AudioCircle

Industry Circles => Vista Audio => Topic started by: woodsyi on 9 Jul 2009, 02:47 pm

Title: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: woodsyi on 9 Jul 2009, 02:47 pm
I received a MC version yesterday.  I didn't have much time but I got to try a couple of records:  Ileana Cotrubas singing Friedrich Schiller and Rebecca Pridgeon's Restrospective.  I know these voices well and they came out beautifully without glare or undue sibilance.  The acoustic bass seemed a little bloated but I may have had too much gain on my sub amps.  Using it with a SS MBL preamp, there is no background noise.  With these pristine records, you wouldn't have known they were vinyl if you didn't see them spinning.   :thumb:

I am going to put it through its paces with different music and different preamps.  I will also compare it to Modwright SWLP, Asthetix Io (upgraded Eclipse) and Hagerman Bugle Pro to see how it fares. 
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 9 Jul 2009, 06:23 pm
Thank you Rim.  :thumb:

And it seems like an endorsement for some quality LPs - I've had some bad luck recently with noisy records.

One note regarding bass - this design does not have capacitors in the signal path (not on the input nor at the output) - in fact, the only caps are in the passive RIAA (2 of them) and power supply - therefore low frequency signals go unobstructed, down to 0 Hz, modified with RIAA characteristic, of course.

Thanks again,
Boris
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 9 Jul 2009, 07:35 pm
Boris asked me to test drive the MM version of the Vista phono stage.
Thanks Boris!    :thumb:

I have only had it for 2 days so I need more time with it before I get its full measure and can give full report, but I already know that.......

THIS THING IS SPECIAL!

 :banana piano:

Stay tuned for more details, as I see how it stacks up against internal phono sections in my JuicyMusic Blueberry Extreme and Air Tight ATC-1.

John

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 9 Jul 2009, 11:13 pm

PS:  I hear no bass anomalies whatsoever.  No bloat, no overhang....nothing.  Overall the presentation is very well proportioned with things in nice balance.  Very pure, very sweet, very musical.  Very nice!   Can't believe I'm listening to SS!!   
:scratch:    :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 10 Jul 2009, 01:49 am
John, you're making me  :oops:

As much as I would rather not say this, there are some things that SS just does better....  :o aa

I hope I don't have to prove now that I really, really like tubes... :D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 10 Jul 2009, 01:21 pm
John, you're making me  :oops:

As much as I would rather not say this, there are some things that SS just does better....  :o aa

I hope I don't have to prove now that I really, really like tubes... :D

I'm learning Boris, I'm learning!
 8)

But in such a critical area as phono, I never thought that SS would be satisfying. 

But I gotta say, your phono stage is more "toobey" sounding (in a good way!) than some tubed units I have heard!   I can almost always identify the SS signature when it is present.  If I were blindfolded while listening to yours, I would say the chain was all tubes.

Kudos for pulling off such a skillful deception!
 :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: woodsyi on 10 Jul 2009, 02:06 pm
Pole, pole!  :lol: :lol:

You will be changing your name here soon.  You are suppose to give Boris and his customers a calm and collected assessment here.  I empathize with you in that this little (I mean physically) $300 unit is clearly out performing it's price category.  But you have to compose yourself and present a little more "objective" front here.  :wink:

 I listen to a couple of sides of La Traviata last night.  Brindisi (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiChbD7r-VA) came through loud and clear.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 10 Jul 2009, 03:35 pm


..... this little (I mean physically) $300 unit is clearly out performing it's price category.........
 

Agreed!

This tiny and unassuming looking piece of non-glitz audio jewelry performs waaaaaay beyond its price point.  Lightweight looks and price, but surely punches like a heavyweight. 

I consider my system fairly high-end , and in terms of performance, the Vista phono section is not out of place.  Shockingly good!

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 11 Jul 2009, 12:59 am
FYI:

I just posted a formal press release:

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=69710.0

Another, more interesting one, coming shortly.  :wink:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: topround on 11 Jul 2009, 03:16 am
Boris,
I want one!
Using a ClearAudio Aurum Beta S.
Can you tailtor my pre for that cart?

Looking forward to "others" hearing this phono pre.

mike
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: lonewolfny42 on 11 Jul 2009, 05:02 am
Rim.... John....
How about a photo in your set-up...thanks ! :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 11 Jul 2009, 12:17 pm

Mike - Thanks! Yes, the preamp can be modfied to fit just about any cartridge based on manufacturer's specifications. Although, even standard unit will fit many carts (old and new) built to the industry standard.

Chris - I'm afraid guys will need a macro lens to show the preamp, it's really packed tight into a small case  :D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 11 Jul 2009, 02:16 pm

It really is quite small.  Think cigarette pack with RCA connectors.

Those with thick and bulky i/c's beware.  Phono stage whiplash will result!

 :lol:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: ecramer on 11 Jul 2009, 04:40 pm
Hey Guys

I received one of  Vista audio Phono Pre (http://vista-audio.com/products/Phono/index.htm) to evaluate. Have about 6 albums on the Pre.  now so ii thought that i have enough time on it to render some first impressions . My system can bee seen listed at the bottom of my post. My Rogue Magnum 99 has the factory phono board installed and i have 2 brymar 12ax7 and a pair of mullard 12au7 from upscale audio installed in the pre the main the 4 6sn7 in the pre are Ge's i got from ltr317 / Paul. I also use a 'PARIS' MOVING COIL hEADAMP (http://www.aksaonline.com/). The  Vista audio Phono Pre with the built in riaa curve replaced the head amp and the built in phono pre in the magnum 99


Albums listened to so far

Dead can Dane - Dead Can Dance
Friedemann - Indian Summer
John Martyn  - so far so god
Art Blakey - A night in In bird Land
The Knife - Silent Shout Single 12"
Bat For lashes - Two Suns
Styx - Paradise theater
The Who - Quadrophenia

I'm Liking it  :thumb: Fast, Clear and clean come to mind right off the bat. a very noticeable  lowering of the noise floor with the loss of 4 tubes in the food chain.    The electronica of "The knife" with it fast  transients and beats  comes through shining brightly. I always thought that this kind music needed Solid state to get the fast attack that as demanded.

John Martyn -guitar playing and voice just flowed out of  this album with the lower noise floor the Intricacy of Martyns playing came through. Wonderful voice. Didn't really lose anything in the vocal range by not using tubes Might not be quite as rich with out the tubes but made up for it in the clean

Art Blakey- What can you say about him Just believe me it was good.

Friedemann - Indian Summer If you have a turntable and don't own a copy of this record shame on you!!! It is one of the most dynamic recordings that I have heard.

I don't think this pre has a signature sound to it.  To my way of thinking This product simple lets what on the record come through which is a good thing. At this price point it crazy good. I Started The Who - Quadrophenia about 11pm and played all 4 sides and was simple mesmerized for over an hour. I have heard this album countless times Last night was one of those magical moments when everything in my system is just coming together. when you can put something in your system as important as a phono Pre and have have it just jell for you its great.

I will also concur that it is petite, you might need some velcro for those of  you that run amazon cables  :lol:and has a nice green led to let you know its on

The only  cravat  that i found is that in my system i could use a little more gain then the stock unit for MC. The dynavector 20xl output is lower then a lot of MC cartridges. Boris said, this  is an easy fix as the gain can be bumped up with no problem.




 
 
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 12 Jul 2009, 12:15 am
Thanks for taking time to write down your impressions Ed.  :D

Looks like we also have some LP recommendations in your post  :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: ecramer on 20 Jul 2009, 02:17 am
I have had the fortunate opportunity to try /evaluate the Phone one pre now being produced by Vista Audio. I would first like to thank Boris for his generosity in lending me this nice affordable   Phono pre. I thoroughly my time with Pre I spent a good amount of time listening to old and new music and never had urging to switch back to my built in Rogue tube phono pre.($500 option + tubes, another $300 on brymars and mallards)  I found the dark back round and dynamics, made up for the sweet tube mids that I was used to listening to.

I posted an initial impression earlier in the thread that still pretty much holds true. The noise floor is very dark and low, Dynamics that are never strained in any of the Lp?s that I listened to. I was worried about this especially with the moving coil version running out head room with no caps in the food chain to provide extra power but proved to be a problem that never materialized. I listened to a wide verity of music during the course of the evaluation anything from classic country to electronic.  I found myself drawn into the music  during my listening sessions  with this pre during the  time I spent with it, The presentation I never found  straining or fatiguing. 

I could use a bunch of tired audio endearments that we have all heard to describe this nice little unit that I would like to avoid. I found this unit to figuratively and physically disappearing in my system as tucked it in the back behind my DAC for the time I was using it, and the only indication that it was there was the green led indicating it was on. I felt that it let the music from the LP?s that I played come through very little or no added coloration added by this unit. Price wise, build quality, and performance all say that this unit should cost more. This more then an entry level unit and would give a lot mileage and upgrade to those people who have built in phono pres in there equipment and are looking to upgrade or those that are trying to get into vinyl without breaking the bank. I think most people who get to hear this will agree that it is a bargain.  I will be sad to have to send this back to Boris even if it?s only to wait till I can purchase one of the audio circle units. I will be able to set up 2 turntables in my system at a time with the addition of this unit to my system which would be cool.

Some of the Albums that I listened to with this pre but not all are

Godspeed you black emperor f#a#oo LP
Styx - Paradise Theater
The who Quadrophenia
Bob Dylin Modern Toimes, Highway 61 revisited
Robert Gorden x/ Link Wray Fresh Fish Special
The Dead Weather  - Horehound
Lene Lovich ?Lene Lovich
The Creatures ? Anima Animus
Swans - Drainland / Sacrificial cake
Uriah Heap - Demons and wizards / magician birthday party
Bat for lashes ? two suns
Ten years after recorded live  hobbit and help me tracks
Reo spead wagon you get what you played for
Kitaro - ten years
Fever Ray ? Fever Ray
This Mortal Coil Filigree & Shadow double LP Import
JOHN MARTYN So Far So Good
Performance: Rockin' the Fillmore [LIVE] Humble Pie
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 20 Jul 2009, 02:31 am
Very nice write-up, Ecramer!    :thumb:

I have not yet gotten around to writing a formal report, but I gotta say I hear exactly what you are hearing, and I concur 100% with your comments.

Great unit that I have absolutely no doubt will satisfy beginners shopping up to $1k and maybe even beyond for a phono section.  And it is sufficiently sophisticated and refined sounding to satisfy even the vinyl experienced, like myself.  I had a very experienced audio buddy over today, and he too thought it was excellent.

Nice job, Boris!  You've hit a home run with this one!

 :dance:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: woodsyi on 20 Jul 2009, 03:48 pm
I got a chance to listen some more and compare it to Aesthetix Io (Eclipse) and Modwright SWLP.  I listened to various types of musics to get a full workout. 

Berlioz:  Symphonie Fantastique
Beethoven: 9th Symphony
                Moonlight Sonata
                String Quartets
Verdi:  La traviata
Puccini:  Tosca
Rush:  MoFi Permanent Waves
Sonny Rollins:  Colossus
Pretenders:  Pretenders II
Rebecca Pidgeon:  Restrospective
Chico Freeman:  Spirit Sensitive
Charlie Byrd:  The Guitar Artistry Of Charlie Byrd (Analog Productions Test Pressing)
Loretta Lynn:  Coal Miner's Daughter
Van Halen:  Van Halen

The Phono 1 played all of them well in its own "characteristic" way.  Now, how would I describe this house sound?  One word is what I keep coming back to and that is CLEAN.  It's transparent and very musical to a certain point but it does have limitations.  Where it falls short is in the rarefied "Air" department.  If istening to Aesthetix Io (Eclipse) is like tasting Hagen Daz ice cream,  listening to Phono 1 is tasting Breyers -- both good but one is richer than the other.  When I listen to Callas (Tosca) and Cotrubas (Violetta) singing, I get a very good rendition of the voices but certain harmonic complexities of their voices are missing in the Phono 1. 

Now to be fair, we have to consider the fact that Io is probably the diametric antithesis of Phono 1 in both in design philosophy as well as in cost considerations.  Phono 1 is a cost conscious unit built and designed to maximize its performance to a "low" price point.  Io is no holds barred unit with 8 tubes in the PS and  10 tubes in the phono EQ and gain stage.  The Nordost Quattro Fil balanced phono cable (DIN to XLR) alone cost as much in the used market as the Phono 1. The noise floor is much higher in the Io then the Phono 1 but then the Io is also the "bloomiest" phono stage in the best sense of the word.  It's an intoxicating brew once you acquire the taste. 

Modwright SWLP comes in between the two -- It's clean and robust at the same time.  I like listening to SWLP with complex full music because it's fast, retrieves mucho details and still conveys the tonal riches of different instruments.  It does not do voices like Io though.  Phono 1 is a lot like the Modwright unit.

In conclusion, Phone 1 is an absolute "Steal" at it's price.  It conveys music like it's recorded in an accurate and clean manner.  It doesn't add anything to the source and if it falls a little short of retrieving harmonic overtones, it makes up for it in the quiet blackness of the background.  To Toobluvr's preaching, I will say Amen over and over.  This is probably the best phonostage, bar none, for anyone looking to get into analog scene at the entry level.  I would hazard to predict that it will more than hold it's own with mid level gears as well. 

Bravo Boris!

     

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: doug s. on 21 Jul 2009, 07:46 pm
rim, i wonder what a tube buffer inserted between fono 1 and your preamp would do...

doug s.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: woodsyi on 22 Jul 2009, 07:05 pm
I hope no one thinks I am in anyway dissing this product.  I think the world of it.  In fact, I am going to buy the demo unit and put it in my bedroom.  The size and cool running temperature makes it a perfect fit in my enclosed cabinet. 

Phono 1's performance belies the fact that it costs 1/12th of SWP and 1/50th of Io Eclipse.  It's a fantastic value and an excellent performer regardless of price. :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: eibhlin on 1 Aug 2009, 02:16 pm

It really is quite small.  Think cigarette pack with RCA connectors.

Those with thick and bulky i/c's beware.  Phono stage whiplash will result!

 :lol:
Boris,
I want one!
Using a ClearAudio Aurum Beta S.
Can you tailtor my pre for that cart?

mike
I'm considering purchase of an ACLE unit, and want to thank the above posters for their respective questions, saved me the trouble of asking.

I use a Denon DL 103R (pretty low output), so a potential MC gain issue has my attention. I'm wondering if Boris can chime in on this. Boris, I note you mention in another post that the unit can be "modified to fit just about any cartridge based on manufacturer's specifications"; thus, I hope the Denon line of carts fits that matrix.

I'm also soliciting opinions regarding PCs and ICs (I have a pair of Gronebergs I'd contemplate using) that might mate well without breaking the budget - we're still in recession mentality here.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: woodsyi on 1 Aug 2009, 03:06 pm
There was no gain issue with me.  I just had the output gain on my MBL preamp down and did not realize it.  Once I had the output control back up again, it was fine with a LOMC Ruby 3.  I had about 80 dB output with volume control at noon (50%).  As toobluvr stated, your overall set up will determine what you get but you shouldn't have any issue if you are doing fine in terms of gain with other sources right now.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 1 Aug 2009, 06:14 pm
First I want to thank woodsyi, ecramer and toobluvr, my beta reviewers who followed up on their reviews by purchasing the preamp. Thank you very, very much for your support!!!!

As for the MC gain, as I said, the gain and loading can be tailored to a particular cartridge. Denon DL-103R has suggested loading of about 30 ohms. Not a problem - standard loading of the phono preamp is 47 ohm (which is probably good for this cart as well), but 30 ohms is easily done. As for the gain, the standard gain should be sufficient but, if it's not, I can always increase it. The preamp is small, shipping costs are low and I will do the mod free of charge.

Mike/topround has bought the AudioLimits interconnects with the preamp - the cable is perfect for cart-to-preamp application, but Mike has hard wired cables and he's using AudioLimits as regular interconnects. Nothing wrong with that, any connection will benefit from their low capacitance. Perhaps he'll share his impressions if he sees this....

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 1 Aug 2009, 06:58 pm
First I want to thank woodsyi, ecramer and toobluvr, my beta reviewers who followed up on their reviews by purchasing the preamp. Thank you very, very much for your support!!!!



Testimony to an excellent product, tremendous value and exemplary customer support, Boris!

 :thumb:

I've auditioned much gear over the years and the only ones I have purchased are the Vista phono and Vista i-34 integrated, and my JuicyMusic Blueberry Xtreme preamp.  Batting 1.0000 Boris!    :lol:

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: richidoo on 3 Aug 2009, 11:21 pm
I finally got my greasy paws on my ACLE, only 5 days after I signed the signature form left on my door. When it didn't show up in the mail again today, I asked the mailman WTF? So he offered to make a special trip to the PO to pick it up and brought it to my house for me tonight.  Just when you think the world has gone to shit, someone does something very nice. Big thanks to Bob, my Cary, NC mailman.   :thumb: 

So far so good after only 2 tracks of an OLD VeeJay bebop record. Clean and musical, great prat. No hum. I'll run some better LPs through it tonight. Glad to have records playing again, it's been a long time since they sounded like this. Thanks Boris!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: richidoo on 7 Aug 2009, 11:49 pm
A couple days later and about a dozen records through it, what a great sound. It just sounds natural, like it's supposed to sound. Complex tones like harmon muted trumpet are unravelled perfectly. Dynamics are pretty good (for LP). No obvious departures from flat EQ that I can tell from my oldish jazz collection which has some wild EQ mistakes here and there. Bass is huge and impactful, treble is sweet and extended, you know samo BS descriptions.....  It boils down to being a true high end phono preamp for $300. That's awesome!  I'll have a chance to compare it to some nice tube preamps in the next months. I think it will hold up very well. I'm itching to crack it open to look for upgrade opportunities that every other $300 component has in abundance. But I am too busy listening, I don't want to take it out of commission. What a great little product. There is a touch of feedback feeling which can only be reduced further by going to tubes, and I don't mean Bellari at similar price which is not high end component. I mean a $2k+ real tube phono pre, that's where this little guy plays, and probably more like $4k when you get the tone and bass as good as this. But it is incredibly open and honest sound for opamps. The feedback gives a cozy and matter of fact confident feeling that lets you trust the tonality, but it's not at all stuffy which is tricky to avoid with opamps. Boris you have a good ear.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 8 Aug 2009, 12:05 am
Regarding the above post....
I can say that the Vista phono acquits itself very well against the two tubed phono sections that I own and love:  JuicyMusic BlueBerry Xtreme and AirTight ATC-1. 

They are both full function preamps, and despite the Vista being handicapped by extra connections and an extra i/c, it holds its own quite well.  If it did not, I would not have bought it!  It is a marvel at its price.  I wish all audio gear packed this much value.

 :thumb:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Tagman on 28 Aug 2009, 01:06 pm
Boris,

 I am a fairly new member to Audiocircle. I just wanted to send you a little message about your phono-1 preamp MM. My very good friend Mike (TOPROUND)just recently let me borrow his phono-1 which is still in my system at this time.Well, I have to tell you that I was blown away with the performance of this little gem!!  Wynton Marsalis, and Dexter Gordon were transported into my living room!!  The soundstage, the warm 3 dimensional presence, and the dynamics overwhelmed me to the point of disbelief.

I know there are many here that own very expensive hi end phono preamps, but I find it hard to believe that you could get better performance than this without spending thousands!!!!  I have owned tube amps, and I am currently using a tube preamp with a SS amp. I know the "tube sound", and the phono-1 has the sound characteristics of tube components. Wow! I want to hear what you can do with other SS designs. Kudos to you, and Mike topround is not getting this thing back LOL.

       Regards
  Thomas S.

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 28 Aug 2009, 09:06 pm
Guys - thanks for the high praises!!  Thanks to Mike too for sharing his unit. You guys are awesome!!!  :thumb:

Greetings from sunny Serbia :beer:

I'll be back soon...

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: topround on 2 Sep 2009, 09:43 am
All I can say is if you guys were at my house last night and heard what this pre can do, you would have ordered one on the spot.!!
Best bang for the analogue buck!! Without a doubt.
I had a Graham Slee Gold Era V and Boris's pre smoked it completly.

Mike
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: toobluvr on 2 Sep 2009, 01:10 pm
All I can say is if you guys were at my house last night and heard what this pre can do, you would have ordered one on the spot.!!
Best bang for the analogue buck!! Without a doubt.
I had a Graham Slee Gold Era V and Boris's pre smoked it completly.

Mike


Hate to say it Mike, but I told ya so!!

8)

Boris' phono preamp smokes lots of phono stages......
even those much costlier than the Graham Slee!

 :thumb:

 

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Tagman on 28 Sep 2009, 10:37 pm
Boris, Just wanted to tell you how impressed I am with the phono 1. Ever
since I took delivery last week my cd player has been off. This product is fantastic!!  If you can make me a DAC that sounds as good as the phono 1
then I will be the first on line.

Listen up people! This product is wonderful, and a steal at the price. Just
buy it. Boris is a good person to deal with. Thanks Boris.

        Regards
      Thomas S.  (TAGMAN)
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: levlhed on 16 Sep 2010, 03:19 am
I took delivery of mine today and am listening to it now.

I don't have too much to say because my frame of reference is limited other than I am extremely happy with my purchase.

I knew my previous preamp wasn't that great, supposedly it "holds it's own for it's price", but now that I have the Phono1 I can truly hear what a compromise it was!  And it didn't even cost all that much more! 

This thing just sounds RIGHT.  I didn't realize how my records were supposed to sound until now.  I also wasn't aware of just how much of a weak link my former preamp was.

My set up is:
Technics SL-1200 "MKE" (http://"http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showpost.php?p=3955392&postcount=65") ~> DL-103r ~> Audioquest PT-9 ~> Bobs Devices Cinemag SUT ~> Vista Audio PHOHO-1+ ACLE ~> Bottlehead Crack w. Speedball ~> Sennheiser HD650
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: jupiterboy on 20 Dec 2014, 09:57 pm
My phono amp is out again, over the holidays. I'm emailing Boris about getting one of these set up for my new AT F-7. I think I'm stuck between the old stock depletion and the new supplier of the casings.

Very much looking forward to having a Vista in the system.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: WireNut on 20 Dec 2014, 10:04 pm
I really like my Vista ACLE unit. Beats the crap out of the Pass labs pearl 2 DIY preamp. The pearl 2 is lifeless in comparison.




All I can say is if you guys were at my house last night and heard what this pre can do, you would have ordered one on the spot.!!
Best bang for the analogue buck!! Without a doubt.
I had a Graham Slee Gold Era V and Boris's pre smoked it completly.

Mike

+1


Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 4 Jan 2015, 11:22 am
Picts we need Picts of the new one.
I is a great sounding pre for the $$.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 13 Jun 2016, 05:12 pm
Boris, how far are you now on the new one?

D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 14 Jun 2016, 07:46 pm
Hey Den,

Good to hear from you!

Basic tests are complete. Now I am going through more advanced evaluations - with so many options that is going to take a while. But it's fun, especially when everything goes nice and smooth :)

I have put some pictures on Vista's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/vistaaudio). I'll upload to the AC gallery soon.

Best,
Boris
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 14 Jun 2016, 08:14 pm
Thanks Boris!
I'll be watching for it.

D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jun 2016, 07:40 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=145002)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=145003)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=145004)
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: jupiterboy on 15 Jun 2016, 07:44 pm
Looks like lots of loading options. Any consideration of a mono switch?
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jun 2016, 08:19 pm
Looks like lots of loading options. Any consideration of a mono switch?

Yes, many loading, gain and filtering options... plus unlimited flexibility of Phono-1.

Mono switch... hmmm... let me think if that can be done without major compromises...
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: jupiterboy on 16 Jun 2016, 02:16 pm
If not, I have a switch that follows the phono preamp, but that's an extra set of ICs and the mess.

Filters? As in subsonic? Nice!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 1 Jan 2017, 11:25 am
I'm running my newly acquired  LOMC Vista phono-1 mkII directly into a JWN 6V6 amplifier. Jim put a volume knob and a headphone jack on it. I'm running it at about 8:30 on the volume knob, pushing AKG K7XX headphones with ease. I have to say it sounds superb. The turntable is a thorens TD-125mkII with a denon 301mkII cart.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 1 Jan 2017, 03:02 pm
It is very good.

The NEW "Vista 2"  shipping this month. I have had this one here for a month in November as a Pre Production but did not compare it to the ACLE Vista 1.

http://www.vista-audio.com/products/phono-2/index.htm
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: neobop on 10 Jan 2017, 04:14 am
Lookout, coming to you.  The Vista 1 is silly good and not just for the money.   Never found a preamp I really liked and Vista 2 should have the power supply to easily drive a passive and long cables 25 - 30'. 

Hey Baco, I'm a little busy right now, but maybe you could try my custom Vista 1 mk2 and compare?   PM sent.

neo
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 10 Jan 2017, 04:27 pm
Neo, PM sent.
I originally had the Vista1 MKII ACLE it was indeed very good.
I will be waiting on Boris to ship me a new Vista 2.
More to come................
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 14 Jan 2017, 11:46 pm
Quick update. Received yesterday my new Microzotl2 preamp/headphone amp. Running the vista into the microzotl and into my big JWN amplifier, pushing 8 KT-77 output tubes. My system has never sounded better. The Vista pairs well with the microzotl.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jan 2017, 05:51 pm
Neo, PM sent.
I originally had the Vista1 MKII ACLE it was indeed very good.
I will be waiting on Boris to ship me a new Vista 2.
More to come................

Finalizing packaging... then the first production unit is slated to go your way :)
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jan 2017, 05:55 pm
Quick update. Received yesterday my new Microzotl2 preamp/headphone amp. Running the vista into the microzotl and into my big JWN amplifier, pushing 8 KT-77 output tubes. My system has never sounded better. The Vista pairs well with the microzotl.

Thanks for the feedback, Greg, happy to hear everything is working out! Looking forward to hearing more once you put few hundred hours on your two new preamps  :thumb:

Boris
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 15 Jan 2017, 05:58 pm
 :thumb:
May I have it Signed?
 8)

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jan 2017, 06:12 pm
:thumb:
May I have it Signed?
 8)

Awww... I feel flattered  :notworthy:

Not sure that it adds any value, but I'll be happy to sign it for you Den.  :D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 15 Jan 2017, 06:15 pm
Wait a minute. I didn't say by who?

Trump?  :lol: :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 15 Jan 2017, 09:06 pm
Wait a minute. I didn't say by who?

Trump?  :lol: :lol: :lol:

 :lol: Good one!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 16 Jan 2017, 11:49 am
Quick question for Boris. I notice there is no grounding option for the vista, and my microzotl also lacks a ground post. How would I ground my VPI turntable so I can try it with the Vista? The thorens sounds great with the vista so far, and it is internally grounded so that is not an issue.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 16 Jan 2017, 11:59 am
The Vista 2 has a ground lug. I did ask the same question on the Vista 1 MKII. I'll let Boris answer (BTW which was funny). Easy enough to put one in. Just drill a hole and attach to case in a proper area away from board etc. no wiring.  The case is what is the ground in this instance.
You may or may not get any hum without a ground. 
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 16 Jan 2017, 12:20 pm
Not so sure i want to be drilling holes in that little thing, but yeah that would work. In the short term could I just tape the ground to the case?
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 16 Jan 2017, 01:01 pm
Probably use one of the side screws as long as there is no paint insulating it, but the screw goes through the case anyway contacting direct metal. You may not need a ground.
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 16 Jan 2017, 01:19 pm
I just hooked up the Vista to the aux input on the CJ preamp, which also has a ground post. Listening to Wes Montgomery on the VPI with my headphones. Everything sounds very good. The denon cart will be needing some break-in time as well, but so far so good!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: bacobits1 on 16 Jan 2017, 04:12 pm
There ya go..... great!
Sometimes hooking a ground in can create a ground loop problem.

I will mention what Boris said. He eliminated the ground because many people were hooking in everything but the house ground to it.  :scratch: :lol:
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 16 Jan 2017, 06:40 pm
 :D I removed the ground wire and it sounds fine...
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 16 Jan 2017, 07:35 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=156432)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=156433)

Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 16 Jan 2017, 09:22 pm
I am on the road these days, thank you Den for helping out! When the grounding is required (not very often) the side screws can indeed be used.

I witnessed people doing scary things with the gnd screw, so I took it out. Now with Phono-2 it is back, as I have received several requests for that feature. I think people who opt for Phono-2 are little more experienced and aware of good grounding techniques.

Thanks for posting the pictures!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: sabocat on 18 Jan 2017, 01:15 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=156532)
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: borism on 20 Mar 2017, 01:52 pm
Well, after my last turntable, a Dual was stolen in the 1980s I had switched to digital source components. More recently, listening to all that vinyl revival talk, I decided to give it another try.

After some research I discovered a place that restores vintage Thorens tables - Vinyl Nirvana - and bought a Thorens 160 Super with a Jelco tonearm and an Ortofon 2M Bronze cartridge. I also got a Phono 1 from Boris.

Upon connecting everything the first experience was an audible hum. Since the Phono 1 does not have a separate ground tab, I used as someone recommended previously one of the side screws to the metal case of the Phono 1. This took care of the hum and I was able to play my first record.

The sound coming out of the speakers was incredible. It was musical, big, tactile and to my surprise the bass was very strong. There was also the minor annoyance of various sporadic record surface noises but it didn't take away from the pleasure of the vinyl sound.

Here are some pictures of my new set-up.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=159410)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=159467)

Great experience! :D
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 21 Mar 2017, 02:40 pm
Thank you for the feedback, and for pictures of the setup. Very nice! A friend of mine bought TD160 in the eighties, and he is still using it quite often with just regular (and very rare) maintenance. Great machine!

Quality bass and transparency... I am still very happy to have decided to eliminate AC coupling capacitors early in the design stage. It was a worthwhile effort and I will need to find a way extend it to future designs as well.

Thanks again!
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: gaetan8888 on 29 Jan 2020, 11:00 am
Thank you for the feedback, and for pictures of the setup. Very nice! A friend of mine bought TD160 in the eighties, and he is still using it quite often with just regular (and very rare) maintenance. Great machine!

Quality bass and transparency... I am still very happy to have decided to eliminate AC coupling capacitors early in the design stage. It was a worthwhile effort and I will need to find a way extend it to future designs as well.

Thanks again!

Hello

Have you try the same phono preamp with AC coupling capacitors ?

Will you do a line preamp some day ?

Thank

Bye

Gaetan
Title: Re: Phono 1 feedback
Post by: Audiovista on 29 Jan 2020, 04:03 pm
Hello Gaetan,

Good questions!

I did not try the exact configuration with the AC coupling caps: capacitors increase distortion and affect the sound, regardless of how good they are; for that reason I use them only when necessary, with due considerations to their role in the circuit, type, rating and quality.

A line preamp as a separate product is not in the immediate plans, although a few circuits which could go into a possible future preamp have been designed and in use in our OEM products. One interesting feature will soon be presented as a stand-alone product.

Thanks again,
Boris