Hey all nice to read new posts. My 2.1 along with the rest of my system is in tune and sounding fine. Dont know about you guys and gals but i have been getting in some long and satisfying music sessions and spending less time on the net and more time listening to the music. All have a super Memorial day weekend to you that served thank you.
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Great to hear from the 'core', Sherod, Markwatkiss, Rx8man. How is everyone doing duing these difficult times? I still have the AH after things slowed down on the resale market. I have had very little luck with my SET amp going down twice so not much listening these days. Waiting for the amp to return from repair. Sherod that is an intense system you have put together. Sounds like a labor of love. As to using a USB DAC, I just started doing some reading and trying to decide what equipment to use and whether to go with a PC as a transport. So Vcomerch, if you tell us that this works very well with the AH pre, I will take a more serious look at this set up. Please feel free to discuss this in a seperate thread for the sake of continuity, the subject is Joseph's Pre in this one. I will be happy to tune in there. To be fair, I am very curious about the whole PC to DAC to AH Pre to AMp then to speaker and its advantages. |
Jojo, I'm glad to hear that you are happy with your AH preamp. I'm not familiar with these Sovtek tubes. Are they a 6922 derivative? Did you get the AH preamp with the stock EH tubes? If so, then I'm surprised that you didn't like them better than the Sovteks. If you ever get a pair of NOS Siemens CCa for locations 1 and 3, you won't believe the musical difference. |
hi all ah members, i'm still here and i'm still quite happy with my ah2.1nB as of matter of fact i have upgraded my amplifier from a krell fbp200 to plinius sa103 all i can say is wow what a tremendous difference in sound, so smooth, it seems like i listen to my music a little bit louder now since the upgrade, no listening fatigue what so ever. the plinius sa103 and the ah2.1nB has great synergy together. i am currently using sovtek ah30pi tubes on #1 & #3 i know one ah user have switched to ah30dr with good result, has anyone else tried the ah30dr? and what are your thoughts, just curious to hear what others have to say, since i'm still tempted to try the ah30r. thanks, Jojo |
Can those of you who download music comment on whether you would be interested in a USB option on the AH TD 3.0? Can you also comment on the quality of such recordings? We are aware that if you download master tapes at 24/96, the quality is superior to that of redbook CD's recorded at 16/44. What we would like to know is how much interest any of you would have in a USB circuit on our TD 3.0 that enhanced the reproduction of redbook CD's downloaded to a laptop and then played back via USB through the DAC. If you would rather write to me instead of post to the Discussion Forum, feel free to do so. I would also appreciate any general comments any of you might have about using a computer and a DAC to reproduce music over your sound system. Thanks for your help. I will have more to say later. Victor |
Hi Luis, Long time no talk with. My amplification is a pair of VAC Auricle Musicblocs( no longer in production, but recently returned from VAC with some current resistor upgrades used in the PHI line). My speakers are the Reference 3A Dulcet. I have an Alon Thunderbolt sub, but it is currently out of the system as I am waiting for another to reinstall the pair. My VACs have Fusion Audio Predator power cords. The preamp has a Fusion Impulse and my modded UDP-1 CDp has a Shunyata Taipan. My main source used mostly in the evenings is a highly modded H/K Citation 18 tuner. It also has an AZ Tsunami cord with Wattgate 330i male plug. Interconnect from pre to amps is Von Gaylord Chinchilla. Tuner and Cdp have Von Gaylord Legend VI. Other tweaks: Two Alan Maher PEs, one in parallel and one in series. All components have been fine-tuned with various footers from machina Dynamica, Herbie's, and Bright Star. Both amps are sitting on a MD Promethean suspended stand. Speaker cables are AZ Satori w/ special pigtail for bi-wired speakers. This is a very simple and inexpensive system I have slowly put together over these last two years after I sold my entire previous system and I'm very happy with its musicality. In these last two years many interconnects, power cords, and other various tweaks and footers have come and gone during this fine-tuning( actually I have a slew of various footers still in my dresser drawer not being used). I also have a neat little vintage bedroom system which I've been fine-tuning and am spending a lot of time watching movies and listening to music through it. How are things going for you? I saw you had your TP 2.0 preamp up for sale a while back. Did you end up selling it? I recall that you were leaning more towards home theater. |
Thanks, Grant. I try to be diplomatic about things and I do my best not to bad-mouth products whether they need it or not. I always remember the old saying that " one man's trash is another man's treasure." We all have our own set of unique ears and listening preferences. I have to be honest, though, and when I give my honest opinion about something, even though it might go against the grain, I feel better about saying it. Since this hobby is a passion for me, I do my best to speak from the heart. And I try to remember to protect myself by adding the YMMV( Your mileage may vary) addendum. |
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I hate to see this thread dying out, so I'll post that I'm still enjoying my original TP 2.0n preamp. One thing that I never mentioned, for those fervently following this thread, is that when I originally downgraded back to my original 2.0n version after having upgraded to the 2.1n version, is that the last thing I did was change back to the original wire harness and in my ever-so-humble opinion, the original wire harness is much more musical with that elusive "breath of life" quality compared to the newer wire harness. YMMV. |
Actually, I am and will contact AH for a chance to audition any one of demo units available (I would like to try some beat up unit becouse even if I decided to go with AH, I would like to build it the way it would worked best with my system . I have no problem paying shipping if it is what I am looking for. I would not want to cause the owner of AH any extra troubles building a custom piece and/or unnecessary expenses). But it will have to wait until installation of central a/c is completed. But in short, yes in near future. Why not...... |
The amps are 150 watts each with 4 6550 power tubes each and 12au7 & 12ax7 in the driver section. My spkrs are small floorstanders with 2 6.5" mid/woofs and Dali's trademark ribbon/soft dome hybrid tweeter module. The amp/spkrs have more to give so it's the preamp's lucky day. The AH DAC-2A and the amps are balanced so I'd like a preamp with XLR in/outputs. (Try and find a quality balanced pre under $4000 new.) I've been following (lurking?) this thread since the 2.0 hit the streets. You're right La45. It's 'decision time'. Hopefully Joseph is back in the country so we can get rolling on this. Thanks again for all the comments. |
Oddioo, Since you have the "n" version on its way, enjoy it in your system for a while. Later on, if you feel the urge to go balanced with the bigger transformers in the nB version( remember that you'll need balanced interconnects) you can always upgrade at any time. Like I said, I'm perfectly content with the original 2.0n version. Also, if you hadn't done it yet, start at the beginning of this thread and read through its entirety. There're a lot of posts in there commenting on the different versions along with comparisons to other preamps. Hey, if the preamp doesn't work for your system you can always return it and give the Ultraverve a try. I'm not familiar with your Rogue monoblocks or your Dali speakers, so you might ask Joseph or Victor how they feel about the preamp's compatibility. Have fun. |
Oddio I ordered the B version of the 2.0 AH with the full intent to send it back if I could not tell the difference because $795 is substantial to me. Actually mine is a 1/2 B version as I only can go balanced to my amp and not from my DAC. Well, in direct back and forth comparing of RCA and Balanced outputs I was very impressed that both were great and yet the balanced was better in my system. My non-audiophile brother also immediately noticed the difference with the balanced seeming more holographic and lifelike despite both version being great on dynamics, nuance etc. It was one of those situations that if I had not heard the B version I would have been blown away by the n version and perfectly happy with it. It could have been my IC's (one meter runs) . For the B version I used Joseph's IC's; for the RCA I used silver Guerilla Cable. But I suspect it is because of the high quality of the transformers used in the B version. I hope you enjoy your Ah when it comes. Let us know. Joe |
Oddioo, The best advice anyone can suggest is to take advantage of the home trial and see if the AH is your cup of tea. The thread is long and testimonials are too not give it a try, so decision time buddy. Which version is irrevelant IMHO since we are talking small differences that may not be necessarily improvements with the exception of going fully balanced through your entire "system". |
I thought everyone had died and gone to heaven with their Audio Horizons preamps. I still haven't got the 2.1 in yet. I'll have more to say later. Has anyone directly compared the 2.1 with the de havilland Ultraverve? I'll probably order one if the AH doesn't work out but I'm reluctant as there is nowhere to audition the UV. I'm running Rogue M-150 monoblocks and Dali Mentor 6 speakers. I tried the Rogue 99 Magnum pre and was surprized at how veiled and lifeless it was after all the good press it has gotten. I'm using the 66 Magnum and while not as resolving as the 99 it certainly sounds more alive. So, onward and upward( I hope). Thanks for the great response! $795 is too much right now for the B version and I was hoping I could hold off for awhile. later... |
Hey, my bad. I was concentrating on those wooden knobs. Anyone cares to describe the sonic characteristics of 2.0 or 2.1 for me. I just sold my Supratek line stage and replaced it with full preamp with decent phono section. On top of that Mick of Supratek close the curtains on his HiFi adventures which might be the fall of the legendary design which brought so many satisfy users and followers . Right now I am sort of screaming into the hollow well in expectation to find the voice of reason. Fine tuning the rig was quaite a challenge but very exiting and satisfying experience in the same time. My biggest problem right now is in preamp department. So tell me if I am knocking on the right door or should I look someplace else. I liked Suprate's speed, transparency, dynamics and musicality. One thing that bothered me was a slight coloration, sort of edginess or harshness. Don't get me wrong, I loved it but couldn't get it right, no matter what I did or tried. Fellow member suggested that it could have been the signature characteristics of the silver wiring...... Well, I am not sure what cause it, what I do know is that it is gone. Not exactly sure about my latest addition. It is still breaking in my secondary system. But I am open for something new, if it could improve my rig in any way. Thanks for honest respond and/or other recommendations Cheers and enjoy the music |
Oddidoo, I also have the 2.0n version and am quite happy with the fidelity.I've always contemplated upgrading to the 2.1 version but I'm somewhat hesitant.One of the members of this group moved forward and was not convinced the upgrade was sonically better,at least in his system.Others have said it's an improvement.Wherever you go there you are. |
What tube.....???? link to ad Explanation please. I thought it was a tube section. I was interested for a split second, until...... where are the freakin tubes???? |
I still have the original 2.0n version and I'm very happy with it. I don't know how the added "B" version would sound. I'm sure someone will respond soon. It is interesting how this once active thread has suddenly died out. Maybe everyone is just too busy enjoying the music. Personally, I think you should get the new "n" version and let it break in for a couple of weeks and get a feel for its sound in your system. I would like to hear your impressions. |
Most everyone has the AH with the nB upgrades. How does the AH 2.1 sound with only the n upgrade and the stock transformers? I'm getting one in for audition in a couple of weeks and I'd like to feedback on the sound without the B option. I've owned the DAC 2A since Jan 2006 and my system is all Transparency. Joseph also upgraded my CAL Delta transport which included replacing the transport mechanism at parts cost when it decided to give out while he had it(after 10 years of spinning CDs). Joseph invited me to his home to audition the DAC 2A where I also met Victor. Needless to say, I'm a big AH fan... |
Hi Guys, Well, I see one area which hasn't really been addressed properly. I have read this whole thread now. What I am wondering is, if someone has replaced the standard pot with a stepped atenuator, like a GoldPoint? It would definitely help in sonics. Plus, the tracking would be pretty much spot on, and would help imaging too. |
Stltrains, Yes that did occur to me. I do think it is good that some designers make their gear both affordable and upgradable for those who cannot afford a high cost of entry. Kevin Carter at K&K takes a similar approach on his kits. Of course, in order to match my current system I would have to get most of the upgrades, taking the cost well above what I would consider to be a bib bang for the buck. For the $4k plus I would spend on the AH 2.1 with phono there are a lot of other options. I am very tempted by the trial offer. Perhaps that is the only way can truly tell what I am getting for the price. BTW - I follow this thread quite a bit and enjoy the enthusiasm and comaraderie of the AH family and your support of AH products. I mean no disrespect by my comments. I'm in a very precarious predicament right now and this is a crucial time in my system evolution. I have learned a lot from this thread and hope to see it continue grow in opinions and insights. |
One thing for the AH family I would like to query is if anyone is using the TP 2.0 or 2.1 as a full function preamp, that is with the phono stage integrated. I am considering this option, but one thing I have to say that nags me a bit about AH is that as I look through the upgrades I feel like I'm getting nickel and dimed. Oatalay - I enjoy the passive TVCs as well (having owned and possibly reacquiring a K&K TVC) and may look into the Antique Sound Lab model. I also like the concept behind the ASL Flora with AVC attenuators and an active tube gain stage as well. The new Bent TAPs will use autoformers and those are of interest as well. |
Forgot about active pre amplifiers, they all degrade sound. I would recommend you to check transformer pre amplfiers such as Audio Consulting Silver Rock Van Den Hul Passive Pre Antique Sound Lab Passive TD I spent a lot of time with active pre amps and decided for passive. If you want to see my jorney, pls check the link below; http://www.nonamehifi.com/ContentDetails.php?CID=3&ID=3679&arc=0&lang=en For more information, please check the article "22 Tips to Obtain Better Sound" http://www.nonamehifi.com/ContentDetails.php?CID=4&ID=20&arc=0 regards |
I've been talking with a fellow that bought a premium version TP 2.1.He had reviewed this thread and decided to make a move.He's also using a REF 2,which peaked my interest.He becomes more impressed with the performance of the AH with each progressive e-mail and has detailed the superiority of the AH in several areas over the REF 2. Sherod,I'm always interested in power cord comparisons. |
Hello fellow AH TP 2.0/1 owners. This thread has been awfully quiet lately. I have been enjoying my original TP 2.0n preamp very much lately. I hope everyone has been well and enjoying their systems. Any new users care to share your experiences? How about current users with any new updates and experiences. I'm going to experiment with a few different power cords next week. I also had my vintage H/K tuner tweaked and aligned again and the NPR station here is sounding wonderful tonight. |
FWIW, I did communicate with Victor at AH regarding the HT passthrough and it was reported to me that it is an option or feature than can be integrated into the preamps, and at a very, very reasonable price. IMHO, this is a real plus with this preamp and AH should consider promoting this as a viable option as in my opinion, it opens up the market for this preamp. We have all seen the numbers of Threads of people looking for preamps (tubed or SS) with HT passthrough and/or unity gain. While these preamps/features are becoming much more common there are some shoppers who will not consider preamps that do not have this feature. |
Hi Ckoffend Yes, I think Joseph can build your pre with an HT pass through. I would email him to confirm. The 2.1 is very smooth in the treble and would be a great match with a nice SS amp like your Krell. Stage is wide and deep. One of the preamps strenghts is its balanced from top to bottom. I think this pre would add a nice element of body and texture to your amp and speakers. It has done so with my systems. I did use the 2.1 with a Belles SS amp and found the combo very nice indeed. Just try one! Nothing to lose as you can return it if you choose. Based on what you need and the rest of your system I would go for the top of the line in terms of add-ons. Get the best with the Siemens tubes if you can afford it. I have this unit with remote. Good luck. Bill |
