AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Owner's Circles => Digital Amplifier Company Owners => Topic started by: AmpDesigner333 on 27 Jan 2013, 02:58 pm
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After some listening with various speakers and sources, the results are in....
First, I must say that after a session listening to Pink Floyd, The Wall, some interesting results were heard. There's so much detail in this album. So many nuances for such an old recording! The Maraschino really opens up sounds like the metal of cymbals and the micro detail that so many amps leave behind. I'm biased, of course, but there's no doubt the sound is like new, revealing the capabilities of the speakers due to tight control at ALL frequencies. Rock solid, louder than expected, and ultra clean at any level.
Second, imaging is nothing short of astonishing. There is abundant "air".
This amp was designed to have extended bandwidth and extremely low output impedance so it can drive down to 1 ohm at all frequencies. Unfortunately, I don't have a pair of difficult-to-drive ESLs handy at the moment. I bet the low impedance at high frequencies would work well with Gallo Reference speakers.
By the way, I'm currently driving the Maraschinos (mono blocks) with switching power supplies. I was hesitant at first to do this, but the sound is smooth as silk. I was worried that the current (as in amps) requirement would overwhelm the supplies, but due to the high efficiency, peaks are coming through with authority and no hiccups.
Well back to listening. Can't wait to bring these to a rave sometime soon. Thanks for reading.
-Tommy O
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There's so much detail in this album. So many nuances for such an old recording!
You've never heard these details before? Interesting.
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I love it....!!!!! :thumb:
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You've never heard these details before? Interesting.
Maybe Tommy is hearing things now that you've never heard in the recording.
Interesting indeed.
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Ah, the fanboys are awake !!!!! (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=74388)
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Ah, the fanboys are awake !!!!! (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=74388)
Not a fanboy and I've never even heard one of his amps.
I just get tired of people making snide remarks when they don't have a clue.
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Maybe Tommy is hearing things now that you've never heard in the recording.
Interesting indeed.
Maybe. Once Tommy posts those AP or dScope measurements that will confirm everything.
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Hi Tommy,
Sorry about the ot, looking forward to some listening impressions of the new amps.
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I could care less.
One thing does baffle me though (more than one actually), if you are such a big measurements guy why do you seem to buy into the flavor of the month club so much (and expensive ones at that)?
Oh, didn't know that I did. Thanks for the info though. :duh:
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Oh, didn't know that I did. Thanks for the info though. :duh:
Take it somewhere else.
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Maybe. Once Tommy posts those AP or dScope measurements that will confirm everything.
I'm still waiting for the scope measurements on that Dude amp you were shilling not long ago. I guess measurements only matter for some manufacturers. Give it a rest and sling your BS somewhere else. Besides, I don't think Cherry is offering a special deal for promoters. Probably not a good amp for you.
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Hi Tommy,
Sorry about the ot, looking forward to some listening impressions of the new amps.
I'm looking forward to opinions after some serious listening, by others of course.
Much like the larger Cherry design, these amps were developed to perform well on the bench THEN tweaked for sound. That's what matters to us, although the measurements are very good after tweaking.
Thanks.
-Tommy
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Really psyched to hear these Tommy! Congrats on getting them ready!
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Can't we all just get along?
Everybody here has the right to their opinion, so please no nastiness! Thank you :)
Regarding measurements, of course they are on the way. I just want to let everyone know that we don't want to publish measurements from some ideal bench setting using parts or equipment (aside from the audio analyzer) that you don't buy when you purchase our products. We've seen this quite often and don't play that game. "Specmanship" is a dirty word....
Some numbers on the way soon, but we can say that the capabilities of our new hardware design go well beyond the initial application. For example, we can get a lot more power out of the Maraschino with different power supplies, but doing so leads to a compromise in the sound. As a manufacturer, we are most interested in the "blow you away" sound, not getting the highest power output possible or the lowest THD+N at 1kHz while driving a purely resistive load.
Trust me when I say that the Maraschino sounds THAT GOOD, at least on the speakers I've heard it on.
In other news, I might be mixing the superbowl with some "off the street" listening tests. This way you're not only going on my opinion.
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Really psyched to hear these Tommy! Congrats on getting them ready!
Thanks, Barry. Hope you can listen to the Maraschino this weekend. I'll send you a PM....
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OK, some measurement results so far (preliminary):
SNR is about 120dB. We hoped for more, but one of the tweaks for best sound makes the SNR go lower.
THD+N is <0.005% from milliwatts to >100W into 8 ohms. Pre-tweak levels were below 0.001% at some higher power levels (>30W).
Power output is >250W into 4 ohms. We don't have a power supply to test the max output into 2 ohms yet.
THD+N over frequency is nearly flat from 20Hz to 20KHz, below 0.008% at 10W (4 and 8 ohms).
Frequency response is +/-0.5dB from 10Hz to 20kHz down to 2 ohms. Barely any "HF droop" over load, great for ESLs.
-3dB LF response is lower than our measurement equipment can go, but it is calculated to be 0.2Hz (!), essentially DC.
Damping factor is calculated to be close to 1000, but we will verify this later.
We are still tweaking and re-testing. This is a long process, but we are very close. As mentioned previously, the sound is much more important to us than the measurements, and re-listening takes MUCH longer than re-testing!
Thanks.
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Tommy looks like another fine product from you. I first heard your amps with Gallo speakers which I am familiar with. Sounded really good to me. The final verdict is when one hears the amp in THEIR system. Hopefully the designer does his homework with measurements and the like a Tommy does.
Voicing the amp to create the sonics the designer intended is what it is all about. A product for sale. At the end of the day it is what it sounds like, nothing else. No matter what the specs and measurements are a sale is made by the Amps sonic quality again in ones system.
BTW no fan boy here we sell class "D" amps. The class "D" amps offer a different sonic signature than Cherries. Is one better ? No, just different.
For me it is the sonic result not how one achieved it. Sorry but one more thing. If one has never listened to a Cherry product please keep your opinions to yourself, it is only fair. Loose lips sink ships.
charles
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Tommy builds a nice amp. Lots of power and very smooth.
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Thanks for the kind posts. Hopefully we'll be getting some listening results soon.....
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I would love giving these a trial. :D
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In black.... The enclosure is a prototype.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75776)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75777)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75778)
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These are preliminary.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75779)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75780)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75781)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75782)
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Is this amp as small as it looks? Size of a Cd case? I'm sorry if I missed it but estimated price? Any chance of a tour? If so, please put me on it.
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Tommy,
I don't know if you got my last e-mail, but I have similar questions, i.e. price? And tour?
Thanks,
Anand.
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Tommy, they need a little polish, but I think the small enclosures are pretty cool. :thumb:
. . . I wonder if there is enough room left in that case to cram a tube buffer in there. . . :icon_twisted:
Help me out with what I see in the first picture, but are these running external power supplies? Built by you or generally sourced from somewhere?
Add me to the list of folks interested in the answers to all the questions. :)
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These sounded pretty good at Toprounds Rave last Saturday....... :thumb:
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/ofier/Stereophile/NY%20Audio%20Rave/Mike%20Mattera%20Feb%202013/file_zps7c2a0eca.jpg)
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These sounded pretty good at Toprounds Rave last Saturday....... :thumb:
Thanks, Chris. Not my good side, but I'll take it!
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OK, some answers:
1. Tour ---- We are definitely going to tour the Maraschino Cherry locally, and probably nationally soon after. This is about a month out. Some customers are on the "short list" already....
2. Price ---- We need to determine the cost of the enclosure and the new PCB. Target is <$2k/pair for the first version which will use the Universal Medical Grade power supply you see in the pictures.
3. Enclosure ---- I'll add some pictures to show this, but the "cube case' is significantly smaller than a stack of 7 CDs. We are also working on an alternate case that is much flatter (about 1.5"), but longer. Pic to follow.
4. Power Supplies ---- The power supply is external, and we plan to offer switchers as well as linear supplies. The first power supply will be as you see in the pictures. It is a 220W Medical Grade Universal Mains supply. This particular supply has a long hold time when overloaded. I mentioned before that I was hesitant to use a switcher, but the proof is in the pudding.... The Maraschino really sings with these power supplies!
5. Power Output ---- The Maraschino is designed to output up to 800W into 2 ohms, but this is limited by the power supply and a few other factors. We are actually able to get 250W into 4 ohms with the 220W switcher, briefly! One thing interesting to note.... This is the loudest couple-hundred watts I've ever heard. We designed the modulator to get as close to absolute maximum voltage output while remaining linear. This is why the right side of the THD+N vs Power curve is so steep.
6. Comparison with the "Big Cherry" ---- Well, the big Cherry has up to 1800W of transformer PER CHANNEL, and can output more than double the power of the Maraschino. The sound is different, but not worlds away. Yes, the Maraschino uses newer technology, but we believe the big Cherry is better suited for low efficiency speakers, and the Maraschino is better for tough to drive speakers (low impedance at HF, etc.). There's still nothing quite like a pair of Cherry ULTRA MONOs with their 3600W of total transformer power reserve and massive power supply capacitance. The big Cherry has nearly unlimited headroom.
Thanks for all the early interest. We aim to please :)
-Tommy O
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Maraschino Cherry next to a stack of 7 CDs:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75956)
Another case option (please let us know what you think):
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75958)
Just for fun:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=75957)
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Both enclosures work for me, although the one that provides the most sonic improvement is preferred. If enclosure size and looks don't change the sonics, then I will go with the cheapest enclosure, as all my electronics are sight unseen!
Am I right in assuming that this amplifier is about 5-6 dB less gain than most in the industry that are 26dB overall gain?
Best,
Anand.
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All other things being equal I like the longer shorter case.
Personally I would like the case to look both swish and distinctive.
Let me re-phrase that, I would like the case to look extremely swish and extremely distinctive.
I would be prepared to pay a little bit more (not a massive amount more) to achieve this swish distinctive look.
I love my gear to look the goods as well as sound the goods.
Also I am not all that fond of bland boring looking gear.
Why not have the best of both worlds, both sound and looks?
I think it would be really sad to let down the great sound with a cheap and shabby presentation.
Hope that helps with input.
Thanks for all of this update information.
Please keep it coming!
Thanks.
Bruce
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Am I seeing things or does the longer case look like it was intended to be bolted to something else? The slots in the corners look to me like it should be bolted to the back of a speaker cabinet, or a wall.
Anand brings up some good points. Does one case or the other improve the layout of the internal components from a performance perspective? From a serviceability perspective? Also, I'm not sure I would be sold on having the connectors arranged to make the amp an "in-line" device - power, input and output connectors on a shared side would be more along the lines of a traditional amplifier in regards to placing it on a stand/rack? Third, I know a lot of folks running with top shelf gear use cabling the size of garden hoses. Does one case design or the other end up more stable in regards to the added cable weight causing the amp to sit at an odd angle with cables connected? Last, I may not be seeing it, but where is the power switch?
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OK, some more data....
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=76075)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=76076)
Please note the power supply we used for the 2 Ohm test can't go much beyond 200W. However, it has the capability of much higher output for brief transients. With a bigger supply, power output into 2 Ohms can go as high as 800W.
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Both enclosures work for me, although the one that provides the most sonic improvement is preferred. If enclosure size and looks don't change the sonics, then I will go with the cheapest enclosure, as all my electronics are sight unseen!
Am I right in assuming that this amplifier is about 5-6 dB less gain than most in the industry that are 26dB overall gain?
Best,
Anand.
Anand,
You are correct about the gain. This helps to maximize the usable dynamic range of preamps and D/As. However, the gain can be customized, and we are considering matching it to the "big Cherry". Your thoughts on this? What if that lowers SNR a bit?
Regarding the enclosure, we want it to be nice without jacking up the cost. Maybe we should offer some options there.
Thanks for your kind post.
Best Regards,
Tommy O
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All other things being equal I like the longer shorter case.
Personally I would like the case to look both swish and distinctive.
Let me re-phrase that, I would like the case to look extremely swish and extremely distinctive.
I would be prepared to pay a little bit more (not a massive amount more) to achieve this swish distinctive look.
I love my gear to look the goods as well as sound the goods.
Also I am not all that fond of bland boring looking gear.
Why not have the best of both worlds, both sound and looks?
I think it would be really sad to let down the great sound with a cheap and shabby presentation.
Hope that helps with input.
Thanks for all of this update information.
Please keep it coming!
Thanks.
Bruce
Bruce,
Good point about the case. The Maraschino Cherry is not a "cheap amp" by any means, so we want to make it look pretty.
Thanks for your kind post.
Best Regards,
Tommy O
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Am I seeing things or does the longer case look like it was intended to be bolted to something else? The slots in the corners look to me like it should be bolted to the back of a speaker cabinet, or a wall.
Anand brings up some good points. Does one case or the other improve the layout of the internal components from a performance perspective? From a serviceability perspective? Also, I'm not sure I would be sold on having the connectors arranged to make the amp an "in-line" device - power, input and output connectors on a shared side would be more along the lines of a traditional amplifier in regards to placing it on a stand/rack? Third, I know a lot of folks running with top shelf gear use cabling the size of garden hoses. Does one case design or the other end up more stable in regards to the added cable weight causing the amp to sit at an odd angle with cables connected? Last, I may not be seeing it, but where is the power switch?
Jon (hope that's OK),
The PCB inside is the same regardless of the enclosure. We designed it to fit in a low profile case from the start.
Regarding serviceability, we have built-in pretection measures that should keep these amps running for decades. As far as modifying them (finished product), we aren't really in favor of that.
The "cube case" can be hung from the speaker wires since it is so light. I've used inexpensive wire about 6" long for this with great results. When the wire is very short, the parasitics pretty much vanish. This practically eliminates speaker wire from the equation, and that can be a very good thing for the sound.
The "flat" case can be bolted to something if desired (such as the speaker or stand). We are still pondering enclosures in general, though.
There is no power switch, but these amps can be left on all the time. That's what I've been doing. However, this requires the preamp to be on all the time as well. So, we built in an audio sense circuit that puts the amp into standby when there isn't any audio for a while (timeout is TBD). That was not included in the first revision of the board, so the amps that go out on tour might not have that feature. We also have the option of a remote power control (like on the big Cherry). It's very simple: short ot GND the input to put the amp in standby and leave it unconnected or place a voltage (3V to 20V) on the input to make the amp run normally. Maybe we should offer a switch module or something in case you're not using this in a HT system. Some preamps, even modern high quality ones, put out a power-on "thump" that mustn't be amplified. Doing so may damage speakers. We'd love to hear everyone's thought on this.
The bottom line is that the Maraschino is meant to be placed close to or even ON the speaker. We are considering a "normal case" in the future. Thank you for your kind post.
Best Regards,
Tommy O
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We would like to get this new amp technology out there. Soooooo, we are planning to make the Maraschino Cherry initially in either the "cube case" or the "flat case". It will be either red or black.
We'd like your help to decide.
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The "cube case" can be hung from the speaker wires since it is so light. I've used inexpensive wire about 6" long for this with great results. When the wire is very short, the parasitics pretty much vanish. This practically eliminates speaker wire from the equation, and that can be a very good thing for the sound.
(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/ofier/Stereophile/NY%20Audio%20Rave/Mike%20Mattera%20Feb%202013/file_zps85a482aa.jpg)
On the back of an old pair of Advent's....you'd be surprised what it sounded like...I was... :thumb:
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On the back of an old pair of Advent's....you'd be surprised what it sounded like...I was... :thumb:
Thanks. Forgot about that photo!
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Tommy, your replies clear up some questions nicely.
Regarding the case, if your intention is to deliver this as an item to put in/near/on a speaker, I would think that the best decision is going to be the case that performs best in the worst case scenario, as anything else then would work fine by default. In my mind, this makes the case decision the one that makes attaching the amp to the largest number of possible speakers the best?
Considering the height of the case isn't much more than the depth of a pair of binding posts with banana plugs attached, the cube case looks smaller in footprint to the flat case, so it would then follow that it would fit behind a larger (in this case, physically smaller) number of speakers unobtrusively. An idea that just came to mind - why bother with the binding posts on the amp at all? why not just terminate with a pair of pigtail connectors, or even a pair of screw down tabs coming straight off the boards, eliminating the binding posts on the amp themselves as a performance bottleneck? Also, if this is the intention, mounting tabs on the cube case similar to the flat one would maybe be a good idea as well?
Completely my own armchair opinion here, but although I admire and am intrigued by some of the out of the box thinking going on here (from expanded applications to performance improvements), I think you might be shooting yourself in the foot heading completely down this road form-factor wise right out of the gate.
I don't know exactly who the target market for this amp is, so I won't presume too much, but going too far off the sociological norms of the target customer in how the product is presented is a quick and easy way to have to fight an uphill battle for mindshare, even before a customer takes a chance to see how good your product really is. It would be a shame for someone to not even give these amps a chance just because when that person would think about just unplugging their current amps and put the M's directly in place of their current gear using their current stands and cables and so on, things didn't just look or hook up "right", if that makes any sense?
Maybe starting with a more "traditional" form factor at first, then expanding to something more exotic would be the wiser course for a new product? There are a lot of companies around here that do very well with lower cost prefab casework that looks very nice, and brings the overall production cost of low-volume manufacturing runs down considerably. I know no one wants to be a "me too" company, but again, depends on the big picture goals.
Cheers! . . . and I think it is very interesting that the same single amp scales up power-wise based on power supply alone. One amp, with multiple power supply options basically making multiple amp models, is an interesting departure from the traditional amp marketplace. Nice!
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I am attracted to the (cherry) red box.
Nice cherry logo would also be nice (maybe in contrasting white).
While I initially liked the smaller longer boxes (& still do), I wonder whether there is more scope in making the cube look really swish?
I like the idea of switching off like the bigger cherries.
Keep telling us more!
Thanks.
Bruce
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Hi Tommy and all Audio Circle members.
What's better?
Long interconnects and short speaker wires
(What you are now proposing/offering)
or
long speaker wires and short interconnects.
I think long interconnect are more subject to pick up interference ? ? ?
Guy 13
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Hi Tommy and all Audio Circle members.
What's better?
Long interconnects and short speaker wires
(What you are now proposing/offering)
or
long speaker wires and short interconnects.
I think long interconnect are more subject to pick up interference ? ? ?
Guy 13
Well, common mode noise pickup is cancelled out by the amp's input stage.
I'm currently running single ended (yes, I'm waiting to hear some kickback for that) about 6 feet in either direction. I have XLR adapters (the smaller "grounded" kind work perfectly with this amp) at the amp as opposed to running balanced cables with short single-ended ones. The preamp output noise (AR9) is much greater than anything the cable seems to contribute. I've also tried balanced interconnect, and was very pleased with the result.
Bottom line here is that I'm a fan of longer interconnect option because it doesn't need to carry significant current. It just makes more sense that way. Plus sewer-pipe-sized speaker wire is difficult to handle and expensive.
Still, we want the Maraschino Cherry to be used in both traditional long speaker wire settings as well as short (or none) speaker wire settings. For this, we will probably add an optional case that sits nicely on a shelf with all the connectors in the back. Thanks.
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Cool. Cannot wit to hear them with the GT audio works panel speakers. Should be a wonderfull combo.
charles
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Cool. Cannot wit to hear them with the GT audio works panel speakers. Should be a wonderfull combo.
charles
The ones with the powered subs?
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Tommy, your replies clear up some questions nicely.
Regarding the case, if your intention is to deliver this as an item to put in/near/on a speaker, I would think that the best decision is going to be the case that performs best in the worst case scenario, as anything else then would work fine by default. In my mind, this makes the case decision the one that makes attaching the amp to the largest number of possible speakers the best?
Considering the height of the case isn't much more than the depth of a pair of binding posts with banana plugs attached, the cube case looks smaller in footprint to the flat case, so it would then follow that it would fit behind a larger (in this case, physically smaller) number of speakers unobtrusively. An idea that just came to mind - why bother with the binding posts on the amp at all? why not just terminate with a pair of pigtail connectors, or even a pair of screw down tabs coming straight off the boards, eliminating the binding posts on the amp themselves as a performance bottleneck? Also, if this is the intention, mounting tabs on the cube case similar to the flat one would maybe be a good idea as well?
Completely my own armchair opinion here, but although I admire and am intrigued by some of the out of the box thinking going on here (from expanded applications to performance improvements), I think you might be shooting yourself in the foot heading completely down this road form-factor wise right out of the gate.
I don't know exactly who the target market for this amp is, so I won't presume too much, but going too far off the sociological norms of the target customer in how the product is presented is a quick and easy way to have to fight an uphill battle for mindshare, even before a customer takes a chance to see how good your product really is. It would be a shame for someone to not even give these amps a chance just because when that person would think about just unplugging their current amps and put the M's directly in place of their current gear using their current stands and cables and so on, things didn't just look or hook up "right", if that makes any sense?
Maybe starting with a more "traditional" form factor at first, then expanding to something more exotic would be the wiser course for a new product? There are a lot of companies around here that do very well with lower cost prefab casework that looks very nice, and brings the overall production cost of low-volume manufacturing runs down considerably. I know no one wants to be a "me too" company, but again, depends on the big picture goals.
Cheers! . . . and I think it is very interesting that the same single amp scales up power-wise based on power supply alone. One amp, with multiple power supply options basically making multiple amp models, is an interesting departure from the traditional amp marketplace. Nice!
Jon,
Your post started a long discussion. We will make a version with all connections on the back of the case. This case will have some bulk to it, allowing existing heavy cabling to work.
We will also offer the type shown in the pictures.
Thanks so much for your thoughts, especially regarding mindshare. Have a great weekend!
Best Regards,
Tommy O
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Please note that I am a close personal friend of Tommy's and therefore disregard everything I'm about to say. :lol: Seriously, take this with a grain of salt if you need to, I do not claim to be impartial here.
I had the pleasure of hearing the Maraschinos at his house a few weeks back. I could be the first audiophile older than the 8th grade that's heard them 8)
While I am not intimately familiar with his system I was very impressed with what I heard, especially the imaging which is one of the many stong points of the Cherry line of which I have owned several models of and continue to (ab)use in my system.
More than once my attention was grabbed by sounds emanating from far beyond the speakers (don't remember brand - good size MTM monitors).
I hear great potential in these guys and my uneducated guess is that the high modulation frequency (hope that's the correct term) has pushed this design even further from what is perceived as a Class D sonic signature. Man were the highs sweet. Both Tommy and I are drummers and while on the one hand that has made us both partially deaf (kidding) it makes us keenly aware of the sound of cymbals and triangles. I think it's Fagan's Bright Nightgown or something like that that has a triangle cut in for a few bars - Man, the distinctness of the strike and sustain separated in tonality from all the high frequency stuff in the mix, and seemingly physically separated from the speaker, well it was something. And his room is not set up as well as a good dedicated room could be (sorry buddy). The sound - actually the physical sensation - of different cymbal metals ringing in space - it was just so similar to what you feel (yes, literally feel) when you are near a cymbal...
It sure is fun to sit around with Mr T. and discuss the layout of the amp - where to put connectors / what is the typical buyer looking for / who's gonna like or dislike this or that feature / what friggin color should they be / what style case blah blah. And the bigger picture - where is the Digital Amp Company going and what does the future of recorded music hold, and how to make sure DAC is ready to meet the challenges ahead.
I can't wait to get this pair over to my place to give 'em a spin! Get your damn arm outa that sling already!!
Now say it three times - "This guy is Tommy's friend, I will not be swayed..." :nono: :thumb:
-Mike
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Tommy,
If my thoughts put at least one more pair of great amps in someone's home, then I say time well spent. :)
Once I finally get a pair of speakers finished/built that can perform to a level capable of making an honest run at hearing the results your work, I would be glad to check them out. It will be a bit, though, as the piggy bank has to heal up a bit on my end first. ;)
Looking at the two cases you've got going now. Without the binding posts, with the soft start/shutdown function, and an umbilical of some kind to get the power and input connectors some flexibility in placement, I very much see an opportunity to OEM these to companies building active speaker systems. Heck, you could go low-tech on the casework but go crazy with the straight performance elements with them hidden completely inside a speaker box. No worries about "show", just all "go"; let someone else make the package pretty. 8)
As small as they are, a page out of Dave at P.I.'s book and cryo treating the whole unit and potting it (why not if there isn't anything user serviceable on the boards anyway?) are I think interesting options if they would see performance gains. Also, regarding the small size, I don't see it being too hard to stack three (or four) channels worth of amplification into a single larger speaker if used internally; which could then be optimized individually per amp/channel to a specific, designed speaker load. . . External, user replaceable, user "upgradeable" power supplies add to the benefits as an OEM product. . . :thumb:
Enjoy your weekend as well!
Jon
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Tommy, I saw you were online recently, so I thought I would bump this thread up to see if there were any updates to status on the new little amps?
Cheers!
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Tommy, I saw you were online recently, so I thought I would bump this thread up to see if there were any updates to status on the new little amps?
Cheers!
Jon,
We have been very busy finishing up the Maraschino.
There will be two versions: Tabletop and In-Line
The enclosure is taking a lot longer than we thought, so we're still looking at a month or so before the prototype cases are ready.
We are planning an early adopter special that will be sure to get us some serious attention.
Thanks for the bump, and hope you can be one of the first to check out our latest!
-Tommy O
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I know that the next stage is coming.
I know that this is all prototype.
But can you give us some preliminary indications of what the cases might be like?
Maybe some approximate sizes & facilities.
I think we would understand if you did not want to but some of us here are really interested in all that you can give us!
Thanks.
Bruce
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I know that the next stage is coming.
I know that this is all prototype.
But can you give us some preliminary indications of what the cases might be like?
Maybe some approximate sizes & facilities.
I think we would understand if you did not want to but some of us here are really interested in all that you can give us!
Thanks.
Bruce
OK, Bruce..... Here's a "sneak peek" of the tabletop version:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83637)
Any thoughts? Thanks.
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Our first Maraschino review (mfsoa):
http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?topic=4669.msg60875#msg60875
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I like it. Can you use black countersunk screws on the top and a long umbilical so the power can be hidden and the amp can be parked right next to the speaker for "show". If the umbilical cannot be long, then how about making it match the red case finish?
WAI (wild ass idea): Too bad you couldn't use male speaker plugs and just plug the amp into the speaker back. Works for most, but not all speakers who deviate from the standard banana plug spacing. For those who don't need to show their amps, plugging in the amp would make them "powered" speakers.
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Great to see you posting again! I missed your insight and industry knowledge. Looking forward to more postings from you.
Regards,
Marty
I like it. Can you use black countersunk screws on the top and a long umbilical so the power can be hidden and the amp can be parked right next to the speaker for "show". If the umbilical cannot be long, then how about making it match the red case finish?
WAI (wild ass idea): Too bad you couldn't use male speaker plugs and just plug the amp into the speaker back. Works for most, but not all speakers who deviate from the standard banana plug spacing. For those who don't need to show their amps, plugging in the amp would make them "powered" speakers.
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That little guy looks really nice! I don't think the top screws do the rest of the design justice thou, even square drives would look better, and like Big Red said counter sunk would be much cleaner like the rest of the design.
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I don't think the top screws do the rest of the design justice thou, even square drives would look better, and like Big Red said counter sunk would be much cleaner like the rest of the design.
That's the first thing that jumped out for me. And you don't need toothed lockwashers unless it is going to be bolted to a offroading Jeep.
Steve
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Looks good.
I like the colour.
I wonder if there is a single box version?
Thanks for the information and the prompt reply.
Yes, there are some of us out there watching the progress with great interest.
By the way thanks for the review link.
Bruce
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Bottom line here is that I'm a fan of longer interconnect option because it doesn't need to carry significant current. It just makes more sense that way. Plus sewer-pipe-sized speaker wire is difficult to handle and expensive.
Just starting to get through this thread, interesting reading. Re: longer ICs - this isn't optimal for persons like me who use a Warpspeed optocoupler as their preamp, just the opposite. I think the manufacturer's proposed set up will work for those with active preamps. YMMV
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Looks good.
I like the colour.
I wonder if there is a single box version?
Thanks for the information and the prompt reply.
Yes, there are some of us out there watching the progress with great interest.
By the way thanks for the review link.
Bruce
Well, a single box version is planned, but this will likely be a 2014/2015 project!
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Why would it take a year or two to put the already designed modules in a bigger box?
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Regarding interconnects....
In-line version: ultra short speaker wires, long interconnects
Tabletop version: short interconnects, normal length speaker wires
Regarding "plug right into the speaker"....
Some technical challenges to overcome. One was mentioned (speakers deviate). Another is size/weight, and yet another is connector selection. Still, we are thinking about it, a lot. :)
Regarding the screws on top....
We intend to use black screws with flat washers in production. We ordered them in Torx and Philips drive versions so we can see which looks best. Countersinking didn't pan out (kind of a pun there). We plan a wood or glass top option as well. New photos will be posted as soon as they are available. Actually, we are looking for glass suppliers, so if you know of a company that does this, preferably in the PA/NJ area....
It's a pleasure to get everyone's input on the Maraschino. Thanks for the compliments, and please keep the comments coming!
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Why would it take a year or two to put the already designed modules in a bigger box?
It's not that simple, plus there are many other things on the schedule in the meantime.
We're all about superior quality, so no "just throw it in a different box" for us! A new motherboard design is a major task, plus there are lots of electrical and mechanical issues to work out.
Other companies are interested in Maraschino technology as well, and just supporting them is lots of work.
Thanks for your post.
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Other companies are interested in Maraschino technology as well, and just supporting them is lots of work.
Cool. Can you elaborate on this? Who? What.....?
BTW-I never said to throw it in a box but it's not that hard. :wink:
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Cool. Can you elaborate on this? Who? What.....?
BTW-I never said to throw it in a box but it's not that hard. :wink:
Don't wish to elaborate at this time!
More pics on the way soon..... Maybe I'll tell you what my kids said after we get some AC feedback. Thanks as always! :D
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Glad I ran across this thread. Two-channel amps with integrated power supply would be great as "amp packs" on 2-way actives. Earlier in the thread, you said that power can go much higher but eventually at sonic expense. Do you have a rough idea on where that power level lies with a supply made specifically for the Maraschino?
Mono units with integrated power supply would be great sub amps too. Maybe goose the power a bit for this application?
I'm looking at this for an upcoming 8-channel "stereo" system. 4-channels for active 2-way main speakers, and 4 channels for sub "swarm." Every speaker/sub built with amps attached. Volume/crossovers/EQ will be handled digitally. All 8 amps fed via balanced XLR. Maraschino could do well here.
So I bring up power from my perspective, as food for thought. All the various speakers I may bring into this system can take copious amounts. Geddes Abbey is definite, and possibly others. Danley SM60F, Ohm Walsh, and Pioneer EX all appeal to me for various reasons. I consider 200W/400W/ch into 8/4ohm a good target power level for the main speakers. This will be adequate with the Geddes and Danleys for home use, although both can handle more power. It's not clear how much power the Ohms can take but some veterans swear by their 500/1000W amps for best dynamics. So while a really clean 200W/400W amp wouldn't be theoretically enough to max out these speakers under all circumstances, it should be enough for 99% of real world use. Most of my listening isn't very loud but I don't like excuses when the volume does rise a bit.
Sub drivers can often take massive amounts of power too, some between 1000-2000 watts. 300/600W seems like a good start, and 500/1000W even better. I completely "get" that this is likely outside the Maraschino design spec, so I'm not banking on this as much. Still, class D makes tons of sense for sub amps, and while common wisdom is to use any old thing for the subs, I think they deserve a little love too. If you make too many compromises, they start adding up!
Anyways, appetizing stuff Tommy. Looking forward to reading more about them.
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Any comments?
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=84071)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=84072)
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Glad I ran across this thread. Two-channel amps with integrated power supply would be great as "amp packs" on 2-way actives. Earlier in the thread, you said that power can go much higher but eventually at sonic expense. Do you have a rough idea on where that power level lies with a supply made specifically for the Maraschino?
Mono units with integrated power supply would be great sub amps too. Maybe goose the power a bit for this application?
I'm looking at this for an upcoming 8-channel "stereo" system. 4-channels for active 2-way main speakers, and 4 channels for sub "swarm." Every speaker/sub built with amps attached. Volume/crossovers/EQ will be handled digitally. All 8 amps fed via balanced XLR. Maraschino could do well here.
So I bring up power from my perspective, as food for thought. All the various speakers I may bring into this system can take copious amounts. Geddes Abbey is definite, and possibly others. Danley SM60F, Ohm Walsh, and Pioneer EX all appeal to me for various reasons. I consider 200W/400W/ch into 8/4ohm a good target power level for the main speakers. This will be adequate with the Geddes and Danleys for home use, although both can handle more power. It's not clear how much power the Ohms can take but some veterans swear by their 500/1000W amps for best dynamics. So while a really clean 200W/400W amp wouldn't be theoretically enough to max out these speakers under all circumstances, it should be enough for 99% of real world use. Most of my listening isn't very loud but I don't like excuses when the volume does rise a bit.
Sub drivers can often take massive amounts of power too, some between 1000-2000 watts. 300/600W seems like a good start, and 500/1000W even better. I completely "get" that this is likely outside the Maraschino design spec, so I'm not banking on this as much. Still, class D makes tons of sense for sub amps, and while common wisdom is to use any old thing for the subs, I think they deserve a little love too. If you make too many compromises, they start adding up!
Anyways, appetizing stuff Tommy. Looking forward to reading more about them.
:thumb:
Yes, there is a path to KW power levels, but this is going to take some time. Maraschino is SUPER clean at any power level. It's a matter of heat dissipation and the power supply.
By the way, digital crossovers get me very excited! The ultimate digital system should power each driver individually. This system sounds (pun) wonderful, and I'd like to hear more about it. Some photos, perhaps????
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Tommy,
The black screws on the red top look much better! I guess I'm not a fan of the natural wood look, at least not on something like this. Maybe stain the wood black?
These little amps do look really good how ever you end up making them. I really like the bases and I really like the red!
My 2c, I hope this helps...........
Greg
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Any comments?
Ugly IMO.
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Ugly IMO.
Ugly??? Your "IMO" qualifier does not make the cut as an element of the basic courtesy, civility or diplomacy that Tommy's efforts and persona deserve. I wonder what empowers you to declare so categorically that something is ugly...you, for sure may scream to the four winds that, personally, you DO NOT like something.... but an abrupt declaration that it is "UGLY" without any constructive observation? :scratch: I thought the assumed role of an AC "volunteer" as a moderator implied moderation from the "volunteer" as well
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Ugly??? Your "IMO" qualifier does not make the cut as an element of the basic courtesy, civility or diplomacy that Tommy's efforts and persona deserve. I wonder what empowers you to declare so categorically that something is ugly...you, for sure may scream to the four winds that, personally, you DO NOT like something.... but an abrupt declaration that it is "UGLY" without any constructive observation? :scratch: I thought the assumed role of an AC "volunteer" as a moderator implied moderation from the "volunteer" as well
Well, technically, I did ask for comments! :oops: My kids agree, pretty much, for what it's worth. They say the wood looks too "busy".
Thanks for your kind words either way.
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When you said a wood version, I thought you meant the entire top part of the case would be wood, rather than a "cap". A wooden enclosure would look way better than the wooden cap, even in a single "block" or even a single elongated, slim and taller rectangle rather than two cases joined together... but board shape/size limitations might be controlling of what cases can look like. Not sure what you have pictured is an aesthetic improvement over the red and black modules.
I guess this is a more polite and verbose way of saying "ugly", and therefore not an improvement.
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I think all binding posts should be insulated versions.
Steve
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I know, I know! Put it in a box the actual shape and color of a cherry!
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The Maraschino's I've been lucky enough to audition in my system for the past few weeks use countersunk, flush, silver phillips head screws. I don't know if final production will go this way but I like the fit n' finish the flush look gives.
Not crazy about the wood top - looks disjointed from the base. And if Tommy asks what we think and 100% say "It's UGLY!" then that's the feedback he's looking for (IMO and knowing him). I doubt T has a hint of negativity toward jtwrace's nice and succinct comment :thumb:
BTW I posted a little review the other day, copied here:
The past few weeks I have had the good fortune to play with a pr of Tommy's Maraschino amps. As many know he is a friend of mine so the requisite "Audio Buddy" disclosure has now been performed Thumbs Up
Full technical details, as I know them:
Frequency Response: Low to high
Distortion: Probably not much
Input impedance: Some
Power consumption: Just a little
Weight: Light
Power output: Enough
Cost: Yes
Seriously I don't know squat about specs or measurements, or even if these are final production units.
What I can say is that they are powered by Elpac switching power supplies, 48V, 220 watt output. Because T claims the amps to be very efficient even for class D, lets figure about 200 watt max output. I haven't come close to stressing them out. He is thinking of other power supply options and I suggested maybe battery but I don't know if batts can do 48V. I think T said he can goose lots more power out of them depending on the pwr supply. I'd like to see them mounted in a Cherry case w/ the same big-ass transformer I already have. Drool
The amps are quite small, maybe 3"x4"x5" and light due to the external power supply. I don't know if these are in the commercial chassis or not.
I don't have them hooked up optimally, meaning I use my standard 1M XLRs and my standard ~10 or 15 foot biwire runs of speaker cable (strewn all about the floor!). In an ideal install I'd use long cables from the pre and really short speaker cables. In fact I have seen Tommy hang them from the speaker input jacks w/ just a few inches of cable. I think it'd be bitchin to have a pr of amps for each of my my biwired Von Schweikert VR4JRs but alas I have to slum it with 1 amp per speaker for now.
OK now the hard part - What do they sound like? In comparison to my Stereo Cherry w/ the mondo 1800 VA transformer, the Maraschinos sound more detailed and faster overall. Little subtleties seem more apparent, like the decay of notes, that second melody line that adds to the score, stuff like that. I think T said these amps run at many times the switching frequency of the previous Cherries (which were already fast) and it sounds like it. In my system they have excellent, very detailed bass performance but don't seem to have the sledgehammer bass of the big Cherry. I like sledgehammer bass. I wouldn't call the little guy's bass lightweight, but it doesn't grab you like the Cherry bass does.
But the detail, speed and ease of the Maraschinos is wonderful. Never etched or hyper, just effortless and precise. They are very quiet which makes me think I need to get my Cherry back to Tommy's lab for a checkup.
What else to say, they sound great. The true test will be when I hook the Cherry back up but that'll have to wait until Mr. T can hear his little pups in my system.
Sure do wounder how 4 of these would sound...
-Mike
In the review, I glossed over the fact that I'm auditioning a Convergent Audio Technology SL-1 Ultimate preamp at the moment, and the difference from my VAC Standard MKII is easily heard through the Maraschinos.
-Mike
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The Maraschino's I've been lucky enough to audition in my system for the past few weeks use countersunk, flush, silver phillips head screws. I don't know if final production will go this way but I like the fit n' finish the flush look gives.
Not crazy about the wood top - looks disjointed from the base. And if Tommy asks what we think and 100% say "It's UGLY!" then that's the feedback he's looking for (IMO and knowing him). I doubt T has a hint of negativity toward jtwrace's nice and succinct comment :thumb:
BTW I posted a little review the other day, copied here:
In the review, I glossed over the fact that I'm auditioning a Convergent Audio Technology SL-1 Ultimate preamp at the moment, and the difference from my VAC Standard MKII is easily heard through the Maraschinos.
-Mike
Thanks, Mike, as always. You are correct about the feedback on aesthetics.
Can you post a photo sometime?
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When can I get my hands on it. Everything you build is stunning work. I know these little beast will rock the house. Please let me know when I can get a pair need them for MGM project I think they will fit perfectly.
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:thumb:
Yes, there is a path to KW power levels, but this is going to take some time. Maraschino is SUPER clean at any power level. It's a matter of heat dissipation and the power supply.
By the way, digital crossovers get me very excited! The ultimate digital system should power each driver individually. This system sounds (pun) wonderful, and I'd like to hear more about it. Some photos, perhaps????
Very happy to hear that KW power is possible. This broadens its applications to the PA world as well. If that sound is that clean it should do very well indeed.
No photos of what I describe yet, as I have only begun collecting parts. Although the system topology is set in my head, much of the details are still subject to change. But yes, I think you get the jist of what I'm planning and I also believe this to be the way forward. "Then why isn't everyone doing it?" Because it's bloody difficult! Not difficult to build a system with this topology, but to make it both elegant, user friendly, and sonically amazing is the real trick. Always better to aim high :thumb:
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The Maraschino's I've been lucky enough to audition in my system for the past few weeks use countersunk, flush, silver phillips head screws. I don't know if final production will go this way but I like the fit n' finish the flush look gives.
Not crazy about the wood top - looks disjointed from the base. And if Tommy asks what we think and 100% say "It's UGLY!" then that's the feedback he's looking for (IMO and knowing him). I doubt T has a hint of negativity toward jtwrace's nice and succinct comment :thumb:
-Mike
Sorry, gentlemen, but the fact is that, in Reply #66, Tommy posted TWO pictures. it seemed clear to me that he was asking for "comments" about each one of them (inviting to some constructive comparison, I gather). jtwrace's "nice and succinct comment" was a categorical "ugly" without referring in particular to any of the two pictures posted by Tommy and without offering any constructive comment--unlike everybody else contributing to the thread. So, it appeared to me that jtwrace was condemning both of Tommy's efforts as simply "ugly" with no further comments...my sincere apologies if that wasn't the case and I failed by not giving jtwrace's extremely succinct comment the benefit of the doubt. Ironically, Mike, I though you were part of Tommy's "esthetics committee :lol:
In any event, as Mike says, the condition of ugliness is a judgment based on a general consensus of the totality of respondents disliking something because it totally offends their aesthetic sensitivities....but now, a consensus of respondents may dislike something compared to something else, but that does not imply, at all, that the relatively disliked something belongs into the "ugly" category (as previously defined)--the consensus, in this case is one of relative preference, not of offended aesthetic sensitivities...I, for one, do not feel offended by the wood rendition, I prefer the plain red metal with finer screw work and with that massive base...what material is that black looking base? Marble, granite?
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Sorry, gentlemen, but the fact is that, in Reply #66, Tommy posted TWO pictures. it seemed clear to me that he was asking for "comments" about each one of them (inviting to some constructive comparison, I gather). jtwrace's "nice and succinct comment" was a categorical "ugly" without referring in particular to any of the two pictures posted by Tommy and without offering any constructive comment--unlike everybody else contributing to the thread. So, it appeared to me that jtwrace was condemning both of Tommy's efforts as simply "ugly" with no further comments...my sincere apologies if that wasn't the case and I failed by not giving jtwrace's extremely succinct comment the benefit of the doubt. Ironically, Mike, I though you were part of Tommy's "esthetics committee :lol:
In any event, as Mike says, the condition of ugliness is a judgment based on a general consensus of the totality of respondents disliking something because it totally offends their aesthetic sensitivities....but now, a consensus of respondents may dislike something compared to something else, but that does not imply, at all, that the relatively disliked something belongs into the "ugly" category (as previously defined)--the consensus, in this case is one of relative preference, not of offended aesthetic sensitivities...I, for one, do not feel offended by the wood rendition, I prefer the plain red metal with finer screw work and with that massive base...what material is that black looking base? Marble, granite?
The base is granite and it weighs about 8 lbs. Thanks for your kind post.
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Hi Tommy,
I too prefer the all metal (red) enclosure, and I hope you will stick to one enclosure and make it very polished rather than trying to do two enclosures with both having an unrefined finish.
Is it possible to fasten the red cover from underneath the base so that there are no screws at all? That would be tops IMO :) Overall, looking awesome so congrats!
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The base is granite and it weighs about 8 lbs. Thanks for your kind post.
Thanks, Tommy. Besides adding weight so unit stays in intended resting place, does the granite base serve any anti resonance /vibration control purpose? If yes, I guess, a provision to attach decoupling spikes to the granite base could also be offered as an option.
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Hi Tommy,
I too prefer the all metal (red) enclosure, and I hope you will stick to one enclosure and make it very polished rather than trying to do two enclosures with both having an unrefined finish.
Is it possible to fasten the red cover from underneath the base so that there are no screws at all? That would be tops IMO :) Overall, looking awesome so congrats!
Thanks! The top screws are necessary because they aren't holding the enclosure to the base (those ARE hidden). I agree that it would look slick without any screws on top, but I do like the look using the black screws/washers.
The red "flat" case didn't work out at this time due to some mechanical issues. We want to introduce the tabletop version first....
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Thanks! The top screws are necessary because they aren't holding the enclosure to the base (those ARE hidden). I agree that it would look slick without any screws on top, but I do like the look using the black screws/washers.
What are the screws holding then? If it costs a bit more to have some studs spot welded on the interior of the case so you can screw from the inside, I think it would be worth it :thumb:
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What are the screws holding then? If it costs a bit more to have some studs spot welded on the interior of the case so you can screw from the inside, I think it would be worth it :thumb:
Holding the board.... Intersting idea! Thanks.
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What are the screws holding then? If it costs a bit more to have some studs spot welded on the interior of the case so you can screw from the inside, I think it would be worth it :thumb:
Holding the board.... Intersting idea! Thanks.
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Thanks, Tommy. Besides adding weight so unit stays in intended resting place, does the granite base serve any anti resonance /vibration control purpose? If yes, I guess, a provision to attach decoupling spikes to the granite base could also be offered as an option.
Yes, the base is anti-vibe. Thanks again.
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Holding the board.... Intersting idea! Thanks.
Do it! :green:
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We are anxiously awaiting revised enclosure materials to get amps to reviewers.
I'm totally psyched about the Maraschino! The more I listen to it with different sources and speakers, the more I like it. Yes, I'm biased, but honest.
I had the opportunity to compare the big Cherry to the Maraschino in another system a few weeks ago, and can sum it up simply:
"The big Cherry sounds more authoritative and tube-like. The Maraschino sounds more like Class A on steroids."
-Tommy O
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Maraschino Features:
· DC coupled signal path on floating ground (no bass phase shift, flat to 0Hz)
· True balanced input
· Much higher modulation frequency and signal bandwidth than other Class-D amplifiers
· Stable down to 1 ohm load (low output impedance over entire audio band)
· Extremely low distortion and ultra quiet idle
· Micro power auto standby
· Universal mains external (upgradeable) medical grade power supply
· WBT gold binding posts and Neutrik gold XLR input (compact RCA input adapter included)
· Small footprint with surprisingly powerful output (up to 800W)
· Extremely detailed sound without harshness
· 0.1% metal oxide resistors used throughout
· Anti-vibration GRANITE BASE on Sorbothane
· Beautiful fit and finish
· Legendary Cherry Amp sonics
· MADE IN U.S.A.
Showing Brass and Black options:(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=87779)
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Wow, really nice looking! Very cute and I'll bet they pack a punch!
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Tommy,
What is the level of gain, and also how quiet is the amp (S/N)?
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Tommy,
What is the level of gain, and also how quiet is the amp (S/N)?
SNR is 119dB
Gain is 22dB
Preliminary specs here:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=563774026967295&set=pb.110149138996455.-2207520000.1380541625.&type=3&theater
The design was updated since that post. Gain is a little higher now and those numbers were measured with the standard 48V power supply. We plan a full measurement report as soon as we can put it together. Thanks.
-Tommy
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Posted over the weekend by Patrick Dillon on the AudioMatters blog:
http://audiomatters.blogspot.com/2013/10/new-mono-designs-from-digital-amp-co.html
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I'm looking forward to the Maraschinos! Class A on Steroids... I like. :thumb: My speakers are not very hard to drive so with these specifications i'm sure i have no clipping or distortion on louder volumes. When i finaly get hold of a pair i will use them with a passive volume control. I now have an LDR EVA II as a volume control but propably will upgrade to a Tortuga. I also seen recommendations for a good tube pre amp. Not sure what is best but i like the sound to be analogue but pure with not much distortion. Let's say something between studio and high-end quality. I have a cheap Yaqin CD1 buffer to create more of a tubey sound. Don't know if this is wise to use. I have to experiment on this to know for sure i guess. But i'm getting ahead of myself. :)
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Some new photos:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;album=11804
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Those look really nice Tommy, hope you do well with them.
Take Care,
Greg
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Well, it's finally here..... Our Early Adopter Special:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=121127.msg1274875#msg1274875
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Those look really nice Tommy, hope you do well with them.
Take Care,
Greg
Thanks, Greg.
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Having to go back, WAY back, to explaining how we can make a product of such a level without it being $10,000/ch:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=121127.msg1275189#msg1275189
Should I just come out and say it???? Should I just let the "other guys" comments fly?
I'm feeling philosophical today. Let's just say that some people work harder. Some people aren't so greedy. Some people are just smarter and want others to benefit from their ideas. Companies are like people.
The Maraschino is an amp that lets you immerse yourself in the sound. More on this later.
Anyway, hope everyone has a nice weekend :)
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I received a pair of Cherry Maraschino amps a few days ago. They are playing on a pair of Carnegie Acoustics speakers. These speakers have planar tweeters that are very revealing. I'm planning to compare these mono blocs to other stuff next week or so.
First impressions on the Maraschinos are very good!! They do sound very clear and open without being colored or clinical. And they do sound musical and fast. The music rolls out with a certain easy flow. Fantastic! Rightnow i haven't found that they put a foot wrong. So far my first impressions.
And i think they do look kinda cute but still substantial with the granite base. Nice!
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After some listening with various speakers and sources, the results are in....
First, I must say that after a session listening to Pink Floyd, The Wall, some interesting results were heard. There's so much detail in this album. So many nuances for such an old recording! The Maraschino really opens up sounds like the metal of cymbals and the micro detail that so many amps leave behind. I'm biased, of course, but there's no doubt the sound is like new, revealing the capabilities of the speakers due to tight control at ALL frequencies. Rock solid, louder than expected, and ultra clean at any level.
Second, imaging is nothing short of astonishing. There is abundant "air".
This amp was designed to have extended bandwidth and extremely low output impedance so it can drive down to 1 ohm at all frequencies. Unfortunately, I don't have a pair of difficult-to-drive ESLs handy at the moment. I bet the low impedance at high frequencies would work well with Gallo Reference speakers.
By the way, I'm currently driving the Maraschinos (mono blocks) with switching power supplies. I was hesitant at first to do this, but the sound is smooth as silk. I was worried that the current (as in amps) requirement would overwhelm the supplies, but due to the high efficiency, peaks are coming through with authority and no hiccups.
Well back to listening. Can't wait to bring these to a rave sometime soon. Thanks for reading.
-Tommy O
How time flies! Hard to believe this was almost a year ago to the day. We'd love to hear commentary on our approach. We like to involve the audiophile public in development, and this is one of the things that sets Digital Amp Co. apart. What are your opinions on this? What are your impressions of the end result? Thanks.
-Tommy O
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In case you haven't seen, the 6moons review is complete (although it will be appended later):
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/dac/1.html
Comments? We have some.....
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60V supply now being tested. Get 400W into 4 ohms!
More info:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=124354.0
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New Product Brief:
https://www.digitalamp.com/MARA_INTRO_MAR_2014_48V.pdf
(for 48V)
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Any word on the 60V supply availability?
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Any word on the 60V supply availability?
We are planning a pre-order special any day now. Please email Support@DigitalAmp.com if interested.
New Product Brief:
https://www.digitalamp.com/MARA_INTRO_MAR_2014_60V.pdf
(for 60V)
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Comparing Maraschino to nCore thread (new):
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=125931.0
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Tommy,
400+ wpc clean into 4ohms is unprecedented in your form factor.
The science works. I'm in awe.
Congratulations!
Seth
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Any word on the 60V supply availability?
Pending confirmation of our new enclosures, the 60V pre-order should be next week. Thanks for your patience. :D
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Tommy,
What are the Maraschino dimensions including the bases. Not explicitly stated on your website.
Also need the measurements of the power supply. (48V and 60V).
Thanks,
Spencer
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Tommy,
What are the Maraschino dimensions including the bases. Not explicitly stated on your website.
Also need the measurements of the power supply. (48V and 60V).
Thanks,
Spencer
Spencer,
Dimensions are L x W x H in inches....
Maraschino Desktop Amp: 6 x 6 x 5.5
48V Power Supply: 10 x 3 x 2
60V Power Supply: 7 x 7 x 2.5
Thanks for your post.
-Tommy O
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As we enter the last day of our In-Line Maraschino Kickstarter campaign, we cannot say enough to express our gratitude to our backers!
For the last day only, we added a "procrastinator's special" tricked-out 60V Desktop Maraschino reward at $2750 (regularly $3800).
In-Line Maraschino Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/378044010/in-line-maraschino
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Check it out:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/378044010/mint-maraschino-amp-for-use-with-high-res-players
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If you own 48V Maraschinos, check out the DUAL 60V upgrade deal here:
http://kck.st/1EKKHSt
Check out the "rewards" section.
A little more than 3 days left on the project, so get in before it's too late. Orders from the Kickstarter will be shipped before orders outside the program.
By the way, there's a sweet deal on a pair of demo desktop Maraschinos in there. Only one pair available!
Thanks to Seth for adding the cable deal (see http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=133137.msg1418883#msg1418883)!
-Tommy O
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In related news.... We have 43 backers so far, and we're going for 100. So, even a $1 pledge helps. We also added a stretch goal for free S/PDIF cables with each DAC DAC. That's at a certain total dollar amount (explained in "updates" section).
Just a bit more than 5 days left !!!! MAJOR discounts on Cherry amps (several versions) for being a backer.
Here's the abbreviated link:
http://kck.st/1NWutrj
The video has been played nearly 2000 times, by the way, and we believe we set a new record for funding speed!
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In related news.... We have 43 backers so far, and we're going for 100. So, even a $1 pledge helps. We also added a stretch goal for free S/PDIF cables with each DAC DAC. That's at a certain total dollar amount (explained in "updates" section).
Just a bit more than 5 days left !!!! MAJOR discounts on Cherry amps (several versions) for being a backer.
Here's the abbreviated link:
http://kck.st/1NWutrj
The video has been played nearly 2000 times, by the way, and we believe we set a new record for funding speed!
Now at 55 backers and almost 250%.... Supplies limited.... 3 days left.
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I've written before about the combination of the Maraschinos with the GR Research Wedgies. Both designs do what I most value in making music, playing so clearly and cleanly that they give the impression of music appearing out of thin air. It's an uncanny experience, and one to which I am now thoroughly addicted.
Anyone who wishes to hear the potential of their speakers would do well to take advantage of the DAC Kickstarter offers and give the amps a try. I am personally looking forward to what the DAC DAC has to offer. Unlike many Kickstarter campaigns, this one is targeted for delivery next month, so there's not much of a wait.
I have no interests to disclose, other than that I'd like to alert other ACers that some really amazing equipment is available at extremely reasonable prices. I wouldn't have had the chance to have music like this in my home were it not for just such an offer -- if you are at all interested or even just curious, now's your chance. :thumb:
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Our new Kickstarter:
http://kck.st/2p77yos
What's available as rewards:
- DAC DAC
- MEGAschino (our new amp)
- Linear Maraschino power supplies (for ILM, DTM, STM)
- USB to SPDIF converter
If you have written a review, please copy it to the Kickstarter comments. That would be great to see!
Thanks.
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And now.... The MEGAschino!
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=149935.0
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We happen to have, in our possession, the FIRST production Desktop Maraschino ever made:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=152358.0
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We have some Maraschinos (including Golden Cherry version) at really low prices ---- available here to support our MEGAschino Intro:
http://kck.st/2CH4sLB
Deals expire in less than 60 hours from the time of this post!!!!