[Vinnie R.]

Hi rlabarre,

Of all the new pieces -- far and away -- it represented the largest improvement for dollar spent. Nothing that I already owned came close to its grace, aplomb, and toe-tapping magic. And using the rival DAC with its digital volume control to bypass the Isabella (for a direct connection into the 70.2s) actually subtracted from the (quite lovely) musical experience that were there when the two were a pair. I am at a loss to explain why, too, because a preamp can only adulterate a signal path. Without the Isabella, though, the rival DAC sounded a trifle flat and un-involving.

Thank you for your great post - I enjoyed reading it and appreciate the time you put into posting your findings. 

I am at a loss to explain why, too, because a preamp can only adulterate a signal path.

I used to think the same way and strongly believed in "passive" preamps had to be the best because they were the closest thing to having nothing in the signal path, but the whole battery powered Isabella tube preamp project was such an ear-opener and changed everything for me.  It just added so much more to the music - more tone, more definition, more richness, more dimension, more dynamics, more "life" to the sound.  You just can't go back once you sit into this chair... 

Thanks again, and enjoy!

Vinnie

[Afterimage]

Hi all,

This is an interesting thread for me as I also have hearing damage and tinnitus from 25 yrs working with gas turbines and large engines. It does not stop me from enjoying music but I do find that high frequencies can cause discomfort. I'm using a Sig 30.2 amp and like the OP feel that the Isabella with USB DAC would be much more to my liking than a revealing system. I was wondering also if the tweeter adjustment facility in the WLM speakers would help me? I'm living in Saudi Arabia so can't easily demo the speakers. Any comments would be appreciated  (and apologies if this is not an appropriate thread for my query).

Finally, I would echo the Op's comments on the service from Vinnie. You don't need to be pushy when you make top quality products and provide customer service that is second to none!

Kind Regards,

Paul.

Hi Paul,

Welcome to Audiocircle and the RWA forum!

The Tweeter Control on the WLM speakers allows for a continuous +/- 3dB adjustment, and as kitten pointed out above, the crossover frequency is set low enough where this adjustment makes a very noticeable change in the sound.  Depending on your room, equipment, and of course your hearing (and listening preferences/taste), you can really fine-tune the sound to your liking.  I hope one day you can listen to them - fed with RWA gear, you will love them! 

Vinnie, I can't really put it any other way than to say I'm off the hi-fi merry-go-round. I've no need to listen to any more gear. Well done.

Thanks, kitten!

Best regards,

Vinnie

Regarding the WLM speakers.  As an owner I can verify what Vinnie says.  It is great, you can add bass or take it away.  Of course you can do the same with the tweeter adjustment knob.  I have mine set at 2 and may up it to 3 if I want more.  The great thing is the WLM's along with the RWA gear is so easy on the ears,  you can turn that knob to 3 and still not have your ears bothered or ringing or anything like that.  You can listen for a long time without any fatigue.  I can't tell you how many nights I have fallen asleep in my listening chair because I stayed up to late listening.

[Afterimage]

Kitten.  Good review.  One thing that really caught my attention was your mention of the Australian band The Church.  They are my favorite band too.  I have seen them live a few times, they are just absolutely amazing live.  I have seen at least over 100 bands and have seen some great shows.  The Church, for whatever reason, just seem to have something special going on more so than the others. 

[kitten]

Hi there, I've not yet had the pleasure of seeing them live and can only imagine how good that must be, in fact I'm completely jealous. Those who haven't heard The Church might like to start with the album Starfish. For maximum enjoyment best used with an Isabella.