New Project RS2T transport

Thank you for responding Robert to my question. Lack of response from them is hard to understand; guess QC & CS aren't their concerns

@robshaw Listened to my system for an 1 1/2 today, just keeps getting better, if that possible. Have a great weekend all. Be safe!

Robert,

You can expect continued improvement in the sound quality for the first 100 hours or so. And this is with the wall wart SMPS. So yes, more to come, then further more with a good LPS.

Charles

Very disappointing that the REP: from Project didn't respond further, it would have meant a great deal to me. Listened yesterday for a hour and a half. Thought it sounded better than before, but, wrote it off to the Bourbon. Turns out as Charles said,  improves with time, even with the wall wart.  Can't imagine with the LPS and a upgraded power cable.

Just curious why Charles 1 DAD and Lpretiring , both decided on the Same LPS for the Project??? Just nosy I guess. Haven't really started looking yet. But, what better recommendation than for actual ownership!!!!  I'm sure I could look up the phone number, but if handy would appreciate.  Lpreting , just curious as to your time frame of ordering and receipt. Thanks very much. Robert

Charles 1DAD, I hope this is ok to ask? Just wondering what speakers your listening to?  Thanks, I think!  Robert

@robshaw

If you click my avatar you will be lead to my virtual audio system page (Titled SET Bliss) My entire system and some pictures are posted there. With regard to the choice of LPS. A very trusted long term Audiogon member owns the RS2T. He has both the LTA (Linear Tube Audio) LPS and the Fidelizer Nikola II LPS. He told me that both are “really “ good but said the Nikola II is even better sounding with the RS2T in his system.

He and I have compared notes on same audio equipment and always seem to reach the same conclusion. I guess our ears are just very much alike. So long story short, his recommendation and preference for the Fidelizer Nikola II LPS was good enough for me. As always with High End audio, YMMV.

Charles

@robshaw 

The reason Charles and I chose the  same LPS is simply the fact I have a lot of respect for Charles 1 Dad's knowledge and audiophile connections for evaluation purposes. In other words I've ridden his coattails!

I ordered the LPS on July 6th. As mentioned in an earlier post it is taking a little longer than expected.

Hoping for shipping information this week.

LP

@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

Gentlemen, Thank you so much for the response in regards to the LPS. Riding coattails is not a problem. Done it many a time. I have read many good things on The Fidelizer 2 thus far.   Charles one DAD, don't laugh too much. I asked my wife when I read your post, REF: your Avatar, what is that, she asked? I commented, I have no clue. As I approach 70 this December, I realize how computer illiterate I am at times. I will figure it out though. Just thought I'd give you a good laugh. Robert

@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

Never tried a RS2T but I have the Jay's cd2 mk3 since January and it sounds absolutely fantastic and has caused me zero issues. 

Charles 1 DAD, Thanks very easy to do.  All I can say is WOW!  Very Impressive! system. Thank you. Robert  

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

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

Hi -- I'm going to pick up a transport and I've seen a lot of great info on the CEC TL5 belt driven transport but not nearly as much as the RS2 T seems to be getting.  Perhaps because CEC has been around for a long time and the R22 T is new technology. 

Has anyone transitioned from one of these to the other -- I'd like to make this a purchase with little regret - so I'd like to get opinions from anyone that has heard both -- i'm not letting the cost be the deciding factor -- I just want to get a better idea from anyone with some experience.  either one will be a step up from my OPPO 203UDP - which I'll use for SACD etc.. -- but i want to take my redbook CD listening level beyond my existing streaming quality and blow the dust off my CD's 

thanks for any advice 

I had several CECs. My experience was the belts stretched often, and CEC thinks they are made of gold. I love my Audiolab 6000CDT which is a HUGE bargain, especially when upgrading the power cord (I have a Ali-Expess Odin 2 coax and the Doing Gold power cord). If you're a 'phile on a tight budget, do yourself a huge favor and try them

thanks -- I'll check out the cables - I need a good digital coax cable

@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.

My Nikola II has shipped and is projected to arrive on Friday.

Also, Sumiko messaged me yesterday that my replacement RS2-T is tested and ready to do the exchange. 

I guess the old adage "when it rains it pours" applies here.

Hopefully all goes smooth this time around. Won't take long to find out now.

@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

thanks -- that's all i needed -- now I get to go shopping ! 

Bart 

@bjg Just a thought since you also indicated an interest in a better digital cable; whichever transport you get if you have the ability to use the AES/EBU connection I think you’ll find an upgrade in sound over SPDIF . I switched to that connection in my 2nd system between my Simaudio 260DT CD transport and either Mojo Audio EVO or Modwright Elyse DACs and found the uptick in SQ readily apparent. I use a Tchernov Reference 2 AES/EBU digital cable. Good luck on your journey!

Oops! That's was supposed to read Odin 2 Gold power cord. FYI, I do have a Pangea Premier XL 1.5m (MSRP $169) for sale to more than get you by

@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

@charles1dad 

I received the Nikola last Wednesday, and the RS2-T this past Saturday.

Both arrived in excellent condition and are functioning as intended. But do I hate break-in time. 

I intensified the process by retreating connections with Mad Scientist graphene along with the fact that I utilize many PPT mats that need to settle in as well.

Immediately however I noticed a slight increase in resolution. Otherwise from the lower midrange on down there is a lack of precision and control along with the loss of dynamic contrasts that give life and excitement.

Already today I'm noticing a mild improvement in the lower regions that's giving me the confidence to know it's just a matter of time now.

         LP

@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

@charles1dad 

I contemplated discussing with Keetakawee a possible upgrade to the umbilical, but let go of the idea because of all the delays and no mention on the website.

Did you initially use the stock cord for a good period of time prior to your friend building your OCC?

     LP

@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

Charles1 Dad and lpreting, Glad you received your RS2T and it is working well, mine continues to work well, my crossed fingers aren't as tight as they used to be. Also glad you received the LPS, I believe that Charles is correct, but, time will tell as to break in. I'm waiting for my 2 Cullen Crossover 2 cables, nothing to date, just being patient. Looking forward to adding them to my AMP, which I love. Hoping for a very noticeable improvement.   Also, have been reviewing LPS, I have started reading on the LTA LPS, The Fedelizer that you both own (which has gotten very good reviews) and the Plixir elite BDC unit.  The LTA unit is the only one so far that is made in the USA.  I always think about service regardless, and the need for repairs if necessary?  It would be easier if some of the companies I'm reviewing had a USA arm for service. Plus a one year warranty,  pretty short. Even the RS2T has a 2 year.  The Plixir I beleive is Thailand.  Just hoping both of your Fedilizers are true winners, I have my fingers crossed for both of you. Good sharing of ideas. Thanks Robert Shaw

@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 

@robshaw @charles1dad 

I believe Robshaw and I are out of the woods in the area of reliability for the foreseeable future. Hopefully this is due to Pro-Ject addressing the issues and not the case of the squeaky wheel.

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.

I regret not discussing the length of the DC cable. Like Charles my LPS is on the same isolation platform as the RS2-T. About 1/2 meter or so would have been perfect as opposed to the 1 size fits all. A good point for all to remember when ordering an  LPS with a clear set up plan.

@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

@charles1dad 

"The Nikola II has an upgraded larger transformer, heavier gauge wire and better quality Mundorf capacitors. "

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

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

Thanks for the updates. Please keep me advised. Have a small farm, and motorcycles (hobby) don't have as much time as I would like for my music, but, seem to manage. If I were to choose Fidelizer 2, should I specify the length of the  umbilical cord, and does it matter? That is the cord from the power supply to the Project, correct?  Thanks again all for the education. Robert

@robshaw 

That is the cord from the power supply to the Project, correct?

Yes the power supply to the RS2-T cable.

The supplied cable I now have buried so I'm not exactly sure of its length. However, it's pretty long. If you sure of positioning I would recommend requesting an appropriate shorter length.

The shorter the length the better usually for sonics, and who needs to deal with messy cables right?

    LP

@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

Thanks to you both for the update. Still waiting for my cables. Been 3 weeks now, I guess that's the price you pay, No pun intended. What is the protocol for ordering? Do I need make mention other than the cord length, 20V 3 amp, or are they familiar with the Project RS2T unit?  Thanks Robert

@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

Thanks Charles, I'll shoot them an email soon, and ask those specific questions. Have a good weekend. Robert

I had one minor issue with my Project RS2T transport. The SPDIF output wouldn't work with my Pontus DAC but the AES/EBU worked flawlessly. That minor issue aside, this transport is a giant slayer. It took my system to a whole different level and my expensive LUMIN streamer did not come close.

Dan

@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

Sirs, Charles one dad and lpretiring: still investigating LPS, Your decision to purchase the Fidelizer Nikola2 has my attention: I've been to Audio Bacon website or post: He has several that have passed the litmus test.  With research on them all.  A lot to take in,  I grant you!  It's not a deciding factor by any means, but, The LTA LPS has a 2 year warranty, which caught my attention. I don't want that to be deciding factor, but, never the less caught my attn:  Just curious, If either one of you, or friends have tried any other LPS. I know Charles one, has a very revered friend that suggested the Fidelizer, for what I believe to be obvious reasons, SOUND QUALITY.  I have no problem as I have said before, (riding ones coattails). Just curious if there is anything else out there, that you wished you had looked at? Thanks Robert 

@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

@robshaw 

I'm sorry but I can't offer any additional help on this subject.

I know Charles has a great system along with the knowledge to make solid decisions. When he mentioned his respected friend auditioned a few quality candidates and Charles was enthusiastic about the Nikola II's performance in his own system as well, that was good enough for me. 

I've been fortunate in my audiophile journey with only the RS2-T giving me warranty issues through a long career. Some of your legitimate concerns being warranty and service did not weigh heavy on my decision. 

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

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

Charles one and lpretiring:  You may not realize it, but, your responses were very informative.  Thanks to you both. Happy listening. Robert

Charles 1 DAD and lpretiring: Getting closer, as the investigation continues.  Do either one of you know the Project RS2T DC power plug Diameter? 1.3mm/1.7mm/2.1mm/2.5mm    Also when ordering The Fidelizer Nikola2, do they match the 20V 3 amps exactly?  I know some other companies I've looked into, indicate 2-4-6-8 amp choice and a voltage choice, for ex: 19V or 24V. I haven't had a chance to email the Music Room, where purchased,  or directly to Project to get that answered. My first choice so far is your first choice.  Also, is the purchase done solely by e-mail? Have to look a little later tonight if I get a chance. Thanks as usual. Robert

@robshaw 

The unit I had built is 20V 3A. That was the main reason it took so long to receive mine. Keetawakee had to wait for the core parts for the transformer.

As far as the diameter of the DC plug, I'm not sure since Keetawakee was very familiar with the requirements for the RS2-T. Perhaps Charles knows, but if you choose a different manufacturer if necessary, a quick reach out to Sumiko should answer that for you.

   LP

@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

Thanks, to both of you.  Pretty much have it down to the two Charles mentioned.

Just trying to read as many reviews as I can. Did you both order yours from the Fidelizer web page?  I'll have to look later or tomorrow, as football is on tonight. Thanks again to both of you. Robert

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