, dedicated isolated ground circuits with Porter Port receptacles, and Shun Mook Power cords to the mono blocks. I am extremely fortunate, that the power to the new house is stable and low in distortion as is.

The bass did improve with these changes, so gave me more fill-in. Now, I'm not so hungry for subs, but I'd love to try out a good pair with the system. If they could sync with the Hornings, I'd be done if not for tweaking.

Kenny

kennythekey April 29, 2016 22:35

Owner

Well, I finally have set up my new room in our new home. There are still compromises, so the road goes on and on.

The place has a nice open floor plan, but not a single room with two closed corners, so as you can see openings to the left and right of my speakers. This drops the supportive reflective energy affecting the fill-in of my soundstage. At the same time, the detail of my sound has noticeably increased. Does reflective sound smear detail?

I am toying with the idea of adding a pair of subs for fill in, while retaining the detail. I've never cared for subs, but my memories are from the old days. Any thoughts?

BTW - Once the system warms up, the sound is quite beautiful, and does better my old setup. The two exceptions are soundstage width, so sound levels are diminished extending out to the left and right of my speakers. And, there is a slight loss of bass energy.

kennythekey December 11, 2015 15:49

Owner

Thanks, Ed.

i don't have that way grippy surface problem, so easy for me to remove my vinyl.

I think some combinations work better than others, so perhaps why some negative reporting. No matter, I love what I'm hearing.

I went underground for awhile, because we've moved into a new home, and now all has changed. New system challenges as well. I'm not ready to add system pictures or get serious yet, but I have set up my system. Once, I get my act together, I will report back.

Kenny

kennythekey December 02, 2015 04:45

Owner

System edited: Just arrived and added the TW-Acustic/Zanden Platter Mat. I don't know if this mat is designed for Raven tables or meant to be generic, but this was by far the biggest bang-for-the-buck tweak I've ever performed. The result is greater purity of sound overall, and I can't hear anything added or taken away to feel that something has been compromised. I have tried other platter mats in the past and never liked them, because there were tradeoffs. This addition came right after my TW amps opened up and started singing. Improvements are across the board, so more natural and organic sound realized from lower noise, better focus and imaging, but at the same time retaining all the air. Improved tone, dynamics, and soundstage all provide a more believable presentation. I'm thinking, greater resolution from extended isolation, but that's a guess. For the way, that I feel a system should sound, this mat exceeded my expectations in that direction. I'm also thinking, that my new amps are allowing me to hear, better than ever before, changes that I make to my system. An absolute winner of a tweak for my system and my ears.

kennythekey July 25, 2015 15:46

Owner

We've been cleaning house getting ready to sell, and I hit a point where I could stop and do some listening.

After about 1-1/2 sides listening to The Alternate Blues, Clark Terry and company, the magic happened. I don't know if the amps or the new tubes just kicked in, but there it was. Natural and believable sound just pouring out. All aspects elevated, smooth and open. My goodness.

I will find more time to listen in my chaos, and get back with a better report. I am still using the $6.95 generic power cords, waiting for my Shun Mooks.

kennythekey July 24, 2015 13:59

Owner

Hi Dev,

My speakers are dead silent. More so, than any other speaker I've owned. However, I do have mild transformer hum, but this has no effect on the speakers or sound. The hum will be remedied soon by Thomas. No big deal.

I've had little time with my system, because now I'm about to put my home on the market and get a new place. I have been thinking about a new dedicated room, so less time for listening and more time in fantasizing.

I can say, that I've been able to flip on a side or two, now and then, and the sound keeps giving. I'm playing and enjoying less rotated records, outside of my heavy hitters, so that should be an indicator that I'm finding these amps to be joyful. No sit-down serious listening, lately.

From going over your previous questions, Ive picked out a couple of attributes that seem to be important to you. These are bass and pinpoint imaging. Of course, there are others, but these seemed to be the ones youre most concerned about. Ive covered the bass, but we may have different expectations for imaging. What are you looking for in this respect?
Kenny

kennythekey July 17, 2015 14:30

Owner

Charles,
I am really enjoying the system. And, I hope I did not play down the bass, because it is generous and authentic. Last night, I was amazed just how amazing Stevie Ray Vaughan's Tin Pan Alley sounded top-to-bottom.

I too was concerned somewhat about bass when I entered into this. No more, and Jeff knew this all along.
Kenny

kennythekey June 30, 2015 15:27

Owner

Thanks, Arthur. I had made the Mac Tuner such a long-term project, that I forgot about my Sansui. I'm the original owner of the tuner, but that old system that included an AU-717 Amp that powered my DCM Time Windows are both long gone. Truly, the most influential and important piece of audio gear (radio) in the twentieth century, soon to rust away. Lets hope, not to be forgotten.

Dev,
I was able to do some listening this weekend, and wanted to get back to you with some of my observations about the 300B.

I am very pleased with the bass, as it is natural, detailed, and displays fine resolution allowing the notes timbre to make the bass instrument sound right. No wooly sound or bloating here, unless that's the recording. These amps are not forgiving, so you get what you put on, in spades.

Eric Clapton > One more car, One more driver > I want a little girl. This cut demonstrates that the amps and Hornings can go low and punch. Is it as potent as my old Thiel CS 3.6 speakers? No, not quite, but the sound is more accurate and true to the instrument.

Rebecca Pidgeon > The raven > Spanish harlem. Again, more potent with my former Thiels/6550 combo, but would bloat, and be slightly distorted. In other words, the bass takes over the recording and can be too much. Not so, with the TW 300B/Horning combo. Just enough bass, so properly balanced and represented. The whole cut sounds fantastic.

Rob Wasserman > Duets > Duet. Rob is plucking some upper octave notes, and I can pinpoint him about fifteen feet behind my left speaker and a little bit to the right. I never heard it like this before. The image, its height (proportional), and the natural sound emanating from that spot formed a believable illusion.

The TW 300B has a relaxed sound across its frequencies, so bass is included. At the same time this is a lively amp, so the heart I had mentioned. The bass is not potent with my Aristotles, so not forceful. However, it sounds right and is not over the top, so well balanced. With the Eric Clapton and the Rebecca Pidgeon cuts, my body was generously feeling the bass, so can go deep, sound solid, and be well defined. However, it can feel lean at times when you may expect more. Maybe, this is due to what weve heard from some (b)ass-kicking-systems and we want that now to be included. Perhaps, this is just the nature of the 300B and the Aristotles. If potent, powerful, and low end thunder is your thing, this combo will probably come up short for you. However, what it does, I feel it does right, and more so than a lot of thunder Ive heard.

The Symposium platforms under my Aristotles have improved the bass in my situation. I would say, an overall improvement in all aspects. I will keep the StillPoint Ultra 5s in the back-burner for a try.

My system right now is producing the best height sense as you put it, that I have experienced. The sense of height for personnel is maintained proportionally within the soundstage. If the engineer did a good job, you get it.

Sharpness of image is excellent in my system as touched upon by my Rob Wasserman comments. Most, of my interconnects and wire are old and long in the tooth. So, I wonder how good this will get when I tweak and upgrade?

As, I thought through the Rob Wasserman cut, the TW can build the illusion of image and perspective within a big and beautiful soundstage. There is also air in-between, so the instruments and personnel share that space as the different sounds interact and blend together. Its just right and real to me when the recording is well put together. I feel that the TW does its best to give me what I expect from reproduced sound in space and time.

Regarding amplifier noise, its handled as I knew it would be. I can tell you that the strong relationship built over time with Thomas, Jeff, and others in this dedicated group, has completely left me worry free about any dealings. Righteous support, is the only way for me to put it.

Im looking forward to spending much time listening to my TW 300B. Adding preamp gear, interconnects, and wires, will allow me to truly hear the difference still to come.
Kenny

kennythekey June 29, 2015 04:20

Owner

I've have resolved my noise problem that was two-fold, so
grounding issue, and a bad D3A tube. I have never had a pair of speakers that were this dead silent, so void of that electrical breezy sound, buzz, and hum. Yes, the sound is better. I hope it stays just like it is.

Okay, this weekend I will be listening and try to answer some of Dev's questions.
Kenny

kennythekey June 26, 2015 00:26

Owner

Charles,
Jeff put me on the right path after decades of stumbling around. I can't say enough good things about the man. I have no worries at my end about the amps or my system.

The rectifiers I'm using I purchased and are NOS. And, used for the first time in my 300B amps. Maybe, they're making the noise. I'm getting a loaner pair some time soon to try.

Let's face it, this is a part of our hobby. We experiment and move forward. Listening is everything, because it's personal. We may share in common equipment that we prefer, and express that in words, but "my sound" is my own, and what does it for you, is "your sound."

Back to work.
Kenny

kennythekey June 24, 2015 14:50

Owner

Dev,
Due to a serious work deadline, my system listening has been temporarily put on hold, as I work at home.

To answer your questions fairly, I want to get rid of the hum, and I will. And, I still have to get my AC Cords. When everything settles down and is back in order, I will spend quality time with my gear and be able to provide my observations.

Go listen and then buy. That would always be my best advice.
Kenny

kennythekey June 24, 2015 02:43

Owner

Dev,
Big is good. So, a large expansive soundstage. I'll try a shot at the performance height question you asked, but this is just what I think. The height of the performance is not fixed by the system. Although, it can be more this way or that way due to the room and the system interacting. Once a fine system and a proper room work well together, a lot then depends on the sound engineer, whether it's live or in a studio. So, how the performance was miked and performers placed, and what was that space like? Do we even know how that was all set up to make a real judgement call?

For example, my previous Thiel 3.6 Speakers always seemed to put the singer's voice at about 7 feet high or so. This drove me crazy, but the way the speakers are designed, and how close they were to me, I certainly couldn't blame my amp, for example.

I always wished that on the album covers, pictures were taken of the recorded performances, studio and live, to allow me to truly evaluate my system and/or the engineer.

The tubes are just about broken in, but I have a problem with DC leakage causing my tranformers to hum a little bit. I talked to Jeff and they should be quiet. So, no noise at the Newport Show. I have a 1920 Farmhouse, and I'm aware of a few open ground circuits and some other nasties. This week, I should be getting an Emotiva CMX-2 that specifically goes after the DC problem. It was inexpensive enough to just try and see.
Kenny

kennythekey June 22, 2015 23:21

Owner

Dev,
The sound is big for my smallish room. But, after my Sophias break-in, I will do a short post about them compared to the Electro Harmonix regarding the soundstage. There seems to be interesting differences and I think the results may be unexpected.
Kenny

kennythekey June 20, 2015 22:19

Owner

"Heart & Soul."

kennythekey June 20, 2015 02:16

Owner

Dev,
Charles is right, this heat thing is not just about my 300 B. The transformers don't get hot, but the tubes do give off some heat, so you would notice that. The 845s that I've been around are hot.

For me, I find these flea watts utterly relaxed and pure. The 845s if done right provide grip and control of the bass that I haven't found in other SETs, but I'm not experienced with many of these. I just want the virtues of both of these tube types to become my amplifier solution. Good luck.

I found that the 300 B gives me most of the purity and most of the bass of the other types. Plus, it's relaxed, and unexpectedly, uplifting. It has heart, if that makes sense.
Kenny

kennythekey June 19, 2015 03:11

Owner

Dev,

I did crank up the volume, and the answer to your question is that it simply gets louder, so no lose or distortion that I can hear. I can't maintain that too long, or my old ears will be what distorts.

kennythekey June 17, 2015 15:35

Owner

Dan,

Sorry, my old NY sarcasm. I meant, I was enjoying the broken-in loaner tubes so much, that I was having trouble inserting the Sophias in order to break them in.

So, I've kept in the Sophias and they have already exceeded the sound of the Electro Harmonix loaners.

kennythekey June 17, 2015 15:29

Owner

Thanks, Dan
Speaking of 300 B tubes, I now have to break in the Sophias. It's going to be tough, because the loaner Electro Harmonix tubes are well broken in and sound better. I have snuck them back in twice already. My bad.

kennythekey June 16, 2015 22:06

Owner

Dan,
Cool, yet another recommendation for the EMLs. I will remember to strongly consider these tubes the next go-around.

kennythekey June 15, 2015 22:38

Owner

Thanks Charles, that is important to me about the durability. I'm using military 5U4G rectifiers, and the D3A is supposed to last forever. Well, 10,000 hours I'm told.

kennythekey June 15, 2015 22:32

Owner

Dev,
I waited a long time for the little Tron to appear. I guess it was too long, and when it came out all was quiet about it. At the same time, Thomas was doing his thing and Jeff was showing his amps. I listened, I liked, I bought. I wish the little Tron all the best.

I have not cranked it up, so never got to noon or beyond. I'll give that a try and get back.

Besides the Tron Line Stage, I also want to upgrade my Phono. I have to save up for both, so probably six months out or so. I'm hoping Graham will allow me to match the faceplate logo of my Phono (old style) with the new design.

My current room is only 15 x 13.5 x 9.3h. However, there is a 5 or 6 foot wall opening between the speakers into another room, adding to the equation. I'm also moving in the near future, and will seek out a dedicated space.

Regarding Sati, it may have to do with how it mates with Tron gear. I seem to remember something being off there, but can't recall. That may have been Lamm, so I better quit flapping about it.

kennythekey June 15, 2015 22:24

Owner

Loki,
I tried the 845 approach with Jeff and Thomas, after pushing the 300 B. An audiophile buddy, is using an 845 amp with the Aristotles and it really grips the speakers. For a very short spell, Thomas was looking to do an 845 for me, but there were complications. I'm not positive, but it may have required a new chassis design forcing the price up, etc. As a result, I stuck with my 300 B.

I'm looking to move into a new home fairly soon, so you know I'll be hunting for a proper room. For the Aristotles, I'll want a larger space, but I realize it can't be too big for those speakers. This was another reason I went with the 300 B and not a flea watt.

I'm glad you found your experiences with the 45/2A3 a positive and workable solution. It sounds like, you enjoy experimenting with different options and gear. I like to figure out what I need, or at least try to, and then keep it for a long long time. I do like to tweak afterwards, however.

Not really sure if the beefy transformer/power supply thing is a must, so bigger is better, and wonder if it doesn't just come down to brilliant design. I think that Border Patrol's direction produces great sounding amps. However, there are different approaches that are compact and sound wonderful as well. It is curious.

Thanks, for your lead on the EML tube. After I live with my Sophias for some time, I may get my feet wet with other brands. For example, I just received my Sophias Fed Ex. Wow, that was fast. So, now I get to compare them with the loaner Electro Harmonix tubes that are in there. Wow, I'm already experimenting!

I'll ask Thomas about the pictures.

kennythekey June 15, 2015 21:59

Owner

I appreciate that Charles.

The amps provide plenty of power, so too loud for me sustained past 10:30 on most LPs. What I really like, is that the power transformer runs only warm after hours of operation, and the other two are perhaps lukewarm.

Cheers

kennythekey June 15, 2015 00:57

Owner

Paul,
It's nice to find the path, after years of stumbling around. I hope the Shun Mook AC Cords are special, because it's kinda weird to me that this is my first Shun Mook purchase.

kennythekey June 14, 2015 22:54

Owner

Thanks Dan,

Right now, I'm using loaner 300 B tubes, and two standard skinny AC Cords. I mean $6.95.

On order, I'm starting out with the Sophia Royal Princess, because I got a great deal on them and a very good place to start, me thinks. Maybe, I'll try the Takatsukis some day like you had recommended, but I literally have many tweaks to perform after I finally get settled with gear. More out there, I'm getting the Shun Mook AC Cords. Should have both items to listen to in a couple of weeks.

kennythekey June 14, 2015 20:27

Owner

System edited: I finally got my 300 B Mono Blocks, and could not be happier! Even after inserting my temporary 1990 Boulder L3AE line stage with brand new replacement caps, the difference to my system's sound was huge. Wide and deep soundstage with a leap in resolution that allowed me to hear voice and instruments more naturally and accurately than ever before. So, one of those jumps where you simply hear more information in your favorite music that you thought you knew. And, the bass is all there for me. These amps can rock, and be utterly relaxed and delicate at the same time. One thing, is that I could first tell that my Boulder line stage was restricting the air, because my older Sam's Audio Labs Amp gave me more. This was the first time turning on the line stage after replacing the caps. However, as the listening progressed, this started to change. I realize, my old Boulder inserted makes for an odd mix, but I'm feeling that I can easily live with this combo until I get my Tron Seven. If you're out there, thank you Thomas.

kennythekey June 14, 2015 15:22

Owner

System edited: Added new pics of TW 300 B.

kennythekey June 12, 2015 02:20

Owner

Sorry guys, I just got back from Europe and saw Dev's last post without recognizing the previous posts, so still feeling the jet lag.

Loki - At RMAF, I discussed with Thomas and Jeff my concerns with the flea watt designs, and while at first 1.5 watts were considered for the Aristotles, we eventually agreed on the 300 B/6 watts, but I was pushing it in that direction. This is my first SET, so probably a good overall choice in my case for the sound that does it for me.

I'll add a picture of the transformers exposed to help to identify them, because I did not ask Thomas. The caps are, Power Supply electrolytic F+T and RF, Bypass Elna Silmic II RFS, and Tube to Tube are Clarity.

Yes, a beefier and silent power supply is key. A reason, I had reservations about the new little Tron even though I never heard it. Dev, is this the Tron you were referring to in your previous post?

kennythekey June 12, 2015 02:09

Owner

Dev,

I didn't go with a Tron power amp simply because of the cost. And, Thomas has done a remarkable job with his new amps. I will however upgrade my Tron Phono to Ultimate and purchase the Seven Line Stage as Ultimate. For me, this is a well balanced system for both cost and sound.

The amps Jeff used at THE Show at Newport are my amps.

kennythekey June 11, 2015 22:55

Owner

Thank you Charles, I've heard the Hornings with other SET flavors from Thomas providing that utterly relaxed sound that also pulls you into the music which does it for me.

kennythekey May 02, 2015 23:10

Owner

System edited: Added pictures of my new TW 300B that will ship soon. My biggest deal in the last 40 years. Finally, SET.

kennythekey May 02, 2015 21:41

Owner

Dan, I'm so glad you had such a great tube find for your 300B. It's about resolution and air, and your own sense of balance.

Yes, I'm aware of the Takatsuki tubes. The purchase of my new amp leaves no extra cash for even the necessities, like power cords, etc.! Crap, I may have to go with Belden!

Someday, maybe I'll spring for the Western Electric sock warmers. Charles has his act together, and I enjoy his thread.

I may not see this amp for awhile, but will post soon after it warms up.

kennythekey December 06, 2014 02:41

Owner

Thanks, Dan.

As the little drawer is not much of a system upgrade when compared to most postings, I really enjoyed this little project. The rods are brass.

What started out looking like a hodgepodge of gear, is now coming together and has taken shape and direction. I know the endgame, and it consists of gear known to work together. Most important, it will hopefully produce the balance of sound that does it for me.

At this year's RMAF, I was fortunate to listen to Thomas Woschnick's 45 and 6B4G SE mono blocks through Horning Euphrodites in Jeff's room. It's that utterly relaxed sound and high resolution that puts me in my happy place. This is the right balance for me.

My Aristotles are not going to work ideally with the 1.5 or 3.5 watt amps that Thomas was demonstrating. So, Thomas is building me a pair of 300B mono blocks. This is a big deal for me, so you can imagine my anticipation.

kennythekey December 04, 2014 23:06

Owner

System edited: Added a drawer to my rack, and I'm preparing for a future SET Amp. Hopefully, in 2015 I should be able to complete my new gear additions, so amplifier and line stage. Tweaking after that.

kennythekey December 04, 2014 18:25

Owner

System edited: Paddling backwards to move forward? Due to noise after combining my 96dB Horning Aristotles with Sam's Audio Labs Eico (6550 tubes), I have brought back my CJ Premier 11a and Boulder L3AE. No noise equals better sound. I'm moving forward soon with new mono blocks and then a new line stage further out.

kennythekey October 20, 2014 17:11

Owner

Thanks, Needfreestuff.

Sorry, I did not get back to you sooner, but I have been having login issues with Audiogon. Sometimes works, sometimes not. I got frustrated and stopped checking my thread.

My next upgrade will be a pair of mono blocks, so I'm very excited about that sound.

kennythekey October 15, 2014 23:33

Owner

System edited: Added the Symposium Super Plus Platforms under my Horning Aristotles and I'm very pleased. I did not expect this grunge cleanup for my wood suspended floors. I can see deeper, hear more information, better focus, and complete frequency improvement. They are custom made and fit the footprint of my speakers perfectly, so great job.

kennythekey January 29, 2014 01:29

Owner

System edited: I finally got around to building the Welborne Labs power supply kit for my Squeezebox Touch. This upgrade slightly blackened the background for increased resolution. If you plan on keeping your discontinued Squeezebox Touch, then this is probably a worthwhile investment.

kennythekey October 31, 2013 21:47

Owner

Latinsamba1,

Re: Phono upgrade...

Well, I already have the Phono. Am I missing something?

kennythekey October 18, 2013 21:34

Owner

Dan - Yes, who gets what? Time will tell.

Latinsamba1 - Very cool! The SPU's are sweet to look at and I've always wanted to hear them. NICE!!!

Kenny

kennythekey October 18, 2013 21:28

Owner

Latinsamba1, I wanted to ask...Okay, what's the arm hint about???

I've heard the Ortofon Credenza Black and it also sounds great with Raven/Tron/Horning system combos.

I don't know about my skills, but I had trouble setting up the Raven/Ortofon with my Shilabe. No matter what I tried I could not perfectly hit the null points. It seems to be pointing to the Ortofon. I've had sucess before with other combos, so not sure what's going on. Anyway, the 10.5 is an excellent arm that I know works perfectly with its tables and great with the Miyajimas.

Eventually, I'll be in the hunt for a new cartridge.

kennythekey October 18, 2013 16:34

Owner

Latinsamba1,

I will make a couple of changes in the near future and then work on the rest as I can. My thoughts for now include:

1. Add Symposium bases to the Aristotles because I have suspended wood floors. I've heard this tweak applied in a buddy's system and it made significant improvements to the bass.

2. Upgrade my Tron Seven Phono to Reference or Ultimate.

3. Try a couple of Amps against my current amp from Sam Kim. For example, Border Patrol or perhaps a new Tron model, etc. Then, I can determine where to best allocate my funds for changes. If a new amp is desired, then I'll also need a Line Stage, so another major upgrade for me.

4. Replace Ortofon arm with the Raven 10.5 arm. Save Ortofon as a possible second arm. So, add outboard Motor to Raven plus a second and stand-alone SRA platform. Add another input to Tron Phono. This is more feasible if I don't replace my amplification.

5. Add conditioner such as Silver Circle or what's best choice at that time.

6. Once my gear is completed and synergy is a given, I will replace my cables.

7. Enjoy music, and apply an occasional tweak for smiles.

8. Pass it all onto my daughters, who thankfully have inherited my ears.

kennythekey October 18, 2013 14:27

Owner

Dan, your classic Tannoys are gorgeous and must sound wonderful. I have a friend in Montreal who has an affinity for old classic JBL speakers. He's had to hunt down all the parts and is in the final stages of assembly.

In a number of years from now, my Aristotles will be old (like me), there will have been vast improvements, and anyone will be able to pick up a pair like mine at a very reasonable price. Regardless, I will still own mine, and not care about any of that.

Here's a rule of thumb that a fellow audiophile friend convinced me of:

Equipment = 25%
Room = 25%
Tweaks = 50%

Of course, you must choose your tweaks wisely, and ones that are worth a damn are usually pricey. There's a lot of frustrating junk out there.

Way down the road, I will still be tweaking my old Horning system and enjoying the ride.

kennythekey October 17, 2013 22:56

Owner

Dan, the spelling seems to vary by person, because the published name is Aristoteles and may have no connection to the philosopher. Or, maybe it's the Latin spelling for the philosopher? I really have no idea, but find it funny, so I was just being silly.

I hardly ever turn over my gear, so my previous stuff was purchased 17 years ago. I started my upgrades 4 years ago, but could not swing any of this without time being a main factor of savings. This is a big deal for me.

I think the DIY thing for any audiophile is a statement of dedication, daring, and pure love for the hobby. It's also a wonderful way to make your system personal and special.

There must be Audiogon members out there in the NW with Hornings that would let you, or even want you, to have a listen.

kennythekey October 17, 2013 14:34

Owner

Thanks Charles and Latinsamba1. I'm stoked and in a happy place.

kennythekey October 16, 2013 16:33

Owner

Lapierre, you're asking a storyteller to keep it brief, so forget it.

I have a small to medium listening room (15.5x13.5x9h) for one thing, and the Aristotles fit the bill for this. Doing my listening in such a room, naturally, I gravitated to and learned to love a more intimate sound, so night club jazz, female vocals, and small bands at small venues. Same, with studio recordings. The Hornings shine in this element, but my tastes are not limited to just Jazz. So, I do like to rock out now and then. Plus, my tastes do extend out to all types of music.

For a few years I went to a number of shows, listening to, and doing research on single drivers and open baffles, but I kept coming back to the Hornings. Another group of speakers that caught my attention were the dc10audio models, but thats another story. For me, the Aristotles gave me the sound that I loved about single driver types, plus a perfectly coherent bottom end that I adored. You see, I got to listen to the Hornings at a buddys place in Denver, and was blown away by their bass capabilities. This was something that I didnt hear very well at the Shows for whatever reasons, and it simply solidified my choice.

So, to answer your question, the Hornings fit me perfectly, but this just explains the speakers. I am a rigid believer of synergy that extends out across to all of the equipment, cables, and tweaks. Ive made terrible mistakes in the past which I cannot repeat at my age. I started my overhaul with my Raven TT and Tron Seven Phono, and would discover Jeff at High Water Sound to be a Wizard of synergy. He is also a great human being who is there for you as an audiophile and a friend. Its a complete package.

kennythekey October 16, 2013 16:15

Owner

Dan, thank you for the kind remarks. I still have some work ahead of me, as it has been difficult to move away from my low sensitivity system, because of the speakers (Thiels).

I would discover later on that I prefer the sound of an intimate system than that of the high-powered beasts that draw the other crowd. So, more soulful and relaxed with the emphasis on the midrange.

One thing, that I didn't expect was the bass of the Hornings. Potent, deep, tight, and natural in my room. I never got that from the shows, so maybe the carpeted rooms or something. Anyway, I love my Aristotles no matter how you "spell" them.

Your system looks wonderful and well thought out. I hope you're loving those Tannoys.

Kenny

kennythekey October 15, 2013 20:43

Owner

Thanks Paul, I may have seen you in Jeff's room at the time, but could not connect the dots.

Yes, it was cool to see and hear my to-be-speakers at the show, and I kept coming back for more. My Shilabe cartridge is on its way back from Japan, so my Raven is down. I had to soak it all up at the Show, because at home my only other sources are my Tuner or Squeezebox!

You know what? The sound is amazing, anyway.

kennythekey October 15, 2013 12:00

Owner

System edited: I finally got my Horning Aristotle Speakers and had a fine time at RMAF 2013. Thanks to Jeff at HWS.

kennythekey October 15, 2013 01:10

Owner

System edited: Some upgrade improvements since last year, focusing on Raven One Turntable. So, I've added the SRA Base and AC/MC. It's amazing what proper tweaking can do. Hopefully, new speakers and/or Tron improvements before the end of the year.

kennythekey August 05, 2013 12:17

Owner

Thanks Sparks81!
It was a very rewarding project even if it took some time to get done. BTW - It does not save one much money over a prebuilt plus there's your labor, but it is sized to exactly what I needed and sounds great. It's extremely stable and solid on my wood floors.

The small shelves (Cutting Boards) came from Overstock.com, the two longer ones from AWP Butcher Block, and the hardware from McMaster-Carr.

I sanded and applied walnut oil again, again, again, and again. I made a plexiglass template for boring the holes in each shelf, and purchased a special wood boring bit for cutting clean holes. I used a drill press and set up a holding jig for the shelves. Not difficult if you like that stuff.

Kenny

kennythekey June 04, 2012 03:16

Owner

System edited: The Horning Aristoteles will not step aside after all of this time as my speaker of choice. Perhaps, this will be the year.

I have been getting my feet wet with digital, but trying to stay away from the PC as the source. I had added an Eastern Electric DAC Plus and a Squeezebox Touch to my system that also includes a NAS drive and a backup HDD. To me, the 96/24 files sound best, but cannot equal the toe-tapping involvement and joy of my analog front end.

kennythekey May 05, 2012 15:29

Owner

Thanks Glen. It was a rewarding experience building the rack even if it did not save me much money compared to a prebuilt.

kennythekey January 26, 2012 05:45

Owner

Peterayer, I think its how the SME mated with the Shilabe cartridge and/or Raven TT. I had the SME installed on my SOTA Star Sapphire for years and it never sounded hyper.

By hyper, I mean on the edgy side. For example, cymbals can sound too sharp and even piercing at times. The sound can seem forced, especially in the upper frequencies.

The Raven/Ortofon/Shilabe combination is smooth as silk, but I dont mean laid back. It provides the tonal balance that I love.

kennythekey September 29, 2011 23:52

Owner

System edited: After updating my Raven One from my SME 309 arm to an Ortofon 309D and doing some tweaking, I found that my table sounded better without the copper mat I was using. The space within the sounstage was better defined, so a more realistic bubble if you will, IMO.

kennythekey May 25, 2011 21:57

Owner

System edited: I've updated the picture of my Raven One after adding Eden Sound Terra Stones under the platform and removing the copper mat.

kennythekey May 16, 2011 18:33

Owner

Thanks Lowens. Yes, I heard the Orangutans at the Montreal show in April. They sounded beautiful and light on their feet, but I heard some distortion in the vocal frequencies. This was due to something else such as the phono step-up device John was using. Anyway, they are still on my list but I want to hear them with my Sam's Audio Labs Amp. There's a dealer about sixty miles and I will try to set something up.

The Raven is sitting on a slab of slate that I got cut and polished from a local stone company. I've since replaced my Mapleshade Isoblocks with Eden Sound Terra Stones fitted with brass mini spikes. The terra stones IMO sound better, providing a blacker background with better pinpoint imaging, so spacial resolution has improved.

kennythekey May 16, 2011 17:16

Owner

I must retract my previous statement about the Ortofon 309D being smooth and relaxed. Instead, the SME 309 was "hyper" sounding in my system, so the Ortofon initially sounded relaxed. After spending some time with the Ortofon, it's not only lively but perfectly balanced for my system, and a great match with my Shilabe.

Just another bull's eye recommendation from Jeff at High Water Sound.

kennythekey May 14, 2011 16:22

Owner

System edited: I've just replaced my SME 309 arm with an Ortofon 309D. The sound is smooth and relaxed. I was experiencing some upper frequency edginess with the SME, but now that's a thing of the past.

kennythekey April 20, 2011 22:47

Owner

Hi Plinko...Of course not, I'm still going around in circles!!! I went to the show in Montreal a few weeks ago, but came back empty handed.

I am still leaning towards the Horning Aristoteles.

kennythekey April 20, 2011 22:32

Owner

Finally, I've received my Sam's Audio Labs Eico ST40. A long journey well worth the trip.

Full details here: http://www.site-soft.com/Eico.html

kennythekey December 19, 2010 04:20

Owner

Thanks for that. There's a Devore dealer south of Denver but they didn't show up either to the RMAF!!!...grumble, grumble... I can always check them out...grumble.

The Ulysses are somewhat above my price point and while an excellent and engaging speaker, they didn't quite convey to me the open and in-the-moment realism of the Horning. Hey, that's me. Okay, let me explain.

For example, I checked out the Legacy room for fun, and while they blew my socks off, they also blew off my hat, and I found myself in another room looking for a Q-tip. Bottom line, I want an intimate speaker for a smallish room that delivers the closest truth. I realize there will be white lies now and then.

BTW - I will also have to listen to the Aristotle because the Eufrodites were at he show, but the Aristotles are supposed to be compatible with smaller rooms.

kennythekey October 22, 2010 02:52

Owner

Thanks Jazdoc. I was disappointed that Devore did not show up at the RMAF.

I had issues with the Daedalus and Audiokinesis at the show. However, the Ulysses sounded good, but not the best in their own room. My issues relate to the DA-RMa and the new Stratos by Audiokinesis. Duke (Audiokinesis) let me know that he was disappointed in the sound, but when he moved them to a different room, after the show, all was good.

It seems that the speakers I wanted to hear were all in the same type of room. The smaller ones in the middle of the hall. This also includes the Zu speakers and when comparing the bunch to my Thiels, I couln't get excited. The main problem for me was bass, but the Zu and Audiokineses also seemed congested. The DA-RMa sounded this way on Saturday but on Sunday they sounded clear and dynamic...but still the bass issue. However, I still want to hear these speakers because I don't believe they sounded nearly as good as they can. Frustrating.

I think going to the Montreal Show or doing personal visits will help me out.

kennythekey October 21, 2010 18:13

Owner

Thanks, John. For the center of the rack at the bottom, I place the albums that I've been playing or want to play. I'm going to hang my headphones over the albums at the top.

I listened to a number of high efficiency speakers at the RMAF, but couldn't find anything at a reasonable price that better my Thiels. The two hopefuls were Daedalus and Audiokinesis. I guess I didn't fully realize what I need to spend in today's money to equal the $3,800 that I spent on the Thiels fifteen years ago.

I like the Horning Speakers that Jeff of High Water Sound sells but they're $9K. I'm also interested in the new Bastanis Mandalla speakers that are $8K.

I like the way my Thiels sound in my 16' X 13' room. I would also like to hear the Verity Rienzi speakers. They look very intersting.

kennythekey October 21, 2010 01:54

Description

Room Details

Components Toggle details

TW Acustic Raven One

Ortofon RS-309D

Miyajima Shilabe

Ortofon Verismo

Tron Seven - Phono

Boulder L-3ae

TW-Acustic 300 B SET

McIntosh MR-71 Re-invented

Horning Aristotle Zigma Ultimate

DIY - GR Research/Rythmik Sub Project Open Baffle

DIY Siamese Rack

Power: Various

Comments 147

Showing all comments by kennythekey.

Latest forum discussions

Audiogon

Forum

Bluebook

Merch

Kenny's System

Description

Room Details

Components Toggle details

TW Acustic Raven One

Ortofon RS-309D

Miyajima Shilabe

Ortofon Verismo

Tron Seven - Phono

Boulder L-3ae

TW-Acustic 300 B SET

McIntosh MR-71 Re-invented

Horning Aristotle Zigma Ultimate

DIY - GR Research/Rythmik Sub Project Open Baffle

DIY Siamese Rack

Power: Various

Comments 147

Showing all comments by kennythekey.

Latest forum discussions