i actually switched sockets for the power supply (because i was switching between the st70 and the auricle). that small little change made all the difference. it is now clear that it far surpasses the st70. the st70 is still a lot of fun, and with the mod has lots off bass, and is very "bouncy" in the energy it gives the music! however, the auricle is much more truth full and yet smooth and lush.
the cables do make a difference though... i was trying some omiga audio outlander speaker cables, which just gave more clarity and detail, without any grain or harshness, just fantastic. i am also using a nordost shiva power cable which was a big improvement to the sound, jsut seem to bring everything into focus.
now i just want to get some sort of mains filter as i live in london, with all of it's noise and cr*p on the mains.
i just wonder what the vac models further up the range sound like!!??

blakeaudio August 13, 2004 15:45

I love the Auricle.The el34 is my favorite tube. One of the best midranges I have heard.I use it in triode mode with the stock tubes. I am using Cardas golden reference speaker cable with and It is the perfect combination. Detailed and revealing, yet very musical.The amp has such a lush musical sound of it's own that it does'nt need much tweaking with cabling.

rackdoctor August 08, 2004 21:24

i'd love to hear your thoughts on the auricle. i have one myself, but i'm still trying to sort out all my cabling, which is leaving me a little undecided at the moment.

i recently switched back to a my trusty dynaco st70, with the wellbourne labs rebuild and was amazed at it's performance. i feel that it must be that i'm not getting the most out of my vac, for it to be run so close by the st70 (modded or not!) anyway, thoughts would be appreciated. thanks.

blakeaudio August 03, 2004 10:07

Hi,
What's your experience with the Shunyata Diamondback power cord? Are you using it with digital or analog sources, or with your pre or power amp? What have you compared it to? I'm considering wiring my system with Diamondbacks as a cost-effective way to establish a performance baseline, since I've spent all my $$$ on components and left nothing for wires. (Check out my virtual system if you like.) I figure I can always upgrade later if necessary. Thanks.

rzangpo2 July 14, 2004 20:46

System edited: I finally found the ultimate pre-amp. The Messenger sound is beyond description. Musical, revealing, natural,lush, accurate, elegant.....perfect!

rackdoctor May 31, 2004 09:45

THANKS. THE M3 IS INCREDIBLE.FOR THE MONEY IT'S HARD TO GET BETTER.I HAVE HEARD THE DAC AND IT IS AMAZING.ALTHOUGH, I AM NOT MUCH OF CD GUY.JUST VINYL.I TRY AN OFFER PNEUMATIC ASSITANCE TO WOMEN, BUT THE RACK REFERS TO MY GUITAR RIG. I AM A MUSICIAN. WWW.DAVIDPHILLIPSMUSIC.COM

rackdoctor April 28, 2004 06:57

Looks like a very nice combination. Have you ever considered an Audio Note DAC?
What do you think of the M3?

Also, I can't reisit asking about your moniker: Repairer of audio support systems? Or, giver of pneumatic assistance to women?

brooksl April 27, 2004 11:45