That Transformational piece of Gear We All Wish For

ronkent

I can whole heartedly agree, that adding an end game preamp was a game changing experience for my system; and I tested your BAT VK-80 preamp....and it truly is world class IMO. I chose another preamp, because the BAT's $10k was a few thousand dollars over my max budget.

I had recently added a couple of great amps (Aric Audio Transcend EL34 "push pull" and a CODA S5.5), and a new set of Clayton Shaw Caladan speakers.....and those were HUGE leaps in SQ; I would say my first "hi fi" and not "mid fi" components

However adding a an Aric Audio Motherlode XL preamp, just made everything nearly perfect. I'm not sure I would have thought that prior to owning the Motherlode, but that is because I had never owned a high end preamp. I am now a believer, for me the preamp was a great addition to any high end system.

I also believe that room acoustics is critical, and will have a dedicated and properly treated room finished by the end of the year.....with dedicated power of course.

kerrybh

I certainly believe treatment and finishing my listening room will yield great improvements. My problem until now, has been: my current system is in a our living space which is not at all optimal; and buying new gear is sexy and fun.

I can't imaging buying GIK panels will give me the same "giddy as a school girl" excitement. I am however committed to that direction.

laltik

laltik

I'm probably going to lean on GIK Acoustics as well, at least to start. I spent quite a bit of time with John Dykstra (from GIK) at Axpona last year and again this year. He was suggesting to start with a their software (maybe it's open source?), and working with their no cost advisors to get a baseline. That should get me in the right ballpark for absorption and diffusion, and of course knowing my room, speakers, and placement.

Their solutions seem to be sufficient, and cost effective. I'd be curious what your experience has been