Mine is silver with the dark knobs. |
Joe,
Black, with redheart knobs. (See pics under my System)
Rob |
Thanks Sherod. I like the 2.0 and the 2.1 equally well in terms of looks. I preferred the black 2.0 as all my other equip was black. How many of you have black and how many silver? |
Joe, here's the ad with the wooden knobs photo:
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatube&1188922190
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Sherod, Where is the pic of 2.1 with the wooden knobs, please? I looked in the adds for preamp and just saw the metal knobs. Have a good week.
Joe |
Sherod,
Know what I like best about seeing the new wooden knobs on the 2.1? The fact that Victor and Joseph heard the feedback from this thread and did something about it!
That's incredibly responsive, IMO.
Rob |
Now that I see a new photo of the new TP 2.1 with wooden knobs, it is rather elegant looking. Oh well. My TP 2.0 is "purty" enough as we say here in Texas. |
I don't know. Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but I kind of like the look of my TP 2.0n with the wooden knobs. |
For those interested, the initial ads for the TP 2.1, with photos of front and rear, were placed on Audiogon this morning.
Thanks for your continued interest in our products.
Victor |
Cant wait to see the "baby pictures" of the new unit! |
Markwatkiss:
And the problem is...? {grin}
The only thing better than listening to the TP 2.0 is sharing the joy with others here, IMO. It is certainly one outstanding pre.
I'm not (really) planning to get one of the new 2.1 units, but was interested to see if Joseph and Victor had considered any sort of upgrade path or trade-in if one wants to go from 2.0 to 2.1. In my particular case, the slimmer chassis and new cable layout might be advantageous. Not to mention "more attractive..."
Rob |
How much "quieter" can the 2.1 be,it still amazes me how silent the 2.0 is.Just when you thought this thread was petering out they drag you back in. |
Victor,
Thanks for the update!
From your post, I understand that there is not a huge sonic difference between the TP 2.0 and the TP 2.1 - 3dB - although it sounds like the chassis improvements and wire layout may be beneficial not only for Audio Horizons, but for some of us as well.
Do you plan any sort of "upgrade path" or "trade-in" incentive for current owners of the TP 2.0? Or, are the differences so nominal that it would be counter-productive? Could there be a lower price for those who would like to trade up?
I suppose I was wondering this, as some people like to have the "state of the art", especially when it comes to our beloved 2.0s.
Thanks,
Rob
|
For about two and a half months, ever since Joseph indicated to one of our customers that a new version of the 2.0 was forthcoming, rumors have circulated that Joseph is designing a new preamplifier. This is not true: he is merely reconfiguring the TP 2.0. In July we will introduce the Audio Horizons TP 2.1.
The circuit of the TP 2.1 is exactly the same as that of the 2.0. Joseph has no intention of changing the circuit for some years. Changes, however, have been made to the layout of the 2.1 in order to accommodate various requests customers have made for two balanced inputs or two balanced outputs, for a tape loop circuit, etc. These changes to the 2.0 required time consuming modifications to the chassis, but will no longer.
We have also reduced the height of the 2.1 so that it is 3.5” tall instead of 4” tall, and changed the cosmetics of the chassis and of the faceplate. We think the 2.1 is more attractive than the 2.0. Moreover, its more compact chassis will improve manufacturing efficiencies and reduce our shipping costs. We have also reversed the location of the inputs and outputs to improve the wiring layout. Facing the TP 2.1 front, the inputs are now on the right rear and the outputs on the left rear.
The improved chassis materials and cosmetics and the improved layout have resulted in improved S/N figures of about 3 dB. The improved S/N figures are small but in a direct A-B audible. That said, the 2.1 sounds just like the 2.0, only a little quieter. Therefore, no one who has the TP 2.0 need feel deprived by not having a 2.1.
Because of the more expensive and attractive chassis and faceplate, and because of other cost increases, we have had to raise the price of the preamplifier from $1895 to $1995—an increase of about 5%.
The 2.1 will come in a Line Stage version and in a Phono Stage version. Frankly we think the 8.0 phono stage is, for what it does, equal in performance to the 2.0 and 2.1. Those interested ought to ask for a free audition of he stand alone version. Then, like Scifi, they can order an 8.0i to incorporate into their 2.0 or 2.1
The 2.1 will come a remote or without remote. Of course all the other upgrades to the 2.0 will still be available on the TP 2.1.
We will be running our first ads on the TP 2.1 shortly, perhaps even as soon as this weekend. The TP 2.1 will come in silver and in black.
Because we appreciate all your support more than we ecan say, we wanted you all to know before we place our first ad. Thanks for all your kind words.
Best regards,
Victor |
I just received some of this Starrdamp material and am going to put it in strategic places inside of my preamp, particularly in the top cover. I'm hoping for an improvement and will let you all know how it goes:
http://www.verastarr.com/vibrationcontrol.html
|
Rob,
It seems that no one yet here in this thread has tried the new Phono unit, or maybe they haven't posted it yet. Maybe a fresh new thread might bring the new users out. I have future plans to get back into phono( and Joseph's unit is at the top of my list), but the budget is not yet ready for me to make the move. It's a shame because I have quite a collection of LP's. For the time being, I'll have to be content with CD's and my beloved tuner. |
Still here and enjoying my AH with the Siemens cca's. I am so happy with my system right now that I may not tinker with it for a long time - just enjoying the music. |
Still here, as well.
We've been perfectly happy with our TP 2.0n and have gotten to the point where we're not tinkering with it... just good, pure sound.
Should I start a new thread for what follows? I've been considering adding analog to my system, although I'm taking my time to do the research. The question is: How is Joseph's TP 8.0 phono stage? Is there anyone out there with one of these so that I can get an evaluation? SciFi, I believe, was testing one of those units.
Rob |
Still here,looking forward to your comments.Still owe you a drink. |
This thread has been kind of quiet lately. Is everyone just so happy listening to their preamps that they don't have time to post a comment? I just replaced the output caps in my preamp with some VERY expensive V-cap teflons. I'll give my impressions in a while after some further break-in. |
Hey guys,don't know what everyones musical tastes are but if you're adventuresome check out Lucinda Williams' new disc "West" it's her first recording in 4 years.Excellent. |
Hi Rob,
I sent you an email.
Hello to the other folks here, I hope you're all doing fine ! |
Joe, I'm glad to hear that you are enjoying your preamp. I still love mine and am awaiting some new caps to try in the outputs. I'll post an impression in a couple of weeks. Yes, tubes are fascinating, aren't they? Even the same tubes from the same manufacturer from different batches can have different characteristics. Enjoy your music. |
Haven't heard much lately from our little AH club. How is everybody doing? Any new audio adventures to report?
I just returned from another business trip and listened to some new to me CD's: The Ultimate Jesse Cook, Springsteen's The Ghost of Tom Joad, and Everything Matters by Pierce Pettis. Boy, the AH sounds wonderful. After each trip I am again amazed at the how enjoyable it is to hear. I sent two seperate quads of Sieman's early sixties cca's for Victor to audition for me and he pronounced both sets to be of very high quality (which was also my less informed impression). One set nails the realism and the other possesses a magical fluidity. The differences in tubes are fascinating to me. I am happy that I got so lucky with your kind assistance in learning about tubes and a bit of patience.
Joe |
~
Rx8man...
How do you have your DefTech subs hooked up? Are you using a crossover? I'm not sure how you're doing it because you haven't posted a system...
Rob |
I have not heard the phono and wait feedback on it as well |
I agree with Joe's comments,the balanced option represent an audible improvement in the musical presentation.Also,the manual states that the XLR outputs provide superior performance to single ended connectors. |
The enthusiastic commentary on this preamp has been fun to read. How many of you have tried the phono stage? Is it similarly glorious?
|
Ken Please ask Victor who is the designer's liason to be sure what is available. He can be contacted at vcomerchero@sbcglobal.net. My best understanding is that the preamp can be built with balanced inputs and balanced outputs but is not balanced between, but perhaps that can be arranged. I have a unit with balanced outputs only and hear a distinct improvement over the RCA outputs in this configuration, even on a short IC run. |
Hello all,
Am I correct that the TP 2.0 (or the new TP 2.1) is NOT a fully-balanced preamp?
Thanks,
Ken |
Hey Rob,
Good choice on the sub.
I have 2 Supercube II's in my system, best subs I heard, esp. for two channel stereo. |
Have to get my 2 cents in.I'm using Innersound EROS 3 Electrostats and the AH is an excellent match,the bass is tight and well defined.It should be a seamless integration with your Logans.
I concur with others on the Siemens tube recommendation.Of course what do I know,having thought I found the pot of gold
I was using a quad of Russian super tubes only to be advised by my good friends here and confirmed by Joseph that the AH is not compatiable with them.I still owe a round of drinks.But I am a really smart guy when you get to know me. |
I have a picture of a TP 2.0n with the black faceplate. Click on "Systems" by my username and you'll be able to see it.
I'd also concur with the evaluations above. I had a SS preamp that was very detailed, but just too bright and harsh. (I run Magnepan 3.3/R speakers.) The TP is a perfect replacement. I am running it with Amperex PQ white label tubes over the stock EH tubes.
Rob |
John,
I agree with Mr. Pat. Just a few listening sessions with the TP 2.0n and you'll be hooked. |
Hey John,
Mr. Pat here to say :
Send an email or call Joseph for a trial audition with the upgraded input transformers and Siemens tubes, you'll never send it back, guaranteed ! |
My system could go bright and also did not want that. This is not bright and there is no bloat. It is sparkling and defined but not etched. Better than my ss preamp in ways mentioned in other posts but without sacrificing bass slam etc. |
John
I have a picture of the unit in Black that I can e mail you if you want. Sound is wonderfully life-like, very dymanic and quiet with great detail, nuance and punch - can deliver whatever is called for. If I had to pick between warm and clinical, I would say the sound was warm but it is really more natural-organic in my perception. I listened to classical piano and female vocal on the unit for months becuase I was just so entranced by the lovliness. This week put on rock and was blown away by the ability to deliver "have to get up and dance" energy. This is with Siemens ealy 60 cca tubes. Also like Amperex in the unit. |
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the quick reply and answers to my questions. My current speakers are Martin Logan Odyssey's and my amp is a Classe CA-300. As you probably know the ML's can get "bright" if your not careful and that I do not want. Am really longing that wonderful tube sound without the bloat, is that what this baby does? Sure sounds like it does everything right(but I do want the tube sound).
Thanks again for your response, on my way to look for some pics......
John |
John, I have the remote version so yes you can order it that way right now ($300 option). Simply call Audio Horizons, or email, and ask if you can have metal or non-wood knobs.
Sonic signature. Full bodied and loaded with texture. I would not say the preamp is warm like a CJ unit. It is very neutral and transparent without sounding thin or hyper detailed. This is a very hard task to accommlish based on my hisory with many, many high end preamps. This pre is detail and transparent, but has all of the body, weight and texture one would want. It sounds so right to my ears.
Keep in mind your tube choice can really taylor the sound to your liking. I find his upgraded Siemens tubes to be very neutral and I use them most of the time now. I also have some nice Amperex's that give the unit a warmer and less defined or less focused sound.
Should have a pic of the preamp right here on the Gon in his ad?
Bill |
Hello Everyone,
I'm in the market for a great tube pre and Mr. Pat pointed me in this direction so here I am. I have read through alot but not all of the posts here and have a few questions. What would you guys say is the overall signature sound of this pre, Neutral, warm etc? Also, I've been to their website but can only find one picture of the pre, are there more out there? Can different knobs be had besides the wood ones? And just one more, is the remote option available yet?
This is a great thread and I appreciate all of your help.
John |
Bill, I absolutely believe you buddy!
|
I also own the 3.0 DAC and love it. To my ears it bested several well known and expensive players and DACs in my reference sysstem. One costs $8900 new and another $5000.
I have had it over a year now and don't even consider trying another unit as I am totally content with it.
His DAC is to competitive DAC's as his pre is to competitive pre's - world class performance at reasonable prices.
Bill |
Luis,
I would believe you. That's what friends are for. |
Sherod my friend. Glad to hear from you.
I am afraid to mention it. I will never be taken seriously by anyone here using this $30 player with a Audio Horizons preamp, a 24k speaker, Gabrielle Gold Revelations and a 8 watt SET amplifier.
I hope to have a friend or two hear the system first and report what they experience in the hope that they will be taken more seriosly. As for me, I am not very good convincing people that a $30 player kicked my TRL Marantz SA-14 player into retirement. Or that it also kicked the 26k Esoteric CD-DAC combo. Who would believe me? |
Luis,
I'm glad to see that you got your room maximized to make your system sound its best. I still am curious what that $30.00 cd player is that you have that sounds so good. |
Hi Gammajo,
The speaker was on the short wall and now it sits on the long wall, 6.5 feet apart and 3.75 feet from the back wall.
The key is the side walls are now 5 feet from each speaker and my listening chair sits in a 18 ft cavity which is 5.8 feet in width. By cavity I mean a walk thru from the basement stairs to the listening room. I sit right at the entrance between both spaces.
If you do the math you can see that by moving my listening chair I expanded the room by incorporating the 18 feet additional space with additional acoustical treatment courtesy of the drop ceiling in that space.
The speaker is by Argent Audio called the "Gabrielle". It was designed by Ric Cummings, the original inventor of the Room Lens.
Worth the time and effort indeed. |
La45 Congradulations on taking the chance, doing the work and enjoying the result. Approximately what did you go from and what did you go to in terms of speaker distances and toe in, etc? What kind of speakers are you using? |
Just to add my 2 cents. I re-arranged my system yesterday with thoughts of why am I bothering to do this now? Is it worth the hassle? Can I set the speakers back on the same markers with the right toe in and angle? Even if it sounds good, will my wife like the new setup?
Well, I must tell you that glorious music abound as a result of all this painstaking, rearranging, backbracking(furniture)sweat.
Soundstage depth and height are now floor to ceiling (literally) and the sweatspot is wider and taller than I thought it would be.
Night and day is the difference. I am totally shocked at the dramatic change.
As for the key reasons why? Well, it has to do with the new ICs I installed, and most of the credit has to go to the Audio Horizons preamp. But above all, the Room plays a key part in freeing up my speakers to do their special disappearing act. |
Well it was an interesting social experiment and it confirms in my mind,that buyers are very much stuck on brand names.I had 8 hits,however,only 275 views.I recall when I posted my Calypso I had several hits but 485 views.As an aside,it appears the Nigerians have now invaded the gon,two of the queries were the usual hustle with those obvious spelling errors.
Anyway the fellow that bought the AH is well acquainted with this forum and I'm sure will become an active participant.
He informed me that he will be replacing the stock EH's with a quad of NOS Amperex.Enjoy your memorial day holiday everyone. |
Mark
Glad to see that you sold your extra TP 2.0n quickly. I hope you invited the purchaser to post on this thread his or her reaction to the unit. |
