Audio Destination

Description

Pretty much a total system changeover

Room Details

Dimensions: 30’ × 20’ X large
Ceiling: 10’

Components Toggle details

- Destination Audio 3-Way Horn Loudspeakers
105 dB
8 Ohm
- Destination Audio 76 Linestage Preamplifer
Based on 76 tube
- Destination Audio Type 50 Monoblock Amplifiers
3.4W Single-ended Class A design w/ zero feedback,
Amorphous custom iron - inter-stage coupled transformers
- Destination Audio Type 45 Monoblock Amplifiers
1.8 W Single-ended Class A design w/ zero feedback,
Amorphous custom iron - inter-stage coupled transformers
- Lumin U1 Streamer
- Sansui TU-717
- Belden 8402 IC
- KCI Silkworm +
Pure 24K gold with Xhadow rca connectors. A remarkable cable
- Duelund Coherent Audio DCA16GA Speaker Cables
- Shunyata Research Denali S-6000
- Found Music GiFT Power Cords

Comments 457

Showing all comments by arthursmuck.

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Owner

Sneak peek at new room 80% finished and second system setup.

arthursmuck February 08, 2021 12:14

Owner

Hi Dan, been busy retiring, moving, un-retiring, etc. :-)

Yes, same system and room is being designed and built for overall good, but certainly to have the big horns shine!

arthursmuck October 27, 2019 13:08

Owner

New room under construction, pictures in November

arthursmuck October 03, 2019 09:56

Owner

Hi Dan,

Indeed the Westies have gone to a new home. Loving this setup!

arthursmuck May 31, 2018 17:05

Owner

Loving the magic of high sensitivty horns with single-ended class A tube amps...

arthursmuck May 28, 2018 19:40

Owner

Anthony, moving out to Denton in the next couple months and building a new dedicated room, will let you know when it's ready. You're always welcome!

arthursmuck May 28, 2018 19:37

Owner

Added new Finale PSET 300B amps and fantastic Audio Antiquary Wooden Preamp based on C3M tube. Incredible sound!

arthursmuck August 12, 2017 18:46

Owner

Congrats Jay, terrific amplifiers! I went with Natural Sound 845-T tubes and left the others stock. Mine are on Timbernation 3" Maple platforms and use Found Music GiFT power cords. Pre-amp is terrific as well. I'll drop you PM for contact info.

Best,

Art

arthursmuck July 24, 2017 07:05

Owner

Thanks Jay! I appreciate your kind words. Love the Thoress, quiet, great tone and warmth, but have some grunt for SE. Happy to connect and tell you more.

Best,

Art

arthursmuck July 19, 2017 19:29

Owner

No worries Dan, invitation is always open. I do get to Seattle a couple of times each year, I'll see if I can work in some free time next trip and give you a holler. Have a great weekend!

arthursmuck April 15, 2017 07:16

Owner

Dan,

Thank you for your very kind words, your setup is pretty spectacular as well. I do get a great deal of enjoyment from this system and like the ability to use different pieces to change things up now and again. I'm having a bit of an issue of collecting amplifiers, I just keep finding interesting ones. I'm having a couple special new pieces built as we speak, more to come.

If you're ever out in Texas you must come by for an evening of listening.

Best, Art

arthursmuck April 02, 2017 20:30

Owner

Hi Jeff, thanks for your post. I did add the Tannoy ST-200 super tweeter. It's a subtle thing but I find that it adds some air, space and dimension that is pleasing to me. I've read of peoples mixed experiences with super tweeters, mine is good but short of profound, if that makes sense.

arthursmuck March 31, 2017 05:57

Owner

Also updated to include new Timbernation stand

arthursmuck February 22, 2017 18:17

Owner

Yes it's R2R. Differences are thicker faceplate, upgrade IC sockets, AC filter, Copper chassis, two superclocks, KR rectifier, Mundorf caps in power supply and output, upgrade footers, flight case, etc.

Sound? More liquid, lit from within than other DAC's I've owned. Texture, tonality and 3D are all noticeably better than my previous situations. All my perspective of course, it's a total keeper!

arthursmuck February 20, 2017 12:01

Owner

Added Shunyata, Lampizator and Finale Audio equipment. Also added Belden IC and Duelund speaker cables.

arthursmuck February 19, 2017 10:02

Owner

Thanks for your note, no questions at this time.

Best,

Art

arthursmuck December 01, 2016 03:12

Owner

Added Duke's Swarm Subs to fill in the last bit of low end. Great guy and superb product.

arthursmuck June 19, 2016 05:11

Owner

Charles - I'm going to hang onto it and look at building a second system around it in 2016. I commute from Ft. Worth to Pittsburgh during the week so would like something for while I'm there. Now to start to think about what speakers, any suggestions? Total greenfield and the Tannoys should tell you how my taste in speakers run. Thanks, Art

arthursmuck December 19, 2015 15:39

Owner

Sent you note just now, sorry for the delay!

arthursmuck December 18, 2015 18:08

Owner

Thanks Charles, the Shindo and Tannoy combo was great, I sure enjoyed that iteration of my system. The Thoress setup has less romance and pure seduction than the Shindo and instead draws you in from a black background and purity of tone, openness and dynamics, while still maintinaing good liquidity. They're more alike than different in many ways but in the end I wanted to go Thoress for now. Both terrific, just different.

To be honest the Line Magnetic rarely gets in the lineup anymore so I haven't done a comparison. I likely need to find a second system for it or sell it, if you know anyone, send them my way! :-)

arthursmuck December 17, 2015 11:23

Owner

Changed primary system setup from Shindo to Thoress pre and 845 SE Amps

arthursmuck November 30, 2015 08:27

Owner

Thanks Andrew, I really do enjoy these speakers. The Chalice are probably outside what I would spend but I had a demo of Thoress 845 and pre in my sytpstem recently and they were spectacular with the Tannoy, that would be more realistic event for me...more to come!

arthursmuck October 04, 2015 15:50

Owner

Jetrexpro, missed your question. They sound fantastic. These are pretty nice 2A3 amps with some big power supplies and are so pure and quick sounding. Do the Tannoy like more power? Yes, but on smaller combos, singer/songwriter, quartets, etc the Found Music are otherworldly...I love them and recommend Scott and his design highly.

arthursmuck September 30, 2015 19:53

Owner

Yeah, let's connect and schedule up some time to get together, it will be good to catch up and I can invite Mark by, he lives just a few miles from me. I'll shoot you a note with some options, likely in late October / early November. Be well my friend!

arthursmuck September 30, 2015 09:19

Owner

He does not Albert, he's local to me and just a friend who likes to work with wood and is a perfectionist (my favorite people to work with) It's MDF wrapped in 2" of White Ash with any remaining air gaps filled with foam, so it's very dense and heavy (we think around 400 lbs. Measures 62"W x 24"H x 25"D and is unfinished as I like the Ash as it looks naturally and have no light or humidity issues in my room. I can connect you to Mark if you are thinking of a project, drop me a mail or give me a ring.

I really need to get you over someday soon but my schedule is very challenging these days. I commute to Pittsburgh now so time at home is less than usual and more focused on family. Romey cat misses you and you haven't ever met Hurley the dog, he is also awesome, although they are not friends.

arthursmuck September 29, 2015 18:05

Owner

Thanks!

arthursmuck September 29, 2015 10:00

Owner

Hi Agear, I never did, what was his info again?

arthursmuck September 28, 2015 12:51

Owner

Thanks guys, I sure do enjoy these speakers and have a good set of options to run them with!

arthursmuck August 25, 2015 07:13

Owner

Thanks Harve...

Charles, they are both great amps the Shindo just does that Shindo thing but stops just short of the SET magic that you get from the LM, and I have a soft spot for 845's...I have both so I can swap in and out when I feel like it.

Cdrc - if you'll clarify, I'll try to respond...

arthursmuck August 21, 2015 11:56

Owner

Come on down Sam!

arthursmuck July 03, 2015 21:09

Owner

Thanks Albert, I do need to get back over and I will have you by for a listening session sometime soon. My schedule is a bear and Kathy is in Chicago quite a bit helping out her family so finding the time is the challenge! I will make both happen though before the summer is out. I can't wait to hear your changes and catch up. Soon my friend!

arthursmuck June 29, 2015 15:45

Owner

Dev - I have not heard the Horning, but have read many good things about them. I'll be interested to see where you go with your setup, enjoy the journey!

arthursmuck June 28, 2015 20:43

Owner

Thanks Mike, not a bad amp in the lineup and certainly the FM 2A3's are amazing, your note to me about "speed inside the note" certainly is evident in their presentation.

I appreciate your kind words on the room, I aspire to have a space as incredible as yours someday....

Happy listening!

arthursmuck June 27, 2015 20:07

Owner

Hi Sam! Yeah, quite a change huh? :-)

It's a real departure from my last couple setups but really brings the room to life in a way the others did not.

Hope all is well with you, let me know if you're coming to DFW and we'll get together!

arthursmuck June 27, 2015 13:11

Owner

Jeff, I haven't had anything done to mine yet. Jim Rivers from the FM Tuner Info site is a good friend and I'm waiting to have him advise me on how far to go with it. I'll let you know what he says.

arthursmuck June 27, 2015 13:09

Owner

Thanks Kenny and yes the Jazz is glorious. The Sansui holds up very well. I bought I used with no mods and it sounds terrific and tunes easily. I'm going to have it cleaned and some upgrades done to it, I can drop you a note and let you know the impact those things have but definitely unbox it and give it a listen!

arthursmuck June 26, 2015 19:37

Owner

Jet - if you're in the DFW area let me know, happy to have you by. Thanks, Art

arthursmuck June 26, 2015 08:51

Owner

Thanks for the kind words (and spelling correction Kevin)from everyone. It was indeed a significant overhaul and Bojack may be right on the answer to what precipitated such a dramatic change....sickness! I really wanted to do something completely different with my system to further my journey, and have been wanting to scratch the Tannoy itch for years, after that the amps and front end choices just became a process, which remains ongoing...

Thanks again all!

arthursmuck June 25, 2015 08:04

Owner

Thanks Charles! Each does bring something different to the listening experience. The FM 2A3's can drive the Tannoys on the right material, my rule of thumb is they start to struggle with quartets and above :-) What they do on singer/songwriter and small combo jazz is shockingly good, so they had to stay.

Happy listening Charles!

arthursmuck June 22, 2015 07:50

Owner

System edited: A total reboot from my previous system(s)

arthursmuck June 21, 2015 20:42

Owner

Kevin, agreed and in this case we went with silver/gold as well as some other higher grade parts....

arthursmuck February 20, 2014 08:19

Owner

Mitch, I had single posts and so I did not bi-amp. I added a pair of JL subs later on to cover the lowest octaves.

arthursmuck February 19, 2014 09:07

Owner

If memory serves correctly, Sonicap

arthursmuck January 31, 2014 17:18

Owner

Not sure I follow Kevin, it was a good thing sonically...

arthursmuck January 31, 2014 06:56

Owner

You could have a really sweet pair of 9s built for well under your budget Mitch. I should add Bill baker of Purity Audio built me custom Mundorf outboard crossovers and those were a big step too. Keep me posted, I know the Maggies well and they are also pretty great! I think the 9s would give you seem flexibility on amplification.

arthursmuck January 29, 2014 18:45

Owner

Mitch, both are great speakers I've enjoyed immensely. The biggest positive difference in the Montana and the LS-9 to me was in the imaging and in the texture. The images are more right sized and separation/layering is better on the Montana while the 9's went a bit wider, but on some material too wide and images were oversized. Detail is more refined and nuanced with more feel to it on the Montana, more extended top end on Montana but no grain with either. Both do midrange beautifully. Low end authority goes to the Montana while speed and attack was a tiny bit better on the 9's. Again, both great, some tradeoffs, just different approaches. In the end I liked what the Montana brought to the equation for me but would easily recommend the 9's as well.

arthursmuck January 27, 2014 19:17

Owner

Thanks Jeff, your setup looks terrific as well.

arthursmuck January 21, 2014 03:41

Owner

Hey Henry! How are you my friend?!! Thanks for your kind words and I hope things ae great with you as well! You'll have to come up for a visit someday soon as there have been some system changes you'll be interested in hearing. I'll update my equipment here soon so stay tuned!

arthursmuck July 21, 2013 18:48

Owner

Thanks Roxy, really appreciate your kind words.

arthursmuck June 26, 2013 09:05

Owner

Thanks Vincente! I also think you're room and setup are top notch. I've made quite a few changes to my setup so stay tuned for an update!

arthursmuck June 25, 2013 11:35

Owner

Mribob - I heard the EMM, liked it, and bought it. I'm using the Vitus if I need to spin a disc but also a Mac Mini setup.

Thanks for the kind words on my room from both you and Thesaint, very gracious of you and appreciated.

arthursmuck May 31, 2013 17:27

Owner

System edited: EMM DAC2X

arthursmuck March 25, 2013 17:52

Owner

I need to be better about checking in here...apologies.

Thanks all for the very kind words and encouragement about my room. I continue to enjoy it very much.

Bflowers, my source equipment is on the side wall but not pictured.

Thanks again guys and happy listening!
Art

arthursmuck March 19, 2013 11:40

Owner

You would be hard pressed to find a cat with a more friendly nature and animated personality, he's really something...and I am not typically a cat lover!

I'll ping you at CES Albert and we can catch up there...

Happy New Year!

arthursmuck December 29, 2011 06:51

Owner

Albert - I'm finding smaller is better these days so maybe just a handful of us. I don't think before CES is going to work as I have a pretty full travel plate and then will be heading to CES on the 7th. We'll figure out sometime after the show and make it happen.

Roc - Romey Cat is a Napolean breed, meant to basically stay the size of a large kitten with shorter front legs that make him appear to always be ready to race. He's a good kitty though (Albert has to be checked before he leaves whenever he comes over as we think he might try to smuggle Romey out) We have tried different placements with him, but suspect we'll need to bring in a cat-room tuning specialist to make sure we get the right synergy between Romey cat and listening space.... ;-)

Zephyr - thanks for the invite and I will definitely take you up on it if travels bring me your way! If you want more information about room treatements drope me an e-mail, happy to help any way I can.

Happy New Year all!

arthursmuck December 28, 2011 06:13

Owner

Happy Day after Christmas!

Albert - I thought I invited you over to hear the Vitus and H2O amps, but in any event you let me know when you want to make it by and we'll have a listen!

Sam - Happiest of holiday seasons to you and all of yours!

Mapman - You hit the nail on the head on one of the things that really attracted me to Peter's designs. The image is just exceptional and very focused/layered but you also get the muscle of a big speaker and multi-drivers. Soundstage is terrific as well. My previous line arrays maybe staged a tiny bit wider and did the overall disappearing act just a hair better, but the compromise was guitars the size of station wagons and singers with giant heads and an image that lacked as much layering or focus.

arthursmuck December 26, 2011 07:24

Owner

David - thanks for the kind words and congrats again on your fine system!

Zephyr - thanks to you as well for your comments. The treatments on the side walls are RPG BAD ARC panels, part diffusive and part absorptive. The large floating wall in the front with the shelves cut in it is an actively tuned membrane as well, so the whole thing kind of ties together.

Happy holidays all!

arthursmuck December 20, 2011 11:59

Owner

Jeff, thanks for your kind words. I obviously agree with you on Peter's speakers...very happy camper here!

arthursmuck September 30, 2011 18:06

Owner

Hi Dev and thanks for the kind words, but I truly do feel like an amateur in this hobby comparatively. That said, I really do enjoy the system and room I have put together, and it's also great when others come by and enjoy it as well.

I agree on the 450's but those will have to wait.....for now... :-)

The new speakers are incredible, and someday when I get the time I will write about them at length. Tonally balanced, with a very clear sound and just a hint of glow to them. They play big and have a wide and deep stage, with very good imaging and separation. The bottom end is the best I've had so far, just seamlessly integrated and natural sounding, not thunderous or overwhelming, but really visceral and woody...Duelund caps was a great add and Peter at PBN is simply one of the best in the business to work with...he kept his design intact but did some totally custom things for me that I really think brought them together for my room. The chassis work is just gorgeous to boot. You can't see it well in the pictures (maybe Albert will take some professional pictures for me someday) but the walnut face is set on a body that is black peral with gold mist in it. They are beautiful...but I am biased of course. No speaker is perfect, but these come pretty darn close for me, in my system and for my tastes and listenign habits. :-)

Great to hear from you, I'll report out after Albert's gathering on 10/18...don't be a stranger Dev!

arthursmuck September 25, 2011 16:56

Owner

Lewisg - your experience and taste matches mine. I do like Kevin's KT88 (although I have some Winged C 6550 I like from time to time as well) but have heard the best from my amps with Black Treasure CV-181 and 1950's Sylvania combined in the 6SN7 lineup...

arthursmuck September 25, 2011 16:47

Owner

Mitch, the tall things in the back of the room are either bass traps in the corners and Real Traps diffusors, no spare speakers back there....but you can't rule it out as a future possibility! :-)

arthursmuck August 08, 2011 21:07

Owner

He sure does Sam...we're a few weeks out from being ready for company, I'll keep you posted....

arthursmuck August 08, 2011 06:26

Owner

I'll figure out a time Albert, they are definitely a different speaker than my arrays....in a good way to me.

Sam, you are always welcome if you'll be in the area!

arthursmuck August 05, 2011 06:12

Owner

It's true, Albert has full Romeo approval....as long as Albert pets him until Romey is ready to stop! :-)

arthursmuck August 03, 2011 18:45

Owner

Hi Albert, they are breaking in on schedule and sounding fabulous! Napolean cat will be hosting a GTG sometime soon so you can hear his new speakers.... :-)

arthursmuck August 02, 2011 06:52

Owner

System edited: Added Mach2 modified Mac Mini. Running through the Wavelink and using the Anagram digital processor in the Vitus. The PI Audio BatteryBuss keeps it all off the grid and sounding fantastic...

arthursmuck July 31, 2011 20:58

Owner

Well Sam, think of it this way...I gave up on analog, so maybe we can help each other get our heads around different mediums...we can't all be masters of all mediums like our pal Albert! :-)

arthursmuck July 12, 2011 21:23

Owner

Sam, I am adding a Mach2 player like Albert is, but I am going battery powered on mine. It will feed the DAC in the Vitus. No other changes planned for now.......for now.... :-)

arthursmuck July 12, 2011 16:50

Owner

Thanks Sam, Peter is a terrific designer/builder and an all around good guy as well. He brought his pre and amps to my place when we installed the WAS-2 and the collective system sounded fantastic. Glad to hear you guys had a good event!

arthursmuck July 11, 2011 05:39

Owner

Thanks for all the kind words everyone! I'll get some better pics and post more as I get more hours in...

arthursmuck July 09, 2011 05:11

Owner

System edited: Added PBN Montana WAS-2 Speakers, more to come as they break in further...

arthursmuck July 04, 2011 12:57

Owner

It was great seeing you Albert, and that was a terrific evening! Although I'm not sure if you're really here for the get togethers anymore or just to see Romeo! :)

I'm going to try and catch up to you Tuesday after work...

arthursmuck April 17, 2011 20:18

Owner

I'll keep you posted Sam, looks like maybe early May....

arthursmuck March 07, 2011 16:41

Owner

WOW! Just checked it out and the line is already around the corner in Point Loma, at 11:30AM! Okay, I'm sold. Phil's is on the agenda when I come see you.

Have a great weekend Sam!

arthursmuck March 05, 2011 11:21

Owner

I'll keep you posted Sam, I have business in LA and SD so will be out there from time to time! San Diego BBQ?

arthursmuck March 05, 2011 08:05

Owner

Albert, you are welcomke anytime, just let me know when you have some availability to travel to the wild West!

Sam, great to hear from you! Hope things are well. Will you be headed out our way anytime soon? Maybe I'll have to come and see all my friends on the left coast... :)

arthursmuck March 01, 2011 14:06

Owner

System edited: Here he is Albert, waiting patiently for you to come by and give him some rubs....

arthursmuck February 27, 2011 21:03

Owner

Thank you Skushino! One of our big goals was to address acoustics of course, but also deliver a relaxing environment visually and aesthetically. Jeff Hedback of HdAcoustics really got this and that alignment was key to our project.

I also appreciate your modesty, but your room looks just fine to me! :)

Art

arthursmuck February 27, 2011 17:55

Owner

Thanks Darrin, hope it helps you convince your wife to upgrade your room! :)

arthursmuck February 23, 2011 12:51

Owner

Thanks Harve, it was great having you here!

arthursmuck February 03, 2011 12:17

Owner

Thanks so much for your kind words Amerikajinda, much appreciated.

arthursmuck January 10, 2011 05:34

Owner

WOW back to you as well Mitch, that's a great looking room and system you have!

arthursmuck January 02, 2011 18:50

Owner

Last time I was over the new treatments (in front of the fireplace, etc.) were in place I think and your system sounded really dialed in and great. I'm still playing with sub settings but am gone for the holidays so I'll have to pick back up when I get home.

Have a great holiday season one and all!

arthursmuck December 24, 2010 08:34

Owner

Thanks Albert! You certainly helped me down this path and I really appreciate it. I'm working on getting them in right and think I am getting close. You are welcome over here naytime, just let me know when you want to make the trek and we'll do it!

Have a great holiday!

arthursmuck December 20, 2010 18:16

Owner

System edited: Added a pair of JL Audio F113 subs.

arthursmuck December 16, 2010 08:48

Owner

Hopefully the relocation is something good for you Aaron, be sure and look us up if you're back out this way and I'll do same if I'm coming to Memphis. Safe move and the best of everything to you and yours!

arthursmuck October 05, 2010 11:50

Owner

Markevans - thanks so much for your kind words. We're pretty happy with the space both aesthetically and sonically.

Albert - you are a good friend to say so, but we both know I'm not THAT nice! :)

arthursmuck September 22, 2010 06:18

Owner

I hope things get better soon for all of us! Don't be a stranger Pat!

Art

arthursmuck September 18, 2010 12:35

Owner

Thanks Ack and thanks Pat. Geat to hear from you both and your kind words are much appreciated! Pat, how are things up north of the border?

arthursmuck September 16, 2010 09:09

Owner

Hi John, thanks so much for your kind words. The room is a second story and Jeff Hedback was an absolute gem to work with. I am very happy with both the sound and look of the room. You are more than welcome to come on by if you're up our way. I know going to a few different rooms definitely gave me ideas for what I did and didn't want to do with my project.

Art

arthursmuck September 14, 2010 07:29

Owner

Thanks Aaron! I shot you a mail, you and Gary are welcome to come on by anytime. I'm around this weekend as well.

Art

arthursmuck September 08, 2010 08:35

Owner

Thanks Jadis, same to you!

arthursmuck September 06, 2010 17:25

Owner

Thanks much Alex!

arthursmuck July 04, 2010 06:50

Owner

That's a great place to be and a great reward Dan, listening more and enjoying the music!

I wish I had the skills to build my own, but was not blessed with anything technically beyond light bulb changing... :-)

arthursmuck June 20, 2010 09:46

Owner

Islandman, I couldn't agree more on the quality of custom built and yours look terrific! Thanks for your comments and I wish you many years of enjoyment as well!

Thanks Samhar, very nice of you to share your thoughts!

arthursmuck June 08, 2010 17:05

Owner

Thanks Vernneal and Jfrech, I very much appreciate your kind words. Jfrech, I cannot recommend Jeff Hedback highly enough for room design. He was great to work with and the finished product far exceeded my expectations!

arthursmuck June 07, 2010 11:39

Owner

Thanks Paulo, I really enjoy the VAC gear as well, it's given me many hours of joy!

arthursmuck June 06, 2010 12:12

Owner

Hi Albert! I actually haven't gotten to it yet....last weekend was crazy busy and I was out this week for a couple of days. My plan is to put them in Saturday night and let them run a bit then get to some serious listening Sunday. I'll post findings here...

arthursmuck May 28, 2010 17:48

Owner

John, get on up here man! Lone Star Audio Fest is this weekend....

Albert, you're too kind.

arthursmuck May 11, 2010 08:03

Owner

Thanks Albert, Napolean cat will be waiting! :-)

I will absolutely be back over your way soon and am anxious to hear what you've been up to with your system, I'll ping you next week and check on Tuesday night music club.

Have a great weekend!

arthursmuck April 10, 2010 05:21

Owner

Metralla - thank you very much for the kind words.

arthursmuck April 04, 2010 19:39

Owner

Sam - it was great having both you and Albert over...what a great evening! Thanks for making the time to come out our way, and let's do it again soon! Safe travels my friend,

Art

arthursmuck April 04, 2010 19:37

Owner

Thanks so much Srwooten, I'm really pleased overall with how it's coming along. Installing a laser starfield light show this weekend, then I think I'll rest for awhile and just enjoy...

arthursmuck March 26, 2010 11:17

Owner

Looking forward to it Sam!

arthursmuck March 25, 2010 18:06

Owner

Maineiac - thanks for your kind words. Your system is looking pretty sweet as well. I've always wanted to hear the Silverbacks but have never gotten the opportunity, I'm betting they're pretty incredible.

arthursmuck March 24, 2010 11:17

Owner

Great to hear from you Jim! Loved the pics of your DAC mods....Albert and Sam are targeting coming out weekend after this, you are more than welcome to join in the fun...maybe drag Ken along as well! :-)

arthursmuck March 23, 2010 17:16

Owner

System edited: Changed to PAD Proteus Provectus SC's. What an incredible cable...

arthursmuck March 21, 2010 14:17

Owner

I agree Jeff, updated system to reflect as much.

arthursmuck February 25, 2010 19:38

Owner

System edited: Thanks Jeff, added the case study to my system profile!

arthursmuck February 22, 2010 10:50

Owner

Thnaks Bigpapa! Be sure and do the polyfill in the cabinets and sonicap platinum bypasses to your networks. You might also talk to Hugh about the custom bases he's going to be making as well....enjoy!

arthursmuck February 14, 2010 12:44

Owner

Joe - I'll ping you offline...

Steve - we made it even better! Let me know next time you'll be out our way and we can get together.

Art

arthursmuck February 12, 2010 07:30

Owner

Hi Joe, great to hear your room came out so well! I couldn't agree more about working with Jeff. How about a Virtual System and some pictures??? Come on buddy! :-)

Did you end up with VAC amps? Yes, I am trying to figure out how to swing the 440's....and stay married....

arthursmuck February 09, 2010 19:25

Owner

Thanks Skushino, I really like your listening space and system also, I bet that just sounds wonderful!

arthursmuck February 09, 2010 13:29

Owner

Looking forward to it Sam!

arthursmuck February 07, 2010 16:47

Owner

You have an open invitation anytime you are in the area Sam! :-)

arthursmuck February 06, 2010 05:32

Owner

Thanks guys, you are very kind. It was a really great listening session this past weekend and I'm thrilled to read your thoughts on the outcome of our project!

arthursmuck February 04, 2010 20:33

Owner

Thanks George! Maybe this is the year we actually pull off a get together! Let's check schedules soon....

Peace,
Art

arthursmuck January 26, 2010 05:42

Owner

Thanks John, appreciate the kind words. You know you have an open invitation to come on up if you're in our neck of the woods. The change in sonics is not subtle at all, better balance, better imaging and staging, control on the low end is taught, and we achieved our goal of a little more lively sound without going too far over the top...

arthursmuck January 21, 2010 21:29

Owner

Verrneal - t h a n k s !

Sam - couldn't be more pleased with the sonic improvements to the room, Jeff Hedback was great to work with and yep, it came out looking pretty good as well! Always appreciate your kindness - Art

arthursmuck January 13, 2010 15:15

Owner

Thanks for the kind words Rhljazz. the VAC gear does sound incredible and the new design of the room just lets it shine through even more than before.

arthursmuck January 10, 2010 18:16

Owner

Brian/Harve - thanks for your positive feedback! I'll post listening impressions and some design information from Jeff in the next week.

I will say you are correct Harve, the room is sounding beautiful. It was good before, but this is a whole other level! More extensive notes to come....

arthursmuck January 06, 2010 07:23

Owner

Mark - thanks for the kind words! Pretty excited how things turned out here. I may be up your way in february, I'll keep you posted!

I do want to correct my earlier post, Jeff Hedback did the acoustical design and his company is HdAcoustics.net I can't recomend him highly enough.

arthursmuck January 05, 2010 17:05

Owner

Thanks Pdreher. It's a big change from the old room. Acoustic engineering was provided by Jeff hedback at Hedback Designed Acoustics. That backlit floating wall in the front is actually a chambered and tuned treatment.

arthursmuck January 03, 2010 19:49

Owner

System edited: The room changed a little....

arthursmuck January 03, 2010 18:13

Owner

Thanks for the kind words C1! Your system looks to be very nice as well! Drop me a line and let me know if there's anything I can share with you about the Phi 300.1's....

arthursmuck November 14, 2009 18:44

Owner

Thanks for the kind words, I do love those amps! We're actually in the middle of a total remodel and upgrade on the room, so the entire look will change in the very near future. Nothing like it looks or sounds now....

arthursmuck October 31, 2009 16:27

Owner

Hi Vito, the 10SE is everything that's been advertised. I think this review sums it up very well...
http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/frr.pl?raccs&1235269101&read&3&4&

arthursmuck September 12, 2009 07:22

Owner

Sent you an email Brian.

Best - Art

arthursmuck August 05, 2009 09:50

Owner

System edited: Added a pic of the Vitus

arthursmuck July 10, 2009 19:58

Owner

System edited: Added SR PowerCell 10SE and the Vitus player....

arthursmuck June 01, 2009 09:17

Owner

Hi Pat, I'm doing great. Thanks for the kind words, your system is looking great as well.

arthursmuck May 02, 2009 19:55

Owner

Hi Tubedreamer, thanks for the kind words....see any number of my responses above for info on the lights. Happy listening!

arthursmuck April 17, 2009 15:58

Owner

Oh yes, Cleveland Plasma in response to your question. the stand have an imbedded LED that is adjustable, it was a simple matter of setting the stands and lights to blue and then calibrating brightness. Custom Isolation Products makes the stands, also highly recommended.

arthursmuck April 07, 2009 08:16

Owner

Thanks guys, here they are again....order away!

http://www.chameledeon.com

Maybe if I ditch the lights someone will notice my system :-)

arthursmuck April 06, 2009 18:48

Owner

Sorry for the late reply Branislav - it was great meeting you and I truly enjoyed our listening session, looking forward to getting together again soon.

Bflowers, we should get together sometime as your system is mighty impressive and I would love to hear it. I didn't buy one thing locally as I really haven't found anyone that seemed too anxious to work with me to find the gear I wanted. Advance Home Theater in Plano seem like nice guys (Scotty in particular) but past that not much has stood out for me as a very compelling experience. In the other local guys defense, no one really carried anything I was seeking and only wanted to convince me to change to what they carry.

arthursmuck February 15, 2009 17:42

Owner

Set phasers to stun....

arthursmuck February 06, 2009 09:20

Owner

Thanks Programmergeek. The stands can be found here, mine are just different with frosted edges and lighting installed http://www.customisolation.com/detail.asp?IDA=120

You can also get in touch with Joe Jurzec at www.jamnaudio.com and he can help you out.

arthursmuck January 28, 2009 04:25

Owner

Bummer on the work deal dude, sorry to hear that. The Mandarina are a nice step towards the Silkworm, I think they are likely a nice step better than Soundbolts but you should give John a shout and talk with him.

Be well my friend, better times ahead!

arthursmuck January 26, 2009 21:09

Owner

Thanks for the kind words Anthony, that was a fun listening session!

Pat, how the heck are ya buddy?! I use the Silkworm as my phono cable and it is wonderfully rich and full. I have only limited experience with John's Soundbolts, and that was not on my phono. My guess is they would sound terrific but you'd be wondering if you should have done Silkworms! :-)

arthursmuck January 25, 2009 19:35

Owner

Viper, you'll need to get in touch with Tate at Custom Isolation...it appears he builds the LED implementation with an AC/DC Adaptor and hooks the LED up to that...

arthursmuck August 25, 2008 15:10

Owner

Hi Viper, sorry about the delayed response, been on the road a bit. Thanks so much for your kind words.

The LED's are actually built into the stands so I don't know who the manufacturer is. I'll have a look when I return home (finally) and let you know if I can get a brand off them. You also might drop Tate at Custom Isolation a note, I'm sure he can steer you to his source for them.

arthursmuck August 23, 2008 16:28

Owner

Thanks for the kind words Jhardyjr! The lighting is made by www.chameledeon.com

arthursmuck August 03, 2008 20:12

Owner

System edited: Added RS Duke for the Phi 300.1's Added DCCA Passion Masters SC's

arthursmuck June 21, 2008 17:07

Owner

Hi Harve! The differences are some that you would expect, better low end control due to doubling up the power, the extra headroom gives things an effortless ease even when you drive them a bit, and the imaging and space between things is improved, downright spooky soundstage and images. An added surprise was the overall tonality seems even fleshier and full than before, Kevin made some adjustments to these for me, may have something to do with those, but regardless I couldn't be happier...

Drop me an e-mail and let's catch up!

Art

arthursmuck June 18, 2008 19:47

Owner

Thanks Kirk, the Phi mono's are pretty much otherworldly, I'm about through the break-in and things are really getting interesting in the lounge these days!

I'll definitely ping you and catch up!

arthursmuck June 09, 2008 11:55

Owner

System edited: Pics changed...

arthursmuck May 30, 2008 20:34

Owner

System edited: 300.1 Monoblock's are here! 100 hours into break in.... Couple new pics of the room and system....

arthursmuck May 24, 2008 20:06

Owner

Dwberryman - thanks for your kind words and yes, my wife and I made the bass traps. Also ranging from 22" to 9"

Like you, we saved thousands and they have really made the room sound terrific. Diffusors are next for the rear of the room...

BTW, your ceiling diffusers are a really cool idea!

arthursmuck April 05, 2008 07:14

Owner

Right Gerry, hope you can get by on your "close and play" :-)

Should be a couple weeks and we'll be good to go on mono's, I'll post some comments after break-in. You'll have to stop by when you make it up our way!

arthursmuck March 16, 2008 07:41

Owner

Thanks for your kind words Boomshakalaka...nice Pythagoras reference as well! It is as quiet as a tomb with the system off... :-)

arthursmuck December 02, 2007 18:58

Owner

Yes, three level of brightness settings....

arthursmuck December 02, 2007 10:00

Owner

Tboooe - I got mine from Designs Within Reach, www.dwr.com

You might give them a call and see if they can still get them for you, I've had multiple requests about them, might mention that.....

arthursmuck December 01, 2007 12:34

Owner

Thanks for your kind words Dokter. The lights behind the rack are from www.chameledeon.com

arthursmuck November 30, 2007 06:09

Owner

System edited: A few quick pics of new speakers in room....I'll get some better shots over the next few weeks...

arthursmuck November 25, 2007 17:22

Owner

Hi Sheppard, yes I did replace the Opus with the MBL, sent you mail.

arthursmuck November 25, 2007 08:31

Owner

Hi Musicfile, thans for the kind words! Yes, Denny is one of the people I worked with on my speakers, I'll have some new in room pics up this weekend....

arthursmuck November 22, 2007 21:22

Owner

System edited: A few more pics of the new speakers....

arthursmuck November 14, 2007 20:18

Owner

they are 91db and 8ohm...but they like some current as well....more pics to come tonight....

arthursmuck November 13, 2007 16:45

Owner

System edited: A couple of sneak peak pics of my new line arrays....more to come

arthursmuck November 12, 2007 07:40

Owner

Thanks Cdc, I currently have prototype LS-6 line arrays from GR Research. My custom pair of the larger LS-9 arrays arrives in a couple of weeks, I'll post some pics then...

arthursmuck October 20, 2007 15:39

Owner

LOL, thanks Highend4me, appreciate the kind words...I did leave out the Littllite, which is most excellent for a vinyl rig lamp...

arthursmuck October 13, 2007 07:28

Owner

Musicfile - the journey and the music are the whole deal, glad we reconnected, don't be a stranger.

Gerry - I'm in Fort Worth.

arthursmuck October 11, 2007 06:02

Owner

Thnaks Gerry, almost missed your post there. I really like the look of your room as well, I'm betting it sounds fabulous. Let me know if you're ever up my way, you can stop by for a listen (and a look at the lights)

arthursmuck October 08, 2007 17:59

Owner

Thanks for your kind words...and yes I am out of control...the guy comes this week to install dimmable track lighting with hue selectors...lighting is an important part of my listening experience, so I do tend to approach lighting as part of the system......

The lights in question are found at www.chameledeon.com and the really cool part is they transition to about 16 different colors and shades, either strobe, pulse, or slow arc transitions...Floyd is very cool in the room!

arthursmuck October 08, 2007 07:55

Owner

The Orbe upgrade and the DC motor both improve quietness of background and dynamics, IMO. The DC motor also seems to be more precise in terms of speed than the stock.

arthursmuck October 02, 2007 05:46

Owner

I actually had a big scratch on the brass plate and used and iron wrapped in cloth to warm it up and it came right off. The some Goo-b-gon to get the glue remnants off. I actually got a new one and so it has a label on it again...

Which upgrades can I tell you about? It really is an enjoyable table.

arthursmuck October 01, 2007 19:00

Owner

Don't know where you're hearing nightmare stories about reliability and service with VAC. My experience has been the total opposite. I had a minor issue with my pre and Kevin was exceptional both in communication and speed of service. he's also been easy to get ahold of just to answer questions or share information.

Maybe a thread about contemplating these in your system would be better placed in the amp/pre forum as it would allow other VAC owners to respond as well as CAT owners.

Not sure it will get as much traffic here in my virtual system or if this is the right place to discuss reliability and service for either brand.

Thanks for your kind words and your gear sounds to be fantastic...

arthursmuck September 30, 2007 21:30

Owner

Thanks for your kind words Jack, it's a pretty mellow spot to chill out in....

arthursmuck September 28, 2007 16:06

Owner

The VAC is incredible. The only weakspot I found with VAC amps in the past was in the bass area, but Kevin has solved it in spades with these! Silky smooth with midrange so real it's spooky, the 300.1 also has great power and extension, it's a real masterpiece. I plan to add a second one at year end for bi-amping....

arthursmuck September 28, 2007 12:57

Owner

System edited: MBL Pic

arthursmuck September 18, 2007 06:00

Owner

System edited: Added the MBL 1531, what a fantastic CDP

arthursmuck September 17, 2007 08:44

Owner

I had the 500MB and the SLP-98, and as much as I still really liked that combo, and Cary stuff in general, the VAC gear is in another category altogether. I'm just finishing up break-in on the 300.1 and will post some lengthier comments when I have the time, but you used the right word....stunning...both visually and sonically.

arthursmuck August 20, 2007 12:05

Owner

Thanks Distortion! I'm considering the input of the Opus for a PC front end, may depend on which I end up going with....

arthursmuck August 18, 2007 08:22

Owner

Couple picture changes and am going to try the PAD Venustas SC's for awhile....

arthursmuck August 01, 2007 19:40

Owner

System edited: some quick pictures...more to come...

arthursmuck July 14, 2007 09:00

Owner

System edited: The VAC Phi 300.1 is in the house...updated pictures to follow

arthursmuck July 11, 2007 20:29

Owner

You got it John, anytime you're up my way.....VAC Phi 300.1 will be in soon....

arthursmuck June 19, 2007 08:59

Owner

John/Mike/Zephyr - thanks for the kind words.....I do have a bit of obsession with lights Zephyr, I actually have added a couple cool new ones and will post pics but am waiting on my new amp to arrive then I'll do it all at once....thanks again guys, if you're ever through DFW drop me a line and come on by for a listen...

arthursmuck June 03, 2007 15:33

Owner

System edited: Switched to Running Springs Haley

arthursmuck May 14, 2007 19:15

Owner

System edited: Added a couple pics with the Michell and the Art Audio in now....

arthursmuck April 29, 2007 20:03

Owner

Thanks much Glenfihi!

arthursmuck April 26, 2007 16:55

Owner

Thanks much for the kind words. The lamps are from Pottery Barn, but I don't see them in the online store anymore, so not sure if they still carry them or not...

arthursmuck April 06, 2007 11:50

Owner

Thanks very much Chad, I appreciate the compliment. Your system has the second wall mount shelf I've seen, I may need to look into that as I set up the TT rig. Do you mind if I ask where you got yours?

arthursmuck March 21, 2007 15:27

Owner

Thanks Imdoc, I appreciate the feedback. The decay of the room is unbelievable now, to your point the staging is quite wide and deep (without being overdone), and imaging is very good as well. I've probably never been happier in this hobby than right now. I know there are better systems out there, but for the listening environment I set out to create, and to my ears, I think I may be home. I do want to add some diffusion behind me in front of the alcove, as I think that would further benefit the room.

arthursmuck March 20, 2007 15:00

Owner

Thanks Ozzy! Your setup also looks terrific, kudos to you. Who makes the wall mount TT shelf you're using? If you don't mind me asking....

arthursmuck March 19, 2007 13:40

Owner

System edited: Adding TT and Phono Pre to rig this week, pics to follow

arthursmuck March 18, 2007 09:32

Owner

Thanks Tvad, and thanks for your guidance and sharing of knowledge along the way, it's a big part of where the system is today.

arthursmuck February 26, 2007 06:37

Owner

System edited: Room treatments are finally done and we enclosed the open side and added a pocket door....getting close to taking myself out of "Ever Evolving" listing....TT and phono stage have to be done first though.....

arthursmuck February 25, 2007 20:31

Owner

Thanks Ken, yours is looking pretty darn good as well, nicely done!

arthursmuck December 12, 2006 16:00

Owner

Those are prototypes of Danny Richie at GR Research new speakers, Danny was the designer behind the Epiphany line. Called LS-6, I'm actually getting the larger LS-9. They'll be sold through AV123 (Mark Schifter) and they are astounding, beat out some very high dollar speakers I was considering.

Thanks for the compliment, I am very happy with where the system is now, it sounds incredibly lifelike in every way. Next is building some tube traps so I'll update when I have those done.

arthursmuck December 12, 2006 06:10

Owner

System edited: Added the GNSC Reference Mod Opus21, really terrific unit and Steve takes it to a whole new level....

arthursmuck December 11, 2006 17:00

Owner

System edited: Ended up going VAC for the pre, and am giving the Shunyata Lyra and Aries a look and listen. Eigth Nerve Adapt Seams added as well.

arthursmuck September 23, 2006 20:40

Owner

Thnaks Chad and Tvad, it's getting there....

arthursmuck July 21, 2006 10:17

Owner

System edited: Moscode 401HR appears to be a keeper, terrific amplifier!

arthursmuck July 18, 2006 07:50

Owner

System edited: Added the Adona rack, very nice stuff. Also room treatments from 8th Nerve and Acoustical Solutions. New gear will be here in the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned!

arthursmuck June 18, 2006 19:42

Owner

System edited: Updated CEC Transport and Modded Liteaudio DAC60

arthursmuck March 20, 2006 17:18

Owner

System edited: Edit pics

arthursmuck January 16, 2006 17:22

Owner

System edited: New Room 23' x 20 x 10.5' Loving it. Corner treatments going to be put in this weekend.

arthursmuck January 13, 2006 20:30

Owner

System edited: New pics of system with Dunlavy's added in....and the source of the highest db's in our home....

arthursmuck July 04, 2005 16:57

Owner

Only put them in last night. They are very different, each it's own kind of excellent. I'll be tweaking positioning all weekend but the first few hours of the Dunlavy's sounds heavenly....

arthursmuck June 23, 2005 17:14

Owner

System edited: Added the Dunlavy's, pics to follow

arthursmuck June 23, 2005 04:44

Owner

Flavor 4's are terrific and I'm really loving the sound of my system right now as I get some hours on it...very happy here...

arthursmuck June 16, 2005 20:46

Owner

Thnaks Rob, I'm overall very happy with everything at this point....

arthursmuck June 03, 2005 19:19

Owner

too tall and wife mandated it must go, seemed like a reasonable compromise. Ended up giving a good friend a really good deal on it....

arthursmuck June 02, 2005 23:23

Owner

I'm not big on audiophile hyperbole, but these are really incredible amps. Power to spare, good balanced tone top to bottom, great detail....they run cool and quiet...I love these amps.

arthursmuck June 01, 2005 20:15

Owner

System edited: couple of pics

arthursmuck May 22, 2005 20:39

Owner

Out of the box after about 48 hours of play, these are some really sweet amps. Run cool, gobs of power and very good tone top to bottom. I need to put more hours on them, but am really very happy about them so far.

arthursmuck May 15, 2005 09:09

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