I just learned of Dave's passing an hour ago.
What is there to say? I'm very sad to read this. I knew Dave back when he was in Novato, CA and had just put out the WATTS. I got a pair and was enchanted.
He was a very accessible man. I asked him to set up my Goldmund turntable and tonearm for me at his factory, and he agreed to it. While there, he asked me if I wanted to hear the new Puppy woofer system he had designed. Of course I said yes. He told me I was the first person, outside of Wilson Audio employees, to hear the WATT/Puppy combination. (In his factory, it sounded like a million bucks. Elsewhere, it could sound like...less. Something I chalk up to the setup and electronics people used). But he was always charming and very, very, gentle, even years later when he saw me and asked how I was enjoying the Series IV. I cringed, but told him I had sold them. He was shocked and asked why, and listened to my explanation, and then...he just said, "Well, I hope you are equally happy with the ________________ speakers." I was astounded by how gently he said that. Not the slightest sign of irritation or dismissiveness.
He was a true gentleman.
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I got the opportunity to hear the WAMM'a many years ago. They were driven by Levinson 20.6 mono blocks and a Bryston amp bridged to drive the two enormous subwoofers, with all Levinson reference gear up front. We listened to Shostokovich #4 and James Taylor live. The separation of instruments was what I remember the most. Plus James T. really did sound LIVE! I was able to hear individual musicians with such clarity that I don't recall ever hearing anything quite like it since. I have to wonder what the WAMM-VII must have sounded like?? PERFECTION was David Wilson's middle name, and whether his ears hear the same things mine do, I am extremely impressed with his determination to make the very best audio equipment he could, And he wanted to do it here in the USA, not Switzerland or Germany or Japan. In any case I admired him as much as anyone (who is also deeply resentful of his insane prices!) Will they EVER have a "fire sale" so I can buy a pair of Alexx's
in dark metallic charcoal?? See, nothing's changed! Still frustrated, still complaining! Oh well! Rest In Peace David, and I just hope Heaven has a good enough sound room- or they will have to start building a new one... |
Sad news. He was a lion of the industry, and built an incredible array of sought after products.
Rest in peace |
So sad. What a great man.
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I just bought my first pair of WATT Puppy 6's (used) after many years of searching. As I listen to them sing I will know who thank for making my world a more enjoyable place. You have touched the lives of many people and will be missed very much. Thank you. Dino |
Put on a well recorded organ LP from Wilson, played through my Wilson speakers and will dig out some more of his LPs, which I've been neglecting for too long.
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RIP Dave
3/2 was my favorite
peace.
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Sadden by his early passing. I had an opportunity to listen to his large speakers nearly 20 years ago. Not my cup of tea, but for the exact reason he designed and built them. They revealed everything, making the flagship Theils and then Vandersteen 5s sound like they had a distinct haze. |
Very sad news indeed. I did not have the pleasure of ever meeting, or talking with Dave, but I have had conversations with Daryl, and many others at Wilson via phone or e-mail, over the years and have always been treated with respect, and a genuine desire to help me in whatever way possible. This is without a doubt leadership by example. RIP Dave |
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Sorry to hear this news, and surprised. I knew that his son seemed to be taking over, but I didn't know that Dave was sick. My thoughts are with his Family. A big loss to the audio community. |
RIP
truely a great man with a passion for music !
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My sadness is for all those left behind, not to enjoy him, his brilliance, and his example to life. To Sherryl Lee and family, Do not morn, as he has met a better life as we all will. Enjoy the fruits and memories of his life. Rest in peace David. (And turn the volume down!) |
One of the true gentlemen of all things Audiophile. R.I.P.
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Some people love Wilson speakers, others
not so much, but one thing that both parties have in common is everyone loved
David Wilson the man. My condolences go out
to his friends and family
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R.I.P. Dave. Prayers to your Family. |
A genius among men! A kind soul and a passion for great sound
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Sad news. Mr. Wilson was a true audiophile and an icon in the community. His legacy will continue through his greatest creation.
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Very, very sad news indeed. A class act in every way, as well as one whose many accomplishments have provided countless audiophiles with enjoyment. I refer not only to the products of his speaker company, but also of his record company, and even his excellent writings for TAS in the early part of his career.
I’ve never owned Wilson Audio speakers, but I have several of the wonderful CDs and LPs his record company produced, which I will continue to treasure.
Sincerest sympathies to those of his family and friends who may read this thread.
-- Al
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This is a huge loss for the audio community.
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Indeed a sad day. Prayers go out to his family and friends. |
What a brilliant man. Meet him several times and had the pleasure of learning many things from him. He will be missed.
R.I.P. Dave |
