New Project RS2T transport

@bernardo 

I believe that The Music Room is reputable and trustworthy. I’m interested in your listening impressions with your RS2T if you are so inclined to post them.

Charles

@bernardo 

The unit I am considering is less than one year old and has been checked out by the seller and verified to function correctly

This is a key point. If you have received reliable confirmation that this unit is functioning properly and you’re satisfied with the price, buy it. Will the seller accept the unit back for refund if any problems?

Charles

@bernardo 

The wall wart SMPS/power cable that came with my RS2T is 9 feet in length.

Charles

@lak thank you everything‘s working superbly. ;-)

👍😊

Charles

@lak 

Remote control

1 Press “mode” button (This with bring up a different screen).

2 This screen will direct you to push the “stop” button (Black square on the remote, left bottom. This allows you to switch between black or white background.

3 Larry on this screen you’ll see left and right direction arrows. Pushing these arrows will adjust the darker/brightness of the screen.

Charles

I received an update from Abbas this morning. Shipping will be next week.

Larry I’m happy to know that your  sound is “exceedingly good “.

Charles

@lak 

Good news! 
How is the burning-in and sound coming along?

Charles

@lpretiring 

I understand that thought process. Not being able to audition the amplifier is a disadvantage. I can see the desire to pursue push pull tube amplifiers. A friend of mine had the Tekton Double Impact speakers. They were driven pretty easily by my Frankenstein mono blocks. I don’t know how different the stereo Frankenstein is with regard to capability and sound quality.

Best wishes to you.

Charles

@lpretiring 

Just to go off topic briefly. Did you follow up further on acquiring the Coincident Frankenstein Stereo 300b SET?

Charles

Hi Larry,

 I am glad that you are off to a good start sonically. I didn’t have a problem with with the magnetic puck. You could either try to widen the puck opening or just request a replacement puck.

Charles

@jriggy 

Yes, this seems to be the sequence of events.
I also had the P.S. Audio PWT as my prior CD transport for 12 years. I really enjoyed it but the RS2T is even better in my system.

Charles

@tweak1 

That unit is their RS model (1500USD list) the RS2T is their top or highest level CD transport. It's more than double the cost but is a very different design utilizing the Stream Unlimited Pro-8 drive mechanism and Blue Tiger -84 servo as an integrated complete unit. These two transports are significantly distinct.

Project Transport deal
Available in black or silver
 

The Pro-Ject CD Box RS is a high-end transport

Two years in they have just identified the problem.  Sounds like a bit of casualty control

I can understand that sentiment. However folks who got the early run/production model such as fuzztone,wig, myself and others have had no problems.  It seems that at a later point they ramped up production to meet demand, this is where the problems began it appears.

Charles 

@fuzztone 

I've had zero issues with the CD Box in 30 months

Yes, the malfunction issues are hit and miss. Zero problems with my RS2T with very frequent /heavy use. Hopefully they will get it all together.

Charles 

@duramax747

I’m a US manufacturer and understand logistic issues and appreciated the explanation.

After getting off the phone I felt confident they will make right on malfunctioning units and restore customer confidence.

I got in line for a backorder unit to ship out expectedly in May

Thanks much for this follow up information. It’s very good to know that Pro-Ject has identified the problem and is taking steps to resolve it. Initial QC measures could possibly have averted this. The RS2T is excellent sounding and reliability:dependability should match this level of performance.

Charles

@lpretiring

It’s a shame because sonically this transport even in stock form is a joy to listen to and can be enhanced to a higher level of sonic purity by adding a quality LPS like my Fidelizer Nikola II that I’m guessing this combo would compete with units many times its asking price

This is what’s so frustrating to me. As you say, sonically the RS2T is actually brilliant! I have been a strong advocate and recommend it because of the very upper tier sound quality it presents. Also I’ve had zero issues with mine. I don’t know why Pro-Ject can’t once and for all resolve the quality control issues.

An excellent sounding CD transport they’ve built but nagged by very fixable problems. This established company has resources available to avoid this. They were so spot on to utilize the Stream Unlimited CD Pro-8 drive mechanism and make it accessible for reasonable cost.

All other brands that have also chosen this drive mechanism unit are 10K USD and higher. It’s truly a high end CD drive unit.

Aqua Hifi/Audionet/Acustic Arts/Gryphon are the only other choices available for this drive mechanism.

Charles

@lak 

I believe that you will be very pleased with the RS2T. Let us know what you think once you develop a listening impression of it.

Charles 

@robshaw 

It is good to know that all continues well with your RS2T and overall you’re very happy. Happy New Year to you and your family.

Charles

@wig Thanks for your reply. Well, the Q-Stab CD clamp is a different material and larger than the supplied Pro-Ject RS2T clamp. At the speed that these discs spin, I imagine a different designed clamp is going to exert some degree of influence.

it's good to hear that the RS2T and Merason DAC1 combo has worked out so wonderfully for you.

Charles

@wig 

BTW how is the Merason DAC paired with your RS2T working out ?

Charles

@wig 

I had no awareness of this product. I am so happy with the sound quality of my RS2T that I have not given any thought of tweaks or modification for it. I’ll look into the links you have kindly provided.

I know that you moved from your Jay’s Audio CD2 MK III to the RS2T. I did not know that you had taken even a further step with this Q-stab product. Well I’ll have to see exactly what it is and what it does.

Sincerely,

Charles

Hi @robshaw 

Congratulations on getting the LTA linear power supply. It has earned a wonderful reputation and I had no doubt you’d be quite pleased with this unit or the Fidelizer Nikola II. I do believe that you will benefit from using a good quality power cable with the linear power supply. Excellent move on your part to extract further sound quality from the terrific RS2T.

Your Steelers will have their hands full with Brady and the Buccaneers tomorrow.😊. I don’t know if you follow college football but Tennessee vs Alabama should be a good one today.

Charles

@robshaw 

You have been as quiet as a church mouse lately. 😊

I take this to mean that all is well.

Charles

@lula 

Okay I see. I’d think that this can be done, granted not 100% certain.

Charles

@lula

I pulled away from watching college football for a moment to go pull the stock wall wart SMPS out of a storage drawer. It is 2”w x4.5”L x1.5”H. Despite its modest size it perfoms wonderfully with the diminutive RS2T.

on the RS2T rear panel from left to right,

Separate Coaxial-optical-AES/EBU-Is2

Charles

Have a great Sunday and enjoy your football!

Always! 😊

Charles

@robshaw 

Feel fortunate, you won’t choose wrong with either one.😊

Charles 

@lpretiring

Hi,

Just checking in with you. How is your RS2T-Nikola II pairing going as you’ve gained additional burn-in use/hours? I have recently placed some pure silver power cables from Lavricables (Grand and Master series) into my system and my goodness!! Improved sound quality across the board (From what was already very good. ​​​​​

Seems to be bringing yet more out of the terrific RS2T/Nikola. More breath of life and openness compared with the prior copper power cables. Same can be said about my preamplifier and SET mono blocks.Everything is better. Tonality and tactility sense of musicians presence even further enhanced (And I was quite pleased previously).😊

Charles

I’m not surprised that a good quality DC umbilical cable would have an impact. Virtually every item in an audio system seems to matter in some degree or another. I use a custom made PC-OCC umbilical cable and I am pretty confident that it makes a positive difference.

Charles 

Just for clarification.

The Fidelizer  LPS that’s been under discussion here is the “Nikola II” to distinguish from the regular “Nikola”.  The former is upgraded with higher grade internal wiring, larger capacity toroidal transformer, better Mundorf capacitors and a thicker and heavier chassis case.

Charles

@firstgrowth 

I can understand your frustration with yet another delay with shipment. If Pro-Ject is addressing QC issues then good for them. Although I can unequivocally say that the RS2T and Fidelizer are a really good pairing, there are other very fine options for you. Do what you feel is best for you.

Charles

Robert, I believe that your Steelers have a chance to start the season 3-0 despite the loss of Watt. N.E. and the Browns are beatable. Regarding the LPS I'd stick with the 20v/3 amp unless Pro-Ject says there's absolutely no problem doing otherwise.

Charles

Ha! Robert I'm a Hugh NFL fan, so understood😀

A mighty test for the Chargers tonight as the Chiefs looked highly impressive last week..

Yes, I ordered from the Fidelizer website.

Charles

@robshaw 

i do not know the exact size either. Fidelizer and LTA have built enough LPS for the RS2T and both know what is needed (20 volt/3 amps) and plug size to complete a proper job. At the very least I can say you'll be in good hand with either. As a reminder, I'd recommend that you inquire about the DC umbilical cord length you desire.

Charles

Things continue to improve every time I listen. Good recordings are exciting to listen to with a lot of break-in still to go.

I know there are many fine choices you can weigh your pluses and minuses. For what I was trying to achieve the Nikola II was an excellent choice.

Best of luck with whatever LPS you choose, and I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

LP

I believe Robert/others will find this helpful.

Charles

@robshaw 

Here is my take, there are a lot of very high quality audio products available in a very competitive marketplace environment. So, excellent for us consumers of such products. I understand that I’ll never come close to actually hearing a modest fraction of them. There are wonderful choices out there that I just won’t be able to experience.

I know there are other worthy LPSs that’d be great with my RS2T. How could I realistically acquire numerous examples, bring them into my system and compare them one by one. Not realistic for me. The good news is I only need one high quality LPS to get the job done. The Fidelizer Nikola II came highly recommended and I went with it.

Robert you definitely have numerous good options to choose among, Continue to do your own reading and searching and you’ll end up with a terrific choice. How many would you be up to actually auditioning before deciding ? I followed the path of least resistance.😊
Charles

@dtwomey 

The RS2T is a legitimate very High End CD transport. I’m convinced that the utilization of the Stream Unlimited-Pro-8drive/Blue Tiger servo integrated unit is a major contributing factor. Which Lumin model and DAC do you have?

Charles

@robshaw 

Yes, specify the component name/model and 20 volt/3 amp requirement. I’d ask if they can tailor your umbilical cable length to need.

Charles

@robshaw 

The Fidelizer standard cable length is about 5 or 6 feet. So it depends on on far apart or close you want the RS2T and Nikola II. I have them side by side so 18” is fine for me. I do not like the rat’s nest of long cables all over the place behind the rack. So I try to get by with cables as short as I can. This works out for me and is also more neat.

I have had my RS2T since last November and my admiration continues to grow. This CD transport provides superb Redbook sound quality unquestionably.

Charles

Yes, looks like quality parts probably throughout. I was impressed to see a Furutech IEC as well.

@lpretiring

Indeed. All you have to do is let those quality parts steadily burn-in. This is why in my opinion the Nikola II is worth the higher cost compared to the regular Nikola (Which is very good at its price point). I believe that the splendid RS2T deserved the higher level LPS. I've added a very good silver power cable (Lavricables) for the Nkola II.

Charles

@lpretiring 

My RS2-T and Nikola II improve every day and last night's listening was quite enjoyable. With only 19 hours on the unit and 3 settling days I'm really looking forward to what's ahead

Yep! You’re on the right track and sound quality will continue to improve as you’ve noticed. The Nikola II has an upgraded larger transformer, heavier gauge wire and better quality Mundorf capacitors. All of this just needs sufficient hours to fully burn-in.

100 hours is good, although Keetakawee (Fidelizer owner) told me 200 hours is needed. lp, good thing is that you can always upgrade your umbilical cable at anytime if so inclined. You have an excellent CD transport and LPS combination.

Charles

@robshaw 

I’m happy happy to see that you continue to enjoy the RS2T and have not encountered any problems. The 3 LPSs you mentioned are all high quality and well regarded. I don’t believe that you could go wrong with any of these paired with the transport.’ I buy USA made products but this isn’t a requirement for me or a deal breaker. The Fidelizer is serving me exceptionally well, so no second thoughts. There are numerous ways to achieve wonderful digital audio sound quality. The RS2T and Fidelizer Nickola II is certainly one of them.

Charles 

@lpretiring

The Audiogon member who made the DC/umbilical cable (Using the VH Audio PC-OOC wire) had owned the RS2T months before me and had tried different LPSs and cables. As I have mentioned before, we’ve known each other quite some time and trust each other‘s ears/judgment. So he went with what he felt sounds the best with this particular pairing.

Due to the delay in receiving the RS2T, I actually got the DC cable a few weeks before arrival of the transport. So I just used the custom cable from the beginning. Also the stock cable is far longer than what I need/want. The RS2T and Nikola II are beside one another so 18” length is ideal for me.

I haven’t used or compared the stock cable. I was informed that it’s actually pretty good but can be bettered. I’m very happy with this RS2T/Nikola/cable grouping and it will be around for a long time.

Charles

@lpretiring 

It good to know that both items arrived in good shape and functioning as they should. A little patience is all that’s required. 😊 You’ll be fine.

Each audio system provides its unique interaction. The Nikola II out of the box hinted at what was to come. It just improved with accumulated hours of use, I don’t have the stock OFC DC power cable (Which is good). A good hearted Gon member (Who also has the Nikola II) made me a very nice OCC-PC 18” DC cable.

Charles

@lpretiring 

Hi, have you received your exchanged RS2T and the Fidelizer Nikola II LPS? If so, how are they working out for you?

@robshaw 

I hope things are continuing smoothly for you. Have you gotten your new power cables yet?

Charles

@lpretiring 

Excellent news!

I am glad that Sumiko is testing your RS2T prior to shipping (Should become standard procedure).

You should have zero problems with your Fidelizer Nikola II LPS. It’s a very overbuilt unit for the assigned task. It has been flawless for me with 24/7 operation. Never even gets warm to the touch.

Charles

@bjg 

This is admittedly a lengthy thread but in the first few pages there are mentions of CEC/Jay’s Audio/Pro-Ject comparisons. You might find these somewhat helpful.

Also, to the above  (baylinor) I could have gone very easily to the Jay's and been very happy. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I Finally enjoy mine. Happy Listening

Robert, exactly the way I feel. There are numerous paths to obtaining excellent sound quality. No doubt that the Jay’s Audio transport will get one there. You and I can certainly vouch for the Pro-Ject RS2T as another. Robert. I appreciate your kind comment about my audio system.

Charles

@robshaw 

No problem I understand. Click the square with my initial “C” in one of my posts. Just as yours is square with “R”

Charles

@lpretiring

Thanks for your kind words and vote of confidence.😊 It just is not possible to hear/audition every single component you are interested in prior to a purchase. Thank goodness for a forum like this where one can rely on experienced and trusted word of mouth recommendations. I hope that your Nikola II LPS arrives soon.

Charles