Also remember that buying the most recent issue of the Vandersteen line is best, as Mr. V. constantly upgrades models as they are produced.
B |
Steve McCormack still upgrades the McCormack line. In fact, if you can find a broken DNA, he will upgrade it to your specs at a very reasonable price.
He made my DNA-1 monoblocks last year. They sound superb.
Regarding the Vandies, I suggest contacting John Rutan (audioconnection) and getting his advice.
I started with the 3a sigs, added a pair of 2w subs, and then bought ctsooner's Treo's. They were a significant upgrade.
If I were to do it again, I might just have gotten a pair of 1ci's and a pair of 2w or 2wq subs-which should be around your budget. The 1ci's are a lot easier to position (esp. in small rooms) than the 3a sigs (which have huge Sound Anchor bases). And, you should get sound comparable to the 3a sigs, possibly better-the Vandy subs are really amazing).
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@offnon57 ,
I live on Long Island, too. I suggest contacting John Rutan at Audioconnection(his name here on Agon, too).
He sells Vadersteen and is knowledgeable and a great guy to boot.
He is in Verona, NJ which isn't too far from the GWB. If you time it right, you can get some hotdogs at Rut's Hut before an early afternoon visit.
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@ctsooner ,
Why do you need/want the LSA? I haven't heard about these before.
And, I think 'McCormicks' might be an ethnic slur. ;)
B |
@ctsooner ,
I think I will consider something like what you described. Now that I am basically using streaming to listen to music, I really don't need a full preamp.
Does this Memory Player allow you to use it a DAC, in addition to CD player?
B |
@ctsooner ,
Thanks for the detailed reply. This is all new to me.
Right now, I am using the Ayre Codex with the Bluesound Node, and really can't find fault with it-especially the price.
I should probably try using the Codex as a volume control, but I am still playing with all my nice new amps.
I wonder if you need the Synchro Mesh? I think the TMP comes with all the software, which includes the Clock Mapper.
-BTW, Sam called me shortly after I left a message on the website and explained a few things. I was primarily interested in the software, but it seems the Mini might be something worth looking at. It has all the software, as well as the drive and storage at a really nice price. I have to call him and see how it can integrate with my Bluesound Node. I really like having wireless music throughout the house.
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Whoops, sorry for hijacking the thread..
I, too, would like to know if you have auditioned any speakers.
B |
+1 ctsooner, I bought yours. I'd say that the prices you quote would be for the CT model, and those are as rare as hen's teeth.
If earlier comments are true, the old 2Cs are ‘magical’ — how much more magical can they get?
As has been said before, Mr. V. just keeps adding newer bits and pieces to his speakers, so the closer you come to current production, the closer you are to buying new. The differences are slight, but noticeable. B |
This is where I tend to disagree with CT.
Though I understand his reticence regarding 'used speakers', I haven't had any issues buying used. (In fact, I bought his speakers). As I pointed out, buying a recent iteration is a good way to get the most current 'sound' that Vandersteen offers, it also means the speaker hasn't been used or sat around for a long time, either.
In my humble opinion, I would get a pair of Treo's over the 2 or 3 series, as it is a more recent design that has benefited from the design of the Quatro, 5 and 7's. Also, it looks much nicer and takes up less space (especially, when compared to the 3's).
If monies are limited, then a pair of 2ce sigs. I had the 3a sigs and hated the outrigger Sound Anchors. They took up so much room and made them difficult to position.
With any Vandy below the Quatro, it would behoove you to add some subs, like the 2w or 2wq. A very subtle but definitive improvement.
Bob |
+1 for CT.
Buying used equipment can be fraught with problems, but buying something of recent production, and being able to visit the seller, help a lot in preventing unforeseen issues.
Also, buying equipment from reliable manufacturers who offer upgrades to their equipment, makes thing even better.
That is why I like Vandersteen, Ayre, McCormack, Atma-Sphere & Schiit.
I never have to worry that I can't repair a damaged component.
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