[gongos]

I've had my "Glass Ceiling" Monoblocks for over six months. I should just say thank the Baby Jesus for Klaus, but I'll say a little more.

My system:

SP Technology Revelation MKIII's w/ external Mundorf xovers
Empirical Audio SB3, Pace-Car, and Modded Northstar 192 DAC
EVS Ultimate Attenuators

When I first received the amps my entire system had turned over. My system sounded amazing, but I wasn't sure how much it had to due with the amps. Since I suffer from audiophile paranoia, I bought a couple other amps to a/b against the Odyssey's--a pair of Nuforce REF 9 V2's and the newest version of the Van Alstine Ultra 550. Both are highly regarded amps. Nothing in my system changed for the comparison except the amps. My setup is extremely revealing so the differences between the amps was easy to detect. To my surprise the 550 and REF 9's sounded quite a bit alike, and not much like the Odyssey Monoblocks. Mostly because the Odyssey's were simply in another class. Had I never heard the Odyssey, I might have been satisfied with either of the other 2 amps.

The Odyssey throws a huge 3D soundstage, have incredible bass, and put my power hungry speakers at ease. The instruments have an immediate impact--snare drums feel like they're smacking me in the face. They're also transparent and resolute to a degree I've never heard before. The amps make the music come insanely alive-kind of like the experience of being at a concert. The emotional connection--the reason we all find so much pleasure in listening to music--is enhanced to such a degree it's palpable. I could finally stop leaning forward in search of that missing link. I could go on, but what's the point? They rock.

I was really surprised how big of a jump the Odyssey's were over the Nuforce and Ultra 550, since I consider them to be in the same price bracket/discussion. The latter 2 amps weren't horrible. They just seemed lifeless, flat, and boring when compared to the Odyssey's. It's kind of like the difference between sitting on your hands at a concert or having no choice but to stand and dance until you pass out. For me, I'll take the latter.

The biggest compliment I can give Klaus, and his "Glass Ceiling" Monoblocks, is to tell him my amplifier search is officially over. No more buying, no more selling, no more packaging, and no more shipping damage. Thank GOD.

[Eduardo AAVM]

Would it be possible you can provide some pics for all audio-voyeurs out here ?

[loki1957]

I've had my "Glass Ceiling" Monoblocks for over six months. I should just say thank the Baby Jesus for Klaus, but I'll say a little more.

My system:

SP Technology Revelation MKIII's w/ external Mundorf xovers
Empirical Audio SB3, Pace-Car, and Modded Northstar 192 DAC
EVS Ultimate Attenuators

When I first received the amps my entire system had turned over. My system sounded amazing, but I wasn't sure how much it had to due with the amps. Since I suffer from audiophile paranoia, I bought a couple other amps to a/b against the Odyssey's--a pair of Nuforce REF 9 V2's and the newest version of the Van Alstine Ultra 550. Both are highly regarded amps. Nothing in my system changed for the comparison except the amps. My setup is extremely revealing so the differences between the amps was easy to detect. To my surprise the 550 and REF 9's sounded quite a bit alike, and not much like the Odyssey Monoblocks. Mostly because the Odyssey's were simply in another class. Had I never heard the Odyssey, I might have been satisfied with either of the other 2 amps.

The Odyssey throws a huge 3D soundstage, have incredible bass, and put my power hungry speakers at ease. The instruments have an immediate impact--snare drums feel like they're smacking me in the face. They're also transparent and resolute to a degree I've never heard before. The amps make the music come insanely alive-kind of like the experience of being at a concert. The emotional connection--the reason we all find so much pleasure in listening to music--is enhanced to such a degree it's palpable. I could finally stop leaning forward in search of that missing link. I could go on, but what's the point? They rock.

I was really surprised how big of a jump the Odyssey's were over the Nuforce and Ultra 550, since I consider them to be in the same price bracket/discussion. The latter 2 amps weren't horrible. They just seemed lifeless, flat, and boring when compared to the Odyssey's. It's kind of like the difference between sitting on your hands at a concert or having no choice but to stand and dance until you pass out. For me, I'll take the latter.

The biggest compliment I can give Klaus, and his "Glass Ceiling" Monoblocks, is to tell him my amplifier search is officially over. No more buying, no more selling, no more packaging, and no more shipping damage. Thank GOD.

Amen to all this brother. I am more than pleased with my "Glass Ceiling" Monoblocks.

http://www.audiocircle.com/gallery/albums/userpics/14783/thumb_P1010511.JPG

[dangerbird]

This is something that I've been thinking about,,so  I have a pair of mono ex se's,,my question,, is the "glass ceiling" upgrade worth the price,sonically(price vs performance )? Specifically,,mine are driving a pair of Carver Amazings,which are power hungry by nature,,I've been considering upgrading vs selling? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

BTW-- thanks for taking the time to post a review. 

[loki1957]

This is something that I've been thinking about,,so  I have a pair of mono ex se's,,my question,, is the "glass ceiling" upgrade worth the price,sonically(price vs performance )? Specifically,,mine are driving a pair of Carver Amazings,which are power hungry by nature,,I've been considering upgrading vs selling? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

BTW-- thanks for taking the time to post a review. 

Do the upgrade, don't sell. I too was contemplating selling until I had the upgrade done. Astounding.   

[lazydays]

This is something that I've been thinking about,,so  I have a pair of mono ex se's,,my question,, is the "glass ceiling" upgrade worth the price,sonically(price vs performance )? Specifically,,mine are driving a pair of Carver Amazings,which are power hungry by nature,,I've been considering upgrading vs selling? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

BTW-- thanks for taking the time to post a review. 

I went from a pair of "well tweeked" Mono SE's to the so called "Glass Ceiling mod", and the difference just jumped out and smacked you accross the face. This is not a little bit of difference, but a major one. The big thing I noticed was in how open the upper mids were, and of course being a good bit more forward in their presentation. Probably have the most "controlled bass" I've yet to ever hear. Does the acoustic upright bass better than anything I've ever heard period.
    I've had mine since January, and still hear new stuff from them all the time. What they will do is bring out other weak points in your system that you never was there before.
gary

[DARTH AUDIO]

What parts are being used in the "Glass Ceiling" upgrade? I asked this question on a different thread, but no response from Klaus. I'm sure he is busy getting ready for the RMAF. So has anyone opened their amps to see what parts are used? I'm interested in the amps but the other thread just said upgraded parts.

Thanks,

Gary

[dangerbird]

Gary(lazydays),,thanks for the reply,,I first bought the mono's sight unseen/unheard from others comments/experiences here,,I'll call Klaus in a few weeks. Based upon your comments,it's certainly woth investigating
Thanks,,george

[DARTH AUDIO]

Any info on the "Upgraded Parts"??

[rockadanny]

AVA Ultra 550: $2399
Odyssey Stratos Extreme Monoblocks: $2895 - Is this current price?

So how much is the glass ceiling upgrade?

[lazydays]

AVA Ultra 550: $2399
Odyssey Stratos Extreme Monoblocks: $2895 - Is this current price?

So how much is the glass ceiling upgrade?

your gonna have to run that one by Klaus, but I suspect it'll be reasonable as usual. But another point you must take into thought is the bang for the buck. The AVA amp will not run with a Mono SE in my opinion, and when we're thinking "glass Ceiling" it's another rung on the ladder (closer to three). I think you need to spend at least $4500 to run with them if not a little bit more.
    The "glass ceiling amps" are not The same in sound as a pair of Mono SE's; trust me on this as I've had both in the house for long extended periods (I had the SE's for a couple years). I loved the SE's, but after the latest go around with the G.C. amps I don't think I could go back. And the SE's are killers in everyway. The new amps just never seem to be able to run out of steam. Never get in the way of the music. Drive'm hard; drive them easy it won't matter. Always in controll, and the tightest bass you'll ever hear.
    I also know that these amps will never grace the pages of Stereophile because they'll kill all their money making advertisers. You'll never get the chance to do a shoot out with a Krell or another latest flavored amp there. But I guess if Klaus bought a full page add every month for a couple years he'd be in good enough graces to get a mention there.
gary

[rockadanny]

What did the G.C. option cost you (anyone lately?) over and above the amps? The stock SE Monos cost $500 more (20%) than an AVA Ultra 550, if the price on the Odyssey site is current. AVA's price is current. Someone may "feel" like they cost compare, but I'd rather judge that for myself. For example, if the G.C.s total out to 50% or more cost, that is a significant amount and gives readers the proper perspective. For example, I would expect an amp which costs 50% more to be much better than the one costing 50% less, in general. Inquiring minds want to know.

[Bigfish]

What did the G.C. option cost you (anyone lately?) over and above the amps? The stock SE Monos cost $500 more (20%) than an AVA Ultra 550, if the price on the Odyssey site is current. AVA's price is current. Someone may "feel" like they cost compare, but I'd rather judge that for myself. For example, if the G.C.s total out to 50% or more cost, that is a significant amount and gives readers the proper perspective. For example, I would expect an amp which costs 50% more to be much better than the one costing 50% less, in general. Inquiring minds want to know.

I believe you will find that most people upgraded Mono SEs to the G.C. option.  Klaus customizes most pairs of Monos for their owners which means the cost to upgrade to G.C. will vary from amp to amp.  Best to call Klaus or just spring for the new Kismet Monos.  Klaus is claiming they are another major step up from the G.C.  I am looking forward to hearing them at RMAF on Friday!

Ken

[Eduardo AAVM]

Please, those who atend RAMF try to taake as much pics as you can of the new Kismet products.

[rockadanny]

I believe you will find that most people upgraded Mono SEs to the G.C. option.  Klaus customizes most pairs of Monos for their owners which means the cost to upgrade to G.C. will vary from amp to amp.

I can understand the varying costs. But if at least a few people divulge their cost, like maybe gongos, then we outsiders can get an idea of approximately what the cost might be. Can you throw me a bone? Why so mysterious about the cost?

"most people" to me means more than 50% of owners. Are you privy to this information (facts) from the manufacturer or are you just guessing based on what you see in these posts?

Besides, I don't care if "most people" upgrade to the G.C. option. That means nothing to me. Do "most people" want the same sound I want? Can I afford what "most people" can afford?

I was just wondering how much somebody, anybody, paid for their G.C. upgrade within recent months/years. Anybody? It would be real nice to get some perspective on this. Essential for those contemplating buying new amps.

[gongos]

I believe you will find that most people upgraded Mono SEs to the G.C. option.  Klaus customizes most pairs of Monos for their owners which means the cost to upgrade to G.C. will vary from amp to amp.

I can understand the varying costs. But if at least a few people divulge their cost, like maybe gongos, then we outsiders can get an idea of approximately what the cost might be. Can you throw me a bone? Why so mysterious about the cost?

"most people" to me means more than 50% of owners. Are you privy to this information (facts) from the manufacturer or are you just guessing based on what you see in these posts?

Besides, I don't care if "most people" upgrade to the G.C. option. That means nothing to me. Do "most people" want the same sound I want? Can I afford what "most people" can afford?

I was just wondering how much somebody, anybody, paid for their G.C. upgrade within recent months/years. Anybody? It would be real nice to get some perspective on this. Essential for those contemplating buying new amps.

I got an amazing deal for a variety of reasons. Somewhere in the $2800 range--less than the Nuforce--a little more than the 550.

[lazydays]

I believe you will find that most people upgraded Mono SEs to the G.C. option.  Klaus customizes most pairs of Monos for their owners which means the cost to upgrade to G.C. will vary from amp to amp.

I can understand the varying costs. But if at least a few people divulge their cost, like maybe gongos, then we outsiders can get an idea of approximately what the cost might be. Can you throw me a bone? Why so mysterious about the cost?

"most people" to me means more than 50% of owners. Are you privy to this information (facts) from the manufacturer or are you just guessing based on what you see in these posts?

Besides, I don't care if "most people" upgrade to the G.C. option. That means nothing to me. Do "most people" want the same sound I want? Can I afford what "most people" can afford?

I was just wondering how much somebody, anybody, paid for their G.C. upgrade within recent months/years. Anybody? It would be real nice to get some perspective on this. Essential for those contemplating buying new amps.

If your asking me about money, then you've asked the wrong person. I don't talk about another man's money or his business workings. I will talk about the way they sound, and the way my account was handled, but that's the end of it.
gary

[mca]

I was just wondering how much somebody, anybody, paid for their G.C. upgrade within recent months/years. Anybody? It would be real nice to get some perspective on this. Essential for those contemplating buying new amps.

I bet Klaus could tell you.

[rockadanny]

Thank you. I guess it is best to ask Klaus.

[dangerbird]

I've been following this and other threads regarding the glass ceiling upgrade,, and the best advice I've given/received is to call Klaus. I did just that today,,and I'm so glad that I did,, in about 45 days,I'll be able to hear a difference. Upgrades are not a "cookie cutter" project,, rather a specific and a personal approach to attain the sound/performance that each individual desires. Thank you,Klaus, for taking the time to point me in the direction that I need to go. I look forward to doing business with you again. Sorry for the derail.