Kenny's System

by kennythekey on Ever Evolving

Description

I finally started piecing together gear that was built and known to work together. This came after discovering the sound that does it for me. To me, the first most important component.

Latest updates:

March 14, 2023 - Finally an important upgrade to my system, replacing my Shilabe cartridge with the Ortofon Verismo. It was a little work to set up with my Ortofon RS 309D arm, but getting the overhang right-on and the null points perfect was worth the time spent. Even after the initial drop of the Verismo, the sound is wonderful. I’m way happy, and only care about listening as I write this. More later about the sound as it breaks in.

November 27, 2022 - It's been a while. We moved twice since my last system update. A new home, so a different listening room even though my setup is somewhat identical. The room has a smaller footprint than previously, but it lends itself better to my Horning Aristoteles that are suited for medium sized rooms. The system is now playing loud at 10 o'clock with my 6-watt amps and benefiting from that. I've finally added two sets of speaker grills for my open baffle subs, so front and back. Why?…Because, it was fun!

August 10, 2019 - My daughter, Kelly, has purchased her first turntable, a Rega Planar 2. After reading about this table's sensitivity to vibration, especially in close proximity to speakers, I was surprised that there was zero effect from vibration when we turned up the volume with her speakers less than one foot from the table. The speakers are normally pulled out into the room, but not for this initial TT test. The bass was generous and I did some jumping up and down without issue. Is the cheap Ikea Lack Rack that we built handling all of this? If so, impressive.

May 2, 2018 - My daughter's audio rack is now completed. A really fun to build project on the cheap. What added the most cost, was using Herbie's Giant Threaded Stud Gliders for the bottom base. And, full length hard maple inserts for the legs.

March 23, 2018 - Work is progressing for daughter's first audio rack. Cost is a priority, as her first audio system is coming together. We decided on a DIY rack built from 4 IKEA Lack side tables ($8 each).

October 17, 2017 - Added NoRez material to quiet the sub cabinets from being heard. My system is sounding great in my open floor plan. Most of the DIY work was done by Jay (Captainhemo) who builds and sells custom flat packs for the sub cabinets up in British Columbia. You can find him on Audiocircle and you can see from my pics that he does marvelous work.

June 6, 2017 - Upgraded my Raven 1 table with latest bearing and Black Night feet. Background is blacker, sound is smoother, and bass is better. Added Townshend Isolation Bars to my subs. The subs work seamlessly with my Horning speakers, and have finally provided me with a full range sound that is also relaxed.

Kenny

Read more...

Room Details

Dimensions: 14’ × 18’  Medium
Ceiling: 10’

Components Toggle details

    • TW Acustic Raven One
    A wonderfully simple, but extremely well made design. Sounds fantastic. Tonearm: Ortofon RS-309D Cartridge: Ortofon Verismo, Miyajima Shilabe Tweaks: Motor Control: AC/MC Isolation: Silent Running Audio platform. Black Night feet. Platter Mat: TW-Acustic/Zanden Audio 5mm. Fuse: HiFi-Tuning Supreme. And, upgraded the bearing.
    • Ortofon RS-309D
    Great arm that works with the Raven. If I add another arm to the TT, this one will stay for mono.
    Update 2023 - This arm is still performing exceedingly well from what I hear!
    • Miyajima Shilabe
    My first truly high end cartridge, and the only I've tried with my Raven TT.

    2/15/2023 - This may be my first upgrade in quite some time. I have a new cartridge in mind and more on this later.
    • Ortofon Verismo
    MC Cartridge to replace my Shilabe. A true upgrade in you-are-there presentation, detail, and more nuanced.
    • Tron Seven - Phono
    Hand made Phono Amplifier that can be custom built. This one includes the caps from the Reference model and pseudo balanced outputs added for convenience. Isolation: Eden TerraStones with brass balls, but currently trying them all. Tweaks: HiFi-Tuning fuse.
    • Boulder L-3ae
    A temporary solution while saving up for a new line stage. I recently had Boulder Amplifiers upgrade the caps, and now the sound is wonderful.

    2023 - I’m still using the L-3ae and have no plans of replacing it. It’s become invisible to the rest of my system. I don’t know what those guys at Boulder Amplifiers did, because I thought my system setup would benefit from a tube line stage. All I can say, it’s your ears that count.
    • TW-Acustic 300 B SET
    Mono Block, 6 watts. Best component that I ever added. Now, I hear anything and everything that I change in my system. It brings my system together like it's sewn together from the same fabric. Designed and hand built by Thomas Woschnick.
    • McIntosh MR-71 Re-invented
    A long-term personal project started in 1989, as I first found the MR-71 chassis heaped on top of other non-working and discarded gear. I simply could not let it die, and the price was right. Restored by Audio Classics and then upgraded by Sam's Audio Labs. The tuner sounded very good after Audio Classic's work, but Sam's transformation to full triode, wow! Birdseye Maple cabinet was built by High Quality Reproduction Cabinets who specialize in old gear.
    • Horning Aristotle Zigma Ultimate
    This one has the DX65 drivers and finished in Apple Wood. The cabinetry is superb. These loudspeakers have given me "my"sound in spades. Their low end if driven properly is suberb. However, my house move took me to a setup with a large open space when the loudspeakers want a medium sized room with corners. This is the only reason, I added the DIY subs. And, I'm glad I did.

    2/15/2023 - That was then. I’ve moved twice. Damn, I’m happy. Got it altogether now in a better and much loved space. Yeah.
    • DIY - GR Research/Rythmik Sub Project Open Baffle
    The cabinets are designed and offered as a kit from Jay (captainhemo) on Audiocircle. Jay built the cabinets for me, so they are custom to match up with my speakers. The cabinets use GR Research servo drivers in combination with specifically integrated and external Rythmik servo plate amps. This is a patented design between GR Research and Rythmik. Even though this has been a long process to set up and tweak for me, the subs work seamlessly with my Horning speakers. Tweaks: Townshend Isolation Bars. The Bars completely cured previous oscillation problem from mechanical feedback to my turntable. I've also added 2 sets of speaker grills for the front and back. Jay can also provide the grills.

    2/15/2023 - My new room and home for my setup still includes both the Hornings and custom Subs. I have zero oscillation issues here. Tweaking the subs to the space has proven to be the best unexpected upgrade for me.
    • DIY Siamese Rack
    I built this to my specific requirements, so didn't really save me money as a DIY project. However, very rewarding and just what I wanted. Thanks to everyone on Audiogon who helped me out with this project.
    • Power: Various
    Panel: Intermatic all house surge protector with replaceable protection
    modules.
    Source: Two dedicated and isolated ground 20 amp circuits.
    Components: Brick Wall surge protector for TT Motor Controller and Boulder line stage.


Comments 147

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Owner
System edited: Added new pics of TW 300 B.

kennythekey

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

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

05-02-15: Kennythekey
System edited: Added pictures of my new TW 300B that will ship soon. My biggest deal in the last 40 years. Finally, SET.

Congrats!

Why did you not go with Tron amplification?

dev

Dev,
Gon member Dmarkov has the Border Patrol with optional power supplies. It seems to me that given the efficiency and design concept of the Horning speaker, a high-quality 300b amplifier would be a very good match. No question the Horning amplifier should be an ideal choice.
Charles,

charles1dad

Hey guys interesting read - I'm new to the Horning family, have the latest revision speaker with Tommy's 16 new woofer drivers coming which Tommy says has been a long time dream of his. I saw the graphs in comparison of old and new which is pretty impressive.

Tommy with the new drivers;

With new bass drivers is "Heaven" and provides substantial improvement from the older design from the speakers top to bottom, warmth and speed is wonderful giving the system a much greater overall linearity.

Am I correct in reading that latest version speakers are even more efficient?

Have any of you ever tried or know anyone who has actually tried Border Patrol 300B mono's with the two separate power supplies - I have only heard only positive remarks.

Also same goes with the Frankenstein 300B mono's.

Tommy obviously is biased and feels his own Sati 520b is the ideal match and is working on his Statement Sati.

dev

Loki I agree with your last sentence 100%, I believe that factor is the key. In terms of circuit I doubt there is very much difference between various SET amplifiers. I think what separates them into a hierarchy or tiers of performance is quality of parts, quality of transformers and power supply.
Charles,

charles1dad

Charles1dad
I think you nailed it the head. The jump to the TW should bring bigger/?better power and output transformers. Power supply should also be more robust. If you google 45 Fire Bottle you will see the Dennis Had amp is a small stereo chassis with modest transformers and a single oil cap in the power supply. I suspect the move to the TW mono blocks will hopefully supply more current than the Had amp can. Should help bring back some more of the lower extension and overall slam. I dropped in a pair of EML 45 mesh tubes yesterday and did exactly that to a smaller extent. I think all of this reinforces that it's not necessarily the Watts that matter, but how much and how quickly the amp can move current. Fun stuff for sure.

loki_ut


Hi Loki,
Thanks for the interesting reply and comparison of the two amps. It is encouraging that you were getting such good results with that Dennis Had amplifier. It makes me wonder what upgrading to the TW amplifier will bring to the table. I suspect that amplifier will have better output Transformers as well as a more stout power supply. Your Horning speakers are obviously very efficient and easy to drive given that they work so well with this low powered amplifier.
Charles,

charles1dad

Charles1dad,
I need to clarify, I do not have an amp from TW yet. Like Kenny, I had concerns about how well the 95dB/W Aristotle would behave with a flea watt amp. But Jeff kept telling me how much he was enjoying the 45's even if they didn't have as powerful as a presentation.

The amp I purchased was 45 Fire Bottle made by Dennis Had of Cary Audio fame. He started making misc amps and selling them via a famous internet auction site after he "retired" 3 years ago. The 45 amp is based on a 45 SET Cary actually made and never mass produced. He freely agreed to add the 45/2A3 switch which to me would emulate the 45/6B4G options of the TW amps. At the price, I thought it a grant chance to try out the flea watt amps before sinking money into the more expensive TW options.

I have been really surprised how well the Aristotle have behaved with the 1.5W amp, I don't want to drift too far away unless you want me to. But short version is I lose about 1/2 octave in bottom extension, some definition to instrument/ambients, and some slam compared to the 845s. But there is an uncanny "rightness" to the presentation from the 45 SET, including heavier rock like Led and Smashing Pumpkins. I have yet to notice them clipping despite my many attempts. Another interesting thing I noted, the slight loss of definition with the 45 seems to make studio recordings sound a little more like a live recording in an open venue. Some of the tightness and definition the 845s add back make me more aware that the instruments are in relatively confined spaces of studios with mics close by. Now you can clearly state that this is more true to the recording, but I am finding the less "true" presentation of 45 SET often more enjoyable.

This presentation is very close to what I think Kenny was describing above as "utterly relaxed sound and high resolution that puts me in my happy place"

Selling the 845 amps will allow me to upgrade my Rega TT to a TW TT now, and then if I am still happy with the lower Watt amps, a TW amp in the future. If the 1.5-3W isn't cutting it, I suspect the 300b will knock it out the park also.

(if you are more curious about the 845/45 difference, I will post parts of an email I sent back to Dennis after listening to both amps for a while).

loki_ut

Lokiut,
Your TW 45/2A3 amplifier seems to be quite special! Do you feel you're losing any sonic qualities with the lower power TW compared to the more powerful Thoress 845? I imagine the Hornings sound very fine with either of these amplifiers. The TW amps are very interesting.
Charles,

charles1dad

Also out of curiosity, did TW mention in your conversations where he is sourcing the power and output transformers? Is the third cover on top for power supply caps or possibly an interstate transformer?

loki_ut

Very exciting indeed! I missed RMAF this past year, but did drop by Jeff's loft after to hear the 6B4G/Eufrodites. Plenty of power for his big loft. I have the previous generation Aristotle myself with Thoeress Pre/845 amps. Because of all the great things Jeff said about the TW 45/6B4G amps I picked up a 45/2A3 amp to give a try. In my room 15x19x10.5, there is plenty of power. You should really be rocking with the 300b's. I will say, the sound of the 45 tubes is really beguiling. Will probably end of up selling the 845s to get the TW 45 amps (will try to talk him into adding a bias switch for 2A3 for those really rocking moments). I think you are in for a real treat indeed.

loki_ut

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

Hello Kenny,
Congratulations on getting your new amplifier. I'm very interested to know how it pairs with your Horning Aristotle speakers. On paper it would seem to be a very fine match.
Charles,

charles1dad

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

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

Kenney, yes, I can imagine your anticipation, and excitement!

My foray into SET land started out as a point of singular curiosity, regarding how my DIY Tannoys would sound being driven by an SET amp, and 300B tubes in particular.

So, I bid on an Assemblage Audio SET 300B here on Audiogon, and won it at a great price. I sent it to Parts Connexion (Sonic Frontiers made it), and had all the caps and resistors upgraded.

After using it for a good while, I was so impressed and pleased with its performance, I sprung for EML 300B XLS tubes for it, which cost about the same as I originally paid for the amp. But, was it worth it! I think you may find tubes such as these, or the Takatsuki 300B's, to be a very worthwhile investment.

Read Charles1dad's comments regarding the tubes he uses in his Coincident Frankenstein 300B mono-blocs for more informatiion.

I'll stay tuned for your impressions on how your new amps sound.

Enjoy, and regards,
Dan

islandmandan

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

Kenney, nice job on the drawer. The all-thread rods you used on your rack, are they copper or brass? Whatever they are, they look much better than the black painted jobs you usually see.

I see you are planning a change to an SET amp. I made that change some time back, and I do believe you are in for a treat. With your Horning's, you should hear the best sound you've had at home yet.

I hope you post your impressions when you get your mono-blocks in. What amps are you looking at?

Best regards,
Dan

islandmandan

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

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

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

The wood on your speakers looks fantastic and I am sure
sounds every bit as good. Enjoy

needfreestuff

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

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