[daves]

Kyle, I purchased both preamps new from Mark.

As far as the sparkling highs of the Sun Audio, I think what you experienced was the holographic nature of the JAN RCA 2a3 output tubes driven by wide range top shelf transformers through Altec 19s. You drop anything from that chain, you will muddy the voicing and reduce the extraordinary clarity and extension currently realized.

I like a sound that is somewhat close to audiophile etched, but with some warmth that tubes offer as well. It is fairly hard for a pre to get you into the SET amp domain.

[Baumli]

Dave,

I had seen the Rek-O-Cut when it was in process, and that final coat of finish Gabe put on it really sets it off as a work of art. That man is a master craftsman.

So in showing that turntable off, which are you doing? Committing the sin of pride, or just gloating?

Obsessively,

Francis Baumli

P.S. And where did you get those AR speakers? Are they the pair that were at Record Exchange for years?

[daves]

Francis, I would have to say pride, gloating, and amazement! It is beautiful across the board.

I have had the AR3as for seven years now; they were just tucked in the back bedroom where you didn't notice them, sitting by the Fultons, the 604Es, the Thiels.....etc.

[Batsong]

Francis--You're next!  Hopefully, it will be a true test of self-restraint.
-Gabe

[daves]

Gabe, I heard you might be looking for a pair of 6SN7 GTBs. I have a couple you might like...

[Batsong]

Thanks Dave!  I'll give you a call.

[BaronKyle]

Dave, one more observation that popped into my head.

Your Citation V has wire connectors for output tubes with a metal cap plate connection.

Search Google as I might, I have never seen this on a V.

What is the background here?

[daves]

Kyle, the previous owner was a modder. For the V, he changed the output tubes to cathode capped 807s, bless his pointed head.