AudioCircle
Other Stuff => Archived Manufacturer Circles => Promitheus Audio => Topic started by: supergroverd on 26 May 2008, 02:35 pm
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I ordered a whole system a while ago from Nicholas. Apollo, Dac, Phono, 2a3-amps and 300B amps. Also interlinks and powerblocks/cables. This has been around November/December 2007 ...!!!!
I have contacted Nicholas a lot of times and sometimes even get a responce. But the thing, is no system yet. Nicholas did have some amazing stories why the system takes so long to get at my place. The last one was the best. Apparently my system was send to a guy in the US, and his system was on is way to me. :? , but luckily so he was trying to get it all sorted out with DHL.
I really have very high hopes I will get a great system (when it ever will arrive), but...
I just wounder how long did you guys have to wait (or are you also still waiting)? Any other experiences with Nicholas (hopefully positive ones)?
Any info is welcome,
Ciao,
Supergroverd
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You dont' happen to live in Holland, do you?
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Hi,
I am one of Nicholas Chua's long time customers and do know he is very reliable and very very busy. You should contact him by emailing and/or PMing him and wait for his answer. Sometimes he is not answering right away but when he finished building your stuffs then he will contact as soon as he can. I had never missed any of his answers when I got questions about purchasing and technical support.
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...no system yet. Nicholas did have some amazing stories why the system takes so long to get at my place. The last one was the best... I just wounder how long did you guys have to wait (or are you also still waiting)?...
It can sometimes take between 6 months to a year after order, to get a product delivered from Nick. Very difficult to reach him by email as well, especially lately. I hope he is ok...
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Seven months waiting and still no solution in sight!! And an order of such magnitude. I am sure that there are many reasons why it happened... but there is no excuse in keeping a customer waiting for such a long time. Not a good business practice. Nick should have made supergroverd a production priority putting him ahead of other orders and remaking and resending months ago what he ordered last November...making the dealings and trouble-shooting with DHL totally his problem intead of keeping the customer waiting endlessly for a resolution from DHL's end. DHL was chosen and engaged as a carrier by Nick, not by supergroverd. Doing the former would have been good business practice and true customer service. Lets hope this oversight from Nick in dealing with a situation of such magnitude is just a fluke and that Nick can manage succesfully the growth of his business maintaining his hard earned custtomer service reputation.
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It can sometimes take between 6 months to a year after order, to get a product delivered from Nick. Very difficult to reach him by email as well, especially lately. I hope he is ok...
If people are waiting that long for products, pretty soon there won't be any orders. I am the happy owner of an early TVC, was thinking of upgrading, but won't if it's going to take that long to get what I want.
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Remember that Promitheus audio products are handbuilt upon order, Nicholas never sends a product to a customer unless he is 100% satisfied himself.
I hope you get your system soon though, i believe it will sound amazing
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You dont' happen to live in Holland, do you?
Indeed I am that guy from Holand.
I just wish Nicholas is straight with me, but I am getting the feeling he is sometimes looking for excusses just to keep me happy (which off coarse I am not on the moment)
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New to passives. Was thinking of taking the plunge but it appears that something is up. The TVC and other gear may be good but the customer service so far is lacking big time.
I'll look for a used TVC instead. Hope you like your system when you get it. You are taking a big chance buying without listening. Good luck
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You dont' happen to live in Holland, do you?
Indeed I am that guy from Holand.
I just wish Nicholas is straight with me, but I am getting the feeling he is sometimes looking for excusses just to keep me happy (which off coarse I am not on the moment)
It seems you and I have something in common. My shipment went to Holland and your shipment was on its way to me.
So it appears this was a valid reason for shipment delay.
I have been waiting a very long time for my order. In my case it is understandable as Nick built a custom DAC for me with tube output stage, separate tube rectified power supply and C-Core trannies in an ebony case with copper plates.
Throughout the design and tuning phase of the dac, Nick usually responded to email in a few days.
Lately, he has been harder to get in touch with.
I think he needs to hire someone to handle his day-to-day order and admin questions. This would alleviate some of the frustration his clients are experiencing. Typical growing pains for a small company ... but a problem none the less that needs to be addressed.
Edit: After reading my post I need to add:
Promitheus Audio is not for the audiophile type who has to have immediate satisfaction and get their product on a whim's notice. What you get from the occasionaly long wait time is a hand built component made by a fellow audiophile which would cost many times more from a more marketing-savvy, cost and profit-margin oriented company. Also, one must not equate long build/delivery times with a shoddy company.
The company is what it is ... a small shop that produces excellent built-to-order products at a fraction of comparable mainstream products.
In fact the products are in-comparable to other manufactures ... try finding ebony cases with copper plates from any other manufacturer. Audionote uses copper plates on their mega-buck products or try to find C-Core trannies in any affordable components.
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Toledo said: "It seems you and I have something in common. My shipment went to Holland and your shipment was on its way to me.
So it appears this was a valid reason for shipment delay."
Question here is: did you guys (Toledo or supergroverd) recived any of the misrouted shipments? The answer seems to be not at all since neither of you said in your postings having received any thing from Nick. Only thing you appear to have gotten is the story of the cross-shipments....so, if neither one of you received any shipment, then, the two shipments either went nowhere and were lost in transit by DHL or there were never any shipments to begin with. It is as simple as that. How long ago did you get Nicks story of the crossshipments? Now, if Nick is trying to collect insurance from DHL before remaking equipment and ship it to Toledo and supergroverd, that would be totally absurd from a customer service perspective.
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Toledo said: "It seems you and I have something in common. My shipment went to Holland and your shipment was on its way to me.
So it appears this was a valid reason for shipment delay."
Question here is: did you guys (Toledo or supergroverd) recived any of the misrouted shipments? The answer seems to be not at all since neither of you said in your postings having received any thing from Nick. Only thing you appear to have gotten is the story of the cross-shipments....so, if neither one of you received any shipment, then, the two shipments either went nowhere and were lost in transit by DHL or there were never any shipments to begin with. It is as simple as that. How long ago did you get Nicks story of the crossshipments? Now, if Nick is trying to collect insurance from DHL before remaking equipment and ship it to Toledo and supergroverd, that would be totally absurd from a customer service perspective.
I heard from Nick 2 days ago. Nick stated that the items are all accounted for (which was his concern) and that they are on their way back to him and will then be re-shipped accordingly.
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I don't usually post, but... this is something I know about.
From 4/1/07 through to 6/27/07 I ordered and paid for the following items from Promitheus Audio:
-Reference Dual Box TVC
-Tube Active Preamp with Output Transformers
-Power Energizer
-Balanced Power Supply (2 x 1000VA)
-Custom Push-Pull tube amplifier
In January 2008, Nicholas sent everything except the amplifier (which is still being completed).
There was a also a shipping error (sent to my previous address). But everything did eventually
arrive in good condition and fully working order. I am a happy customer :)
I too, wish Nicholas was more accessible via E-mail and/or kept up more of a presence here on
the forum. As that would be good for both Promitheus Audio and it's customers. If you have the
luxury of time and the patience to wait, then Promitheus Audio offers excellent value for the money.
I have no hesitation in ordering more from Promitheus Audio. Nicholas and I have already
started talking about building a custom tube based DAC... :green:
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I guess, after all, given the level of customization and personal zeal for perfection, what Nick does is more like art inside science and, as such, each one of his units is like one of a kind work of audio art...so, having to wait 6 or 7 months plus an occasional shipping misshap is well worth it...even more if over half a dozen such pieces are involved.....problem is (I just can imagine) the anticipation and the expectations for their arrival: not just of a bride but an entire harem of audio masterpieces :drool:
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... problem is (I just can imagine) the anticipation and the expectations for their arrival :drool:
.... that is why you ask for photos during the build process 8). It doesn't help with the anticipation, but, at least you get some eye candy along the way.
Check out my gallery with pictures of TVC with Brass plates (later swapped with copper), C-Core trannies and silver rca and DAC with 6n1p output stage, C-Core trannies in initial build stage.
Those C-Cores are huge!!!
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524)
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I am very happy to hear that Nicholas has got some happy customers.
The contact I do have with Nick has been very pleasant and informative and I have very high hopes on the outcome. I never bought any audio without listening first, but I just felt very confident Nick would make something I will really like (and for a very sharp price off coarse).
The only thing with Nick is that he is not very informative about progress and timeschedule of delivery. If he was very clear about why things take longer without me having to ask for it I would be a lot happier.
And toledo that system really looks nice. I allmost cannot wait :drool:
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supergroverd said: "I just felt very confident Nick would make something I will really like (and for a very sharp price off coarse)."
Oscillate said: "If you have the luxury of time and the patience to wait, then Promitheus Audio offers excellent value for the money."
The answer is there, right in front of us...if it were a snake we would already be bitten and probably dead :lol:: As supergroverd and Oscillate say, Nick's masterpieces have a "very sharp price" and "offer and excellent value for the money" but that is "if you have the luxury of time and the patience to wait". Bottom line is that in addition to their monetary price, Nick's unique products have and additional cost: the waiting time, the anxiety, the anticipation, the risk of trouble shipping such precious (delicate and often massive) pieces across continents. Not too hard on the pocket or wallet but not a bargain on the emotional department. Nick's products are a work in progress. The extra cost of the R & D from all that customization and the cost of Nicks personal involvement in the production and fanatic quality control have to show somewhere, if not in the price of the goods: the waiting time...the added emotional price!! In mainstream high-end audio (how boring) designers charge full price and then more, which cuts down customer cues or lines and, so, there is no waiting time to get a product. There you have it. Now, sit tight and keep drooling (seriously) :drool:
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Forgot to add :green:. If in addition to all he does we also ask from Nick to give each of us all the quality time needed to calm our anxieties while we wait for an order, although ideal, since there is only one Nick in this unique audio-art studio (as we know and like it to be...no mass production outfit), that, seems to me, will make the waiting time longer for all...I guess, one more compromise to think about:wink:
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I cannot agree more. A very nice piece of proza munosmario.If money is no issue like for all of us :roll: , the real sacrifice we can make and have so little of is, time. Nevertheless, It would help If Nick was a little more organized and clear in his business.
I guess a liitle more waiting won't harm :drool:
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Thanks, supergroverd, and glad to see we both are and ended up on the same page. Remember, I started my postings in your thread totally on your side, with a prelude to a harsh criticism pointed at Nick's head...but after a little reflecting and reading other postings on subject, a different picture and perspective emerged. I am sure Nick is struggling to become more organized and he will eventually do so within the limitations of the hours of the day humanly allowed to a person--given the customization and Nick's high personal involvement in each product which we so much love. Meanwhile we have to share his growing pains :) .
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Hi everyone,
I am a new customer of Promitheus and recently took delivery of the DAC. I was lucky as I did not wait too long after ordering and paying up. Further, I had the 'luxury' of collecting the DAC from his office instead of waiting for shipment as I lived near his place. However, I agree with you guys that getting Nic to reply your email is getting from bad to worse.
Last week when I met him, I did remind him of the mounting complaints about his slow or no response to emails from the community but he maintained that he has 'email problems'. I do not know what that actually means, but we don't need to be an IT expert to know that such problems should be sorted out in a matter of days (the most) - the internet service can't be down the whole time! I am sure Nic can read about all these in forum as long as he got internet connection eventhough his email server may be out.
I suggest the following to immediately rectify the situation lest the frustration may drive away many customers:-
1) Reply quickly through the forum - answer to those who waited long
2) Provide an alternative email address besides the server mail (yahoo, gmail or whatever) and answer promptly
3) Should provide an "order number" for each order and publish the STATUS of each order in official website so each customer can follow/check anytime. The list should just include details like order date, order number and item name and 'Status' and should be updated daily. STATUS example : Order > Paid > Building > Completed > Testing > Shipped (date ship) > Received. In this way customers dont need to keep emailing to him asking for status and jam up the mailbox, leaving only technical questions to read and reply.
4) He should leave the above administrative work to an assistant and he can concentrate on the technical work and business
Thanks for reading
Regards,
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Excellent idea. Peace and harmony...and good business through common sense. Obviously it has to be a secured password protected area of Promitheus website. Each customer together with order number and password given with order confirmation email could access the "Order Status" area of website :thumb:.
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There is no doubt that Nicholas makes excellent products.I have bought tvc, 45/2a3 tube amps,300b amps, various cables,feet etc. For the 2a3 amps Nicholas quoted me six weeks....it took over six months.I ordered the 300b amps in November 2007 arrived March 2008. One amp was not working.
I am currently still waiting for the replacement.
Communication is almost non existent and so a customer becomes quite naturally angry about the situation. If only Nicholas would understand the importance of keeping his customers informed and be realistic about build and delivery times we wouldn't feel let down.I think Nicholas probably has too many products and not enough resources and time to fulfill orders in a reasonable time.Eventually this will mean losing long time customers and potential customers will look elsewhere.Places like diyhifisupply in Hong Kong have a much more professional attitude and service.
I want Nicholas to be successful and think his heart is in the right place, but if he carries on like this he will not only have business losses but his health will suffer too. Working long hours day in and day out is a recipe for potential disaster.
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I read a review some where that Promitheus (Nicholas) is a victim of their(his) own success (IOW's providing outstanding products at reasonable prices, which in turn causes FLOODS of orders).
I'm wondering how other manufactuer w/ similar quality products keep up?
May be one suggestion would be to not take any new orders until the number of back orders has been reduced to a more managable size. Also, unfortunately, Nicholas may have to raise his prices to slow the number of orders. If Nicholas raises prices, then he may be able to out source more.
CAVEAT: I do not own or know how to run a business.
I'm very happy w/ my Hometheater TVC and I wouldn't want what has happened to Welborne Labs to happen to Promitheus. I was promised my order in 4 weeks and it was filled in 6 - I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO COMPLAINTS.
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hello i am form greece and my name is Nicholas
I order last week one TVC reference series C-core with silver wire all this i pay with pay pal i send to Nicholas promitheus e-mail and i not receive any answer please can help me how to conect with nicholas
Best Regards
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hello i am form greece and my name is Nicholas
I order last week one TVC reference series C-core with silver wire all this i pay with pay pal i send to Nicholas promitheus e-mail and i not receive any answer please can help me how to conect with nicholas
Best Regards
:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
I talk now with Nicholas all ok
Thanks
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Nick quote me a 3 to 4 weeks delivery but it has been 2.5 months upon full payment (more than 1.6 grand in total).
It would be fine for me if he told me in the first place the lead time will be a 3 months or even half year. What a pity Nick fail to honor his promise! :duh:
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Bought a dual mono used. No waiting. So far so good, but not 100% convinced yet. Its time to delve inside and see what can be done to improve it. New attenuators seem to be a good place to start. The ones used appear to be its weakest link. We shall see if a Dact will improve matters.
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He quys,
I started this thread. And guess what..... :) I just received first shipment of seven boxes. Still ave to unpack, but will let you know in the very near future
Cheers
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the "butterfily effect"!
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Nick quote me a 3 to 4 weeks delivery but it has been 2.5 months upon full payment (more than 1.6 grand in total).
It would be fine for me if he told me in the first place the lead time will be a 3 months or even half year. What a pity Nick fail to honor his promise! :duh:
Hey twice,
Did you ever get your gear? I too have been waiting for many months...
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Bought a dual mono used. No waiting. So far so good, but not 100% convinced yet. Its time to delve inside and see what can be done to improve it. New attenuators seem to be a good place to start. The ones used appear to be its weakest link. We shall see if a Dact will improve matters.
I replaced with dual mono Elma 23 step attenuators to my Apollo preamp and it produces a stunning sound but you need also to swap some of high quality resistors like Riken or AN tantalums and better quality PS capacitors you will be in the heaven!!! :thumb:
Besides audiophiles and/or musiclovers would like to purchase affordable audio components within your budgets with good to decent (at least) quality of sound that match their sonic tastes you need to BE PATIENT awaiting your orders to be completely done and shipped to your doors but then you will be very very very satisfied and worth your times. My two cents.
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tanchiro58 what attenuators have before change ?
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He quys,
I started this thread. And guess what..... :) I just received first shipment of seven boxes. Still ave to unpack, but will let you know in the very near future
Cheers
Well it's been almost a month now,,,,, is that Promitheus (very near future) time you're using there? :D
Cheers,
Robin
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Well, I have been waiting for a pair of SET amps for quite a few months now. I am wondering what your secret is to get him deliver. In my case, I am trading four sets of servo subwoofers for a pair of his SET amps. I have sent my subwoofers in Feb. But so far I haven't received anything back from him. Get hold of him a couple of times via emails and then lost from him. I am hoping for the best now.
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Same here. Many months now, and still absolutely no word or delivery from Nick. Is he still in business, and/or should we be concerned? :!:
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tanchiro58 what attenuators have before change ?
Before the change I got the same stock attenuators as of many previous Promitheus Audio TVC. It looks like this
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=15340)
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Maybe Nicholas should set up a factory in China,lower overheads and higher production output!Could be the solution to keep the punters happy.
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Maybe Nicholas should set up a factory in China,lower overheads and higher production output!Could be the solution to keep the punters happy.
and the quality ?????you think is same or the mistakes is more
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I ordered a pair of Signature C Core TVC from Nicholas on 2 May 2008 and I have the unit arrived on 17 July 2008. aa
And by the way Nicholas replied all my emails although sometimes I had to send "resent mails" to remind him. I am happy to do business and appreciate the communication with him.
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My DAC and TVC were delivered today. Already unpacked and pictures up on my gallery. :thumb:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524)
I have only had a chance to listen to a cd, but the sound is what I was expecting and asked Nick to concentrate on when designing the tube DAC ... great harmonics and decay, vinyl like smoothness ... very easy on the ears ... non fatiguing ... tons of detail ... just what the doctor ordered.
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My DAC and TVC were delivered today. Already unpacked and pictures up on my gallery. :thumb:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;area=browse;album=1524)
I have only had a chance to listen to a cd, but the sound is what I was expecting and asked Nick to concentrate on when designing the tube DAC ... great harmonics and decay, vinyl like smoothness ... very easy on the ears ... non fatiguing ... tons of detail ... just what the doctor ordered.
Congratulations,,, that's some sweet looking gear you've got there. :drool: :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=15372)
Cheers,
Robin
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my C-core Tvc i not receive yet and the 6C33C he need more 1.5 week :green:(i order before 1 .1/2 month)
nicholas he send me e-mail 21/7/2008 and he tell me he send the TVC
i ask for tranking number and not send me yet :dunno: very bad :green:
i call in here DHL and if dont have tranking number , for find need the full andreeses *promitheus* (*post code and more information
if have someone this information please tell me .
:rock:
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How can I get hold of Nick? He doesn't seem to want to reply back to me. He still owe me a pair of amplifiers.
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*I am amending this post because I have recieved a reply from Nicholas today.
I look forward to being able to post reviews of his products at sometime in the future.
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How can I get hold of Nick? He doesn't seem to want to reply back to me. He still owe me a pair of amplifiers.
I also got an email and tracking number from him. Looks like he is back from a busy plan. Thank you, Nick.
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Nicholas, if you are reading this board I hope you'll respond...
I received a Reference C-core TVC and C-core DAC last spring after several months of waiting. The wait was at least somewhat acceptable given the work that goes into these products. By the way, I'm very happy with the performance of these products.
A power cord was suppose to have been included with the DAC but was not, I was missing one of the stock footers for the DAC, and the DAC PCBA was not secured to the threaded stand-offs. But still, I was happy with the sound after sufficient burn-in.
In early may I ordered 3 sets of Ebony cones, asked for a 6ft power cord with an additional $50, and the missing stock footer. Over 3 months later - still no delivery.
I managed to catch Nicholas at the computer one evening (6/25) and exchanged a few emails. He said he'd shipped my package a month earlier, air mail, and assumed I'd received it. He also said he could ship again via DHL "to make sure it arrives". I said that would be appreciated and requested the DHL tracking number once it shipped. It's been 7 weeks since this correspondence and no tracking number, no response to my inquiries what so ever, and no delivery.
I've asked for my money back but I'll accept the product if it happens to show up.
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Would you believe the package arrived just yesterday? Thanks Nicholas.
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I received my two RCA50 PushPull mono-blocks from Promitheus Audio on Thursday 8/14/08.
That was good. There are some issues however and I am about to E-mail Nicholas to see how
he wishes to handle the situation. He had stated in an E-mail that his whole operation (ie ordering,
manufacturing and shipping) are now all in one building. So I am hoping that should make it much
easier for him to provide 'end to end' customer service in the future.
{Edited to add...} I received a response from Nicholas today, 8/19. The issues have been resolved.
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Ordered Balanced Interconnects 4/16, received 9/8.
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Ordered Balanced Interconnects 4/16, received 9/8.
5 months wow :duh:
why
i wait 3 months for tvc and 3 months for 6C33C Amp
for cable is ready time to order RCA cable
i dont no why late for you
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Over eight months now and still no delivery from Nicholas. :(
Lots of excuses and promises at first, then just silence.
Nicholas does not reply to any of my emails AT ALL.
I think he has decided to just simply keep my money.
No remedy either since he is in Malaysia.
Very ticked off by this.
Buyers beware, something is very wrong at Promitheus.
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I agree.Prospective buyers avoid Promitheus.
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While I enjoy my Ref 4 and have fond memories of my conversations w Nick ( a year or more ago) I have to say that this is no way to run a business. Based on what I read here it would seem to be foolish to blindly order equipment from Malaysia. I hope Prom. gets back on track. Gerry
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Well, after having wired $2975 to Malaysia for a "custom preamp" 8 months ago and not having received anything yet I have to agree that anyone doing business with Promitheus Audio from this point on is foolish and is simply throwing his money out the window.
Did this guy really turn into a thief? If so, every single audio magazine and audio person in North America needs to know and avoid at all costs.
I'm sure there has to be some recourse, Malaysia has a legal system in place, someone should pay him a visit at some point.
We'll see how this pans out.
By the way, if I had the option of getting my money back, I would, even at 75 cents on the dollar, many, many, many much better options out there for the money when you factor in customer service.
Romandoc
Cleveland,OH, USA
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I would not think he has "become a thief". I would wonder if he is well or if he is even there at this point.
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No doubt, he isn't a thief. Proof is that, even after long delays, he has followed through and delivered the product every time. Perception wise, I bet that anyone who spent $$$ for a preamp, or DAC, or amp, and was told that it will be delivered in 6 weeks, then six months later still no resolution in sight, has had that thought crossing his/her mind at least once. Not cool. Nicholas did e-mail me today to confirm that my preamp was shipped. If the preamp is as good as the $$$ spent plus factoring in the waiting time, then I will compliment it and its designer to no end. So we'll see, I'll have an open mind.
Romandoc
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So we'll see, I'll have an open mind.
Romandoc
:lol: You people send money to a man on the other side of the world who has a longstanding reputation of having very very long lag times with his products? Ya'all have no one to blame but yourself's my friend. But I am in full agreement with your last statement. :rotflmao: Good luck with your past purchase. :thumb:
Cheers,
Robin
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So we'll see, I'll have an open mind.
Romandoc
:lol: You people send money to a man on the other side of the world who has a longstanding reputation of having very very long lag times with his products? Ya'all have no one to blame but yourself's my friend. But I am in full agreement with your last statement. :rotflmao: Good luck with your past purchase. :thumb:
Cheers,
Robin
Robin, I'm not really sure exactly what you are trying to add to this post. The problem is worse than just "very very long lag times". It is claims of shipment that never actually happened, over and over again for months, followed by increasingly absurd excused and then a complete cutoff of communication. Thanks for sharing.
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So we'll see, I'll have an open mind.
Romandoc
:lol: You people send money to a man on the other side of the world who has a longstanding reputation of having very very long lag times with his products? Ya'all have no one to blame but yourself's my friend. But I am in full agreement with your last statement. :rotflmao: Good luck with your past purchase. :thumb:
Cheers,
Robin
Robin, I'm not really sure exactly what you are trying to add to this post. The problem is worse than just "very very long lag times". It is claims of shipment that never actually happened, over and over again for months, followed by increasingly absurd excused and then a complete cutoff of communication. Thanks for sharing.
Sorry Newbuyer, guess it's getting a little old hearing all you guys post about ordering from Promitheus Audio, then complain about theft and such. It's the same song & dance from all of you prospective owners since the start of the Circle but yet ya'all continue to order components. It makes me wonder why you put yourselve thru all this. :dunno: Are these components that good? :o
Cheers,
robin
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Sorry Newbuyer, guess it's getting a little old hearing all you guys post about ordering from Promitheus Audio, then complain about theft and such. It's the same song & dance from all of you prospective owners since the start of the Circle but yet ya'all continue to order components. It makes me wonder why you put yourselve thru all this. :dunno: Are these components that good? :o
Cheers,
robin
No worries Robin, I definitely see what you are saying. But the point of this thread is not to whine - it is to compare notes with others and share experiences on the thread Topic, for the benefit of all members and prospective customers (and hopefully the manufacturer if he even cares). There is certainly value in that, at least in my opinion.
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I don't see why Nick doesn't answer your questions on his Circle....he is the Facilitator. And I see he last "checked in" on Sept. 16th.
Good luck.... :thumb:
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But the point of this thread is not to whine - it is to compare notes with others and share experiences on the thread Topic, for the benefit of all members and prospective customers (and hopefully the manufacturer if he even cares). There is certainly value in that, at least in my opinion.
Now that's a novel thought that would certainly be more entertaining than what's actually been posted of late. :thumb: And I agree with Lonewolf in that if Nick doesn't start taking a more active part as Facilitator of this Circle, it could possibly be archived as was Reference 3A yesterday. :o
Cheers,
Robin
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I don't see why Nick doesn't answer your questions on his Circle....he is the Facilitator. And I see he last "checked in" on Sept. 16th.
Good luck.... :thumb:
Been interesting following this thread through the weeks, or is it months? Haven't nutten' to add...besides a lil' conspiracy theory...perhaps Nick keeps his eye on which poster complains/''whines'' the most and then prioritize shipments as the tale unravels... aa
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Mjosef
we priotize shipment as per order log, but sometimes some units go out faster if they are standard items where we have ready stock of chassis.
Our leadtime is always effected by chassis work. THis is always the longest time as the carpenter takes a while to gets us or chassis. MOst of the other stuff is done in the factory so its not that much lead time as oppose to waiting for chassis
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I log in on the 16th to send new buyer a pm via audiocircle to help me resolve the issue at end
sometimes with monikers and not sure which names goes with which moniker
Newbuyer could drop me a pm via audiocircle so that i can resolve your problem
thanks
nicholas
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Nicholas:
I ordered a TVC transformer on 9/4/2008 and haven't been able to get in touch with you about shipment. This is a standard item that did not require a chassis, so I assumed (incorrectly) that it would go out immediately via DHL. Can you please give me an update on when the item should ship? I have a prototype unit that I need to finish for a show, hence the haste.
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my tvc arrived on time as did the tube active preamp i ordered several months later. however, the free silver interconnects which are offered with the deal have never been sent. bit of a con me thinks!
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Nicholas:
I ordered a TVC transformer on 9/4/2008 and haven't been able to get in touch with you about shipment. This is a standard item that did not require a chassis, so I assumed (incorrectly) that it would go out immediately via DHL. Can you please give me an update on when the item should ship? I have a prototype unit that I need to finish for a show, hence the haste.
I have shipped on your unit on monday. we did not have stock at the moment and this had to be made.
Did not see this as we were close last week
thanks
Nicholas
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my tvc arrived on time as did the tube active preamp i ordered several months later. however, the free silver interconnects which are offered with the deal have never been sent. bit of a con me thinks!
Selwyn
can you pm me so that i can sort this out
thnaks
Nicholas
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I purchased a Reference Dual Box TVC, no volume control, a toggle switch to turn on and off the TVC, as I am using my CJ PV-15 pre as volume control. I wrote Nicholas that the switch that turns on and off the TVC does not work. I received no reply from Nicholas. I then asked for my money back as the units did not work as Nicholas stated they would. Nicholas then replied after I asked for my money back stating that this was a custom unit and he does not offer refunds on custom units. I have read all policies on Nicholas' web site, NO WHERE does it state no refunds for custom units! I think Nicholas should stand behind his work and at least offer a no cost to the buyer (shipping included) to make the unit perform as it should. When I wanted my money back Nicholas offered no recourse. If e-mails are needed by anyone to confirm my situation please advise and I will forward them to you. I will NEVER do business with Nicholas again! I advise you who are considering purchasing a TVC not to take the chance that Nicholas just might not get it right and offer no recourse to correct it! I welcome your reply to my statement, Nicholas!
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Hi,
Just awaiting any info on my ordered pre-amp?(Referrence TVC with ELMA Switches)
Can you give me an approximate delivery date? I think payment went through on the 10/09/08
So i guess i should hear something soon?
thanks Nicholas....
Gary
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Just as I expected! Nicholas took my hard earned money, did poor work, product does not perform as Nicholas stated it would, and ran to the bank with my hard earned money. It has been 12 days since my last post concerning Nicholas' fraudulent business practices, still no reply from Nicholas! Please, those of you considering purchasing a product from Nicholas do yourself a big favor. DO NOT purchase any products from Nicholas. IF a product does not perform properly, Nicholas does not offer any recourse to repair any product. Nicholas should cover the shipping costs to return a product to him and to return it to the buyer repaired. Again, DO NOT purchase any products from Nicholas. Buyer beware!!
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Hi,
Just awaiting any info on my ordered pre-amp?(Referrence TVC with ELMA Switches)
Can you give me an approximate delivery date? I think payment went through on the 10/09/08
So i guess i should hear something soon?
thanks Nicholas....
Gary
Send you my reply via email
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I purchased a Reference Dual Box TVC, no volume control, a toggle switch to turn on and off the TVC, as I am using my CJ PV-15 pre as volume control. I wrote Nicholas that the switch that turns on and off the TVC does not work. I received no reply from Nicholas. I then asked for my money back as the units did not work as Nicholas stated they would. Nicholas then replied after I asked for my money back stating that this was a custom unit and he does not offer refunds on custom units. I have read all policies on Nicholas' web site, NO WHERE does it state no refunds for custom units! I think Nicholas should stand behind his work and at least offer a no cost to the buyer (shipping included) to make the unit perform as it should. When I wanted my money back Nicholas offered no recourse. If e-mails are needed by anyone to confirm my situation please advise and I will forward them to you. I will NEVER do business with Nicholas again! I advise you who are considering purchasing a TVC not to take the chance that Nicholas just might not get it right and offer no recourse to correct it! I welcome your reply to my statement, Nicholas!
Sam
if the toggle switch does not work in a faulty unit, then there will be no sound as the switch would not conduct if its broken or wired wrongly. If you are still getting sound as per your emails where you told me you could not tell the difference, then its not the switch fault. Again its not the transformer fault because if there is sound coming out, when the switch selects the transformer then is not shorted. SO to be clear in both positions of the toggle switch sound was still coming out from the unit but you could not tell the difference only as per your email
So its neither a faulty transformer or switch.
The signal from the input rca is fed to the input switch and then it is fed thru a bypass switch and then to the transformer input or the output rca . The transformer outputs are then taken out to the rca. The signal is then isolated via the transformer and there is no direct path from the input rca to output rca as provide by the transformer isolation.
This unit is made and wired exactly to the transformer buffer for Early B
nicholas
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Hey Nicholas, have you been getting my e-mails?
You promised me a pdf circuit diagram that never came, can you please e-mail it as soon as possible?
My order is not complete without that diagram we agreed upon before I received my preamp.
The preamp sounds absolutely fabulous, but I can't possibly recommend you or your work if you don't honor your promises entirely.
You would get mountains of recognition from your customers for your work if you were more responsive, something that can still, in my opinion, be done.
I'm waiting anxiously!
F Penciu, Cleveland, OH
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Nicholas,
How about the switch not being connected at all? My goodness, could that possibly be the problem? I believe so! Do you test to see if your products perform as you state they will? Why don't you pay for shipping back to you and I will pay for the TVC to be returned to me working correctly. I am willing to work with you to a point, a very limited point. If the TVC had been working properly in the first place I would not be sitting here taking my time to complain! Again, I warn any who read this message board NOT to do business with Nicholas. No matter how good a product is confessed to be if the builder has no integrity to maintain his reputation to provide good customer service then why buy anything from him? Something as simple as keeping your word to people just might go a long, long way. Buyer beware of Promitheus Audio. There are other producers of audio products that will go out of their way to assure that their customers are satisfied one hundred percent of the time! DO NOT BUY ANY AUDIO PRODUCTS FROM NICHOLAS (PROMITHEUS AUDIO)
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SamDcook
Your unit like anything is tested. If you have had open up the unit, you would realize the switch is wired and not made the assumption
It can be confirm visually and via electrically. Electrically, a simple multimeter would confirm the continuity is there when you bypass the transformers and there is no continuity when the transformer is engage. The meter would measure the input to the outputs whether there is continuity
I however tested you unit with an oscilloscope and function generator. With the transformers engage the frequency response of a square waveform starts to round off at 100Khz while the switch is a perfect square wave. This shows the unit to be working fine and the switch working fine too. Normal audio band the waveform of both the switch(bypass) and transformers is the same as it should be.
Again i maintain there is nothing wrong with the unit
Nicholas
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Florin
Send you the email yesterday, 2 big emails with the layout from autocad. Let me know if you got them
thanks
nicholas
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Thanks, Nicholas, I received the very detailed diagrams, thanks for your time. The preamp is absolutely fabulous, restoring the realism of the original musical performance in a way I've never experienced from any preamp before. More on this later.
Waiting time, while long and painful, even more painful since it was unexpected, was, ultimately, worth it. Nicholas, you deserve recognition for making the best preamp I've personally experienced regardless of price.
F Penciu, Cleveland, OH
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Nicholas, I can see this is going to be a tit for tat kind of situation. I did in fact open the unit. Like I stated before, why would I waste my time complaining about your TVC that works properly? See my point? All I can say at this point is you have my hard earned money, I have a piece of crap made by you. I even offered to split the shipping with you to repair your piece of crap. Customer satisfaction means nothing to you. I will NEVER buy another product from you and will continue to advise people to avoid you like the plague. Here's an idea for you! Under promise and over deliver. Try it sometime, then you would have no complaints as noted on this message board. STAY AWAY FROM PROMITHEUS AUDIO. DO NOT BUY ANYTHING, I REPEAT ANYTHING. AVOID THEM AT ALL COST. BUYER BEWARE!
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Sam: As I read this you thought that putting a transformer (is it a tvc if it has no volume control?) in between your preamp and your power amp would make an inprovement in the sound. Is that right or am I missing something? Now you are unhappy because it does not and you are using this forum to attempt to beat up the seller. I have heard more legitimate complaints here that Nick seems to be addressing. For this application you should have gone for a trial listen imo. Good luck with this.
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Here's a thought: have someone wire in a pair of high quality volume pots and replace the Connie w what would be a true TVC. Might just save the day.
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Sam: Why don't you post pictures of the internals so we can see what your are referring to.
Like Nicholas states, if you are getting a signal with the switch on or off, then it is working and you are basically not hearing any difference. However, you are stating, "How about the switch not being connected at all?". Show us.
Until you explain what the situation is, we cannot tell what the story is and have to disregard your arguments, rants and warnings about Promitheus.
I purchased a TVC and a custom tube DAC from Promi and they work as promised. There are not many dissatisfied Promi customers, other than the long wait times.
Please post pictures so we can resolve this.
Edit: On further thought - Did you really think you were going to improve your system in this way?
The way I see it, you are still hearing the last component in your system which is the CJ pre-amp. All you've done is added a longer link in your signal chain; I bet it probably sounds worse.
I think you were trying to experiment with a new idea, it did not work out for you and you now want your money back.
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Thank goodness, I finally have a few replies to answer to! To answer a few of your questions: (1) The Conrad Johnson PV-15 was taken out of the circuit with the same result. ( CDP to TVC to Amp). There was no experimenting to try something I conjured up in my head. The ideas came from documented evidence from several message boards. If you are interested as I was, do a Goggle search and inform yourself before you start criticizing me. Could this actually be a unit sent out by Nicholas that does not perform as it should? I wanted Nicholas to at least pay for the return of the TVC to him for repair and I would pay for the return to me repaired. What more could a vendor ask for? As a buyer I expect a vendor to say, "You THINK there is something wrong with the unit, send it back to me and I will check to see if there is a problem" Nicholas still states there is nothing wrong with the unit and refuses to accept responsibility for assuring this product is working properly. All the arguments you give me are totally unacceptable (moot) until Nicholas takes this TVC back to see if there is factually something wrong with the unit. If there is nothing wrong with the unit I will gladly eat crow! Until this situation is resolved i will continue to inform people to stay away from Promitheus Audio.
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Sam,
Unfortunately, you are experimenting when you purchase something unheard and HOPE it will sound better.
I am aware of early buffering and the effects are subtle and system dependent.
Having done your research, you would be aware of that also.
Based on your first post, you demanded your money back well before you attempted any other tactic. You come out blasting and expect the seller to do your bidding.
There are two sides to this story. Your story is based mostly on frustration. Nick has responded with clear technical responses.
Present more facts, such as pictures of the internals so we can all see the wiring and we can determine if "How about the switch not being connected at all?" is accurate.
If you do not want to get the AC members involved to help out with the diagnosis, do not assume you can use the forum to "continue to inform people to stay away from Promitheus Audio."
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Thank goodness, I finally have a few replies to answer to! To answer a few of your questions: (1) The Conrad Johnson PV-15 was taken out of the circuit with the same result. ( CDP to TVC to Amp). There was no experimenting to try something I conjured up in my head. The ideas came from documented evidence from several message boards. If you are interested as I was, do a Goggle search and inform yourself before you start criticizing me. Could this actually be a unit sent out by Nicholas that does not perform as it should? I wanted Nicholas to at least pay for the return of the TVC to him for repair and I would pay for the return to me repaired. What more could a vendor ask for? As a buyer I expect a vendor to say, "You THINK there is something wrong with the unit, send it back to me and I will check to see if there is a problem" Nicholas still states there is nothing wrong with the unit and refuses to accept responsibility for assuring this product is working properly. All the arguments you give me are totally unacceptable (moot) until Nicholas takes this TVC back to see if there is factually something wrong with the unit. If there is nothing wrong with the unit I will gladly eat crow! Until this situation is resolved i will continue to inform people to stay away from Promitheus Audio.
To date, all 5 of your posts here at AudioCircle have been about whining and being outright belligerent :roll: I'm not saying you're in the wrong here and you don't have a right to be pi$$ed off Sam but it's hard to welcome someone like you who has nothing more to offer AudioCircle than :cuss: Please keep in mind that Nicholas is within his right to boot you out of his circle if he feel so inclined. :dunno: You'd had your say about how you feel about Promitheus Audio, 5 times in fact. I wouldn't be dwelling on this much longer,,, fwiw. :D Afterall, there's always Audiogon. :thumb:
Cheers,
Robin
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I emailed (and PMd) Nicholas last week regarding pricing for a Signature TVC (Robin, I believe you've seen my system in the Acoustics Circle--I feel the Signature TVC would be right at home there!). I haven't heard back yet. I understand that Promitheus Audio is a (very) small company, so I'm trying to be patient... but it's oh so hard. :)
-- Nils
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NIls
just send you the reply
thnaks
NIcholas
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Sold the piece of crap..the TVC that is... at least I got my money out of the deal. I still feel Nicholas should have at least visually inspected his handy work. I do apologize for appearing to be overly complaining about that sorry piece of crap that Pormitheus Audio made. Maybe the next owner will complain to Nicholas. Sold the TVC with "as is" with "no warranty". Told him to contact Nicholas if he had any problems!
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I have ordered, and paid for a TVC with remote control and a silver XLR cable from Promitheus.
Last payment was made in the middle of march this year, first payment in autumn 2007.
Total payment of 865$.
NO signs of any products and no reply from Promitheus/Nicholas when trying to get a clarification via mail.
Cannot make any recommendations based on my experienced so far, to put it mildly... :o
Hope to receive some sort of mail, but I will not hold my breath.
So I guess I should put out a warning to other potensial customers until these issues are resolved.
Not a very reassuring way to run a business, in my opinion... :roll:
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Does anyone use spell check anymore?? It's Survey ...
I guess the world isn't setting on your back yard these days ... in the manner you expected...
I guess, with all the worlds problems you've been solving ... you just can't accept this ...or
give anything back ... whenever you crawl back under the rock ... you must call home ...
Take a pill (or three) ... chill out ... pet a dog ... or better yet ...
do something for someone else ... someone who doesn't have a backyard ...
a car that runs, or a roof above their heads ...
or dental insurance ...
'cause if I was gettin' the crap you're dishing out ...
You'd need someone in a white coat .... to help repair ...
your over-bite ...
JMHO
Simmer down, nut-cake !!
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Does anyone use spell check anymore?? It's Survey ...
I guess the world isn't setting on your back yard these days ... in the manner you expected...
I guess, with all the worlds problems you've been solving ... you just can't accept this ...or
give anything back ... whenever you crawl back under the rock ... you must call home ...
Take a pill (or three) ... chill out ... pet a dog ... or better yet ...
do something for someone else ... someone who doesn't have a backyard ...
a car that runs, or a roof above their heads ...
or dental insurance ...
'cause if I was gettin' the crap you're dishing out ...
You'd need someone in a white coat .... to help repair ...
your over-bite ...
JMHO
Simmer down, nut-cake !!
Well ..... I guess .... someone .... got .... out .... of ... the ..... bed ... at ... the .... wrong .... side ... today ... :wink:
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Sold the piece of crap..the TVC that is... at least I got my money out of the deal. I still feel Nicholas should have at least visually inspected his handy work. I do apologize for appearing to be overly complaining about that sorry piece of crap that Pormitheus Audio made. Maybe the next owner will complain to Nicholas. Sold the TVC with "as is" with "no warranty". Told him to contact Nicholas if he had any problems!
Who is Pormitheus? If you are going to come on a site specifically to brand bash at least get the name right. Assuming you actually bought anything from them, and are not just a shil trying to get customers away from Nic. I mean you were asked for pics of the poor workmanship, but where unable to provide any. So its your 6 posts bashing Promitheus against Nic's...wonder who I am going to trust.
Anyone who knows me knows I rave about Promitheus Audio's products. Have two tvcs from them, both work phenomenal, are some of the best sounding pres I have ever had, and have great workmanship. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from Nicholas again.
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Have a movie or two from Pornitheus :nono:
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NM not worth it.
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Hello, some months ago I ordered a tvc and a pair of speaker cables. After payment was done, the mail contact got a bit one sided. Can anybody give me a an address of Promitheus Audio, perhaps I can write a letter, or does anybody know how to get Nicholas motivated to answer, or perhaps send my tvc?
Thanks, Packhifi
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Hello, some months ago I ordered a tvc and a pair of speaker cables. After payment was done, the mail contact got a bit one sided. Can anybody give me a an address of Promitheus Audio, perhaps I can write a letter, or does anybody know how to get Nicholas motivated to answer, or perhaps send my tvc?
Thanks, Packhifi
he seems to be monitoring this post fairly frequenlty so you might try a friendly shoutout here
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NM not worth it.
You take yourself much too seriously dude Were you going to reply to my post?
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Sorry I didn't describe the "Sun circling the world" point more clearly ...
Just seems that anger is often the product of wet diapers ...
\
or a Cop issuing a ticket, because everyone else was going too slowly ...
or ... I had to steal the car to get to my date on time...
I didn't mean to run over the old lady, but she was in my way ....
Geeze ... Communication travels in an instant ... unbridled anger ...
is more of a threat...than ever before ...
Why not duel ... with pistols ... instead of gaming...
or maybe cage fighting ...
that way one loud mouth... gets shut....period .... end of existance !!!
or...
Why not just go back to mud-pies ... sling 'em ... take a shower afterward ...
nobody dies .... we live to play in mud another day ...
Read the news ... there's a lot that's important these days ...
beyond bruised ego's ....... this SHOULD be a hobby.... if it's your life ...
Buy a mirror ......
JMHO....
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Hello, some months ago I ordered a tvc and a pair of speaker cables. After payment was done, the mail contact got a bit one sided. Can anybody give me a an address of Promitheus Audio, perhaps I can write a letter, or does anybody know how to get Nicholas motivated to answer, or perhaps send my tvc?
Thanks, Packhifi
Packhifi
got your stuff sorted out on tuesday, should arrive soon
thanks
Nicholas
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NM not worth it.
You take yourself much too seriously dude Were you going to reply to my post?
Nope, your post was hilarious. I was going to post the nasty PM from SamDCook where he called me all sorts of names that I shant repeat for fear that ladies could be present, and further ripped on Promitheus, but instead I went the high route and deleted/ignored it, since he isn't worth my/anyones time.
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Hello, some months ago I ordered a tvc and a pair of speaker cables. After payment was done, the mail contact got a bit one sided. Can anybody give me a an address of Promitheus Audio, perhaps I can write a letter, or does anybody know how to get Nicholas motivated to answer, or perhaps send my tvc?
Thanks, Packhifi
Last Thursday I got my TVC and all I can say is that it was worth waiting for!!! It would have been easier for me, if Nicholas had told me from the start, that it can take some months to build it. I stil feel a bit uncomfortable, sending someone thousends of miles away a lot of money through the internet and not knowing what will happen. So comunication is very important and should be improved. After all it is excellent vallue for money, that you get, so this will certainly not be my last order and I recommend Nicholas's TVC to all, who love musik as much as I do
Thanks, Packhifi
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Hello Nicholas!
Hope you are doing very well. I am wondering if we could please have an update on our balanced DAC (with Burson opamps and silver pulse transformer).
I have sent you several PM's here, and some emails too, but have not heard from you since last June 2008.
Here is a summary of your previous emails:
April 2008: Unit ready to send, offered to install Bursons.
May 2008: New Bursons arrived, you were sending unit to us on May 4, 2008.
June 4 2008: New DAC boards arrived, so you were sending unit to us on June 11, 2008.
That June 4, 2008 email was the last communication we received from you. It has been a very long time now, so we are just getting a little worried.
Please advise?
Thank you very much, and our best regards to you!
Thomas
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I ordered a custom DAC [balanced, silver pulse, nano core, copper plates] last month, and I tried to time the order so it and my HeadAmp GS-X will arrive at the same time. At this point, of course I want it all to arrive as quickly as possible, but Nicholas was very good at communicating with me, and very patient at explaining the features and options on the DAC. So for now, I am just waiting, but enjoying the equipment I currently have.
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Hi,
Just received my Dual TVC - Mono Single Input XLR with Dual Output XLR 2 ebony knobs :o. I ordered on Dec 30th. Nick said it would be about two weeks. I did my research and figured 2 weeks meant about 2months :wink:. I anticipated a longer wait then specified. No big deal I've listen to music for 29 years before this TVC I think I can manage 1 month or 2.
Before and after ordering Nick responded to ALL my E mails in a timely manner. He was very helpful and truly concerned about my questions etc. The order was shipped and package very very well.
By the way this unit sounds amazing right out of the box, It will be a joy to burn it in and experience the changes. Will not hesitate to order again from Nick......................THANKS NICK!!!! also be prepared to pay some Duty. I live in Toront Canada and had to pay87 bucks. It all evens out since I got the shipping for free due to Nicks Fall sale :wink:
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COuld have been faster except for the January we had couple of holidays here and the lunar new year that stopped shipping for a while
glad it arrive well and it works well
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Hi again!
I received a nice PM reply from Nicholas, saying that my DAC is now ready and had even received some changes and upgrades too. :drool:
[Nicholas had PM'd me about this last September as well, which I had forgotten to mention in the record below.]
Thanks Nicholas! We are really happy that the DAC is ready, and will be looking for it with much excitement. Could you please PM with the shipper name and tracking number, when it is sent? I would also like to post back here with our feedback about the DAC, after giving it some nice listening time, if anybody wants me to.
Best regards to you!
Thomas
Hello Nicholas!
Hope you are doing very well. I am wondering if we could please have an update on our balanced DAC (with Burson opamps and silver pulse transformer).
I have sent you several PM's here, and some emails too, but have not heard from you since last June 2008.
Here is a summary of your previous emails:
April 2008: Unit ready to send, offered to install Bursons.
May 2008: New Bursons arrived, you were sending unit to us on May 4, 2008.
June 4 2008: New DAC boards arrived, so you were sending unit to us on June 11, 2008.
That June 4, 2008 email was the last communication we received from you. It has been a very long time now, so we are just getting a little worried.
Please advise?
Thank you very much, and our best regards to you!
Thomas
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I had email correspondence with Nicholas several times before ordering his phono unit. I have no complaints about his response time. I did make sure they had units in stock before ordering and received mine within a couple of weeks from Malaysia to the US. The unit is still breaking in and I am still experimenting with the various settings but I am very pleased.
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I ordered a standard Ref4 TVC on 4th March. In what limited contact I have had with Nicholas he has responded promtly and with pertinent information. Didn't seem to be the same guy who was almost uncontable that some people found a while ago.
I decided not to visit these forums and the website as this would just frustrate me on my long wait for the TVC to arrive. I also chose a standard product as I thought this might save a couple of months wait too.
Well, it arrived this morning having been delayed in post in the UK for a week while they tried to find a non existent address. Wrong house number. A minor glitch on Promethius' part.
It really does look to me that Nicholas has resolved many of the issues of last year. 23 days from order to delivery including a UK delay is really impressive.
I am amazed at how quickly it arrived and 2 or 3 hours into using am so far impressed with the sound.
It has all the detail and more of my 50K ohm passive pot (Creek), all the dynamics and more of my Exposure 19 active pre amp.
The XLRs dont seem to lock well but the contact is firm enough. The volume pots have a very positive feel and I've no problems with high levels on lowest volume settings using unbalanced inputs and balanced outputs. The finish seems good. There are a couple of tiny tool marks on the woodwork but these need to be looked for to spot and add to the hand made feel rather than detract from the finish. I've not had the lid off to look at internal construction yet.
I'm a little confused by an invoice for USD300 when I paid the website price of USD680. Has this happened to anybody else?
Using with
Silent PC --> Beresford TC7510 DAC --> Promethius Ref4 TVC Pre --> MC Audio MC1250 Power --> Acoustic Energy AE1 Mk2 Spkrs
Also
Velodyne SMS1 sub EQ and 2 Acoustic Energy AE308 subwoofers.
All in all I'm really happy so far. Now to get some decent fast neutral subs and a better DAC and I'll have reached a musical Nirvana. This pre has brought me a fair deal closer.
Lee
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I ordered a standard Ref4 TVC on 4th March. In what limited contact I have had with Nicholas he has responded promtly and with pertinent information. Didn't seem to be the same guy who was almost uncontable that some people found a while ago.
I decided not to visit these forums and the website as this would just frustrate me on my long wait for the TVC to arrive. I also chose a standard product as I thought this might save a couple of months wait too.
Well, it arrived this morning having been delayed in post in the UK for a week while they tried to find a non existent address. Wrong house number. A minor glitch on Promethius' part.
It really does look to me that Nicholas has resolved many of the issues of last year. 23 days from order to delivery including a UK delay is really impressive.
I am amazed at how quickly it arrived and 2 or 3 hours into using am so far impressed with the sound.
It has all the detail and more of my 50K ohm passive pot (Creek), all the dynamics and more of my Exposure 19 active pre amp.
The XLRs dont seem to lock well but the contact is firm enough. The volume pots have a very positive feel and I've no problems with high levels on lowest volume settings using unbalanced inputs and balanced outputs. The finish seems good. There are a couple of tiny tool marks on the woodwork but these need to be looked for to spot and add to the hand made feel rather than detract from the finish. I've not had the lid off to look at internal construction yet.
I'm a little confused by an invoice for USD300 when I paid the website price of USD680. Has this happened to anybody else?
Using with
Silent PC --> Beresford TC7510 DAC --> Promethius Ref4 TVC Pre --> MC Audio MC1250 Power --> Acoustic Energy AE1 Mk2 Spkrs
Also
Velodyne SMS1 sub EQ and 2 Acoustic Energy AE308 subwoofers.
All in all I'm really happy so far. Now to get some decent fast neutral subs and a better DAC and I'll have reached a musical Nirvana. This pre has brought me a fair deal closer.
Lee
LEe
is not for the wrong address i think it would have arrive in a week. Sorry a simple typo in our shipping mainfest was the mistake. Also they declare a lower amount for tax reasons. Helps to lower tax or avoid it
thanks for the nice comments on the sound. Have fun with it
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Hello Nicholas and AudioCircle members,
I wanted to mention that last week (on/around March 23 2009), we took delivery of our Promitheus Audio solid state DAC.
It has all the goodies (i.e. both RCA and balanced outputs, Burson opamps, silver pulse transformer, etc) :drool:
The unit looks beautiful, and we are very excited to hear it - I still have to put it into our system (due to a living room re-arrangement) but can hardly wait!
I will be happy to post pictures and impressions if anybody is interested? aa
It sure looks like this was worth the wait - we are very happy. Thank you so much Nicholas!
Best Regards,
Thomas
Hi again!
I received a nice PM reply from Nicholas, saying that my DAC is now ready and had even received some changes and upgrades too. :drool:
[Nicholas had PM'd me about this last September as well, which I had forgotten to mention in the record below.]
Thanks Nicholas! We are really happy that the DAC is ready, and will be looking for it with much excitement. Could you please PM with the shipper name and tracking number, when it is sent? I would also like to post back here with our feedback about the DAC, after giving it some nice listening time, if anybody wants me to.
Best regards to you!
Thomas
Hello Nicholas!
Hope you are doing very well. I am wondering if we could please have an update on our balanced DAC (with Burson opamps and silver pulse transformer).
I have sent you several PM's here, and some emails too, but have not heard from you since last June 2008.
Here is a summary of your previous emails:
April 2008: Unit ready to send, offered to install Bursons.
May 2008: New Bursons arrived, you were sending unit to us on May 4, 2008.
June 4 2008: New DAC boards arrived, so you were sending unit to us on June 11, 2008.
That June 4, 2008 email was the last communication we received from you. It has been a very long time now, so we are just getting a little worried.
Please advise?
Thank you very much, and our best regards to you!
Thomas
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Using with
Silent PC --> Beresford TC7510 DAC --> Promethius Ref4 TVC Pre --> MC Audio MC1250 Power --> Acoustic Energy AE1 Mk2 Spkrs
Hello Starbust, do you have any problem w/ the volume level when using the TC7510? I read on promitheus's website that the minimum output voltage required is 1.5V while that DAC is 1.2V.
thanks
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Unfortunately, I am still waiting for my balanced DAC. I ordered it three months ago, and I stopped hearing back from Nicholas a month ago. I am not angry or anything like that, because there could be some good reasons for the delay and the lack of communication, but I sure would like to know what is going on.
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Hi Nicholas and Everyone,
My first post. I have the Promitheus Signature TVCsand have asked Nicholas to develop an "ultimate" Signature 300B SET that will compete with any 300B SET amp ever made, in particular the Coincident Frankenstein II at $5K. (Or $4K with Coincident speaker purchase. I'm hoping that Nicholas can bring his amps in for less.) Large double c-core OPTs, transformer coupled, input transformer to better mate with a TVC, physically separate power supplies, etc.
After about six to eight months of discussion concerning specs, tube types, etc., I made the downpayment last September, as I recall. Since I've asked Nicholas to make this as good an amp as he can make, there's obviously a tremendous amount of dvelopment work that has to occur. Such a revealling amp would likely have a noticeable sonic change with even a minute change in components, so this project will obviously take time to get just right.
I gather that Nicholas has been busier than normal of late, which is why I haven't heard anything from him. It would be nice to get an update or even a photo or two, but I know from experience that the amps will get to me eventually. Good things come to those who wait.
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I just heard back from Nicholas. He advised my unit is being burned in.
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Wow....
Looks like many others over here has faced the same long waiting issue from Promitheus Audio.
For my case, I am still waiting for my custom wound irons which was sent out in April (more than 1 month ago). Email communications also have long lead time lately.
:(
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As an update to my previous post, I went back to Nicholas and asked him if he could add one more input, in this case, an optical one to accommodate my new AppleTV setup. He said that he could, and that has added another--justifiable--delay to my order. Once it arrives, I suspect it will feel like my Senn HD800: worth the ait, and now the wait doesn't matter.
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Burn-in or just another excuse to buy more time? :nono:
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Burn-in or just another excuse to buy more time? :nono:
Tyk: You may be right. Although I very much look forward to my new toys, I try to be patient. I ordered a custom balanced DAC from Nicholas in January. Although Nicholas would sometimes answer PMs and emails, just as often he would not. And I made an additional spec change on it in April, so I know that helped delay it a bit. After one lengthy delay, I finally ordered a Cullen Circuits modified PS Audio DL-III. It arrived 2 days later on June 24. On June 25, Nicholas wrote me to say that DHL would be picking up the DAC on June 26. I asked for a DHL tracking number but have not heard back. Maybe if I am lucky, I will have two very fine DACs to compare.
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Pale Rider,
I felt sorry for what you've experienced so far and the lenghty wait...
Placing an order from Promitheus Audio will always be easy but when it comes to delivering and receiving the item is another different story altogether...
Excuses ranges from the initial....
- material sourcing issue to manufacturing problem; to
- Oh! Your unit is ready but after test it was found to be not some good so your unit needs to re-
do; to,
- Your unit is burn-in, so you need to wait a bit longer;to finally
- Your item is shipped but a check with the courier service provider and found there is no such
item sent....
I'm very impressed by the reasons given so far but all the above are just lame excuses to elude and bluff customers!
I buy alot on-line and never have I encountered such a business model what Promitheus Audio is practicing....Take customer's cash and deliver product at Promitheus Audio own pleasure. This is utterly nonsense!!!
Alot of good people here like you have been very patient and Nicholas should be very fortunate to have customer like you...However, for me, I will never buy from such dishonest and un-credible source!
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TyK: Thanks for the supportive message. Like you, I buy a lot online, and while I am spoiled by Amazon.com, I don't expect every vendor to ship stuff to me in two days. Still, Nicholas promised my DAC in "3 weeks." It's now been more than 5 months. And every excuse you listed has been used. I will not be surprised when something goes wrong with the courier. I hope that eventually I get to hear my DAC, because I have high hopes for it. For now, my modified PS Audio DL-III is very nice to listen to.
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Hi Nicholas,
Any idea on when the Signature 300B SETs will ship? I'd also love to hear your listening impressions of them. Thanks,
S.
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I received a DHL tracking number from Nicholas; he indicated that he had had some problems with shipping. But the news i s good. The DHL website confirms the tracking number, that the unit was picked up July 7, and that it is on its way to me. Will report back on its arrival.
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This is good news....!
However, I do noticed Nicholas will only ship order out when customer start putting up a complaint in this forum....Is there any point to all this? :deadhorse: :cuss: :deadhorse:
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I have in fact today received my custom DAC from Promitheus Audio. Wortht he wait? I don't know yet. I am going to let it warm up during the weekend. Nicholas says that it has been burned in, and we'll see.
It is in fact quite lovely to look at. The combination of Merbau wood and copper plates is very attractive, and gives it a nice vintage look. It will be interesting to see how it compares to my Cullen-modded PS Audio DL-III.
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Hi all,
I also placed an order of DAC ( plus all options ) and XLR interconnected.
The order place on mid-May 2009. Twice Mr Nicholas told me the order ready to ship ( July 1st , then July 21th ) but I still yet receive my order :( .
Now I wonder when will my order will arrive.
Harold
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Have har only bad experiences from the man:
4. april 2009 13.42
"I have ordered, and paid for a TVC with remote control and a silver XLR cable from Promitheus.
Last payment was made in the middle of march 2008, first payment in autumn 2007.
Total payment of 865$.
NO signs of any products and no reply from Promitheus/Nicholas when trying to get a clarification via mail.
Last reply from you/your company was around christmas, no news after this.
If you continue to ignore my requests, I will step up my actions towards paypal and other relevant fora.
I would be happy to get this case over with, by you shipping the products I have paid for or that you make a full refund of the sum I have paid to you."
14. april 2009 16.34
"Hi Lars
We will be shipping out your unit on 22 apr 09.
Regards Nicholas"
25. september 2009 16.24
"Nicholas
Any news about the shipment that was suppose to be sent on 22 april 2009?
Lars"
Since then, no reply...
I would recommend all potential customers to be aware.
If you read this, Nicholas, maybe now would be the time to do something about the situation?
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Does paypal offer any protection in case that a product is never shipped?