Description

Updated 1/2006

Alon EGR quad amp setup. Alon passive and active crossovers are replaced by four TacT S2150 amplifiers. Each amp implements crossover, EQ, delay, and correction via TACS software and is connected directly to the drivers. Crossover points in the main channels are 350hz and 2700hz, both with 24dB/octave slopes. TacT RCS 2.2X performs crossover (64hz @ 36dB/octave) and time/phase alignment between the mains and subs, and also serves as a hub for digital signal distribution to the amps. RCS and amplifiers have been fully modded by Aberdeen Components for optimum performance.

I could go on endlessly about the sonic attributes of the system. Suffice it to say that I hear convincing reproduction of music in my room with no dynamic contraints. Tonality is correct. The soundstage is expansive in all dimensions but scales properly to the program material, and individual images are precise with good separation. Thanks to perfect time and phase alignment of the whole system, there is cohesiveness and smoothness of the sound unbecoming of such a large loudspeaker system.

Recent, extensive modifications of the TacT gear has improved all aspects of performance, particularly transparency. The stock TacT equipment is excellent, particularly for the cost. But there is a lot of performance that can only be realized with aftermarket modifications.

Where to go from here ? Well first I will finally purchase a nice rack (perhaps Rix Rax Hoodoo) for my equipment. Also I have plans to push the (exterior) wall behind the speakers outward about 8', which will change the setup from the current long wall loudspeaker placement (14.5' x 17' room) to short wall placement (17' x 23' room). This will also provide plenty of space behind the listening position even with the sliding doors to the family room closed. At the same time I will incorporate some Rives-like treatments into the walls and ceiling, and also have separate grounds installed for the existing dedicated power service into the room.

After the room expansion, a 1080p SXRCD projector, drop-down screen, and rear/surround channels will be added as well. At that time I may replace the TacT RCS 2.2X with the TCS.
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Components Toggle details

    • Alon Exotica Grand Reference
    Flagship two piece per side speaker system from Alon/Nola
    • Tact Audio S-2150
    Four TacT powerDACs, each fully modded and performing DSP correction/EQ and crossovers with TACS software.
    • Tact Audio RCS 2.2X
    Room correcting preamp, fully modded, provides DSP crossover and delay to integrate mains and subs. Also provides digital volume control and fine tuning of room correction.
    • Meridian G98DH
    Great transport with jitter-free output and wonderful remote control. Since this currently sits on a glass shelf, it rests atop three Solid Tech "Feet of Silence".
    • Acoustic Zen mc2 = zen
    Multiple S/PDIF and AES-EBU cables connecting transport to RCS and RCS to amplifiers.
    • Acoustic Zen quad amp speaker wire harness
    Quad-amp harness featuring 10' Hologram mk2 for the subwoofers; 8' "custom Hologram mk2 Double Barrel Shotgun" for main woofers (single crystal copper) and midranges (silver crystal copper/silver); and 8' Absolute for tweeters. Cables made with special reflective silver mesh jacket.
    • Michael Wolff carbon ribbon source & gain
    Silver/Oyaide source (transport, RCS) and gain (power conditioner, amps) power cables throughout
    • Running Springs Audio Haley
    All components plugged into RSA Haley power conditioner.
    • Acoustics First room treatment
    Approximately 120 sq ft of Acoustics First 2" Respond panels for absorption along the side and front walls, along with quarter round Geometrix bass traps in each corner. Overlying this is thick drapery fabric hung at a 2:1 ratio, with hardware concealed by crown molding.

Comments 23

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Wow! Heck of a system you have there, I can only imagine how freat it sounds. A friend in our audio club has much smaller Alon speakers but they sure do perform great. You have a classy looking room to round it all off....bravo!

chadnliz