System Overview

Build a system for evening/night listening using a dedicated server in a limited area.

Music Preferences

Nearly anything well recorded but primarily acoustic, female vocal & jazz.

Listening Impressions

Sounds good with Passive VLC.

Other Comments

Prefer simple/straight-forward to complex/high-maintenance. I still think the best sonic tweaks are ear-wax remover & late night listening with eyes closed. The highest complement I can give my headphone system is I never get tired listening. Tubes take the edge off. Headphones may not be the last word with artusts/performers inside your head but are better than doing without. Best of all, I can listen during evening/night at realistic volumes without disturbing neighbors. My system is complete unless a component fails & when it does I will replace/repair.

Components

Digital Source

Apple Mac mini (Late 2012) running Mavericks (Server).

Preamp

Decware CSP2 (OTL Output HPA) with CBS-Hytron NOS 5Y3WGTA (Rectifier) & 3-Decware/Russian Military NOS 6N1P-EV (Input/Output).

Headphones

Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (250 ohms) or DT 990 Premium (250 ohms).

Tuning and Tweaks

Tube Dampers: HAL: PEEK HAL-O. VLC: Alum Labs The Delicious One, Jr. (Passive).

Other Components

DAC: Schitt Gungnir (24/88.2). PLC: Brick Wall PW8R15AUD (Series Mode Surge Suppressor). AudioPrism: QuietLine' LF-1, Mk II (PLF).