AudioCircle

Industry Circles => ModWright Instruments (MWI) => Topic started by: modwright on 23 Sep 2016, 12:02 am

Title: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 23 Sep 2016, 12:02 am
I am getting a new product in tomorrow that will be the new mod candidate.

CD/SACD, digital in AND out, allow for operation as player AND DAC, including Hi-Rez, DSD1 and DSD2!

More threads below.

The fun begins tomorrow!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: SoCalWJS on 23 Sep 2016, 12:23 am
The new 4K Oppo?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 23 Sep 2016, 12:55 am
The new 4K Oppo?

https://www.oppodigital.com/uhd/

:scratch:

Best,

Anand.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: audio.bill on 23 Sep 2016, 01:37 am
See more on this in the following thread: http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=145646 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=145646)
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 23 Sep 2016, 03:35 pm
No, I am told that the new 4K Oppo will not be available until Q1, 2017.

Information first leaked about this unit in Dec. of 2015, pending release in early 2016.  Many hoped to see it at CES 2016.
I then heard that it would be available by summer.
I then heard that it would be available in the fall.

Now I am told it will be available in early 2017.

I expect that Oppo wants to be sure that they have the 4K video worked OUT!  I don't blame them.

This project that I am working on is a dedicated audio player, no video, that offers the same flexibility of the Oppo (Player, Transport, DAC capability).

It is actually a bit cheaper than the Oppo and is well reviewed and rated.

I like to have more than one option for our customers and this looks to be  a great product!

Thanks,

Dan Wright
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Ric Schultz on 24 Sep 2016, 09:08 pm
The first 4K Oppo will be a 103 based unit as you can see from the pics.  $500? and probably no good DACs or power supplies.  The one equivalent to the 105 won't be available till even later 2017.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 26 Sep 2016, 05:39 pm
Yes, that is my understanding also.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: smargo on 28 Sep 2016, 05:28 pm
I am getting a new product in tomorrow that will be the new mod candidate.

CD/SACD, digital in AND out, allow for operation as player AND DAC, including Hi-Rez, DSD1 and DSD2!

More threads below.

The fun begins tomorrow!!!

so ill bite - what is the mod and unit?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 28 Sep 2016, 05:47 pm
I am looking at the service manual of the Marantz SA8005 right now as I listen to it break in.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 28 Sep 2016, 07:50 pm
Looking over the service manual, what I see that is IMPRESSIVE, is VERY good isolation between all USB/Digital input and output processing and the audio circuitry.  Every single clock, data and signal path is 'decoupled' to isolate from noise.

Power supplies are well engineered and stock analog stage is all discrete.

I am looking at the following:


1) How and where to improve upon the existing supplies.
2) Investigate the benefit of master clock upgrade.
3) Look at improving power quality to DAC and digital circuits, possibly with addition of dedicated additional regulation.
4) Options for improvements to the analog stage, ranging from improvement to outright replacement via our own discrete SS circuit or tube circuitry.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: rbbert on 29 Sep 2016, 02:32 am
No DVD-A or Bluray Audio, unfortunately
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Sep 2016, 03:49 pm
That is true, this is an audio only player.  Blu-Ray and DVD-A typically involve video.

I wanted to offer a player for those who want a dedicated audio only player without video.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: bummrush on 29 Sep 2016, 04:12 pm
Very nice
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: rbbert on 29 Sep 2016, 04:29 pm
That is true, this is an audio only player.  Blu-Ray and DVD-A typically involve video.

I wanted to offer a player for those who want a dedicated audio only player without video.

Dan
But they certainly don't have to; there are Bluray Audio (only) discs (I have several) and most DVD-A's have only incidental, still video content.  PSAudio's new audio-only transport recognizes this, as does MSB's Universal Transport (which has been around for awhile); both play audio from all available disc sources.  Not criticizing, just pointing out that if it is possible to modify a universal disc player rather than just SACD/CD, there would likely be a bigger market.  I'm pretty sure Marantz has at least one universal player, not sure what it costs.  I think Yamaha and Pioneer also make universal players.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Sep 2016, 04:48 pm
Good point and understood.  The Oppo has always been my go-to for Universal Player. However, it is also a video player.

We used to modify the Sony XA-5400ES - still do in fact, but it is out of production.  It is a FANTASTIC audio only player, is CD/SACD only and has no digital input.  It is the fact that the Marantz offers dig. in/out (including DSD via USB) and is a great disc player is why I chose it.

I believe that Marantz makes a better player than Yamaha or Pioneer. Aside from Sony and Oppo, Marantz is one of the few that I would invest my time in.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: paul79 on 29 Sep 2016, 08:41 pm
Very excellent choice! Will this be obtainable in silver in the US? I sure hope so......
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Sep 2016, 08:46 pm
That I am not sure about.

I am listening to a very well recorded CD right now in stock form after about a week of burn in and I have to say, it is a GREAT player!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: SoCalWJS on 29 Sep 2016, 10:03 pm
That I am not sure about.

I am listening to a very well recorded CD right now in stock form after about a week of burn in and I have to say, it is a GREAT player!

Dan
I hope this isn't stirring the pot too much....

What would you say the comparison is between the 2 out-of-box? (Marantz vs Oppo 105) - which one do you prefer?

Do you think there will be a "real" difference between the Marantz and the Oppo after your Mods?

I still hope to someday replace my Oppo 95 and had always planned on the ModWright 105D with all the bells and whistles, but when I heard about the 4K Oppo rumors, I started wondering. I will keep my eye on this. I currently have been spinning most of my Redbook on my old Sony S7700. Easier to listen to (fatigue) than the Oppo on many discs for some reason.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Sep 2016, 10:26 pm
To be honest, I do not have a stock Oppo 105 on hand right now to compare.  I do believe however, that based on the sophistication of the Marantz design, having reviewed the schematics and listened, that the Marantz is DESIGNED for music!

I am going to wire in a tube mod stage next into the Marantz and give my impressions.  I am planning on a different direction for the tube circuit in this player.  As always, looking to ever improve on what we have done to date.  I am SO impressed with the circuit in our SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition preamp ($2900), that it may be very close to that!

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: SoCalWJS on 30 Sep 2016, 04:06 am
To be honest, I do not have a stock Oppo 105 on hand right now to compare.  I do believe however, that based on the sophistication of the Marantz design, having reviewed the schematics and listened, that the Marantz is DESIGNED for music!

I am going to wire in a tube mod stage next into the Marantz and give my impressions.  I am planning on a different direction for the tube circuit in this player.  As always, looking to ever improve on what we have done to date.  I am SO impressed with the circuit in our SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition preamp ($2900), that it may be very close to that!

Thanks,

Dan
Thanks Dan. Like I said, I'll keep an eye on this.

Some day.......
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 30 Sep 2016, 03:47 pm
Understood. Thanks.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: C17FXR on 3 Oct 2016, 11:53 am
No DVD-A or Bluray Audio, unfortunately

Couldn't both of these be input to the unit from the USB input from a computer?
You would have a computer connected to input DSD anyway.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Phil A on 3 Oct 2016, 01:11 pm
Couldn't both of these be input to the unit from the USB input from a computer?
You would have a computer connected to input DSD anyway.

For one thing the player has no video it can output
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 3 Oct 2016, 04:07 pm
Tube circuit going into the SA8005 today.....Photos to follow as well as listening impressions!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: C17FXR on 3 Oct 2016, 07:00 pm
For one thing the player has no video it can output

Sorry, I was thinking the computer could be used to output video?
Then the player could be used to playback the bluray or dvd-a signal via the USB input.
 
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 3 Oct 2016, 07:51 pm
Not sure about that, but possibly.  Certainly the audio can be fed to the player via USB, assuming it is PCM or DSD format.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 3 Oct 2016, 08:02 pm
Progress is being made into a new mod for the Marantz SA8005 CD/SACD player, transport and DAC.

I have at this point wired in a tube circuit to evaluate and have optimized the grounds and analog filtering.  The sound is exceptional!

(http://www.modwright.com/cms/resources/1475523672sa8005tubed-ck.jpg)

I am listening right now with a 5687 based tube circuit fed via PS 9.0.  I am going to pursue another option involving Lundahl transformer coupling next!

Please contact us if you have a Marantz SA8005 or are interested in a modified Audio only 2CH player/DAC.

Stay tuned for more!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: RichardS on 3 Oct 2016, 10:11 pm
Just wanted to give a shout out to the quality of Dan's work for anyone on the fence. I have a Sony HAP-1Z music server with Dan's tube mod and it puts a smile on my face every time I listen to it. It provided the missing body, heft and weight, along a with superb lifelike presence to voices that I was looking for.

I had a Devialet for a while and even when using the Modwright Sony into its analog inputs (which of necessity converted the signal to digital and back to analog for a second time by the Devialet) -- even then I found it significantly more satisfying than the direct digital input to the Devialet from another music server. Amazing.
And his service has been second to none... highly recommended.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 3 Oct 2016, 11:56 pm
Listening session at ModWright with Mod Tech Extraordinaire John Garrett, comparing a Sony XA-5400ES with PS 9.0 to the Marantz with my first 5687 based tube circuit, also with PS 9.0 power supply.

Preamp is the new SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition ($2900) and amplification is a pair of KWA 150SE's run in mono (breaking in upgrades for a customer).

While both sound very good, we both agreed from the initial notes, that the Marantz tube mod is MUCH more resolving, detailed, dynamic and with a much bigger soundstage than the XA-5400ES tube mod.

Now keep in mind, the Sony tube mod uses 6SN7's and the Marantz uses 5687's.  In fact, the Marantz borrows a lot from what I learned from the new SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition preamp. This circuit, is simply more open, resolving and natural sounding.  We both discussed whether the sound was bright and concluded that not it wasn't.  It IS possible to have very resolving sound without edge or glare.  It also common for people to hear a bright and edgy sound and take it for detail.  There IS a big difference.

Very excited about the direction this is going!

Next up is to compare a new tube circuit and a couple of different power supply options.

It won't be long before I have the analog stage nailed down!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 4 Oct 2016, 03:55 am
Dan,

When you nail down circuitry for the Marantz, I'm curious how the 5400 sound with the Elyse in comparison to the finished Marantz?

Thanks,
Wig

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 4 Oct 2016, 03:16 pm
I will do so.  I can tell you right now that the sound of the tube modified Marantz is much closer to the Elyse than any of our prior tube mods.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 5 Oct 2016, 12:57 am
OK, so I have just completed listening tests with the following:

Marantz SA8005 with proto tube circuit mods only.
SPDIF out from Marantz SA8005 to Elyse DAC.


Very closely level matched, both feeding SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition into a pair of KWA 150SE's in mono.

Surprisingly, they are VERY close!  While the Marantz SA8005 with tube mods was clearly better than the Sony XA-5400ES with tube mods, the difference with the Elyse was A LOT closer.  I would probably have to give it to the Elyse by a very small margin, in terms of absolute detail and delineation of each note.  It is still just a BIT better in terms of the last bit of resolution and detail. Comparatively, the tube modified Marantz is just a slight bit warmer.

Keep in mind that we are comparing a $1200 stock Marantz player with tube mods, to a $7K DAC! Assuming the Marantz tube mods come in, price-wise, the same range as our Oppo and Sony mods, that means the Modified Marantz is still less than 1/2 the cost of the Elyse DAC!  AND it does DSD, which the Elyse does not.

I used a PS 9.0 (not PS 9.9) with the Marantz and stock Sovtek 5AR4.  The Elyse DAC has NOS 6922's and 5R4GYS rectifier.  I will dig out a 5R4GYS for the Marantz supply and listen again, to see how much this changes things.

I will also listen with the PS 9.9.  I expect that this will add a bit of warmth, which may or may not sound better with the Marantz.  Or, it may be a matter of taste.

Good stuff here!

I expect to have the work complete in the next couple of weeks and am planning a promotion for this mod, that will give the first ten mod customers VERY good deals.

More on that later.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: rodge827 on 5 Oct 2016, 01:23 am

I expect to have the work complete in the next couple of weeks and am planning a promotion for this mod, that will give the first ten mod customers VERY good deals.

Dan, Do you supply the SA8005 or is it sent to you for the mods?

Chris
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 5 Oct 2016, 01:34 am
We will not be supplying the player.  The customer must supply the player, we perform the work and return it within two weeks of receipt of unit and scheduled start date.

Promo slot #1 is already filled.  The customer who suggested the player to me to mod has locked up this position.

Promo slots #2 - #10 are still available.

I will give more info soon as to why it is advantageous to get one of these first ten slots.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 5 Oct 2016, 03:33 am
I'm definitely going to monitor this on a regular basis. I love my MW Sony 5400 and if I can improve my CD play back with this modded Marantz, this may be my entry into the Elyse Dac sound quality at a very modest price and have a superior transport ...

You're on to something here Dan and am looking forward on the progression of this project! I have both 9.0 and 9.9 power supplies.

Is there a big difference in sound quality between 5687 and 6SN7?

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 5 Oct 2016, 01:01 pm
Dan, sounds like you are having fun with the SA8005.

Will you get a chance to compare it to your modded BDP-105?  That would be a nice comparison given the closeness in price of the 2.

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 5 Oct 2016, 03:30 pm
OK, first of all, I did compare it to the Elyse DAC and it is SO close. The Elyse is only a slight bit better in terms of overall resolution and detail.

I have compared the Marantz SA8005 with mods to the Sony XA-5400ES with mods and my entire staff agrees that there is no comparison.  The Marantz is so much more open and resolving.  Everything just sounds more live and natural.

Now, as this relates to the Oppo 105, the Sony 5400ES and Oppo 105/105D use essentially the same mod board and same tube (6SN7). We ship the Oppo 105/105D with tube regulated and tube rectified PS 9.9, while we ship the Sony with PS 9.0.  I have always felt that the Sony and Oppo were very close, giving the edge slightly to the Sony in terms of overall detail and resolution.  When asked, I would tell people that if they wanted more detail, and listened to Classical over Jazz, then I would pick the Sony.  If customers told me that they listened to more vocals and Jazz, I would recommend the Oppo.  It is slight, but the Oppo is just a bit warmer in its overall presentation than the Sony. However, the Sony did not offer a digital input or, USB for DSD playback.  The Oppo 105 does and so does the The Marantz!

Having said all of that, the Marantz is simply in a different league!  It is all about resolution, clarity and getting closer to the music.  It is NOT bright or edgy in the slightest. Soundstage is huge, both wide AND tall.  I can't describe it any other way.  When comparing the Marantz to the Sony (and by extrapolation, the Oppo), the soundstage is simply MUCH bigger.  Kristin commented that she could pinpoint instruments and singers on the stage clearly, while with the Sony it was more diffuse.

The tube stage does use a different tube.  The 5687 and 6SN7 have a very different tone. The 6SN7 has a characteristic 'fat tone' which many people like.  The 5687 tube is more linear and operates with much lower distortion.  Both circuits measure phenomenally in terms of THD and frequency response.  The 5687 circuit in the Marantz, borrowing heavily from R&D from our SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition preamp (5687 based) is elegant and far less complex than the 6SN7 circuit used in the Sony and Oppo mods.

Just to clarify, the reason all of the comparisons are being made to the Sony. I have a modified Sony here but I do not have an Oppo on hand at the moment.  Also, the Sony is another Music Only player, and as such, is a relevant comparison to the Marantz.  To be clear however, the overall performance of the Sony and Oppo are so close, that I feel the comparison of the Marantz with tube mods to the modified Sony to be equally applicable to the Oppo.

I have learned a lot in the last two years, having worked with the Ambrose tube amp designs, the all-tube PH 150 Reference Phono and new all-tube SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition preamp. I have applied all of this knowledge to the Marantz SA8005 tube mod. The results are exciting!

I am listening to music via SPDIF input to the Marantz this morning from my computer based music library and it sounds fantastic!

We never stop innovating and this is an exciting new level of performance!

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 5 Oct 2016, 04:37 pm
Dan, your excitement about this project is flying off my computer screen.  Kudos to you and the work you are doing.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 5 Oct 2016, 05:12 pm
It is a very exciting project!  I lost my tech Fred for a short time this morning when I put on Santana Abraxas and he had to sit down and enjoy it!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: brownsfan on 5 Oct 2016, 11:25 pm
Dan, those of us who have one of your modded HAPZ1 units might also like to benefit from your thoughts on a comparison with the new Marantz.  I found my Modwright HAPZ1 to be significantly better than my Modwright 5400 ES.  I recently sold my 5400 (good timing, apparently), so I will be looking for a second source soon.  The fact that the modded Marantz is in Elyse territory is quite a statement.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 5 Oct 2016, 11:44 pm
I have not compared it to the Hap-Z1ES because I don't have one on hand at the moment.

My gut says that the Marantz is still better! My entire staff here is really blown away.  Without exception, all of my employees have commented that this is the best our system has ever sounded.

If interested, please let me know as I am running a promo for the first ten people to commit.  Those who commit first get the best deal.

So far Customers #1 - #3 have confirmed.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: smargo on 6 Oct 2016, 12:58 am


If interested, please let me know as I am running a promo for the first ten people to commit.  Those who commit first get the best deal.

So far Customers #1 - #3 have confirmed.

Thanks,

Dan
[/quote

Did i miss the cost of the mods?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Phil A on 6 Oct 2016, 01:10 am


If interested, please let me know as I am running a promo for the first ten people to commit.  Those who commit first get the best deal.

So far Customers #1 - #3 have confirmed.

Thanks,

Dan
[/quote

Did i miss the cost of the mods?

See post number 31 and the modwright.com website for the price of the Sony and Oppo mods to give you a general range Dan is shooting for.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 6 Oct 2016, 01:14 am
Dan, sign me up, I sent you an e-mail.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 6 Oct 2016, 01:19 am
Sure, did you also email me directly?  If so, you are either #4 or #5.  It makes a difference.  I am expecting a call any minute from another customer.

This is the deal:

Customer #1: 50% discount.
Customers #2 - #5: 40% discount.
Customers #6 - #8: 30% discount.
Customers #9 - #10: 20% discount.

I have confirmed customers #1 - #4 for sure, likely #5 and #6 tonight.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 6 Oct 2016, 01:34 am
Gotcha,thanks!!!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 6 Oct 2016, 03:19 pm
Customers #1 - #5 have confirmed.

The next three customers to confirm their order will quality for 30% discount.
The next two customers after this will qualify for 20% discount.

If you are interested, please contact us right away.  I expect to have all 10 discount slots filled by the tomorrow if not the end of today.

To confirm, we only require a 50% deposit on discounted rate.  Retail price for the mod will be $2500.  The deposit (due by Friday 10.6.2016) will reserve your start date.  The remainder + return shipping will be due upon completion, prior to shipping.  The mods will be completed within a two week window from time of scheduled start date.

Example:
30% discount customer mod cost = $1750. Deposit = $875 due to reserve start date.  Player need not be purchased or sent until mod start date.

Thank you,

Dan W.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: talk2me on 6 Oct 2016, 04:31 pm
I am (still) a huge Elyse fan. Dan, you just mentioned you learned a lot in the past 2 years, so, any possible Elyse upgrades/mods? I had Alex mod the diods(?) last year.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 6 Oct 2016, 05:36 pm
The Elyse DAC is still our BEST digital product.

I am comparing the modified Marantz to the Elyse because it is a lesser cost option that includes DSD.

I have nothing new for the Elyse at this time.

It is still the King!  :D
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 7 Oct 2016, 02:29 am
 Dan,

I'm using a Philips 5R4GYS in my PS 9.9 and it's a Big improvement over the 5AR4; lower floor noise, better dynamics, more transparent, wider/deeper soundstage and images are more vibrant and bigger...

So excited about the progress of this mod and can't wait to hear about the next stage of development.

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 7 Oct 2016, 02:44 pm
That is the rectifier of choice with this mod also!

I am going to evaluate the PS 9.0 vs. PS 9.9.  I expect it will be a matter of taste, with the PS 9.9 offering a bit fuller presentation with the use of tube regulation and tube rectification.  The PS 9.0 has tube rectification and SS regulation.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 11 Oct 2016, 08:18 pm
Dan, any update on the mod?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 11 Oct 2016, 10:10 pm
Only a few slots left.

I have just gone over the stock supplies and determined which caps to upgrade and areas where the stock design is weak. To be honest, with all Elna and Elna Cerafine in critical locations, there were not many PS caps upgraded!

Audio Magic and Bybee rails are en route for evaluation.

Mod PCB mechanical and final layout nearly complete.

Tube circuit is COMPLETE, just looking at any/all ways to further improve it, including anything that can be done to improve the PS 9.0.  I found that the PS 9.9 with all tube design was too warm for this circuit and I also found that I prefer copper to silver for internal signal wiring.  The balance is just right this way!

The supply is still tube rectified and the 5R4GYS STILL sounds the best to me!

Aside from evaluating the Audio Magic and Bybee rail upgrades and getting in the final mod PCBs, the only thing left is to evaluate some possible improvements to the external tube supply.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 12 Oct 2016, 04:13 am
I can't imagine how awesome this SA 8005 is going to sound, especially with the addition of Audio Magic Pulse Gen ZX Premier, Bybee rails and caps upgrade; definitely another level of refinement and transparency...

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 12 Oct 2016, 03:35 pm
You will be VERY PLEASED!

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 12 Oct 2016, 03:46 pm
Man, I'm lookin' forward to putting ears on this!!!!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 12 Oct 2016, 03:48 pm
Very exciting.  I have our unit out of the system as I finalize things and my techs are complaining that it doesn't sound as good without the Marantz.  The funny thing is, we have music playing here all the time and my techs don't normally comment.  It is that good!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 14 Oct 2016, 09:56 pm
OK, updates!

1) PS 9.0 (Tube rectified and SS regulated) Vs. PS 9.9 (Tube rectified and regulated): The PS 9.0 offers the clearest windo to the music and I believe suits the Marantz SA8005 the best!
2) Audio Magice Pulse Gen Zx Option: Installed with switch and tested in and out of circuit.  Subtle but worthwhile improvement in resolution, detail and openness.  While the mod is on par with a component upgrade, the Audio Magic is on par with a cable upgrade.  Optional additional upgrade, recommended ($400).
3) Bybee rail option (1) installed at 5V supply to DAC. Clearly measures better and lower noise to DAC chip results in less jitter and better sound. Optional additional upgrade, recommended ($225). Like Audio Magic upgrade, subtle but audible, like a cable upgrade.

To be clear, when I say subtle but audible, I mean that you can hear the difference in an A/B.  The mod itself is like a component change or upgrade in that it is 100% obvious from the first notes that things are BETTER!  This is what I feel you hear comparing the stock SA8005 to the ModWright tube modified SA8005.

Addition of the Audio Magic and Bybee Rail upgrades are worthwhile and audible.  Like changing cables, the improvement is there, just not always as obvious as a component upgrade.

The difference in power supplies is also fairly obvious to my ears.  Some may prefer the more romantic and tubey presentation of the PS 9.9 power supply and we can certainly supply the mod with that if desired.  Other mods have included this supply because, to my ears, the net synergy was best with this supply over the PS 9.0.  In this case, I feel that the best synergy is with the PS 9.0.

Units are coming in and the first will be done soon.  I have just about fully optimized every aspect of our first article and then the first units will begin rolling out.

Please note, we have TWO Early Customer discount slots available still, at 20% off of retail.

All of the first ten Early Customers will also have the option to return their units for any upgrades that are made in the future, at no cost to them (aside from shipping).  This is sort of a Beta Group and the benefits of discount pricing and future updating all apply.

Thanks,

Dan W.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 15 Oct 2016, 12:09 am
Dan, thanks for the update.  Looking forward to hearing this.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 15 Oct 2016, 01:49 am
 

All of the first ten Early Customers will also have the option to return their units for any upgrades that are made in the future, at no cost to them (aside from shipping).  This is sort of a Beta Group and the benefits of discount pricing and future updating all apply.

 The news just keeps getting better !!!!!!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 20 Oct 2016, 11:56 am
Where is the Audio magic pulse Gen ZX installed, inside the PS 9.0/9.9 or inside the unit itself where the power connector is?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: OzarkTom on 25 Oct 2016, 01:07 am
Used on Audio Mart for $825.
http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649307340-marantz-sa8005-sacd-player/

One like new is on Audiogon for $900.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/cd-sacd-players-marantz-sa-8005-2016-10-16-digital-75605-longview-tx

Another-$949

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/cd-sacd-players-marantz-sa-8005-sacd-player-2016-10-14-digital-48103-ann-arbor-mi
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 27 Oct 2016, 09:58 pm
The Audio Magic Pulse Gen is installed in the player itself, by the internal power supply.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 27 Oct 2016, 10:00 pm
My tech is completing the first production unit today.  We have twelve + on the books and the first will be shipping very soon.

My mod tech, John G., has a Sony XA-5400ES with tube mods as his reference and he agrees that the modified Marantz SA8005 is more resolving, detailed, dynamic and produces a bigger soundstage!

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 27 Oct 2016, 10:12 pm
Great to hear.  Looking forward to this!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 28 Oct 2016, 02:12 am
Thanks for the updates and upcoming production! We'll be stalking our parcel carrier soon:)

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 28 Oct 2016, 02:29 pm
Yes you will  :D!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 28 Oct 2016, 05:28 pm
Used on Audio Mart for $825.
http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649307340-marantz-sa8005-sacd-player/

One like new is on Audiogon for $900.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/cd-sacd-players-marantz-sa-8005-2016-10-16-digital-75605-longview-tx

Another-$949

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/cd-sacd-players-marantz-sa-8005-sacd-player-2016-10-14-digital-48103-ann-arbor-mi

Bought mine from B&H Photo who does price matching; that's what I paid, new...

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: OzarkTom on 28 Oct 2016, 05:51 pm
^$900?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 28 Oct 2016, 06:13 pm
^$900?

Found it on sale and they matched it plus free shipping; $930

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 28 Oct 2016, 08:43 pm
Dan, make sure you post pictures of the first production model.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 28 Oct 2016, 09:19 pm
I will do so!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 3 Nov 2016, 07:29 pm
The wait is killin' me !!!!!!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 3 Nov 2016, 07:37 pm
First two are shipping tomorrow, followed by another five next Tues.

Thanks,

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 3 Nov 2016, 08:37 pm
Thanks for the update Dan.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 9 Nov 2016, 09:57 pm
Any early impressions by the 2 folks who may have already received their units?  I should be getting mine next week as it was shipped yesterday.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 9 Nov 2016, 10:30 pm
Mine arrives tomorrow. :thumb:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 10 Nov 2016, 03:16 am
Mine is also scheduled to arrive tomorrow; My parcel carrier delivers around 8:30PM and it's going to be a very long day waiting for that truck to arrive...
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 10 Nov 2016, 04:11 am
Mine won't be here til Friday, I got the date wrong !!!!!! :slap:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 12 Nov 2016, 12:00 am
Got my Modwright Marantz SA8005 today. Initial reaction, YOWZA!!!!!! More to come.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 12 Nov 2016, 12:18 am
Pictures or it doesn't exist...
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 12 Nov 2016, 08:48 am
Guys,

I received my MW SA8005 yesterday and wanted to give the unit 24 hours before any initial observations and know it will take 200+ hours before the caps and other components begin to burn-in. You will not be disappointed with this unit, it is flat out musical with rock stable imaging and a picture perfect soundstage!

Just spent the last two hours comparing the 9.0 to the 9.9 and am in agreement with Dan, the 9.0 is more resolving even though rolling in some Sylvania 13EM7 brought it at the 9.0 level with tube magic but just felt I'd go with the 9.0 and sell the 9.9 with the MW Sony 5400; the new owner will hear it at its best...

The tonality of this SA8005 is unbelievable, very natural, live and organic sounding. I am quite impressed with the work Dan and his team has done with this Mod and now the long wait on giving it time to burn-in and settle into the system. More to follow...

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 12 Nov 2016, 10:26 pm
Pictures or it doesn't exist...

It does exist and it sounds great!!!! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153367)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153368)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153369)
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 12 Nov 2016, 10:44 pm
Very nice.  Mine arrives Tuesday.  Looking forward to it.

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 13 Nov 2016, 12:00 am
You will be impressed!!!!! :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 13 Nov 2016, 05:43 am
Yep, It exist for sure... Image wouldn't load for some reason.


http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=153393

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: smargo on 13 Nov 2016, 04:11 pm
Very nice.  Mine arrives Tuesday.  Looking forward to it.

ok - great - your initial impressions after say 3 days would be nice - after a month would be better and more realistic - after 2 months would be ideal and the true reality of how you like it
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 15 Nov 2016, 09:53 pm
I received my unit today, but no power supply.  Dan and Kristin mailed them together but UPS thought it would be funny to delay the arrival of the PS.

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 16 Nov 2016, 12:52 am


 :?

I think you will find it worth the wait, David!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 16 Nov 2016, 10:54 pm
The power supply arrived today and we are up and running.  I will play stuff tonight with the stock tubes and then put in some different ones tomorrow.

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 16 Nov 2016, 11:01 pm
The power supply arrived today and we are up and running.  I will play stuff tonight with the stock tubes and then put in some different ones tomorrow.

NICE!

The stock JAN Philips are fine but you will likely find, as in most tubed audio, better tubes will be a nice step up for you in this player.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 16 Nov 2016, 11:05 pm
The JAN phillips are very nice.  I have a pair of Tung Sols and a pair of Raytheons.  I also have some rectifiers that I will try out.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 16 Nov 2016, 11:06 pm
That's Great! It will sound even better tomorrow and thereafter... I was up until 0200 this morning, this MW SA8005 just pulls you into the acoustic space and I'm only at day 6.

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 16 Nov 2016, 11:14 pm
Are you using the stock tubes for now?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 16 Nov 2016, 11:42 pm
The Jans are quite good and I have replaced them with Tung-Sols a few days ago.

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 17 Nov 2016, 07:57 am
OK, It's 1:49 AM CST and I had to make myself turn off the tunes!!!!! This player sucks you into the music and doesn't let go !!!! Ordered some TungSol 5687's today for the player and a Philips 5R4GYS for the PS 9.0. Looking forward to see how it responds to tube rolling.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 18 Nov 2016, 04:18 pm
I am glad that you are enjoying our new creation!  It is the most exciting mod we have done to date!

Enjoy!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 19 Nov 2016, 03:02 am
I've been sick for the past two+ days and I'm looking forward to a Long session tonight!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 19 Nov 2016, 04:42 am
I've been sick for the past two+ days and I'm looking forward to a Long session tonight!

Was it the.......... 'Rockin Pneumonia' or the 'Boogie Woogie Flu"???

 :o
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 19 Nov 2016, 05:58 am
It was the Stomach Bug and it went through the whole family, we're feeling better and hopefully we'll be at 100% in a few days...
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 19 Nov 2016, 07:39 am
It was the Stomach Bug and it went through the whole family, we're feeling better and hopefully we'll be at 100% in a few days...

Sorry Ron............I'm trying to be funny but the stomach is NO FUN at all! Hope you are all feeling better real soon.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: rbbert on 19 Nov 2016, 01:28 pm
Just make sure any pictures you upload include your speakers  :lol:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 19 Nov 2016, 05:04 pm
Sorry Ron............I'm trying to be funny but the stomach is NO FUN at all! Hope you are all feeling better real soon.

No problem! We're up and about and doing better and the good thing is the MW SA8005 is continuing to burn-in... Wonder why the smiley icons doesn't work on my computer?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 21 Nov 2016, 05:47 pm
Sorry you and your family were sick. My wife is a RN at the local high school and there has been a LOT of that going around.  No good when the whole family is hit with it.

Be well and have a Happy Holiday!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 21 Nov 2016, 10:16 pm
I replaced the PS 9.0 rectifier tube with a Philips 5R4GYS. I wasn't expecting such a huge change in the sound, it's not subtle !!!! The sound seemed to just get bigger, if that makes any sense. Maybe Dan can chime in on the reason why. I highly recommend this tube swap, just make sure you opted for the larger opening in the PS 9.0, this tube is huge.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 22 Nov 2016, 12:36 am
The 5R4GYS is a GREAT rectifier.  Until this tube, the GZ34 by Mullard or Amperex were always my favorites.  The 5U4GB and 5V4GB are very nice, but tend to be a bit on the warm side and not as resolving.  The GZ34 always provided a smooth and tight presentation with good bass.  The 5R4GYS just seems to do everything right. It is more open and resolving and does not seem to exaggerate or lack in any one area. I can't say exactly what is going on, but it works!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 24 Nov 2016, 05:16 am
I’m a Huge fan of anything that Dan of ModWright has Re-engineered! From my personal experience, I have not found anything that even come close to the performance of MW Sony 5400 and now the MW Marantz SA8005 Tube CD Players. I have compared my player to Ayon CD2 and Rega CD Players and a slew of Dacs to include EE, Bryston, Berkeley and Lampizator Lvl 4; All were inferior in sound quality and I noticed a drastic reduction in sound-stage, imaging and impact plus you can put that $500+ dollar toward the cost of the player verses a digital cable.

My player is primarily a disc spinner and at some point I may use this for a few Hi-Rez rips to experience what everyone is raving about. It’s built like a tank, has an exceptional drawer mechanism and designed for digital/CD playback… The sound of this player is Fantastic, life-like image size, wide/high sound-stage and a very DEEP sound-stage like nothing I’ve heard before; it actually draws you into the recording venue with layers of depth, ambiance and subtle cues that’s so realistic. Even basic CDs sound fantastic and SACD is OFF the chart.

I will give you the analogy of the differences between the Sony and Marantz that I discovered when I replaced my Avalon Ascendants with Acoustic Zen Crescendo Loudspeakers; the Avalon’s were champions at portraying realistic images within the soundstage in row 2 but Acoustic Zen was even better at portraying palpable imaging/depth and at the same time lit up every corner of the sound-stage, allowing subtle cues, ambiance and detail to emerge effortlessly and the ability to put
the listener in row 4…

This MW SA8005 player will give you Great sound and offer one the ability to dip into Hi-Rez streaming without eliminating those shiny discs that we’ve grown to love due to simplicity.  This unit is here to STAY until Dan’s next discovery and I’m only halfway through the burn-in process…

I enthusiastically and Highly Recommend MW SA8005 Tube CD player!

Kudos to Dan and his Team for an Outstanding Job on this project!

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: brownsfan on 24 Nov 2016, 12:27 pm
Wig,
Please keep us posted as you gain more burn in hours.  I was especially interested in your comments on your 5400 vs the Lampizator and other DACs.   I am also a fan of Dan's digital mods, having owned a MW 5400 and now a MW HAPZ1 which is my primary source.   The HAPZ1 bettered the 5400, and not by a small margin, so I sold my 5400 several months ago.  I have thought long and hard about the new Marantz, but I really need a DVD player in my downstairs system, so I think I am going to wait to see what happens with the OPPO 4 K player next year.  However, if the Marantz is all it appears to be, it may be hard to pass up.

BTW, have you tried a Canadian Westinghouse V-71 rectifier?  It is a military 5U4 and betters every rectifier I have tried in the PS 9.0 including the 5R4GYS favored by Dan.  They are very hard to find, but I suspect you might find like this tube.  I found it to approach the resolution of the 5R4GYS with a much smoother presentation and a highly layered stage depth.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 25 Nov 2016, 03:49 pm
I've been running my I-Pod (ALAC files) thru the USB port and it sounds great. I'll pop in a disc a few times a day and it is sounding better and better. Dan has hit a grand slam with this mod. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: smargo on 26 Nov 2016, 07:07 pm
Are you using the stock tubes for now?

ok -  dmiches tell us your impressions already - dyin to know?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 27 Nov 2016, 12:47 am
I am very happy with this unit.  It presents the music is very natural way.  I listen mostly to analog so i am sensitive to digital sounding music.  I don't hear a lot of that with the MW 8005.  More to come...
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 27 Nov 2016, 03:42 am
I can tell that my caps are starting to form with more burn-in (Day 16); images are starting to bloom with more dimensionality, specificity, image size and the sound just floats across the soundstage.

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Bob Stark on 27 Nov 2016, 05:03 am
For those interested, I've got a very simple mod to any Modwright CD player or any component with a transformer which was told to me by Robert Maicks of Star Sound.  I did this to my Edge M6 amp and then tried it on my MW 5400.  It made the amp sound like I paid another 50% more for it--every sound aspect improved.  This mod involves unscrewing the nut from the bolt holding the transformer and taking the trans off the bolt, then removing the thin rubber insulator.  You will need to order 3 Audio Points (.2AP.7D) at $25 each.  These are about the diameter of a nickel and very thin, maybe 1/4" thick.  In place of the insulator, spread the 3 Audio Points evenly under the trans with the points down facing the chassis so the smooth side is touching the trans.  The points should be roughly in the fattest part of the trans, not toward the edge or middle.  Put the bolt back through the trans and tighten the nut securely.  Put the cover back on.  If your wires are still hooked up, you're ready to go.

What do you gain?  This change is greater than changing to the best after market fuses.  The music becomes infused with new life--the dynamics are explosive, there is more clarity at all frequencies, etc.  I could go on forall audiophile adjectives.  This mod takes about as long to do as unscrewing the cover from the power supply.  Robert at Star Sound might even cut you some slack on the price if you've bought other products from him.  THIS IS A VERY SIGNIFICANT CHANGE and all for the better!!!  I talked to Dan about this and he thought it would make a difference in sound prior to actually doing it.  He also said it would not void the warranty.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 29 Nov 2016, 01:02 am
Do you guys find that the 5687s run really hot?  Mine are way too hot to even touch.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Nov 2016, 01:13 am
Yep! They draw .5A per tube (filaments) and are designed to run hot. They are rated up to 7.5W plate dissipation. I am not running them NEAR that high, but they run hotter than most other tubes.

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 29 Nov 2016, 01:15 am
Thanks Dan.  I happen to get close to them and was surprised as how hot they seemed.

This is the first time I have used 5687s.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 29 Nov 2016, 01:24 am
Unique and wonderful tube.  Designed to run at higher current. Very linear, low distortion and provides exceptional results if designed around properly.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 29 Nov 2016, 07:32 am
Do you guys find that the 5687s run really hot?  Mine are way too hot to even touch.

I was doing A/B/C tube comparisons a few weeks ago and forgot how toasty those tubes get.............. :duh:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 29 Nov 2016, 12:51 pm
I was doing A/B/C tube comparisons a few weeks ago and forgot how toasty those tubes get.............. :duh:

It is hard to get those tubes out without taking off the cover.  The Tung Sol versions are very short....and hot!!!
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 29 Nov 2016, 03:58 pm
But they sound soooooooo good. Not to mention they look great at night!!!!! :D
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 29 Nov 2016, 04:01 pm
Are you able to remove them without taking the cover off?
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 29 Nov 2016, 07:01 pm
Are you able to remove them without taking the cover off?

No sir, the tube sockets put a death grip on the pins.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 30 Nov 2016, 12:45 am
Try letting them cool down and then rock them back and forth.  I am often able to remove them this way.

I apologize for this, but I did not expect the tube sockets to grip the tubes so tightly.  When I laid out the PCB and measured the vertical height/clearance that I had to work with, it was only feasible to mount the PCB at this height.  There is not enough clearance on the bottom of the board to mount the large 4.7uf MWI output coupling caps.

Try gently rocking them back and forth, once cool.  I think you will have better luck with this.

Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: dminches on 30 Nov 2016, 12:55 am
I don't think it is an issue.  Once I find the pair that I like I will stick with them.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 30 Nov 2016, 02:36 am
I'd rather have them tight. I wish my amps tube sockets held this good.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: OzarkTom on 2 Dec 2016, 01:16 pm
MARANTZ SA8005 SACD/CD Player-600 bucks

http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/SACD-Players/MARANTZ/SA8005/SACD-CD-Player/164104
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: JG2 on 2 Dec 2016, 05:55 pm
Selling for 1/2 of MSRP and a good deal lower than used SA8005 on Audiogon.

$600 may be in the 'if it seems to good to be true' camp........killer deal though if it is legit.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: OzarkTom on 3 Dec 2016, 01:38 am
Selling for 1/2 of MSRP and a good deal lower than used SA8005 on Audiogon.

$600 may be in the 'if it seems to good to be true' camp........killer deal though if it is legit.

It does look fishy. The seller has no posts, this was also listed on US Audio Mart but was taken down by the mart.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 11 Dec 2016, 10:17 pm
Bob,

Got my Star Sound Audio Points installed in my MW PS 9.0 and the difference is quite obvious; better midbass, bass, transparency, more vibrancy on string instruments and images seem to be more detached with greater decay of notes. For the asking price, it's a very nice improvement...

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Bob Stark on 12 Dec 2016, 01:36 am
Glad to hear it Wig.   It's nice to have an easy to do upgrade that makes such a good difference in sound, is a very reasonable price, and is easy to do for the average yoco-loco.
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 16 Dec 2016, 03:50 am
Guys,

How are you liking the sound of your MW Marantz SA8005 as it burns in?

Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: decal on 16 Dec 2016, 07:51 am
I just finished a three hour listening session and I'm awed at how good this thing sounds. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: modwright on 16 Dec 2016, 08:24 pm
Right on!  Thanks for the feedback!

Dan
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 17 Dec 2016, 07:57 pm
My player has been burning-in for a month now and is sounding Beautiful! Was listening to one of my favorite acoustic guitarist, Julian Bream last night until 0200 and am amazed how good even Redbook CDs sound. This MW Marantz SA8005 is quite impressive on how the soundstage is laid out, its quite holographic with no hint of sound coming from the plane of the speakers.

I'm already looking forward to the next upgrade...

Anyone know of any other Classical Acoustic Guitarist?

Thanks,
Wig
Title: Re: New Digital mod work begins tomorrow!!!
Post by: Wig on 14 Feb 2017, 04:24 am
Guys,

If you have not tried WyWires Umbilical Cord, try it ASAP and you will be pleasantly surprised! It sounds much better than my previous cable in clarity, dynamics, sound-staging and image focus. Alex really nailed down the design on this one...

Wig