bpoletti

Responses from bpoletti

Herron VTPH 2--what cables are you using?
My entire system is cabled with Herron Audio cables.  My entire system uses all Herron Audio electronics (except the digital equipment).  That's a VTPH-2, VPSP-3A r002, 2 x M1 amps, 4 x M-150 amps.    For some unknown reason, Herron Audio cables s... 
Rega Rp8 vs VPI Aries 2 Black Night
VPI Aries.  Period.  No question it's a MUCH better table than the Rega.  I own a first generation Aries (extended) with a JMW-12 tonearm.  It has had a few upgrades over the years, but still retains the original qualities of the table.  My table ... 
Upgrade Linn LP 12 or buy new table
No inaccuracy in FACTS.  The Linn is an upgraded AR.  Nothing more.  Just keep adding more overpirced bells and whistles combined with massive amounts of voodoo, snake oil and pixie dust delivered on the backs of rainbow unicorns.   
Upgrade Linn LP 12 or buy new table
Sow's ear / silk purse problem.  A Linn is, at best, a refined AR.  Not up to current standards.  Not shooting form the hip.  Actual experience says otherwise.   
Rega RP10 or Nottingham Space 294 or VPI Prime
Of the three tables mentioned, IMO, the Prime would be the choice.  But as an alternative, don't forget the VPI Classic.  Some prefer the Classic arm over the 3D. 
Lyra Kleos Repair
analogluvr - How can you claim that "Andy at the needle clinic" is a better deal when you haven't received your cartridge back yet?  How do you know it will perform as good as the original? 
Upgrade Linn LP 12 or buy new table
Linn tables have inherent colorations that cannot be overcome or disguised with upgrades.  Voodoo dealers and magic incantations cannot fix the problems with Linn tables.The best way to upgrade a Linn table is to replace it with a VPI, Clearaudio ... 
Upgrade Linn LP 12 or buy new table
$3 - $4K?  Buy a VPI Prime or a VPI Classic and never look back.  The absolute BEST a LINN can sound is nowhere close to modern tables in that price range.   
Premium distilled water for ultrasonic record cleaner
Amen, Coolhunter.  The problem with a lot of audiophiles is that if someone hears, or claims to hear, an improvement in sound, everybody MUST follow because they don't want others to think they can hear subtle differences.And even if they can hear... 
Premium distilled water for ultrasonic record cleaner
Only ever use premium quality oxygen-free, cryogenically treated, zero ion pure, RoHS compliant 100% H2O variety water.  Only use that water after all the bad electrons and lithium grease has been filtered out.  Don't use cheap imitation water.  F... 
BEST TONEARM FOR HIGH COMPLIANCE MM
If a high compliance MM or MI cartridge was in my future, I would not hesitate to go the SME 3012 route.  I had good results (back in the day) using a Grace 707, but there's no comparison to the SME 3012. 
What used speaker would you buy with $20,000-$35,000 and why?
Used Wilson MAXXs 
Audio Research discontinuing lower lines components?
It should be obvious.  It's a business plan.  They have built a substantial market in high-priced gear.  They can lower overhead by reducing their line to very expensive, high-margin equipment.  Fewer people, smaller manufacturing facilities, high... 
I am really disappointed with the hip-hop enthusiasts on Audiogon
I can understand why there aren't more hip-hop audiophiles.  Audiophiles like music.   
Who are the most underground high-end companies
Herron Audio.  Low-flying, very high-end.