AudioCircle
Industry Circles => GR Research => Topic started by: Zitoun on 11 Sep 2020, 02:00 am
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Hello Everybody,
As per the previous topic, The Stereo Receiver in the following diagram is being identified as the main bottleneck of my future set-up.
Right Now I only have the sources & Dacs, and I am planning to get the NX Ottica MTM and Servo Subs by Next Year (when the border reopens).
To replace my Old Topaz SR10 Receiver I thought about couple options with pros and cons, but I am kind of stuck with this not being able to think out of the box, maybe you can help with your experience.
Current plan is here
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214426)
Here are the options I am thinking about
> Jungson ja-99c No Preamp (connected to Burson DAC with XLR- Subs | RCA- MTM)
https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/jungson-audio-amplifier-cd-player-c-27/jungson-ja-1-ja-99c-class-a-balanced-preamp-power-amplifier-ver-standard-20th-p-1017 (https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/jungson-audio-amplifier-cd-player-c-27/jungson-ja-1-ja-99c-class-a-balanced-preamp-power-amplifier-ver-standard-20th-p-1017)
Pros:
- Good Quality/Price amp as per https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqFNrWEImEA&ab_channel=ZeroFidelity
- Forward Mid Range presentation (if that matches with MTM???)
Cons:
- Old school Technology/Case
> Denafrips Hyperion No Preamp (connected to Burson DAC with XLR- Subs | RCA- MTM)
https://www.denafrips.com/hyperion (https://www.denafrips.com/hyperion)
Pros:
- Refined Sound "Audiophile" Presentation as per https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qw1K76Ki69A&t=1008s&ab_channel=ZeroFidelity
- Warm coloration
- Build quality
Cons
- Price higher than Jungson for small improvement (not sure this will even be noticeable on the MTM).
>BOYUURANGE A50 MKIII 300B (connected to Burson DAC with XLR- Subs | RCA- MTM)
https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/reisong-tube-amplifier-boyuuragne-audio-c-48/boyuurange-a50-mkiii-300b-single-end-class-a-tube-intergrated-amplifier-reisong-p-2309?zenid=7af7311014b5fef113c07e9555e6a9df (https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/reisong-tube-amplifier-boyuuragne-audio-c-48/boyuurange-a50-mkiii-300b-single-end-class-a-tube-intergrated-amplifier-reisong-p-2309?zenid=7af7311014b5fef113c07e9555e6a9df)
Pros:
- Real Tube Sound as per https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dExnR7CJMSo&ab_channel=SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac
- Very inexpensive amp
- No need for a preamp
Cons
- Tube cost more than the amp
- Tube will burn all the time even for low quality content (TV/Game)
> Add Preamp Schiit Freya + to Denafrips Hyperion or Jungson ja-99c
https://www.schiit.com/products/freya-1/ (https://www.schiit.com/products/freya-1/)
Pros:
- Add good tube coloration as required as per https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwMXMtSprxI&ab_channel=Thomas%26Stereo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwMXMtSprxI&ab_channel=Thomas%26Stereo)
- Can switch preamp to passive mode for Movies and games without burning tube, plugging, unplugging
- Can get multiple sources from 2 Dacs to avoid adding cheap splitters in the configuration
- Can drive Servo Sub and MTM Amp wit better amplification/Volume control (I presume)
Cons:
- not like a real tube amp
- add cost to the configuration (not really able to asses if this will be very valuable with the NX Ottica MTM and Servo Sub)
What would be your call ?
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Zitoun:
You missed the KISS point completely !
- ditch the Burnson a buy a buy an equal quality DAC/Integrated or DAC/PRE + AMP with appropriate inputs, optical, hdmi and usb
Basic "Keep It Simple Stupid" principle.
Shawn
I got it Shawn, the burson already does preamp, already has optical spdif and usb. I don't need hdmi connection in my setup.
The extra optical I need are for occasional purpose, so I won't invest a tone for something a splitter. IF set apart, I can almost remove these elements from the audiophile config, and plug it when needed.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214430)
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Burson preamp feeding a Schiit preamp = disaster
KISS
Shawn
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KISS
There are two things you should do before deciding which components to buy:
1. decide what you want -- no, not components, but what's most important to you. For instance, if 2-channel is most important, then build the best 2-channel system you can, and everything else is secondary. You need a plan. What are you trying to accomplish?
2. if your plan includes NX-Otica MTMs, then the rest of your system should match the quality level of those speakers. For instance, with Denafrips -- the Thallo is more in line with the MTMs than the Hyperion.
Also think about what you're putting in front of the speakers. Keep the signal path uncluttered.
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Burson preamp feeding a Schiit preamp = disaster
KISS
Shawn
They tought about that I guess, you can bypass the DAC Preamp in the menu
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214431)
Source: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EAfH_M0fnWNWGzleGB3PiljcG-VhNfrn/view (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EAfH_M0fnWNWGzleGB3PiljcG-VhNfrn/view)
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There are two things you should do before deciding which components to buy:
1. decide what you want -- no, not components, but what's most important to you. For instance, if 2-channel is most important, then build the best 2-channel system you can, and everything else is secondary. You need a plan. What are you trying to accomplish?
2. if your plan includes NX-Otica MTMs, then the rest of your system should match the quality level of those speakers. For instance, with Denafrips -- the Thallo is more in line with the MTMs than the Hyperion.
Also think about what you're putting in front of the speakers. Keep the signal path uncluttered.
Thanks Early B
1. So yes this will be stereo - The schematic is for all drivers and amps required for a NX Ottica MTM and Servo Subs.
2. Intersting, I checked the Thallo, excuse my ignorance, but I don't see where the difference is except that THALLOS is a 120 w instead of 80 W, and has slightly more distortion. I assumed that OB MTM is a very efficient speaker, Maybe I am wrong, I couldn't find the sensitivity anywhhere.
3. Yes I removed the toslink switch from the audiophile signal Path, following Shawn's advice.
The cleanest signal path I presume would be to get a big integrated amp, but with the challenge that the power supply is shared accross all components, and with my experience, the power supply matters a lot, so I select my components looking at the best power supply supply to get a transparent noise free sound, preferably with xlr connections.
If this makes sense.
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2. Intersting, I checked the Thallo, excuse my ignorance, but I don't see where the difference is except that THALLOS is a 120 w instead of 80 W, and has slightly more distortion.
3. ...and with my experience, the power supply matters a lot, so I select my components looking at the best power supply to get a transparent noise free sound...
Your response to #3 is the reason you should buy the Thallo.
Don't rely on watts, distortion, and speaker efficiency -- they tell you nothing about how a component will sound. Instead, focus on build quality, manufacturer reputation, and customer reviews.
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Cambridge Audio CXA81. I just got one to run NX-Studio's in my bedroom and I have to say its one of the best solid state integrated amps I have ever heard anywhere near its price. Plus the DAC in it is really good.
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Cambridge Audio CXA81. I just got one to run NX-Studio's in my bedroom and I have to say its one of the best solid state integrated amps I have ever heard anywhere near its price. Plus the DAC in it is really good.
Cambridge is great, congrats for thisunit, Ichecked thereviews, seems very neat. Drawback from what I hear is the dac not at the same level than topping E30, and I am upgrading this E30 dac to something better already.
I guess that's the challenge with integrated, you can't have it all. I am trying to move away to this model to have more flexibility. But very good unit thouhg.
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Your response to #3 is the reason you should buy the Thallo.
Don't rely on watts, distortion, and speaker efficiency -- they tell you nothing about how a component will sound. Instead, focus on build quality, manufacturer reputation, and customer reviews.
That Makes sense Thanks - How can you judge on the power supply quality then ? is the 120W, 4 Ohms, or price, a good indication ?
I could'nt even find a review on their own website.
Indide the power amp loks very similar with more capacitors
https://www.denafrips.com/thallo (https://www.denafrips.com/thallo)
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In regards to the DAC in the CXA81, I think the sound quality is really close to my reference DAC the Matrix Element X which is in my NX-Otica system downstairs. In fact I like it a little better integrated than the Element X plugged into the Cambridge via XLR.
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How can you judge on the power supply quality then ?
This would be a good question to post in "The Lab" section. For starters, in an amp, look for two huge transformers, dual mono design, if Class A/B, then Class A up to something like 10 or 15 watts, etc. But one of the better ways to determine quality is the manufacturer's reputation. Quality ain't cheap, either.
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In regards to the DAC in the CXA81, I think the sound quality is really close to my reference DAC the Matrix Element X which is in my NX-Otica system downstairs. In fact I like it a little better integrated than the Element X plugged into the Cambridge via XLR.
mmmh that sounds pretty weird, a 100$ Dac better than a 3000$ dedicated unit, maybe Cambridge does not like this marriage, that's not the intent of an integrated amp anyway.
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This would be a good question to post in "The Lab" section. For starters, in an amp, look for two huge transformers, dual mono design, if Class A/B, then Class A up to something like 10 or 15 watts, etc. But one of the better ways to determine quality is the manufacturer's reputation. Quality ain't cheap, either.
I didn't know this section, I can see that I am not alone there :)
From my reasearch Jungson (with their JA-99) has one of the most solid, long lasting reputation with highest value/$.
This is what they say on the description.
In addition, for the JA-1 / JA-99C 20th Anniversary Edition, the power supply is very particular.
There are multiple groups of left and right channels in parallel and independent power supply.
The JA-1 pre amp uses 4 groups per channel, JA-99C uses two groups per channel, rigorous and high-cost power supply method to ensure crosstalk between left and right channels, improve separation, and lay a solid foundation for the reproduction of music details
Source:https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/jungson-audio-amplifier-cd-player-c-27/jungson-ja-1-ja-99c-class-a-balanced-preamp-power-amplifier-ver-standard-20th-p-1017 (https://www.china-hifi-audio.com/en/jungson-audio-amplifier-cd-player-c-27/jungson-ja-1-ja-99c-class-a-balanced-preamp-power-amplifier-ver-standard-20th-p-1017)
Edit: From what I have seen this is a 12W class A, then it switches to A/B
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BTW where can I find info on
Nx ottica mtm on
- Frequency response
- Impedance
- Sensitivity
???
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mmmh that sounds pretty weird, a 100$ Dac better than a 3000$ dedicated unit, maybe Cambridge does not like this marriage, that's not the intent of an integrated amp anyway.
Um OK, well enjoy your HIFI journey.
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Now that I have broke in the analog input circuit some more, I will say yes the Matrix DAC is better. But, its still really close considering the price. But I guess that's subjective.
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Now that I have broke in the analog input circuit some more, I will say yes the Matrix DAC is better. But, its still really close considering the price. But I guess that's subjective.
Yes, really true, It comes down to what we value the most in the end, and also diminishing return.
In my case I listen to a lot of genre with a lot of bass, very fast fast music like aphex twin, very dynamics like led zep, or soft with micro details like Hildur Gudnadottir .
So I value a lot very detailed sound, speed, neutral sound giving a real life like live event experience.
Best setup I have heard that can really satisfy me is Tyson's Rig with the Super 7. I consider this better than any other more expensive Martin Logan, Wilsons, or IRS V I have heard. This is the best at this price point for a 2 cabinet setup you can fit in a living room.
On the DAC side of the moon, this source converter becomes for me a key piece, to get all the details I want from my Source, the topping E30 was a pretty significant improvement in my humble current setup, but what really improved the combination .... > The AC Power Filter Power Conditioner from WAudio - this combination gave me all the details I missed for years.
So in the end it's all about how the power is managed in these different units to let the details going through.
For what I am looking for I will for sure need external DAC, and a good fast neutral power amp to pair with it. I believe the Ottica MTM will be the cake on the cherry after this is setup.
Don't get me wrong, I am sure the Cambridge is a fantastic piece anyway. I am just bored with mine and its bright coloration, but I had it for 10 years, running all day long, never had issue, always delivering the same quality - and this is an entry level receiver.
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So I value a lot very detailed sound, speed, neutral sound giving a real life like live event experience.
Best setup I have heard that can really satisfy me is Tyson's Rig with the Super 7. I consider this better than any other more expensive Martin Logan, Wilsons, or IRS V I have heard. This is the best at this price point for a 2 cabinet setup you can fit in a living room.
Aw, thanks! I actually go a chance to demo the NX-Ottica tower with triple OB subs at Danny's recently and I'd say they give the Super 7's a run for their money. If you're building the MTM version on top of the dual subs, I think you will be very satisfied. We drove Danny's setup using my 8 watt 300b amp and it sounded amazing.
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Aw, thanks! I actually go a chance to demo the NX-Ottica tower with triple OB subs at Danny's recently and I'd say they give the Super 7's a run for their money. If you're building the MTM version on top of the dual subs, I think you will be very satisfied. We drove Danny's setup using my 8 watt 300b amp and it sounded amazing.
Yes that's the plan, I have the Super 7 cabinet waiting for painting, and will use it for the MTM until some New Neo 10 comes out.
I am hesitant, to get into tube just now, because I know I'll get addicted and wear my tubes all day long, but I am thinking that if the Burson Composer 3X DAC manages the preamp part quite well, I can spare the money of the preamp, and have a tube amp setup on the side for more serious listening sessions, and swap back to a Classe A A/B when I am done.
I know you are all about good tube amps, and I can only confirm that's the best.
I was thinking about this guy at around 700USD, and swap tubes - I am not sure I will have the patience to build an Elekit.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214509)
BOYUURANGE A50 MKIII 300B SINGLE-END CLASS A TUBE INTERGRATED AMPLIFIER REISONG
Specification:
Voltage amplification and promotion tubes: 6N8P (6SN7) × 2
Power output tube: 300B × 2 (brand PSVANE)
Rectifier: 5Z3PAT × 1
Output power: 7.6W x 2 (Class A) (No negative feedback)
Frequency response: 30Hz-42KHz
Output impedance: 4Ω, 8Ω
Total harmonic distortion: ≤1% (1kHz)
Input sensitivity: 750MV
Input impedance: 100KΩ (3 groups of input jacks)
Volume: 375 W x 290 D x 180 H mm
Packing volume: 500 W x 450 D x 290 H mm
Signal to noise ratio: 89DB
Input Power Voltage: AC 100V - 240V 60Hz/50Hz (100V, 110V, 115V, 120V, 230V,240V version will take 7-14 business days to order). 220v is in stock.
Net weight: 18 kg
Gross weight: 21 kg
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Ok, enough of the budget nonsense. Get yourself the PS Audio BHK Preamp and BHK 300 mono's.
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Ok, enough of the budget nonsense.
I tried to say the same thing in a nicer way.
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Ok, enough of the budget nonsense. Get yourself the PS Audio BHK Preamp and BHK 300 mono's.
LOL You guys are fantastic, Sure let's burn that money :icon_lol:
I visited PS Audio few months back (a week before this all covid thing), listened to their top of the line speaker with BHK monoblocks amp / Pre Amp with Paul and their prodct engineer who was building their new speakers. that was a great experience, great people.
But sorry to say that, to my ears (so this is subjective) it does not beat TYSON's Rig in term of details, refinement, emotion, speed in the bass section. So when he says 3000B Elekit tube amp + Ottica MTM is a must ... I will probably lean in that direction and keep some more money for the next speaker upgrade, if that makes sense.
And also 9k with tax for an amp is a bit of a stretch coming from a 500$ Receiver.
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So removing the other audio inputs to keep one source, and removed the tube preamp,
This will look like this.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214517)
I am not sure If I have to plug the servo sub amp to the RCA splitters as Danny recommends or if I can conect directly to the Burson Composer (I checked I can use XLR and RCA simultaneously)
RCA Splitter and amp selector are not powered, so should'nt deteriorate the signal much. the amp selector may have some resistance, so that may have to go away, if not compatible with tube amp.
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LOL You guys are fantastic, Sure let's burn that money :icon_lol:
I visited PS Audio few months back (a week before this all covid thing), listened to their top of the line speaker with BHK monoblocks amp / Pre Amp with Paul and their prodct engineer who was building their new speakers. that was a great experience, great people.
But sorry to say that, to my ears (so this is subjective) it does not beat TYSON's Rig in term of details, refinement, emotion, speed in the bass section. So when he says 3000B Elekit tube amp + Ottica MTM is a must ... I will probably lean in that direction and keep some more money for the next speaker upgrade, if that makes sense.
And also 9k with tax for an amp is a bit of a stretch coming from a 500$ Receiver.
Haha ok, to my ears, the 300b is not even in the same ballpark in my house on my NX-Oticas as the BHK 300s. Dude, I have gone through all this stuff already. The BHK 300s and the NX-Oticas sound real. They are not a pair of 35 year old IRS speakers. Honestly, I don't even know why I am even engaging in this because its silly, so I am out. Enjoy your MTM's. Hopefully, you end up with equipment that they deserve.
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Haha ok, to my ears, the 300b is not even in the same ballpark in my house on my NX-Oticas as the BHK 300s. Dude, I have gone through all this stuff already. The BHK 300s and the NX-Oticas sound real. They are not a pair of 35 year old IRS speakers. Honestly, I don't even know why I am even engaging in this because its silly, so I am out. Enjoy your MTM's. Hopefully, you end up with equipment that they deserve.
Dude I am happy that you like your setup, but just accept people don't have the same experience, needs and budget.
And if you feel the urge to be condescending, no need to express that here.
Enjoy your day.
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If I remember correctly MLundy has a BHK preamp and a pair of the new M1200 amps running the NX-Otica MTM.
He'd probably be the best person to talk about the BHK setup.
But yeah its all super subjective..
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If I remember correctly MLundy has a BHK preamp and a pair of the new M1200 amps running the NX-Otica MTM.
He'd probably be the best person to talk about the BHK setup.
But yeah its all super subjective..
Yes, my current set-up with the NX-Otica MTM/dual servo sub combo includes the PS Audio DirectStream DAC, BHK preamp, and M1200 monoblocks and yes, this system sounds gloriously addictive.
However, over the past 3-1/2 years I’ve had the ‘Otica monitor/sub combo, I’ve had many different electronic setups. These have covered a wide variety including an AudioQuest Dragonfly DAC with a 5wpc OddWatt Poddwatt integrated tube amp with a preamp output for thesubwoofer, a Geek Pulse X Infinity DAC with a DODD Audio zero gain preamp and PrimaLuna Prologue 4 35wpc stereo tube poweramp, a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/preamp (GCD) with the Prologue 4 power amp, the PS Audio Stellar GCD with a PS Audio Stellar S300 stereo solid state amp, to the current setup described above.
This is the important take away, the NX-Otica MTM monitor/dual servo sub combo is an exceptional sounding speaker regardless of what you have in-front of it. The write-ups of my rooms at the last three Lone Star Audiofests will attest to this. The fact that these speakers sounded so good with modest electronics yet kept significantly improving with each level the electronics went up is a testament to Danny’s skill as a designer.
My advice to the original question is to determine what type of outputs your sources have then, within your budget, get a DAC and/or preamp that will accommodate these inputs and has the type of output to the power amp you want. If you are going to use separates and want to be able to run a balanced cable, the preamp needs a balanced output and the power amp(s) need a balanced input. If you are running a balanced cable from the pre to power amp, use the A370 XLR3 version of the sub amp. That way you can run balanced cables to the subwoofer too. My BHK preamp only has one set of balanced outputs so I run XLR cables from the preamp to a balanced splitter close to the power amps. One leg For each channel of the splitter can have the inline filter caps which would be connected to the power amps driving the ‘Otica monitors while the other leg is left full range for the subwoofers.
At about 95dB efficiency, the ‘Otica monitors can be driven by just about anything. The simplest configuration is an integrated DAC/preamp/poweramp. The upside is only having one electronic component. The downside is you won’t be able to keep the low frequency energy away from the monitors. The next simplest would be two components, A DAC/preamp and a stereo power amp, then you can have the DAC preamp and power amps as individual components.
When choosing a preamp, consider getting one that not only has inputs for your current sources, but will also accommodate any source you may add. As for which brands, as long as you choose components from a company or companies that take sound quality seriously and, if from more than one company, are compatible with each other, you will have a system that you will enjoy listening to.
Mike
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Yes, my current set-up with the NX-Otica MTM/dual servo sub combo includes the PS Audio DirectStream DAC, BHK preamp, and M1200 monoblocks and yes, this system sounds gloriously addictive.
My advice to the original question is to determine what type of outputs your sources have then, within your budget, get a DAC and/or preamp that will accommodate these inputs and has the type of output to the power amp you want. If you are going to use separates and want to be able to run a balanced cable, the preamp needs a balanced output and the power amp(s) need a balanced input. If you are running a balanced cable from the pre to power amp, use the A370 XLR3 version of the sub amp. That way you can run balanced cables to the subwoofer too. My BHK preamp only has one set of balanced outputs so I run XLR cables from the preamp to a balanced splitter close to the power amps. One leg For each channel of the splitter can have the inline filter caps which would be connected to the power amps driving the ‘Otica monitors while the other leg is left full range for the subwoofers.
At about 95dB efficiency, the ‘Otica monitors can be driven by just about anything. The simplest configuration is an integrated DAC/preamp/poweramp. The upside is only having one electronic component. The downside is you won’t be able to keep the low frequency energy away from the monitors. The next simplest would be two components, A DAC/preamp and a stereo power amp, then you can have the DAC preamp and power amps as individual components.
Thanks Mike, That is a very interesting advice. (and all done without any haughtiness ... Well done :thumb:)
So I think I was pretty close to Setup #2 in my thinking (DAC-Preamp+AMP), and I am going to use XLR. (see updated diagram at the bottom, I simplified and removed tube amp for now)
You have a great experience, and very interesting journey with the Otica MTM, and I do have some more questions if you'd like to provide your guidance.
1 - In term of investment, would you recommend to prioritize the amp, or the quality of the crossover parts first ?
2 - Would you consider the NX Otica MTM has some coloration - do they have a forward midrange, any brightness or characteristics that should be considered.
3 - Any link on the The write-ups of your room at the lone star ? (just curious)
4 - Would you mind letting me know the type/value of capacitor that should sit between the splitter and the Amp for MIds & Highs ?
(The XLR outputs of the Burson Composer 3XP are direct coupling, and exotic XLR connection may damage their OP-AMP ; I'll let them tell me if that may be a problem)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214568)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214567)
5- For the XLR splitter, do you use a cable like below or a box?
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214572)
I think this would be a great starting point, and we still have Canadian PS Audio retailers, So whenever I will be ready to spent 10k on Audio amps, I will be able to do a proper comparaison between the Bryston / PS Audio / Parasound etc... of this world.
Thanks Mike (and Hobbsmeerkat) , your help is greatly appreciated.
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Thanks Mike, That is a very interesting advice. (and all done without any haughtiness ... Well done :thumb:)
So I think I was pretty close to Setup #2 in my thinking (DAC-Preamp+AMP), and I am going to use XLR. (see updated diagram at the bottom, I simplified and removed tube amp for now)
You have a great experience, and very interesting journey with the Otica MTM, and I do have some more questions if you'd like to provide your guidance.
1 - In term of investment, would you recommend to prioritize the amp, or the quality of the crossover parts first ?
I'd put it in the crossover components. If you upgrade the crossovers right off the bat, you will save money down the road that you can put towards the amp.
2 - Would you consider the NX Otica MTM has some coloration - do they have a forward midrange, any brightness or characteristics that should be considered.
No I would characterize the 'Otica as detailed and neutral. It will give you what you give it. If you feed them a signal that is overly bright and harsh, that's what you'll hear. If you feed them a super warm, lush, laidback signal, that's what you'll get. So choose your electronics to provide the sound you like.
3 - Any link on the The write-ups of your room at the lone star ? (just curious)
Sure thing. Here are some links from last year's Lone Srat Audio Fest from Positive Feedback magazine and Part-Time Audiophile magazine:
https://positive-feedback.com/show-reports/lone-star-audio-fest-2019/ - Uilleam Audio's room is on page 3
https://parttimeaudiophile.com/2019/05/04/must-see-rooms-day-one-lsaf-2019/
https://parttimeaudiophile.com/2019/06/05/uilleam-audio-lone-star-audio-fest-2019/
Here are links to Positive Feedback's coverage of the 2018 and 2017 Lone Star Audio Fest events where I had the NX-Otica MTMs exhibited
https://positive-feedback.com/show-reports/lone-star-audio-fest-2018/ This year I also exhibited under the name Uilleam Audio
https://positive-feedback.com/show-reports/lone-star-audio-fest-2017/ This year I exhibited as Speakers by Mike
4 - Would you mind letting me know the type/value of capacitor that should sit between the splitter and the Amp for MIds & Highs ?
(The XLR outputs of the Burson Composer 3XP are direct coupling, and exotic XLR connection may damage their OP-AMP ; I'll let them tell me if that may be a problem)
The cap value depends on the input impedance of the power amp and the frequency you want the signal to be -3dB at. On my power amps, the single ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs have different input impedances so you need to know which input you are going to use. If you want to switch between the RCA and XLR inputs you will need two splitters with caps of different values. Danny can help you choose the correct size when you place your order.
5- For the XLR splitter, do you use a cable like below or a box?
You can do it either way. I use a box. Keep in mind that with balanced cables there are two hot leads for each channel, a + and -, so you need two caps for each channel. This would be awful bulky without a box of some type.
Mike
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I'd put it in the crossover components.
That confirms my assumptions, Thanks.
No I would characterize the 'Otica as detailed and neutral. It will give you what you give it. If you feed them a signal that is overly bright and harsh, that's what you'll hear. If you feed them a super warm, lush, laidback signal, that's what you'll get. So choose your electronics to provide the sound you like.
Very Interesting, That is exactly the type of sound I like, maybe something in common with the OB world in general.
I am revisiting my amp selection - I am thinking that the Singaporean Kinki Studio EX M1 might be a good fit - and they have a distributor in Canada (No Duty, easier for maintenance to ship in Canada than shipping in US or China)
I am just afraid that having a fast high resolving DAC + fast high resolving Amp + a fast resolving pair of speaker might be too much and the lack some of the warmth and musicality becomes preeminent.
My only bet being that by changing the 4 OP Amps in the Burson Composer 3 DAC, and the 5 Op Amps in the Kinki EXM1 with a Burson V6 Classic Opamp, that will make the combo a perfect and flexible match, with a bigger soundstage and warmth (In Theory).
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214694)
If anybody as some experience with Op Amps and how this affect the Oticas, let me know.
Ref article: https://www.dagogo.com/kinki-studio-ex-m1-integrated-amplifier-review/3/ (https://www.dagogo.com/kinki-studio-ex-m1-integrated-amplifier-review/3/)
Sure thing. Here are some links
Very impressive woodworking, I wish I had this skill ! Congrats.
The cap value depends on the input impedance of the power amp and the frequency you want the signal to be -3dB at.
Sending a note to Burson as we speak - Input Impedance: 50kΩ for the Kinky (seems high but I am no specialist yet)
Thank a lot for your answers
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After some investigation, I modified the diagram again to make it simple, this will accomodate a pure audiophile short path Source >USB> Busron Composer >XLR> Kinki EXM1+ - Otica MTM // >Pre-Out RCA> Servo Subs.
A Home Theater 4.1 system can be built in parallell, but will not interfere with the Stereo path. KISS strategy.
The DAC and integrated amp will be able to improve the synergy by rolling opamp.
In this configuration I don't see any way to add a capacitor, before the signal hits the crossover, but isn't this the role of the crossover to split the correct frequencies anyway ?
IT should look like this,
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=214841)