New Project RS2T transport


I have had one already and sent it back, did not work at all upon receipt. Dealing with the Music Room though is a pleasure. Will always do business with them. Had unit replaced with a new one, just arrived Yesterday, Sunday afternoon 7-25-22. Hooked it up and SAID WOW!!! I have a Meitner MA-1 DAC and the synergy is Fabulous. Right out of the box it sounded, GREAT. So very OPEN. I have been blessed when upgrading several pieces to be totally surprised by the improvements. VERY Audible!

I am somewhat concerned though as there have been a great deal of posts about quality control issues. (see first sentence)  As I said unit sounds GREAT, very impressed. HOWEVER, if anyone can comment that owns one, I noticed when placing the little magnetic puck on the disc that it just sits atop the center spindle and does not contact disc. The magnetic puck has a female center on the underside that goes over a very small  male metal protrusion. (SPINDLE)   I would think that it should go over that spindle totally and meet the disc firmly. (no space between disc and puck??? When I place puck on top of CD, It appears that the machining on the underside of the hole should be a MM wider so it doesn't sit atop the spindle and drops down totally on the disc. Hope this makes sense. Thanks Robert TN    Ps would like to thank Charles1 DAD  for encouraging me to stick with transport. It is that GOOD!!!   Just wondering if they all are designed to do what I am experiencing?

robshaw

@robshaw 

I had questions and ended up ordering through an exchange of e-mails with Keetawakee.

 

   LP

Very close to making  a decision on the LPS. On the game last night, Two GREAT QB's, Herbert provided that pick 6, tore the sole out after being so close. Mahomes just seems to be a magician.  That is without Hill too.

My team is the Steelers. They play NE this Sunday 1PM, I believe. Then a quick turn around on Thursday night football against the Browns. I hope we don't miss TJ Watt too much.    The reason I asked the DC power plugs diameter, I believe in the ordering page , they asked that question? Not positive, I'll have to check.  Also fighting not buying made in the USA.  Decisions, Decisions  ???? Still have the Plixer Elite BDC in the back of my mind, except I don't believe they make or meet the exact electrical requirements, it's either 2 or 4 amps and either 19V or 24 volts. I haven't had a chance to ask Project yet if those numbers above are aceptable, don't want to take any chances. Have a great day, thanks for all your help. Robert

LP  thanks for the info. I may do the same thing. Almost there decision wise. Hope your unit continues to improve as burn in is continued. Let me know, please.  Thanks, Robert

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

I hope your right on the Steelers issue. We will see.  I haven't had a chance to directly contact Project for the answer to that question. If not I will hold true to your recommendation, which I believe is the best advice.  Thanks Have a great weekend.  Ps  listened for 2 hours yesterday, with Project shining.

Strange things are afoot at the Circle K.  I got word that my September delivery has been pushed back again.  I'm guessing Pro-ject is dealing with QC issues and they haven't been resolved.  I'm starting to look at other options and now I have a Fidelizer PS I'll be forced to sell if I do.  

@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

I have not pulled my deposit. I’m curious to see how they deal with this and how quickly. 

Firstgrowth,  I have had 2 that went down for the count. Different issues, but, never the less, were returned via the Music Room, great place to do business by the way. I took a chance on a third one, as the sound is just incredible. I had a Audio lab 6000 transport that was very good,but, this is a LARGE step up. I've had my new one for a month now and so far so good. Good luck with your order. I am looking at LPS as we speak and narrowing them down. Charles who has commented on yours has helped me stay the course. At this point I'm glad I did. Just curious as to your LPS and which model. If you plan on selling it, I may be interested? Providing I don't buy one in the interim. Good Luck  Robert TN

@robshaw 

Robert, 

Thanks for the post.  I'm still optimistic that they will get this figured out, their overseas business on this model is reliant upon it.  If they can't ship them successfully, why would anyone take a chance on buying one and getting stuck with it at some later date?  The reviews have been excellent when they work so I still want one.

The PS is the Fidelizer 2.  I'll keep you up on what I'm doing as I get news from Pro Ject.  Jeff

 

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

Have only used LTA but gotta say adding Audiolund DC cable made as much difference or more than upograding power supply. Almost like upgrading a turntable power supply- better pace and detail- quieter background- highly recommended!

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 

@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

Jeff4598, Jeff, I assume you own and are referring to the Linear Tube Audio LPS.  I've commented several times on my RS2T, and how much I like it and its SOUND. I have been investigating the purchase of a LPS, and have narrowed it down to 2 units. I am very close to pulling the trigger. The two units are the LTA/LPS and the "Charles and LPreting" endorsed, very enthusiastically Fidelizer Nickola 2 LPS. From what I have been able to discover, they both have their proponents. Nothing really negative on either, both quite positive.  Both are very close in price. I have texted with Fidelizer, and spoken with Nikolas of LTA. Both appeared to be great to deal with. One is Foreign and has a 30 day trial with a 1 year warranty.  The other USA, 14 day trial period, and a 2 year warranty.  Charles and lpreting seem just plain happy with their purchases as do you.  Anyone that can offer anything else that I'm missing or have overlooked would be appreciated. Thanks to all as usual. Robert TN

Thank you very much. I'm laughing as I try to research hi-Fi items on the computer as I twist my neck to watch Football. Comical really. Thank you, for all your help, Sincerely meant. Robert     I feel like I'm at the Audio restaurant, asking the waitress, what is the best thing on the menu? I know it's ultimately my decision, that I'm hoping someone else make for me. Have a great Sunday and enjoy your football!

Just checking in with you. How is your RS2T-Nikola II pairing going as you’ve gained additional burn-in use/hours?

I guess if this was the race, I would be the tortoise. Next time that I listen will surpass the 60 hours of listening.

Even to this point with the Nikola II the music is better controlled and focused. The only area of performance still lagging behind my previous RS2-T with stock PS is the tonal accuracy of the lower bass. The body and authority of the low end recently filled in, and I'm confident as things progress that it will take just a little more time to complete the process. Once that occurs, I will be completely satisfied with this combination as my source going well into the future.

 

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. 

I think I understand. My only silver cables are Kimber KCAG interconnects. Even with those I wouldn't want my system to get any warmer sounding.

After a little more break in I plan on experimenting with DAC's. That's a subject for a different thread though.

Silver cabling will have to wait a while for the tortoise.

 

   LP

 

Can someone tell me if this transport can connect both AES and Coax cables at the same time, that is, to 2 different DACs? Also what is the width of the standard power supply?

@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

Thanks Charles. The first question was whether both coax and AES can be used at the same time with 2 different DACs. As I recall, a CEC transport I once owned only worked with one connection at a time.

@lula 

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

Charles

@robshaw 

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

I take this to mean that all is well.

Charles

Nice of you to ask. Short of long,  storm related damage to large tree downed. Had to chain saw all and transport to burn pile and today, have to take the excavator out of shop to remove large stump and plant new tree, ALL DAY JOB!

On a brighter note. Received my newest piece, a Linear Tube Audio, LPS, on Thursday afternoon. I was impressed with its build quality!! Heavy.  Yesterday being Friday, was my first opportunity to fire it up. Listened for 2 hours solid at high Volume level, which is a Rock and Roll standard for me. Out of the box I really wasn't expecting a great deal, but, was pleasantly surprised. What I perceived initially was the following: Sound stage seemed larger, more open and dynamic and seemed clearer if that's possible? All subjective of course. Maybe that's what I wanted to hear, but, surprisingly the Wife agreed wholeheartedly to the aforementioned. Just curious as to  the sound image as burn in continues. We shall see. Note: Very Impressed with LTA company and their product. Order and delivery via UPS was just about 3 weeks.  Now toying with a new Power supply cable to compliment it.  I remember you adding a new cable to your Fedilizer and were quite impressed.  Quick question, if you don't mine, I remember someone on the site asking if a New Upgraded power cable to a Sub would compliment it? Don't remember the response. Thanks Charles as usual. Will keep all apprised. Robert

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

My brother is a big college game guy. We spoke this am. he said as you did, great game.  Have fingers crossed, hoping for the best.  Enjoy your football today!  Robert

Guys,

I modified my original QStab for my Jay's Audio CD Transport to fit into my Pro Ject RS2T and yes, it's a notable and welcomed difference in sound quality across the board.

The good news is, Mike at HQ Audio has come out with a newer version that sound even better and designed to fit our Pro Ject CD transport. I have one on the way...😁

Wig

Audiogon Discussion Forum

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HEADquarter Audio - Handmade Open Baffle Speakers & more

@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

@charles1dad

I have been using my modified QStab in my RS2T since day one and couldn’t go back after hearing better texture, tonality, depth, width, tighter focus, separation, layering and musicality...

The Merason Dac 1 is a keeper and compliments the RS2T; a very musical combination🎵🎶

Wig

@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

Post removed 

The LTA LPS gives much more so for the $$ it has a very well shielded 100 Va transformer biggest in class , Words best Belleson regulators several stage smoothing caps ,several chokes for$700 ,the most natural LPS out there ,and an be made noticeably better by a decent powercord like the Pangea sig2  with Cardas wire ,and synergistic 5 Amp T purple fuse great balance with nice weight.

 

So far so good with my RS2T, I have added the LTA LPS and have been quite pleased. I'm using it with a Wire World Upgraded (bluish colored Power Cord) the one just before the Electra version which is OCC copper.  Just ordered a level 3 power cord from ANTI-CABLES. Will let everyone know the out come once I've had it for a while. Over all, VERY Happy!     ROCK & ROLL   Happy New Year

@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

I’m anxiously waiting to receive my unit (RS2T) this week, several of these forums convinced me this is the unit to purchase.

@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 

I honestly believe I have been through hell with the RS2T. Charles one DAD from above has kept me afloat, THANK YOU!!!!. I have had 2 units that were flawed, to put it mildly. My third has been a GEM, SOOOO FAR. I have added a LPS from LTA and have added an up graded power cord. ( I Believe in the unit) I can't begin to describe to you what an upgrade it has been. I have and have had an Audio Lab 6000 in both my systems, and for the money it can't be beat. But, at 3K it is a very large investment to me  for a CD transport. ONCE YOU HEAR IT< IN IT"S STOCK CONDITION< YOU WILL BE AMAZED. A CD sounding this good.  Have fun, and enjoy, ONE OF MY BEST INVESTMENTS!!!! If you can swing the coin, one way or the other you will be rewarded. If CD'd are something you enjoy, all I can say is WOW!!  You only go around once!!!

Called Underwood HIFi today and as I was speaking with them they were removing the RS2T from their website as they were getting too many returns on units not working. 

 

I was told a few weeks ago by Walter (Underwood HIFi) that they did not have and could not get any RS2 Transports.

lak,

As I was talking to Underwood HIFI on the phone,  he said I'm pulling the product from the website as it has had so many returns and manufacturer is discontinuing it. 

It disappeared right before my eyes as I was on site to review products. 

Interesting timing with the reactivation of this thread. Those following it know I also had a defective RS2-T. After a couple of months of frustration, I received a replacement tested unit in August.

Until last Friday when I lost power for 45 minutes everything was hunky-dory.

After losing power in the past, I would unplug most gear until the power was restored. Due to poor judgement based on not wanting to disturb graphene contact treatment I failed to see the bigger picture and left all gear plugged in.

Anyway, during the outage I turned the power switch off on my Gustard R-26 and RS2-T. When trying to power on after the restoration of power the RS2-T did not respond. Bypassing my theatrics on the 3rd attempt switching the unit on I noticed a very slight movement-sound from the laser assembly. On the 5th try to power on with about one minute intervals between attempts the unit began to function and again is working properly for the time being.

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.

I will baby this unit the best I can, but I wouldn’t be too surprised if a different transport is in my future.

 

LP

 

The unit is still listed on Pro-Ject’s web site. Very confusing. Mine has been 100% reliable. 

@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

Very interesting. Again I will say It took me a 3rd unit to get one to work properly. Going out shortly  to listen for a couple of hours. At least one of those hours will be strictly CD's. I had the music room "thoroughly" check my third unit before shipping. I am way beyond the 30 day trial period at this point, and have also invested in a LTA LPS for the RS2T. There is a 2 year warranty on same, hoping I dont have to use it. I think, (my opinion only) that in order to find something that sounds as good, you would have to spend thousands more. Vinshine audio has a MORE expensive unit available, don't know the track record though?? Would never spend more than I did on a transport ever again. If my RS2T ever fails, PERIOD!! and cannot be fixed, I will never buy another product from Pro-Ject EVER!! I don't think Pro-ject will let it ever get to that????? Just my 2cts. Good luck!

Well I did not want to leave what I mentioned the other day without follow up to the source. I called Fine Sounds today and this was what I was told. 

The bad units were a manufacturing mistake on the mechanism and the problem was compounded with rough handling during transit. 

The factory has corrected the issue. They have faced/facing bottlenecks with the transport mechanism. They feel they will receive their long awaiting order soon and can resume production. Back orders are expected to be May and new orders would start shippinbg in July.

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. 

 

@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

I had a Herbie's Super Black Hole mat that got the stickum eaten off it by my PC. They graciously sent out another one so I glued the naked one to the puck. It mates the disc perfectly.

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