128x128

blisshifi

Responses from blisshifi

Retip or try new
@gxleetw So you have the Xono. I owned this unit for a while years ago. IF you have not used this stage at its highest gain level, you should know that it may be noisy. When I tried, I found there to be an audible rush with some low output cartrid... 
Retip or try new
Even if the cartridge can be retipped, given its age, consider that it may need work on its suspension, etc. I don’t have experience with your cartridge, but it looks like it sold for $3K new about 30 years ago, which is a handsome price for a car... 
A Somewhat, Affordable Aurender
I just received an Aurender A1000 demo unit from the Aurender team to evaluate over the coming weeks. It is roughly the same build size as the N200 - about .75” wider. As for first impressions, I think Aurender really got this unit right in term... 
Recommendation for tube preamp
@hoytis When people ask me about tube preamps in this range, I don’t hesitate to suggest the PS Audio BHK Preamp. You can get them used for around $3200, and you can then invest a little bit into aftermarket tubes (the Brimar CV4003 are excellent ... 
Which External Linear PSU Upgrade for my Router?
These are on higher price points, but will also deliver on a higher level of performance: Farad Super3, around $550-700 Ferrum HYPSOS, around $1200-1400 The Ferrum option is very versatile as it allows you to customize the voltage should you wa... 
Borresen vs. Raidho
@gonnapena For a center, perhaps look at the Scansonic MB Center channel. It is made by the same parent company as Raidho and sounds great for what a center is intended to do. In full transparency, I am an authorized Scansonic dealer.   
Aurender AP20 Impressions
@bornie I apologize for the delay in response as I was offline for a few weeks there.  Yes, the AP20 can be left on at all times and runs cool. I have used the MC10 on both the AP20 and my N30SA with great success. The MC10 does bring improved cl... 
Solo streamer
@lalitk Most of these comparisons were completed on my reference system over the last 2-3 years, which is pretty much up to date on my virtual systems page, aside from additional accessories and tweaks that have been added since: https://www.audi... 
Solo streamer
I do also agree that the N200 is worthy of a DAC $5K+. This is what I mentioned at the very beginning of this thread (not the $5K, but that this may result in the search for a better DAC). I’ve seen this journey pan out so many times with my clien... 
Solo streamer
@lalitk I agree between the N20 and N30SA but I’ve spent time with all of the analog output series DACs except for the new A1000, and I heard pretty big steps between the A200, A15, and A20. You have experience with the dedicated streamers, so lik... 
Solo streamer
@lalitk The difference is pretty substantial, sonically. I don’t think the A200 would deliver any better than what he’s got going now. The DAC3 is a good DAC at its price point, and the N200 is a more transparent and engaging streamer than what is... 
Master clock generator
@digitaljoseph I realize you may not have purchased the AP20 yet. If you haven’t read my evaluation on it, you can find it here: https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/aurender-ap20-impressions I still have it on my floor, and it is excellent. I... 
Master clock generator
@digitaljoseph If you want to use a master clock with both the AP20 and the Eosteric transport, you will need to find one that has both 75 Ohm and 50 Ohm outputs, as the Esoteric takes a 50 Ohm cable, and the AP20 uses a 75 Ohm one. I am an Aurend... 
T+A Dac 200 with HDMI
Thanks for pointing that out. I haven’t had any of my clients express issues, but in looking at the design, I see what you mean. If you use an AC Cable with a thicker barrel on the connector, it could be problematic. I’ll point it out to the T+A t... 
Solo streamer
I know I mentioned “best under $15K”, but many of the DACs I mention make models in the $4-7K range that are worth considering. Not inexpensive as you just paid a good amount for your streamer, but it’s something to consider as you move forward in...