AudioCircle
Industry Circles => Well Tempered Lab => Topic started by: rob400 on 4 Sep 2014, 06:01 pm
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The forum has been a little slow recently so I thought I'd throw in a thread that might spark some activity.
We all use Well tempered decks but I for one would like to hear from you guys as to which equipment you use along side it.
This isn't a bragging rights thread so it doesn't matter how expensive your gear cost I'd simply like to hear about your choices and how/why you feel that they compliment your turntable. My guess is there are a lot of valve amp uses amongst us.
I'll start it off. My rig is as follows....
WT Versalex/ Auditorium23 Homage mat/ Symmetrex LTD/ Dynavector XV1s
Densen 440xs CD player
Dynvaector L300mk2 pre amp/P300 internal phono stage.
Dynavector HX100 power amp x 2
Shahinian Obelisk 2 speakers
Auditorium 23 interconnects/speaker cables (short lengths bare wire terminated)
Dedicated mains supply/Atlas mains cables/Star wired (earth/live and neutral)mains block.
Solid Oak framed hifi rack with Baltic Birch Ply boards.
I find that Dynavector cartridges compliment my WT better than anything else that I've heard. The same open, natural sound with good PRAT and lovely tone. The same applies to my amp and speakers. In the UK this is the established combination of equipment to compliment out Versalex and Amadeus decks......
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Versalex/Symetrix/DPS/A23/DV XV1s
Pure Audio Vinyl phono amp
Naim 52/Supercap
Naim 500/500PS
Bespoke 3 way floorstander speakers using Hiquiphon and Scanspeak drivers.
Mogami/Eichmann interconnect from tt to phono amp
Otherwise DIY interconnects using silver cores in teflon tubes (2 per conductor)
Speaker cables as per interconnects but using 11 cores per conductor
Naim Powerlines on CD player, pre & power
DIY rack
But as I type this I am listening to cd on Naim CDX2/555PS.
Plan to try an HX100 but they are scarce here. Did try one of the prototypes and was impressed but didn't have the 500 to compare it to then.
Steve
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I'm running:
- Amadeus GTA
- Original GTA arm
- Auditorium 23 (standard) mat
- DPS
- Dynavector XX2 mk.II
- Dynavector P75 mk.III
- Line Magnetic 216IA
- DeVore Fidelity Orangutan O/93
- Emotiva ERC-1
- Auditorium 23 speaker cables
- Morrow Audio phono and interconnect cables
System has been sounding great since I recently bought the XX2 and the O93s. Was previously using the EMT TSD-15 and some DeVore 3XLs. A lot more weight, snap, texture, tone and macrodynamics. I'm looking to get a Line Magnetic 518IA and possibly an Oppo BDP-105D in the near future and possibly upgrade the interconnects.
Thought I'd add some pics.
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/15000128456_a270c7674f_b.jpg)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3898/14836534968_9fdde4a8d8_b.jpg)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/14836599447_ab463295c0_b.jpg)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/14836595377_0cb662e51f_b.jpg)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3882/14836585427_41000af36e_b.jpg)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3912/14836525128_7d2b851fd9_b.jpg)
(https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3885/15022739302_1a0a0f2781_b.jpg)
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System has been sounding great since I recently bought the XX2 and the O93s. Was previously using the EMT TSD-15 and some DeVore 3XLs. A lot more weight, snap, texture, tone and macrodynamics. I'm looking to get a Line Magnetic 518IA and possibly an Oppo BDP-105D in the near future and possibly upgrade the interconnects.
Nice pic Erocka. Love the veneer on the DeVores's. The Line Magnetic, DeVore combination seems to be popular in the US.
Sadly we don't have a distributor for LM here in the UK. Glad that you are enjoying your DV. They really are great cartridges especially with WT.
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Plan to try an HX100 but they are scarce here. Did try one of the prototypes and was impressed but didn't have the 500 to compare it to then.
Nice system Steve. The HX100 definitely works with Naim pre amps. I briefly owned a HX1.2 mk2 (but sold it quickly as it was too dry sounding for my palette) The guy i bought it from had upgraded to a HX100 to partner his 552 and drive big Focal speakers. He told me that he preferred the HX100 to the Naim 500. But he preferred his 552 to my L300. The HX100 is a hidden gem IMO.
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Very nice rigs guys, am certainly partial to the Shahinian's, but the Devore O's also extremely nice!
I am Well Tempered less at the moment, but am giving it serious consideration at some point, seeing these pics doesn't help much!
If I do get a WTL table, it will be used with my Naim Uniti as source, Plinius 8200 MKI, Shahinian Obelisk 2's.
All in due time....
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Nice systems, guys.... I know it's hard sometimes ( most times) to get to the level we all want- budget constraints, limited dealers/gear in a given area, even lack of knowledge of what to do next. Yet what interests me in these polls, and thanks for this one, Rob, is the seemingly rigid limits imposed on racks.
Lots of DIY, which can be fine. And lots of tinkering on here, which can lead to good or dubious results.
I'm equally guilty. I've bought more devices and discarded them then I'd like to remember.
So why are we reluctant to pull the trigger for racks worthy of our systems?
That's what I'd like to know....
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So why are we reluctant to pull the trigger for racks worthy of our systems?
That's what I'd like to know....
Good point Charlie. Racks have a big effect on sound IMO also. I've previously used a Naim Fraim which cost $2000. It worked very well with the Linn/Naim system that I was using at that time. However when I moved over to WTL/DV I found the sound with metal and glass very hard sounding. My WTL dealer and the UK WTL importer both use cheap Ikea racks. They are light and very rigid and I've concluded that my Versalex prefers this type of rack to high mass variants. Good as the Ikea is my preference is for natural timber/or high grade Ply (MDF sounds somewhat dead to these ears) I tried Baltic Birch and fell in love. It produces the most natural and flowing sound. No spikes or isolation pads either they just remove something good IMO. The Box Furniture type rack looks great and works very well. Probaly due to it's extra mass it's not quite as flowing sounding as my Baltic Birch IMO but creates a very stable, natural sound and is my second choice. If I wasn't a skilled Carpenter and able to make my own Baltic Birch/ Solid Hardwood rack I'd buy this type of rack or a Quadraspire/Hutter. On a sonic par with those 2, but not as pleasing aesthetically, the Ikea Lack or Besta racks are amazing value for money and IME supporting a WTL Versalex or Amadeus trounce very high mass type racks, especially those made in part from metal or glass.
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P.S I've found that my Versalex sounds best when it's perfect level.
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Those are our findings as well, clued- in Rob. :)
Those Ikea racks sure are ugly, however.
The Box Furniture is very high quality fine furniture in comparison.
I, too, love what Quadraspire does.
Haven't ever played with the Hutter.
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Charlie, are you referring to my rack? Until I can have a dedicated listening room, my stereo has to share duties with my tv/blu-ray setup. That said, I need the odd shaped stand because I need to fit my tv because I don't want to mount it in a rental unit. I still think the rack that I build does a hell of a job and cost me a lot less than had a bought a similar unit from a company. Sure, I'd love to have a Box Furniture rack, but I don't really have the space or the $3500 it costs, as it'd be tough for me to justify that expense. I'm not saying it doesn't elevate the sound quality, but I'd much rather spend the money on gear and records. My system is sounding just fine the way it is.
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No, your rack bad gear look fine.
I was just talking generalities.
Yet you pigeon holed yourself directly into my question...like most of us, even my closest friends and listening panel- slightly defensive, push the ol shield up of money better spent on more records, that sort of thing. We ALL do it. My point was/is, what if planning your next purchase around another piece of gear, etc, one (I'm not targeting you) instead makes his/her already good system better just by a rack improvement.
I'm not saying spend tons, only something noticeably better....
I'll give a for instance.... A system based on a Naim Nait will sound infinitely more musical on a Quadraspire at $175 a shelf than any Salamandar or Solid Steel. Period. I always equate what most hobbyists do as buying a fancy sports car and then buying tires for it at Walmart. And I once was equally guilty, so no slings, arrows, or crossbows if you please....
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Oops! Major typo above... Should be rack AND gear are fine... Me autocorrect be bad... :duh:
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So why are we reluctant to pull the trigger for racks worthy of our systems?
That's what I'd like to know....
I didn't. I did a couple of small experiments followed by about 4 months of research followed by another 3 months more of experimenting and designing on a solid model CAD system.
Then I built my rack and it turned out even better that the best I had achieved with my experiments. I was well pleased.
Steve
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That's great you can do that, Steve, like Rob. I can finish wood fine, redid my entire 1910 house. Yet I'm no Norm Abrams...
So you compared it to your prior experiments... Did you ever compare it to any commercial products ?
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If memory serves me correctly SteevA's rack was of the glass shelved variety. Is it still the same? I liked my Naim 252/300/ CDS3 on a Fraim but my Versalex hated it. I can appreciate that you use a similar CD/amp and that its not easy to mix and match from a space or aesthetic perspective. However I've yet to find anyone who has tried a Quadraspire/Hutter/Ikea/Box Furniture to plant their WTL on find it inferior to anything constructed from metal/glass. With my L300/HX100 it's also a complete no brainer. Same with Line Magnetic by all accounts. With all the due respect to you metal/glass rack guys and appreciation that it's just my opinion.
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That's great you can do that, Steve, like Rob. I can finish wood fine, redid my entire 1910 house. Yet I'm no Norm Abrams...
So you compared it to your prior experiments... Did you ever compare it to any commercial products ?
The system was already on a Soundstyle Tripod rack when I started experimenting. Parts of that rack now serve as pot plant stands, a job I now consider they do better than being audio racks.
My system expanded and I discovered that I could no longer get the Tripods. I looked at Fraims and thought words to the effect of, 'for that price I think I need to see what I can do myself', and so the experiments started.
The first experiment involved my old Sansui CDP and some bungee cords and them some roller bearing isolators I got 2nd hand. The results were so significant, plus big grin inducing, that I set about studying vibration isolating and dampening in some detail. The final rack design incorporates 7 different materials, each with a different resonant frequency.
The rack does not have any glass. It used to have a single glass shelf on top for the turntable but since getting the Versalex that has been replaced by a MDF/rubber/MDF/rubber/MDF shelf which has recently found itself sitting on roller bearings (for a modest improvement over without roller bearings). All the rest of my kit sits on roller bearings with the exception of the 500PSU, which currently resides on a old wooden stool until I get around to moving the Versalex to a wall shelf.
Steve
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I guess if it works for you that's great.
One thing I've noticed is that most of us work
/play at this in a vacuum... if we could all easily teleport around in a group things might be different.
As I mentioned once before, I've played with steel balls, Herbies balls and discs, Pierre's Maple boards, all sorts of tweeks under my Amadeus, and my listening panel always shot them down.
I was always so proud of my efforts and thought I was onto something bigger and better, until they came and shot me down, and showed me the error of my ways. That's why now I always question most DIY efforts.
I've also noticed as a group that supports are seen as something we can do as easily as the pros/commercial companies... wonder why most of you don't also assume you can make tables, cartridges, etc....
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Comparing making your own rack to making a turntable or cartridge is like comparing making a bicycle to making a motorcycle. There is obviously so much more engineering involved with making a mechanical device. Also, if you haven't been to all our apartments/homes, how can you possibly know how our DIY stands sound? Not trying to start a feud, but why do you feel that the only stands worthy of use are the ones made by companies?
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No feud intended... just speculating and questioning.
Also by much experience actually going into others homes and listening.
And listening with people with greater experience.
I would imagine, from using some of the same materials and knowing their sonic properties, that Rob's rack probably sounds quite good. And also by his comparisons to manufactured racks I'm familiar with.
Not to single anyone out, but remember the thread where someone was insistent they needed two ground wires off their table? Mr P and others I know cited that as absolutely unnecessary and ludicrous.
So if we had all been together, we could have helped the person see the error of their ways...
Of course, there's always personal preferences...
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I guess if it works for you that's great.
One thing I've noticed is that most of us work
/play at this in a vacuum... if we could all easily teleport around in a group things might be different.
As I mentioned once before, I've played with steel balls, Herbies balls and discs, Pierre's Maple boards, all sorts of tweeks under my Amadeus, and my listening panel always shot them down.
I was always so proud of my efforts and thought I was onto something bigger and better, until they came and shot me down, and showed me the error of my ways. That's why now I always question most DIY efforts.
I've also noticed as a group that supports are seen as something we can do as easily as the pros/commercial companies... wonder why most of you don't also assume you can make tables, cartridges, etc....
Glad to read that it's not just me that get's it wrong. It's amazing how we sometimes need a different set of ears to point out what's a improvement and what isn't. I am lucky to have a friend with a good hifi and ears who visited me last weekend. I did an XTC v Stock counterweight dem. Although I like the extra refinement and inner detail that the XTC brings to the table there has always been something not quite right about its sound and i couldn't put my finger on it. My friend clearly heard the refinement but pointed out that the XTC was less involving and didn't flow as well. Bingo! More hifi less music?. So for now I'm back with the stock weights and enjoying my system. It would be a blast to get us all together and do counterweight or rack tests. Unfortunately logistically impossible so we will just have to correlate views and go through trial and error.
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I have 2 XTC counterweights and the original WT weights of course. If I ever get my Denon 103 back from Zu, I was going to do a shoot-out between the "heavy" XTC and twin WT's. I think the counterweight issue really boils down to synergy in one's system. Not so much one being better, but which is the better sonic fit for an individual's system. For instance, just installed a pair of Cable Research Labs Bronze speaker cables in my system. After less than 10 minutes, I knew they weren't leaving. This cable is a sonic fit like no other for me. When I get around to the counterweight shoot-out, this cable change may shine a new light on the Well Tempered counterweights.
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Agreed that it's a subjective one Mick. I went back and forth for a couple of weeks so it isn't night and day to me like glass shelves v baltic birch ply. My XV1s is a very refined cartridge. Maybe that influenced my results.
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True... As I'm always reminded by my elders- everything in hifi is relative.
If I had the cash and Naim, I'd go for a Fraim. If the WTL sucked on the Fraim as I'm told it does, then I'd get something like a Quadraspire wall shelf. If i didn't want that then maybe I'd go for an LP12 to go on the Fraim..all things have to match, you know....
Even though I was told by said elders to stay away from the XTC , after being cajoled by Rob I thought I'd try it anyway- I like to play! It'd probably end up in my hifi junk drawer along with the Herbies and their ilk, but hey. It is a hobby after all. Yet now after Rob's friend graciously debunked him, I think I'll let it lay...
Same thing happened to me with those fancy Pierre maple boards and wafers under the Amadeus. Oh boy, I thought. This certainly takes it to a new level. And it did do some things impressively yet they ended up being only sound things and actually ruined the music making. My listening panel - the elders- were seriously displeased and after removing it showed me the error of my ways.
Let me give one more example of why I think a good/ great rack is as much an investment as that dreamed about amp/speaker whatev...
I know a gentleman in my town who has all Audio Research reference gear, great sources, cables, all sitting on Salamandar racks. I know a guy who has the middle level ARC gear sitting on Quadraspire racks. The lesser system plays music far better than the reference one. It's so much more engaging. You cannot argue with it. You can't get defensive. It just is.
So that's why I keep pondering why people won't spend for a quality rack....
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You might prefer the XTC Charlie. After all I'm a Dynavector/Shahinian man and you moved from that to Line Magnetic/DeVore :o
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Lol. And are you going to follow suit? Or maybe a second system?
Now don't you worry, me and my Dyna are doing just fine.....
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I must admint to being curious but only for a Cayman system if we are to be there long term. My Dyna/Obs will take some usurping back here in the old country. Out of interest the Auditorium 23's were designed for valve amps, correct? You still prefer over mogami in my system?
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Hmm, Caymans, sounds nice.
Yes, I still prefer over the Mogami, in your system or any other. The Mogami is the go-to inexpensive cable. It's just great. Especially with Eichmann bullets on it. I'll take it over Kimber in spades. Yet the Mogami isn't as textured, rich, as the A23. And it's also not as neutral, being bass heavy. Still, it's a hell of a bargain.
Yet don't you think that wonderful system of yours deserves better? :( :icon_lol:
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Hmm, Caymans, sounds nice.
Yes, I still prefer over the Mogami, in your system or any other. The Mogami is the go-to inexpensive cable. It's just great. Especially with Eichmann bullets on it. I'll take it over Kimber in spades. Yet the Mogami isn't as textured, rich, as the A23. And it's also not as neutral, being bass heavy. Still, it's a hell of a bargain.
Yet don't you think that wonderful system of yours deserves better? :( :icon_lol:
I agree with your assessment of the Mogami Charlie (mine have Eichmann bullets) Swapped Kimber for it as it happens. Kimber a little more refined but poor bass and not involving. More refined and neutral sounds just the ticket. No Auditorium dealer here in the UK for some reason. I'm back in Cayman Nov 25th for 4 months. I'll be flying over to the States at some point so I will contact St Louis Stereo to order some. I've heard that they are good dealers............... :D
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I started out with the Mogami as my original phono cable. (with the Amadeus) This is certainly one of the best "bangs for the buck" out there. I currently prefer the AR GreenLink in this app, (at 5 times the cost) but if someone were to slip the Mogami back in without my knowledge, I'm not sure I'd sense I was missing that much. I always seem to find a use for it somewhere. Currently between pre-amp and amp in my HT/casual listening set-up.
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WTA Mk 2, Grado Ref Sonata, Van Alstine T8+ with Insight phono MM, Bryston 4B SST, Vandersteen 3A Sigs, Blue Jeans Cables. Best system I've had in 40 Yrs!
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First time poster here (I'm usually more of a stalker in these types of forums, which are INCREDIBLY helpful), but here is my current setup:
WT Amedeus Mk II / Auditorium 23 mat / Transfiguration Orpheus cartridge
Allnic H1201 Phono stage
Allnic L-3000 line stage/preamp
Primaluna Dialogue Premium amp
Merlin VSM-MMi speakers
Cabling is a mix (I know that's blasphemy) of Audience Au24e speaker cables and interconnects, with some Silnote Morpheus interconnects here and there, and even one pair of Cardas Golden Reference thrown in for good measure.
In all, this system is sounding better to me than anything I've ever owned before. Tons of tweaking and upgrading and experimenting has led me to this place where I'm quite happy. Except for all the upgrades I still want of course!
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=105164)
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Hello!
WTA GTA + dps + Dynavector DV 20X2 high output, connected directly to the MM phono input of the Mcintosh Ma7000 with Mogamy cable + speakers Tannoy Canterbury SE connected with speaker cable Supra 4 mm :smoke:
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Boy, some good systems!
I'd like to hear a Transfiguration cartridge sometime ...
And Canterburys... I've always wanted to hear those... On my many lists...
My systems in a bit of an upheaval right now.. so I'll post later..
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Hi Dazz,
mine is also use MERLIN VSM(lastest upgrade) :D
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WTA, home brew cork mat, home brew linear power supply and Grado a reference Sonata high output cart feeding a Cornet 2 phono pre i built. My equipment rack is a SolidSteel 5.5.
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Erocka2000 -
Saw your listing on Audio Asylumn Trader. Why are you selling your Amadeus? Upgrading to something else?
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Erocka2000 -
Saw your listing on Audio Asylumn Trader. Why are you selling your Amadeus? Upgrading to something else?
Yeah, unfortunately, it's time to move from the Amadeus. It is a fine turntable, but I do fancy something different at this point. Mainly something with push button speed changes. I currently have a Rega P9 that I'm trying out, but I may change that to something else. I don't want to mention the other table I'm looking at out of fear of being lynched ;)
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Yeah, unfortunately, it's time to move from the Amadeus. It is a fine turntable, but I do fancy something different at this point. Mainly something with push button speed changes. I currently have a Rega P9 that I'm trying out, but I may change that to something else. I don't want to mention the other table I'm looking at out of fear of being lynched ;)
You already mentioned Rega, which should get the lynching underway.
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Yeah, unfortunately, it's time to move from the Amadeus. It is a fine turntable, but I do fancy something different at this point. Mainly something with push button speed changes.
:icon_lol:
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You already mentioned Rega, which should get the lynching underway.
Yeah, but you probably can guess what the other one is :)
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Well if it's a Townshend, you'll probably be pardoned. However, I have a gut feeling it's a VPI....maybe the Prime?
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Well if it's a Townshend, you'll probably be pardoned. However, I have a gut feeling it's a VPI....maybe the Prime?
Nope. I could never get used to having a trough of silicon directly over the record. And I'm not really a fan of unipivot arms, like on the VPI's. Think more controversial.
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We like controversial hifi... What is it? Lenco? Rek-o-kut?
Just don't say Pro-ject or all hell will break loose...
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Nope. I could never get used to having a trough of silicon directly over the record.........
Once you hear how good the playback is, you get used to it real quick! :thumb:
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We like controversial hifi... What is it? Lenco? Rek-o-kut?
Just don't say Pro-ject or all hell will break loose...
Well, you asked for it. I'm actually thinking about getting a Linn LP12. As soon as my Amadeus sells, I'm going to schedule a demo. And yes, I know about all the pros and cons of the Linn. I just always wanted to try one. I mean, for a good two decades it was the turntable to have.
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Well, you asked for it. I'm actually thinking about getting a Linn LP12. As soon as my Amadeus sells, I'm going to schedule a demo. And yes, I know about all the pros and cons of the Linn. I just always wanted to try one. I mean, for a good two decades it was the turntable to have.
Interestingly, there is a newish thread on Liin Sondek on the Hoffman forums
http://forums.stevehoffman.tv/threads/who-owned-or-owns-a-linn-lp12.360828/
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I say go for it. We can type all day, yet until you hear one in your system or systems you know, one really doesn't know. And remember, it's all about the system. While I and some prefer the Amadeus, we don't know your system. Which version is it?
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I went the other way, LP12 to Versalex. No regrets for me but the LP12 was my first deck and i stuck with it through many upgrades for 20 years. It is very musical with great rhythm and dynamics. Pre Cirkus bearing models have a lovely warm bass but more muddled in the midrange. A good sweet spot for me was the valhalla pre circus version with Ittok arm and DV XX1l. Power supply wise Armageddon better with ARO, Lingo with Ittok/Ekos. Nice speed change as well :D Good luck!
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If I like the LP12 during the audition, I'll probably go with a standard LP12, Lingo, Trampolin 2 and either a used Linn arm or a Rega 303 to start. If I really dig the sound after that, I'd probably go for a Kore and the new AMG 9w2 tonearm down the road.
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I've been away from here for a while, but I'll chime in.
K&K phono stage
Denon DL-103 (soundsmith full monte build)
Squeezebox Touch with CIA power supply
MHDT Havana DAC
Starsound Sonoran interconnects and power cords
Zu Audio speaker cables
Abacus Audio LDR attenuator
Quicksilver Mid Mono amps (soon to be CJ LP66S next week)
Reference 3A Grand Veena loudspeakers
And of course WTL Amadeus and DPS power supply
Shakey
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I guess I'll chime in too...
WTL Reference TT
Clearaudio Maestro cartridge
Loesch & Wiesner WE417A phono & line stage with dual mono regulated tube power supplies.
John Wiesner 2A3 / 45 SET convertible SET monoblocks with Tango XE-20S OPTs
Vintage Rosewood Klipschorns with 100% Volti Audio horn components & crossovers (internal TWL wire)
Entire Triode Wire Labs Cable Loom... duh! :duh:
Kanso Audio Furniture Amplifier Stands
Slamming dynamic & real, IMHO... 8)
Cheers,
Pete
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Nice system Pete. Especially the horns.
Shakey
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Slamming dynamic & real, IMHO... 8)
Cheers,
Pete
I've heard it....and agree! :banana piano:
How ya doin' Pete? :wave:
John (in LB)
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My analog system is humble as I am just getting back into vinyl but the rest of my system rocks
Pass Labs X250 amp
BAT VK-51se preamp
Vintage Thorens TD-145 TT
Nagaoka MP-200 cartridge
Bellari VP-129 phono pre with an 1950's Raytheon shiny Black Plate 12AX7 tube
Magnepan 1.6's.
Vinyl sounds much better than I expected and well recorded vinyl sounds fantastic. I will be upgrading the phono preamp in the next year and change the cartridge to a Nagaoka MP-500.
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I've heard it....and agree! :banana piano:
How ya doin' Pete? :wave:
John (in LB)
Yo LB John,
Doing well... you need to come over for listen, dude! :thumb:
Cheers,
Pete
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Likewise. I got a lil outta control on my analog and amp spending. Click on my system! :o 8)
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I always like to show off my system of yesteryear
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=112212)
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My system:
WTL Amadeus MK II / Ortofon Rondo Red cartridge
Klyne P6E Phono preamplifier
DIY WE 91A 2A3 SET integrated amplifier
DIY Altec 416 + Heil AMT speakers
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=112235)
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I would love a valve amp on a decent tt
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What you really need is the Gumby tweak ;)
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i gotta ask.....?
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i gotta ask.....?
Sorry - There's a Gumby poking his head out in the pic I posted, right before your post
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For me; and not a hard core audiophool……...
WT Versalex with Dynavector 20X2 LOMC (cartridge was an xmas present from my wife - and boy does that cartridge change with burn in. My first introduction to DV and quite interesting after spending a long time with various Denon incarnations)
Icon Audio PS1 MC valve phono stage
Lector CDP-7T/Mk III CD player (lovely sounding correctly done tube output stage - has a nice analogue type presentation to it, very easy to live with and great if you like to play with tubes - would highly recommend and a hidden gem in audio)
Icon Audio stereo 60 MKIII KT120 valve amplifier
Monitor audio RS8's with upgraded crossovers and internal cabinet mods (I am thinking of changing these and looking at the Proac D30R/D40R, brit thing :thumb:)
Anti cable interconnects & speaker cable
Little dot headphone amplifier
Audio Technica ATH-W1000 headphones
I have the Auditorium mat which is great upgrade, and also auditioned the A23 interconnects, but Speltz's anti cable interconnects were just more revealing, which really did surprise me based on reviews. But so many factors are at play, system, ears, room and hormone level. I find the anti cables quite revealing and they really are an absolute bargain for the price, but they are damn ugly and clumsy to use. So not a high end system but it works and gives great pleasure. I must say having owned the Versalex for nearly a year now, it is great to just plonk that diamond tip on the black disc, instead of farting about with an LP12 boom box. Life is too short and there is a lot of vinyl to be played. Now listening to Led Zeppelin III first pressing Japanese copy. What a drummer Bonham was, really drives the music, nearly wet myself.
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On another note I would love to hear the reference turntable to see how it stacks up against the modern incarnations for WT turntables
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You should- it'll make you even happier with your purchase.
It won't stack up...more like it gets smacked up, tossed a bit, then spitted out.
I had one. Sometimes it's not good revisiting the past...
Good purchase from the wife! Kudos to her.
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Interesting post Mannikman. I moved from LP12 to Versalex/ 20XL2 just after the Versalex came out. A nice combination isn't it? Like you I bought the A23 mat based on recommendation and I concur with your findings. Regarding the A23 interconnects they really should be partnered with their speaker cable to complete the loop. I bought the speaker cable first after previously using Mogami and liked it straight away but it wasn't until I slotted in the I/C's that it really started to show its class. Interestingly I've encouraged the UK WT importer John Burns to try the A23's but he's having none of it. His view is that sound differences from the different cables are linked to room acoustics more than anything else. I do not agree with the wise Scot here. The A23's with my gear are just so right and better than Mogami in my room and in my friend's similar system but in a completely different room. Threadkiller's last post is as usual on point. All the WT Amadeus/ Versalex owners who previously owned a Reference that I know of prefer the newer models.
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I may revisit the A23 cables and try the combination you suggest Rob. I am in the process of auditioning loudspeakers at home, so with that change will come a relook at cables. Mind you my wife has given me some scope on the loudspeaker front, if they look like wardrobes then divorce will loom. The WT turntable has really given me an appreciation for the inner detail in music. It was there before with the LP12 I had, but you almost had to hunt for it, it wasn't effortlessly presented. I also find that with the Lector CD player it has an effortless presentation but not quite as engaging as the Versalex. Anyone else used Speltz's anti cables.? Would be interested to know how you also got on with them, I know things like cables are dependant on system and there is an effect which sometimes can be subtle, but those cables offer some performance for the price although I do find peoples opinions on them mixed.
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I use ANTI-CABLE,level 3 reference speaker cable,it's really good,and before i use ANTI-CABLE,I try PAD VENETUS ,STEALTH MLT,
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I guess we should consider some of the ancillary equipment that we have with all our different systems. Has anyone any first hand experience of these ultrasonic record cleaners and how they stack up against the more traditional cleaning methods. The science behind how they work is fairly straight forward, and I would say on the face of it this method should give you an exceptional level of groove cleaning. Anyone own one for their black disc collection? Expensive I know, but then if you think about what we have invested in our record collection, maybe a good return in the long run.
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I guess we should consider some of the ancillary equipment that we have with all our different systems. Has anyone any first hand experience of these ultrasonic record cleaners and how they stack up against the more traditional cleaning methods. The science behind how they work is fairly straight forward, and I would say on the face of it this method should give you an exceptional level of groove cleaning. Anyone own one for their black disc collection? Expensive I know, but then if you think about what we have invested in our record collection, maybe a good return in the long run.
I came close to buying one used, but hesitated too long and missed it. I think it's a good way to go, although I still think it is best to have a surfactant/solvent clean, followed by a rinse, and vac. No one makes a unit that does that combo yet.
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After knowing I wanted something better than the VPI 16.5 I had for years, using the Audio Intelligent fluid we thought the best, I looked at the Keith Monks- very good and much better than the VPI, yet tedious to use. Look it up, it's not fun for someone lazy like me. The Audio Deske was my next choice, yet I had others tell me it was a toy. So next I looked at the KLAudio, and it does better than anything I've heard. And it's so easy, time efficient, and no cleaners to mess with, only distilled water. And you should hear the music... amazing.
I bought one.
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Yet a caveat- if you have friends with records consider buying a bat to ward them off- they'll be lining up with bags full.
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After knowing I wanted something better than the VPI 16.5 I had for years, using the Audio Intelligent fluid we thought the best, I looked at the Keith Monks- very good and much better than the VPI, yet tedious to use. Look it up, it's not fun for someone lazy like me. The Audio Deske was my next choice, yet I had others tell me it was a toy. So next I looked at the KLAudio, and it does better than anything I've heard. And it's so easy, time efficient, and no cleaners to mess with, only distilled water. And you should hear the music... amazing.
I bought one.
you know the KLAudio is a expensive gear,so if just buy a ultrasonic ,will work well??
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is more than a year I use this spinner:
http://www.knosti.de/english/
is excellent and inexpensive :wink:
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For me; and not a hard core audiophool……...
WT Versalex with Dynavector 20X2 LOMC (cartridge was an xmas present from my wife - and boy does that cartridge change with burn in. My first introduction to DV and quite interesting after spending a long time with various Denon incarnations)
Icon Audio PS1 MC valve phono stage
Lector CDP-7T/Mk III CD player (lovely sounding correctly done tube output stage - has a nice analogue type presentation to it, very easy to live with and great if you like to play with tubes - would highly recommend and a hidden gem in audio)
Icon Audio stereo 60 MKIII KT120 valve amplifier
Monitor audio RS8's with upgraded crossovers and internal cabinet mods (I am thinking of changing these and looking at the Proac D30R/D40R, brit thing :thumb:)
Anti cable interconnects & speaker cable
Little dot headphone amplifier
Audio Technica ATH-W1000 headphones
I have the Auditorium mat which is great upgrade, and also auditioned the A23 interconnects, but Speltz's anti cable interconnects were just more revealing, which really did surprise me based on reviews. But so many factors are at play, system, ears, room and hormone level. I find the anti cables quite revealing and they really are an absolute bargain for the price, but they are damn ugly and clumsy to use. So not a high end system but it works and gives great pleasure. I must say having owned the Versalex for nearly a year now, it is great to just plonk that diamond tip on the black disc, instead of farting about with an LP12 boom box. Life is too short and there is a lot of vinyl to be played. Now listening to Led Zeppelin III first pressing Japanese copy. What a drummer Bonham was, really drives the music, nearly wet myself.
As a fellow Lector owner I must agree it is the sleeper you say it is. Using Telefunken 12AT7 and loving it. I run two TT one mono one stereo both use Herbies TT matt. Improved them both. Kuzma and Lin LP12. Sorry to off topic however dp not see many Lector owners here.
charles
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Haven't had the opportunity to try the TF 12AT7 on the Lector. I am currently burning in a pair of cryo'd mullard CV4024 NOS. Much more involving sound compared to the the JJ's I was using previously and a deep soundstage. I tried Herbies audio mat on the WT since I used it on an LP 12 before selling. It was better than the stock mat, but I find the A23 mat much more involving in the midrange. The Herbies mat sucked a little of the life out of the music. I found it was excellent though on sprung decks.
I have plans for a couple of upgrades. New power supply for the WT and there are lots of interesting choices; upgrade speakers, and maybe an ultrasonic record cleaner. I may do the cleaner before the speaker upgrade. Been using the basic nitty gritty which works really well and is a bargain. I plan to send off a couple of LP's to be cleaned on the audio desk. The KL audio is just too pricey this side of the pond.
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Forgot about price differences- over here they're both $4k.
There's things I still don't understand about the AD, why there are brushes to replace, and why, since it's the ultrasonic one buys it for, it still requires cleaning fluid- theirs. I've been told by industry folks the build quality between the two is substantial.
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It has been a while since this thread has had a new post, but I thought I'd give it a shot.
Based on a recommendation from my Shindo dealer, I'm upgrading from the Amadeus mkII to the GTA mkII w/LTD tone arm.
I use the DPS power supply also.
I'm also upgrading from an EMT TSD-15 cartridge to the 75th Anniversary EMT S75 cartridge.
I use the A23 T2 step-up transformer.
I'd be interested in any feedback from current users.
Thanks!
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I'd recommend you give the Versalex a listen too.
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I'd recommend you give the Versalex a listen too.
+1. It has a small sonic edge IMO but expect contrary opinions from many US owners. The Versalex hasn't really taken off there by all accounts. I think the importer might have some influence. UK's John Burns prefers the Versalex. Not sure if he even imports the Amadeus any more. Think it's just 400/Versalex/Simplex. Simon?
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Anyone know how much the LTD tonearm costs in the US, and can it be fitted to an Amadeus MKII?
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Anyone know how much the LTD tonearm costs in the US, and can it be fitted to an Amadeus MKII?
That's correct Rob. I've not heard one but one of my directors has GTA and loves it but as yet hasn't compared it to a Versalex.
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I did before buying my Versalex Simon. Versalex just a little better. Very clear little though IMO! Jason Hector (a WT/DV/SH user and former reviewer) feels that way also according to John. My next deck will either be the the 400 Royale or the soon to be released Audio Note TT3. Nothing much between TT2 deluxe and Versalex so it should be interesting....
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I did before buying my Versalex Simon. Versalex just a little better. Very clear little though IMO! Jason Hector (a WT/DV/SH user and former reviewer) feels that way also according to John. My next deck will either be the the 400 Royale or the soon to be released Audio Note TT3. Nothing much between TT2 deluxe and Versalex so it should be interesting....
Well that will be an interesting shoot-out. TT3 has been slated for some time now, any idea of it's release and price. More than one version? On paper it seems logical but who knows. Have you heard one yet? Do you have to use three separate PS boxes + a control box, if so one would need at least one other rack, maybe two?
K
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I haven't heard the existing TT3 Simon but the belts and braces TT2 is very good. The new TT3 is a total redesign with yes three boxes. I won't buy it without a back to back dem against 400 Royale which I feel will be better at 30% more money. It's going to be summer time but I will report back as and when. In the mean time my Versalex/XV1s never sounded so good through Jinro/ ANE SPe HE combo. The Puresound SUT/phono punches well above it's weight also.
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Thank you for the feedback.
I'll provide an update and photos on the GTA MkII and EMT S75 cartridge combination once I get things set up and broken in.
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I have a well tempered classis that I am led to believe was made in New Zealand back in the day. At the moment there is a Stanton 881s on the arm but I will be changing this for a Nagoaka MP500 soon. This is fed into a diy made and battery powered phono stage. It really does sound quite good but I have my eyes on the new entry level phono from Tron.
My amp is Australian made and designed by a company called ME. It can comfortably drive the most difficult speakers in the market and I prefer it to a few Dynavector amps I had tried. My pre was a Teddy Pardo pr1 but I recently swapped it out for an ME25 pre which for the cost sounded more dynamic than the pr1. Speakers are Shahinian Arc and cables are from Avondale.
It's quite a simple system and I like a smooth laid back sound it has a great depth and 3D quality I can listen to it for hours.