Exposed on a regular basis..... [Archive]

otisredding

26th August 2004, 08:40 PM

We'll my system is exposed on a regular basis...... pretty much all you need to know is at the bottom of everything I post. ;) Only thing not listed is interconnects, which are all Monster M850i and I have 1.8m runs of VDH Clearwater speaker cable which bi-wire the Images.

Yes, it's a humble system by some people's standards but I think I have good 'synergy' (if we must use that horrid word?!) and I find it changes for the better (sonically speaking) about every year or so with 'upgrades'...... I'm on the hunt for a 'better' power amp next (maybe a large tube amp?) and then maybe a better cart. for the TT.....

:cool:

Ayn Marx

28th August 2004, 11:21 AM

Originally posted by otisredding
We'll my system is exposed on a regular basis...... pretty much all you need to know is at the bottom of everything I post.
For those uninitiated into the mysteries of audio nomanclature, your list can easily confuse. How about listing them as TT. CD-player, pre-amp etc. For anyone not familiar with the particular components, listed in such a manner, it's just letters & numbers that don't really mean anything unless they go to the trouble of Googling every one of them. I'm a fussy old bitch, I know, but it's the librarian in me..................

michael w

28th August 2004, 11:48 AM

Otis' signature line makes perfect sense as is.

A natural progression from source to amplification to speaker.

:D

otisredding

28th August 2004, 12:51 PM

So.

Just for you, my pedantic librarian friend........... :)

Turntable: Pro-ject 1.2 with Ortofon OM10 Cart. A very recent purchase. I will do better with analog source I'm sure, but this was the best I heard with what I could afford at the time.

CDP: NAD C541i. The most sound purchase I have ever made. A giant killing CDP that brings me HOURS of listening pleasure every time I sit down to listen.

Phono Stage: NAD PP2. Got this thrown in with the TT for a great deal. I have no phono inputs on my ...........

Preamp: Anthem Pre1L. I bought this valve pre-amp off a gent on the AudioNZ classifieds and promptly fell in love with it. It has 4 Mullard NOS tubes in it and it sounds LOVELY.

Power Amp: NAD C272. A hellishly good and grunty (if a bit hard sounding - tempered by the preamp I feel) power amp for well under NZ$1500.00 !! I defy anyone to find a better new power amp for the price....... (them's fightin' words!)

Speakers: Image 414. Intitially I had a hard time finding an amp to drive these that I could afford. They sing with the NAD driving them. I get the feeling I'll be keeping these for a while.

Interconnects: Monster M850i. Made a huge difference from the Belden cables I had soldered up myself.......LOL

Speaker Cable: Van den Hul Clearwater Bi-wired.

TA DA! :cool:

Ayn Marx

28th August 2004, 02:01 PM

Your pedantic librarian friend thanks you for the extra info...........

..................Good choice or cartridge as a starter. You could get Garrott Bros to re-build it when you're ready but I suspect an upgrade to the NAD PP2 phono pre amp's external power supply might be money better spent. Then cash splashed later on a new cartridge would be more justified.
The Anthem pre is sure rounding off the rough edges of the NAD power amp. I'd be hanging onto both of them for a long time. As the Actress said to the Bishop "Excellent combination of grunt and romance."Never encountered the Image 414 speakers. The brand doesn't get to Oz for reasons I can't grasp.

michael w

28th August 2004, 02:55 PM

The Ortofon OM10 is a budget MM, good but hardly worth Garrott-ing.

Perhaps you are thinking of the dearer MC10 ?

The little PP2 is actually quite capable and would handle any foreseeable future cartridge upgrade with ease.

otisredding

28th August 2004, 03:40 PM

Originally posted by michael w
The Ortofon OM10 is a budget MM, good but hardly worth Garrott-ing.

Heh heh ........ quite so.

I can get Grado products at a great staff rate through my day job so methinks I'll look in that direction when I upgrade the cart ........ mmmmm and a pair of their headphones wouldn't go amiss while I'm at it. ;)

otisredding

28th August 2004, 03:44 PM

Originally posted by Ayn Marx
Never encountered the Image 414 speakers. The brand doesn't get to Oz for reasons I can't grasp.

That's a shame. They make a great range of speakers that pretty much all punch above their price bracket IMHO.

Ayn Marx

28th August 2004, 04:39 PM

Originally posted by michael w
The Ortofon OM10 is a budget MM, good but hardly worth Garrott-ing.

Perhaps you are thinking of the dearer MC10 ?

The little PP2 is actually quite capable and would handle any foreseeable future cartridge upgrade with ease.

No, I wasn't thinking of the MC10. There are various levels of "Garrotting" from simple diamond replacement or upgrade right up to a complete re-build. Maybe the freigh costs from NZ wouldn't make sense tough ?

The PP2 would not do justice to a any state of the art cartridge if the power supply is left as is. Even with an up-grade of that portion improvements are obvious when swapping to something like a Boulder or Manley phono pre. Not that I'm suggesting such extravagance would make sense whilst keeping the Project TT.

otisredding

28th August 2004, 05:21 PM

Originally posted by Ayn Marx
Even with an up-grade of that portion improvements are obvious when swapping to something like a Boulder or Manley phono pre. Not that I'm suggesting such extravagance would make sense whilst keeping the Project TT.

Exactly. Methinks I'll have a better deck before I mod. or upgrade from the PP2. ;)

PartTimer

29th August 2004, 09:47 PM

Nice to see another system here similar to my own, it looks like a nicely balanced system. Interestinly, it sounds like you also chose output (speakers) first then found suitable amplification.

Now to the comment on C272 being best value for money. Whilst not "better" VFM, I compared a Rotel RB1070 to the NAD C270 (sim to C272) a year ago, $1,300 130w vs $1,500 150w, and found them BOTH excellent. Both had a characteristic house sound, the NAD slightly smoother, the Rotel slightly upfront. If I had gone ahead and bought one, it would have been the Rotel....

Regarding the 541i. I wish this was available when I purchased my Cambridge Audio. I heard one a couple of months ago, just as the 542 came out, and they are definitely fantastic machines for the money.

Regarding Image being excellent value, I couldnt agree more.

otisredding

29th August 2004, 10:50 PM

Originally posted by PartTimer
Nice to see another system here similar to my own, it looks like a nicely balanced system. Interestinly, it sounds like you also chose output (speakers) first then found suitable amplification.

Well not quite - I had a Rotel RA01 driving a pair of KEF Cresta 3s quite nicely but my wife bought me the Images for my birthday after hearing me rave about them when I heard them demonstrated earlier in the year. Then I HAD to find something to drive 'em better initially using the RA01 as a preamp until I heard the Anthem I was happy with that......

Now to the comment on C272 being best value for money. Whilst not "better" VFM, I compared a Rotel RB1070 to the NAD C270 (sim to C272) a year ago, $1,300 130w vs $1,500 150w, and found them BOTH excellent. Both had a characteristic house sound, the NAD slightly smoother, the Rotel slightly upfront. If I had gone ahead and bought one, it would have been the Rotel....

Yes, you obviously like the more forward sound of the Rotel an I prefer the warmth of the NAD - they're both good amps.

Regarding the 541i. I wish this was available when I purchased my Cambridge Audio. I heard one a couple of months ago, just as the 542 came out, and they are definitely fantastic machines for the money.

Yeah I hate to say it but I found the Cambridge a bit cold and uninvolving when I was trying a few CDPs in the price range - the 541i screamed BUY ME! I have not regretted it.

Regarding Image being excellent value, I couldnt agree more.

Oh yeah....... :D

I have a friend with a very similar system to yours and he LOVES it. He'll be amazed when he hears his B&Ws bi-amped. Interestingly enough he hated the sound of them bi-wired?

Boris

20th January 2005, 07:34 AM

... and now a nice Plinius M12 pre-amp complete with phono stage ;)

Sorry if I'm jumping in and 'stealing your thunder' Darren, but although it's kinda stupid I get quite excited myself when one of our regulars gets some new gear. I think you got a great deal with this one. The manual is in the archive section on the Plinius website, although I'm sure you found it there. To quote:

"...the Model M12 was initially designed to provide superb results from Phono source material..."

Should give your system a real lift, particularly when you track down a bargain Plini power amp ;)

I'm sure you'll give us a report when you're up and running :D

Cheers, B.

otisredding

20th January 2005, 04:40 PM

Originally posted by Boris
... and now a nice Plinius M12 pre-amp complete with phono stage ;)

Sorry if I'm jumping in and 'stealing your thunder' Darren, but although it's kinda stupid I get quite excited myself when one of our regulars gets some new gear. I think you got a great deal with this one. The manual is in the archive section on the Plinius website, although I'm sure you found it there. To quote:

"...the Model M12 was initially designed to provide superb results from Phono source material..."

Should give your system a real lift, particularly when you track down a bargain Plini power amp ;)

I'm sure you'll give us a report when you're up and running :D

Cheers, B.

Heh heh.... glad to see some people are SO interested in the long and winding upgrade path i have set out on again!?! LOL :D

Yep... a nice Plinius Amp is the next thing I'll be looking for but the NAD is still a great sounding amp for what I have outlayed so far...........

I will indeed pass on any impressions of my purchase with my system to anyone who can be bothered reading it...

watch this space......

:cool:

otisredding

20th January 2005, 05:40 PM

HOLY S**T!! One track from Tower Of Power's Bump City has me convinced!! This Plinius has shifted me up to an entirely new level!!! Wow - what's it going to sound like after the obligitory 72 hours warmup??!!!!!!! :) :) :) :) :) :)

markvetnz

20th January 2005, 07:30 PM

I posted a comment about your new baby on another thread - it really should have gone here. Sorry Ed - please feel free to move it.

Sounds like a great step forward - enjoy!

Boris

21st January 2005, 11:32 AM

Originally posted by otisredding
...Yep... a nice Plinius Amp is the next thing I'll be looking for but the NAD is still a great sounding amp for what I have outlayed so far...........

Yup, the NAD is a great amp.....of course you thought the Anthem was a great pre-amp too :D

Ain't the upgrade rollercoaster fun :)

Cheers, B.

otisredding

22nd February 2005, 10:54 AM

NEW CDP!

I just bought a Myryad Z110 and I LOVE it! The reviews I read (one guy said it sounded 'bloated'?? I hate to think how much wax buildup is in THOSE ears??!!) have been mixed to say the least - but within my system it is a VAST presentational and tonal improvement over the NAD C541i.

Way more and nicer tight bass and ever so slightly foward. The soundstage is wider and deeper.........

I A/Bed it with the C542 and it totally kicked it's ass in audtion.

I'm sure it will take some breaking in but I am already thoroughly enjoying it.

The NAD is for sale on Trade Me and AudioNZ classifieds if anyone is interested? (Hope it's ok to mention that, Michael?) :cool:

Boris

23rd February 2005, 02:34 PM

An interesting choice Darren. How did you come across it? Not an overly expensive player, a bit surprising that it gave the NAD such a thorough kicking!

Thought you'd become a born again vinyl spinner :D

Never know where the audio path is going to lead us next I suppose. Hope you haven't dipped into the Plinius power amp piggy bank ;)

Cheers, B.

otisredding

24th February 2005, 05:09 AM

Originally posted by Boris
An interesting choice Darren. How did you come across it? Not an overly expensive player, a bit surprising that it gave the NAD such a thorough kicking!

Thought you'd become a born again vinyl spinner :D

Never know where the audio path is going to lead us next I suppose. Hope you haven't dipped into the Plinius power amp piggy bank ;)

Cheers, B.

Heh heh........ yeah I know. It was a bit of an impulsive buy but it sounds SOOOOOOOOOOO good. I tried the Arcam CDP at the same price but it didn't really impress me at all.

Plinius Power Amp purcahse is probably dependant on one (old SA100 or such) popping up for under 2K on Trade Me or something - don't worry I'm still on track :D

And the 'born again vinyl spinner' in me will be looking to buy a nice new cart (oh, and a Project Perspective!!! YUM!) sometime in 2006 as well! ;)

otisredding

21st March 2005, 09:53 AM

Latest purchase is Van den Hul D102III between the CDP and preamp (0.5m) and also between the pre and power amp (0.75m).

Compared to the Monsters I was using the VdH sound way more natural to me. The bass is still there but it used to sound a bit bloated at times with the Monsters. The VdH cable also sounds less grainy in the treble department.

A slightly wider and deeper soundstage is also apparent.

I have kept the Monsters (850i) for a friends system we are putting together with bits and pieces bought on trade me. I paid huge money for the 850is when I bought 'em (about twice what i paid for the VdH!!??!) but i got the VdHs real cheap on the net....... brick and mortar retailers can't win against these internet prices. Ok, so I probably wouldn't buy an amp or CDP unheard and unseen, but cables at these prices are a no brainer....

A definite upgrade of my system for not much.

:cool:

otisredding

14th June 2005, 07:00 PM

Yay! I have upgraded to an Ortofon OM20S Cartridge and the benefits are manifest and rather large for a relatively minor outlay...... Better and tighter bottom end and WAY better channel separartion being the most obvious immediate effects.

The setup was a breeze too.... love it!

:)

Ivors Bitch

14th June 2005, 08:02 PM

Gdday Otis

Im not sure from reading whether you are using vdh clearwater speaker cable or not. If so, is it one of their hyperlitz cables? I have no experience with these, but have heard that they are very idiosyncratic, well, because they are hyperlitz in design.

Well done with the ortofon, too.

otisredding

14th June 2005, 08:46 PM

Originally posted by Ivors Bitch
Gdday Otis

Im not sure from reading whether you are using vdh clearwater speaker cable or not. If so, is it one of their hyperlitz cables? I have no experience with these, but have heard that they are very idiosyncratic, well, because they are hyperlitz in design.

Well done with the ortofon, too.

I ditched the Van den Hul speaker cable some time ago in favour of QED Silver Anniversary which is nowhere near as 'squarky' as the VdH was......... it sounds a bit more balanced and natural.... :)

Michael Jones

14th June 2005, 09:47 PM

Originally posted by otisredding
Yay! I have upgraded to an Ortofon OM20S Cartridge
Was this by replacing the stylus?

and the benefits are manifest and rather large for a relatively minor outlay...... Better and tighter bottom end and WAY better channel separartion being the most obvious immediate effects.
I've often wondered just what (and how much) difference there was between members of the same cartridge family.

PartTimer

14th June 2005, 11:06 PM

Micahel, easiest way to test the difference, is reborrow the Rega P5, and lend it to me for a month. Oh yeah, also lend me the Bias, Super Bias, Elys, Super Elys, and Elite cartridges will ya? Actually, make it a P9 please.

Seriously though, I heard a reasonable difference between Bias and Super Bias on a P2 the other week...

otisredding

14th June 2005, 11:10 PM

Originally posted by AudioEnz
Was this by replacing the stylus?

[b]
I've often wondered just what (and how much) difference there was between members of the same cartridge family.

Hi Michael.

Yeah I bought the om20 stylus ..... big diff in channel sep. BIG improvement. I will try the om30 when finance allow but the Images are crying out for the upgrade right now....... ;)

PartTimer

14th June 2005, 11:20 PM

Gidday Otis - whens ya next album coming out?
Always interesting to see how your stereo is developing, it used to be a wee nocth below mine, but is now a wee notch above. Nice stuff. Have noticed with mine that my power amp is my weak link.....my speakers are fine. So.....curious as to what you are thinking to replace the 414's with. Have you seen the light -B&W 7 series??? Personally, I sometimes kick myself I paid so much for my 604's when I could have bought the Images...

otisredding

15th June 2005, 07:17 AM

Originally posted by PartTimer
Gidday Otis - whens ya next album coming out?
Always interesting to see how your stereo is developing, it used to be a wee nocth below mine, but is now a wee notch above. Nice stuff. Have noticed with mine that my power amp is my weak link.....my speakers are fine. So.....curious as to what you are thinking to replace the 414's with. Have you seen the light -B&W 7 series??? Personally, I sometimes kick myself I paid so much for my 604's when I could have bought the Images...

Hi.

We're waiting on a good 'release window' for the album and working on artwork and a video or two in the meantime. I think we may be waiting until Sept/Oct at this stage.

I'm keeping the 414s - just sending 'em up to Image for the Mk2 upgrade modification...... they are amazing speakers, they really are. I was briefly tempted by a pair of ProAc Studio 125s on a run out deal but I was convinced by a wise old soul that the Images were a better prospect so i didin't even bother auditioning them.

:)

otisredding

13th July 2005, 07:44 AM

Well I finally have a second 'system' in the guise of a fully functional home studio. :)

Acer 2.8GB with 1GB ram, 80gb HDD, DVD RW.
ProTools LE with MBox 24/96 interface / Focusrite Mic preamps.
2 x Rode NT1a Condenser Mics
Behringer 2031A Truth Powered Monitors

It sounds GREAT! And it means lots of tracking and demoing has already started for the next album!!! Yay!

Now to get the one in the can out on the street!

Michael Jones

13th July 2005, 08:31 AM

You'll quickly need a bigger hard drive for your high-res multi-tracks!

Hooster

6th August 2005, 10:18 PM

Power Amp: NAD C272. A hellishly good and grunty (if a bit hard sounding - tempered by the preamp I feel) power amp for well under NZ$1500.00 !! I defy anyone to find a better new power amp for the price....... (them's fightin' words!)

eAR 202. It's magic.

Callum

8th August 2005, 09:24 AM

Originally posted by Hooster
NAD C272. I defy anyone to find a better new power amp for the price....... (them's fightin' words!)

Hi Hooster,

It's possible you could find a Perreaux E160 power amp on a run-out special for not much more than that price. As an owner of amplifiers from both companies, I'd come out swinging for the Perreaux over the NAD any day, punk. Y'wanna go?

Callum

Hooster

8th August 2005, 10:49 AM

Oops... I was actually quoting otis there but I do not seem to have done it correctly.

Callum

8th August 2005, 11:03 AM

Oh. So you were.

Where's Otis then? C'mon Otis, step outside.

otisredding

19th August 2005, 07:29 PM

Um...... I have fallen in love. A friend said I might like to hear my Images with his Musical Fidelity A3.2 Integrated. I took him up on the offer of a listen and ...... CRIKEY! I've had his amp for a week now..............he wants it back!!!!!!!!!

SOOOOOO.... I have located a run out special on one and I will be buying it next week. Sold the M12P on Trade Me (lol, took about ten minutes at one AM! to go for 1K buy now!!??!) selling the NAD at the mo' on TM too - I can't believe how much better the bass behaves - the 414 lumpiness is nowhere near as bad twith this amp but the bass is still there in all respects .... and YAY! a remote control (albeit a slightly annoyingly over featured one)!

I love the simplicity and the lack of clutter in the design of this little beauty...

Probably a sideways step???? I don't know..... all I know is it sounds nothing short of incredible with the majority of the music I listen to.

BIG SMILES! :D

michael w

19th August 2005, 07:57 PM

So all is revealed !

And to think some folks thought you had your eyes on the old Plinius SA50 off Trademe...

;)

otisredding

19th August 2005, 09:09 PM

Heh heh! I WAS actually tempted to check it out before I bought the MF but the 3.2 just sounds SOOO good with my system. And it's so much more convenient than getting up and setting the right volume for each album/CD............ lazy huh. ;)

michael w

19th August 2005, 09:55 PM

I know the feeling !

Once used to a good remote control it's hard to go back to manual.

KevinO

20th August 2005, 10:39 AM

Probably a sideways step???? I don't know..... all I know is it sounds nothing short of incredible with the majority of the music I listen to.

BIG SMILES! :D

Sounds more like a big step forwards to me , Otis. Congrats.
Cheers,
Kevin

M ZXR

21st August 2005, 12:03 PM

Good one Darren,
Now imagine 'going the whole hog' and upgrading the crossovers in the 414's. Sublime.
Regards

otisredding

21st August 2005, 12:53 PM

Originally posted by M ZXR
Good one Darren,
Now imagine 'going the whole hog' and upgrading the crossovers in the 414's. Sublime.
Regards

The only thing stopping me having the work done is fear of courier damage........ call me paranoid but I see what couriers do to stuff on a daily basis.

:(

otisredding

24th August 2005, 06:34 PM

Big ups in the house to da' boys at The Listening Post in CHCH! My new amp rules!!!! That was a great deal you did for me - thanks Crighton and Dennis!

Also thanks to my mate Al for letting me demo HIS A3.2 and having the patience while I pissed about making my mind up and ABing my exisiting rig etc. Beer on the way mate.

I believe I now have a soundstage truly worthy of the name.

Loving it..... :D

Craig F

24th August 2005, 07:17 PM

Originally posted by otisredding
I believe I now have a soundstage truly worthy of the name.

I still miss the soundstage that the MF pre/power gave me. To me the current(ish) MF stuff doesn't draw attention to any one aspect of the music, it just lets it flow. Enjoy.

Cheers,

Craig.

otisredding

24th August 2005, 10:32 PM

Thanks Craig.

Mate, that new integrated of yours must be something TRULY special to pip the A3 pre-power combination..... if the A3.2 integrated is anything to go by the pre-power must be amazing?

:)

Callum

25th August 2005, 09:34 AM

Crickey Otis, the rate of evolution of your system is almost bacterial. Good stuff.

You mentioned Fear Of Courier as a reason to hold off on the 414 upgrade? Image delivers speakers all over NZ by courier on a daily basis. If they got wrecked all the time, the packaging would be at fault, not the courier, because its common knowledge that they can be less than delicate - especially with heavier packages.

There has been some very good feedback from people who've had the upgrade done. You know you want to....

Cheers,

Callum

Ivors Bitch

25th August 2005, 11:47 AM

Christ Callum, youre like a drug dealer to the poor man.

:D

Callum

25th August 2005, 04:57 PM

Originally posted by Ivors Bitch
Christ Callum, youre like a drug dealer to the poor man.

Why thank you. Taking too much of my own advice is making me poor as well.

invisiblehand1

30th August 2005, 04:17 PM

hmm, I'd be careful Otis.

As you know, the Image packaging is quite flimsy. that set you have is the second set i got - the first had the box punctured by the courier and a mark/dent on the veneer in a rather small but prominent location on the front. The boxes are unwieldy and really a bit too narrow - the key padding is only at the top and bottom.

otisredding

30th August 2005, 06:35 PM

Originally posted by invisiblehand1
hmm, I'd be careful Otis.

As you know, the Image packaging is quite flimsy. that set you have is the second set i got - the first had the box punctured by the courier and a mark/dent on the veneer in a rather small but prominent location on the front. The boxes are unwieldy and really a bit too narrow - the key padding is only at the top and bottom.

yeah I know mate....... bloody couriers.

I can package 'em extra well when I get my courage up...

:-)

Sometimes I do wish I had some nice easy to move stand mounted jobs........

;)

Callum

31st August 2005, 10:02 AM

Originally posted by invisiblehand1
..that set you have is the second set i got - the first had the box punctured by the courier and a mark/dent on the veneer in a rather small but prominent location on the front.

Ahem. Lucky I didn't bring my lunch today. I've got some words to eat instead.

Maybe a trip to Auckland for a few days would be easier Otis? Not being pushy - just a suggestion. Besides, its always good to remind yourself how lucky you are to live elsewhere. Boom boom.

Callum

Boris

22nd September 2005, 04:02 PM

Originally posted by otisredding
Big ups in the house to da' boys at The Listening Post in CHCH! My new amp rules!!!! That was a great deal you did for me - thanks Crighton and Dennis!

I see they have the matching A-3.2 CD 2nd hand for $1500 if you're interested Darren. I guess not since you just bought a new player, but thought I'd mention it.

Cheers,

B.

otisredding

22nd September 2005, 06:39 PM

Originally posted by Boris
I see they have the matching A-3.2 CD 2nd hand for $1500 if you're interested Darren. I guess not since you just bought a new player, but thought I'd mention it.

Cheers,

B.

Yes, and they were on the phone to me straight away too..... good salesman that Crighton. ;)

Can't afford it right now....... I'd want to audition one first anyway and not so easy from CHCH......

otisredding

15th December 2005, 07:50 PM

It's not exactly news around here and half of you are watching me sell my Images on Trade Me anyway, BUT....

I have purchased a pair of Proac Studio 125s.

I love them.

I hear more detail, a bigger depth to the soundstage, and funnily enough fewer bass nasties than I experienced in my room with the 414s...

I got a great deal too so I'm very happy.

:cool:

Craig F

15th December 2005, 09:18 PM

I've never heard ProAc's but I've seen them a few times and the fit and finish has always impressed. That's a mighty nice system you've got there.

Cheers,

Craig.

P.S. How do they squeeze 30hz out of one 6.5inch driver?

otisredding

16th December 2005, 05:10 AM

Originally posted by Craig F
I've never heard ProAc's but I've seen them a few times and the fit and finish has always impressed. That's a mighty nice system you've got there.

Cheers,

Craig.

P.S. How do they squeeze 30hz out of one 6.5inch driver?

Thanks Craig, I'm pretty happy with it all right now...

30hz out of one 6.5 in driver? White man magic? ;)

heh heh

Owen Y

16th December 2005, 05:53 PM

Originally posted by Craig F
P.S. How do they squeeze 30hz out of one 6.5inch driver? Well one way is to Horn load it, the way that Paul Voigt did it 70yrs ago with his plywood Cinema Horn. His driver design was to become what enthusiasts know today as the Lowther, a 16.2cm dia paper cone driver.... I'm hoping to finish a Lowther basshorn this summer!
Regards, Owen

Callum

21st December 2005, 06:25 AM

Originally posted by otisredding
...and funnily enough fewer bass nasties than I experienced in my room with the 414s...

Half the woofer real estate, half the room mode problems?

I got a great deal too so I'm very happy.

Nice. Merry Xmas.

otisredding

21st December 2005, 05:30 PM

not sure it's as simple as one less woofer so less room problems..... just think they're voiced differently.. there's still ample bass it's just tighter and the bass transients seem faster and tighter.

have a nice xmas...

:)

otisredding

21st July 2006, 12:24 PM

My new Project 2Xperience TT is arriving next week and I can hardly wait.....

:)

I'll post a few observations and pics when I get a chance - and after a couple of sleepless listening sessions no doubt.

:cool:

otisredding

24th July 2006, 06:09 PM

I've just ordered a 25kg black granite slab to serve as platform for my new TT.

BRING ON THE BLOODY DECK! I can't wait!!!!!

:o

Craig F

24th July 2006, 06:16 PM

I've just ordered a 25kg black granite slab to serve as platform for my new TT.

Mate, kill 2 birds with one stone and have it inscribed. After you go it could serve as your headstone. :D

Cheers,

Craig.

otisredding

24th July 2006, 06:19 PM

Mate, kill 2 birds with one stone and have it inscribed. After you go it could serve as your headstone. :D

Cheers,

Craig.

Heh heh.... brilliant.

"Here lies Darren Watson. (b.1966 -d.2006 of audiophillia nervosa)"

;)

michael w

24th July 2006, 07:41 PM

What are you going to stick that big hunka rock on ?

maxgate

25th July 2006, 04:12 PM

What are you going to stick that big hunka rock on ?

Who said that turntable was 'to die for'? Craig is right. After Darren's partner discovers how much the audio upgrade has cost this stone will rest on top of his coffin. The stereo, however, will be sold to defray her legal expenses as she defends a murder charge. And the tone-deaf judge will order security to remove me from the public gallery after I croon: "Al Bowlly's in Heaven..."

otisredding

25th July 2006, 10:52 PM

No partner......... NO ISSUES!:)

Mevunky

26th July 2006, 12:25 AM

No partner......... NO ISSUES!:)

I know some people...

They always get the job done right. Most of the time...

otisredding

26th July 2006, 07:56 AM

I know some people...

They always get the job done right. Most of the time...

SICK! :eek:

otisredding

28th July 2006, 07:42 PM

:) :) :)

O H M Y G O D ! ! !

First record on - new TT.....

W O W!

more later

listening....

:D

michael w

28th July 2006, 08:16 PM

Pictures or it didn't happen

:D

Mevunky

28th July 2006, 08:28 PM

Gotta love the sound of new. Im loving my new CA Azur 640c a lot, magical stuff.

otisredding

28th July 2006, 08:29 PM

Pictures or it didn't happen

:D

here you go then........ granite arrives in a couple of weeks. should help tighten it up even more.

It sounds SOOOOOOOOOOO damned good.

I can't believe I was putting up with the 1.2 for so long.

WOW

:)

Mevunky

28th July 2006, 08:33 PM

Now that I see it, I realize ive heard this table a few times. It rawks :D then again the system I was hearing it on was awesome, but so is yours. Vinyl provides so much nostalgia its just wow.

otisredding

28th July 2006, 08:50 PM

Gotta love the sound of new. Im loving my new CA Azur 640c a lot, magical stuff.

Congrats on that mate. A real nice player for the buck, eh....

Nice stuff. :)

KevinO

28th July 2006, 10:45 PM

otisredding

28th July 2006, 10:49 PM

Cool, Darren. That's a sweet sounding table(not to mention gorgeous looking).Congrats !
Are you just going to put the acrylic on the granite base or is there going to be a layer in between them?
Cheers,
Kevin

Hi mate.

I think I'll just try a few things and see what sounds best. Should be fun tweaking if nothing else....

Think I'll pass on the Ella & Louie dude. It's a bit too noisey for me. But i will take the Ellington/Armstrong if you'll do that for similar (or less? - hey I'm real poor after this purchase) ;) Thanks so much for letting me check 'em out.

I'll try to rmemeber to take it back to the shop and you can pick up anytime.

:)

michael w

29th July 2006, 12:13 AM

otisredding

29th July 2006, 12:26 AM

Table looks good.

Have fun hefting 25kg of granite around.

;)

You do know granite resonates don't you ?

Nowadays it's not usually used in it's natural state for audio.

Described as being fickle like a woman, granite is best used in conjunction with something else to form a sandwich.

:D

LOL, very droll.

It can't resonate worse than a little thin piece of mdf? Doubt it, or they'd make guitar soundboards out of it...... ;) (Really mate, what DOESN'T resonate to some degree or another?) :rolleyes: Surely it's a matter of finding a combination that resonates in a way that works in harmony with said piece of equipment. I'm hoping the weight will improve the stability of the rack as I am on a sprung floor. i KNOW I should use a wall mount but I rent and can't be assed dealing with my landlord....

I'm going to experiement with different materials for the meat in the 'sandwich' between the mdf board & the granite when I get some serious time and before I make anything permanent or get busy with adhesives etc... :)

Right now the deck sounds SOOOOOOOOOOO good anyway that I am extra happy and not at all concerned about anything....

michael w

29th July 2006, 01:06 AM

Of course everything resonates, unfortunately for granite it's resonances are right in the audio range...

:p

Resonation in harmony ?
It all depends...

Extra stability is possible if your rack isn't too high.

Meanwhile, enjoy the honeymoon.

;)

Then experiment, experiment.

:D

otisredding

29th July 2006, 08:22 AM

otisredding

29th July 2006, 08:29 AM

Of course everything resonates, unfortunately for granite it's resonances are right in the audio range...

Really? Somewhere between 20Hz and 20kHz? Astounding?!!?? :p

Owen Y

29th July 2006, 08:44 AM

The method & spacings of supports will affect the resonant freq & amplitude.

So, there is plenty of scope there for adjustment & tuning.
Owen

otisredding

29th July 2006, 09:12 AM

The method & spacings of supports will affect the resonant freq & amplitude.

So, there is plenty of scope there for adjustment & tuning.
Owen

That's what I figured in not so many words... Cheers :)

Owen Y

29th July 2006, 09:24 AM

I've used Acrylic (20mm laminated) for an Armboard before, & it sounds sl bright & brittle. But you've also got wood there too, which is warmer in tone. So why not throw some stone (Granite) into the mix?
;)

Owen

maxgate

29th July 2006, 11:11 AM

To simplify: black granite comprises three primary minerals, each with differing crystalline and therefore resonance characteristics. Resonance does not transfer readily between respective mineral structures and, happily, the three minerals are randomly oriented within granite. This makes it comparatively inert and therefore a good isolator.

I settled on a hefty piece atop Mod Squad feet for my main turntable shelf after trying both glass (a sonic disaster) and MDF (better than expected) in my Sound Creations rack. Yes, a borrowed Townsend Seismic Sink was better again; so much so that I will buy one as and when. But that black slab ain't bad.

michael w

29th July 2006, 01:11 PM

It was the Mod Squad feet and perhaps the choice of (solid ?) black granite, red is also supposed to be OK.

;)

As stated earlier;

Granite by itself = :confused:

Granite + something else = :)

It's no coincidence that audio manfacturers have moved away from natural materials like granite to synthetic subsitutes.

There's lots of stony commentary and experimentation on sites like Audio Asylum.

:D

otisredding

29th July 2006, 10:38 PM

maxgate

30th July 2006, 06:42 PM

Here is the outcome of winter nights given over to:
(a) wine
(b) women
(c) song

- Who said that men can't multi-task?

The outsize Villa Bellagio sits on the black granite;
the black granite sits on the Mod Squad feet;
the Mod Squad feet sit on the main legs of the rack;
the rack sits on the concrete floor;
the concrete floor sits on the cold earth;
the cold earth sits on the colder body of the souless digital zealot.

As Dogberry says to Verges: "Come, let them be opinioned."

michael w

30th July 2006, 09:51 PM

Nice pullback progression of photos.

Three or four Tip Toes ?

Get yee speakers away from the wall man !

:D

Owen Y

2nd August 2006, 02:05 PM

Judging from the pics presented, everyone here seems to be SO...tidy :eek:

I won't be showing you my listening room :o

Owen

Ilikecrumpets

2nd August 2006, 05:33 PM

Maxgate, me old cobber - you need to audition the rather lovely Bluenote Stibbert Tube CD player, I had it at home for a couple of weeks and almost cried when I (reluctantly) had to return it. Would also look lovely in tandem with your delicious Bellagio. You are quite THE connoisseur, aren't you?!

Gaz:)

conan

5th August 2006, 05:12 PM

I'm using the triple acrylic block idea for turntable isolation. Under the last sheet is a sheet of aluminium (1.7mm approx will do) - very beneficial. What about a block of marble as the final layer under the turntable ?

LHH

5th August 2006, 05:43 PM

A slab of marble would not be a good idea, as unlike granite marble has only one major mineral constituent [Calcite] and has a "very" regular crystal structure. Thus it will transfer vibration readily.:(

otisredding

5th August 2006, 07:01 PM

Will you'all please stop arguing on my thread!

:mad:

;)

LHH

6th August 2006, 08:50 AM

LOL :p

Fair enough!

How about a updated pic of your setup to break the mood... ;)

...and by the way, what does it sound like after a week of settling in? I assume fantastic...

otisredding

6th August 2006, 09:18 AM

LOL :p

Fair enough!

How about a updated pic of your setup to break the mood... ;)

...and by the way, what does it sound like after a week of settling in? I assume fantastic...

Unfortunately mein Kamera ist kaput! :(

I am loving the 2Xperience. Long, long listening sessions have been going down, which is proof in itself really that it is doing the business.

I am smiling a lot about the difference in bass extension, and the mysteriously quiet background on LPs that used to be a lot noisier... :)

I've bought 25 new LPs in the last week. Spending food money on records.:o

'nuff said! ;)

KevinO

7th August 2006, 08:25 AM

I've bought 25 new LPs in the last week. Spending food money on records.:o

A quiet week then , dude?Still, better than spending record money on food ;)
Cheers,
Kevin

otisredding

9th August 2006, 10:01 PM

OK.

I got my project speedbox today and as reported elsewhere I can confirm that this little box makes a HUGE difference to my Turntable. The bass is UN-fricking-Believable! The soundstage is more realistic and the reverbs etc much clearer.

:)

otisredding

9th August 2006, 10:17 PM

So this would make the project Debut with the speedbox built in combo very much worth it?

How has the speedbox make such a difference? I assumed it was just for playing the other speeds?

It tidies up the power that the turntable receives (ie. delivers a clean sine wave to the power input) and locks the 33&1/3 TIGHT.

My guess is it's funstioning much like a power conditioner in many ways? :cool:

It sounds great. And it DOES make changing speed easier.

I'm sure the Debut is fine for the buck but, man I gotta say I'm glad i spent the extra on the 2Xperience vs. my old 1.2... :)

Owen Y

15th August 2006, 12:48 PM

Speaking of clean sinewaves to drive your TT DC motor, this guy does it quite well.....

http://www.altmann.haan.de/turntable/ (scroll down for the motor psu)

Oh, and you gotta like his TT main bearing design too ;)

Enjoy,
Owen

otisredding

15th August 2006, 01:01 PM

Boris

15th August 2006, 01:04 PM

5,273 views and counting....

Exposed on a regular basis.... is right :D

B.

Colin^

15th August 2006, 02:02 PM

otisredding

15th August 2006, 05:41 PM

So how is the Turntable going?

I used to do all records... a long time ago and wouldn't mind dipping my toes back in. I don't wan't fiddly to setup, and will need a phono stage. But you turntable llloks the bomb and sounds good from all reports.

Do you listen to it more than CD's?

Um..... YES!

I am in the sick and backwards process of replacing all my Elvis Costello CDs with the original LPs.... among others. :eek:

The rock and pop stuff especially has reminded me how much I love it on vinyl.

The new TT is a TOTAL JOY!

I heartily recommend this model. Unless you can afford to get something REALLY tricked out I don't see why this deck (ok, probably with a nicer MC cartridge) wouldn't last a lifetime.

:)

Colin^

15th August 2006, 06:55 PM

I sure liked the sound of my old system based around LPS. :D

And most of what I listen to today, is back catalogue stuff anyway. But could be costly to replace a growing 60's, 70's and 80's CD collection, with LPs. However.... My interest is growing, I just want to sort some new speakers and I think a decent TT and phono stage is on the cards. :)

otisredding

15th August 2006, 07:35 PM

otisredding

12th July 2007, 08:36 AM

So I've had a while now to get used to my new cartridge, and I was a wee bit concerned I would start to take it for granted.... I haven't . Every record I thought I knew is delivering up subtle things I never heard before but, more importantly to me, I think everything just sounds more 'there'. :)

I can heartily recommend the Blue Point Special with a Project 2Xperience although it would pay to source the lighter counterweight as the stock one is at the very end of the arm and extremely easy to move out of balance at that point. It's working fine for me but I am having to check the tracking weight every day. It sounds best at about 1.9g with my setup. I have ordered the alternate counterweight and I'll let y'all know what difference it makes as far as stable tracking weight is concerned.

I find myself smiling a lot and I haven't touched the CDP this week at all. :)

Nuff' said. ;) :)

Michael Jones

12th July 2007, 08:43 AM

I find myself smiling a lot and I haven't touched the CDP this week at all. :)

Sounds as if you're working on a justification for spending more money on a Cd player! :D

Ayou2

12th July 2007, 04:00 PM

Sounds as if you're working on a justification for spending more money on a Cd player! :D

Otis have to sell ALOT of guitars at his shop, to buy a CDP that can sound as good as a TT set-up thats on song :cool:

otisredding

12th July 2007, 04:13 PM

Otis have to sell ALOT of guitars at his shop, to buy a CDP that can sound as good as a TT set-up thats on song :cool:

Exactly!:cool:

I'm MORE than happy.

Mike Crump

15th July 2007, 05:15 PM

I can believe the Blue Point Special is a great sounding cartridge, having owned the standard Blue Point which I liked a lot. The problem for me with the BPS is the lack of cartridge body to protect the long cantilever. If you believe others comments on the internet many people have stuffed their BPS because of the exposed design of this cartridge.

otisredding

15th July 2007, 05:33 PM

otisredding

21st August 2007, 10:27 PM

Just got a pair of Van den Hul D-501 Hybrid ICs for the TT. Lovely.... smooth and yet detailed. Bigger and tighter bottom end. A nice bargain. :)

beeman

23rd August 2007, 10:23 AM

Hey Otis - where did you get the Van den Hul D-501. I had one on my previous LP12/Koetsu and really liked it and am wondering if it would improve my Project RPM9/Dynavector x 20. I have a problem hum which I suspect is cable related but also think the project cable isn't that flash – cheers

otisredding

23rd August 2007, 10:47 AM