chayro

Responses from chayro

Harbeth SHL5 vs SHL5 PLUS
That's funny. Canopus drum company claims there is a difference in the sound of the drum when wrapped with different color plastic sparkle finishes. Let me say this - I've learned not to assume someone cannot hear something just because I can't. B... 
On the draining of resonance.....
I don't think you should get hung up on the exact reason something may sound better or worse. Putting some type of aftermarket footer under a component may change the sound for good or for bad and that's the only thing that matters. Personally, I ... 
Headphone Distortion?
I have the Grado 1000s and I don't think they're really made to play very loudly. I mean, they'll play louder than I want to listen, but they're not for headbangers. I've never heard mine distort like you're saying, so maybe you need to try them t... 
Best pre-amp in an integrated
In your price range, I don't think any integrated has an actual active preamp section. I believe it's only an amplifier with an attenuator to control the volume. Just get a nice integrated within your budget and don't worry about going to separate... 
Harbeth SHL5 vs SHL5 PLUS
I'm not sure I agree that the larger models won't work in a small room. Harbeths are designed for control-room conditions and they can be very small. However, it is a crapshoot as to which speaker will work the best in your particular room. I thin... 
Totem Forest Signature -or- Spendor D7
Don't forget the Beaks. 
Harbeth 30.1's w/Leben CS-1000P or CS-600
Well, if the Leben doesn't work with the Harbeths, it should be a great match with the T&Fs. It might even be my next amp. That Viva is a beast and I'm getting older. 
Harbeth 30.1's w/Leben CS-1000P or CS-600
Depends on what you listen to and how loud you like to listen. The Leben is very nice at moderate volumes and the bass-boost switch is handy at lower volumes to fill out the bottom a bit. You are wise to listen before you buy. It will help you put... 
Totem Forest Signature -or- Spendor D7
IMO, as your tastes run mostly to pop music and you're letting the subs take care of the bottom octave, I would probably go with the Totems. A bit more forward than Spendor, but not in a bad way. Plus the Forests don't do a bad job of bass on thei... 
What's with the buyers these days??
Having recently sold a car, I was reminded of what I already knew: There is a HUGE gap between someone saying they want something and actually writing the check. Lot's of people want things, but very few actually buy. 
Basis Vector cartridge recommendations
That's a good description - "in your room, but not in your face." That's how I feel about the Orpheus as well. Very real sounding and un-hifi. Enjoy. 
Wadia 781i CD Palyer Repair Problem- Worst Service
As stated above, this has happened before with other brands. Musical Fidelity comes to mind. As you said you purchased from a a dealer, I suggest you speak to him about it and he might give you a great deal towards something else to keep your good... 
Why so underwhelmed by Revel F208 audition???
You can't judge speakers based on hearing them in different rooms. The room/speaker interface has a huge effect on the overall presentation. Or it might be any of the other things you mentioned. 
Basis Vector cartridge recommendations
Pops - I will tell you that if you're doing the installation yourself, be patient and give yourself time. The cantilever on the cartridge is very small and tucked underneath the rounded body, all of which add up to some additional difficulties. It... 
Trenner & Friedle ART/Ella or Devore 9 or O/93?
The T&F Pharoah seems like more of a comparison to the Devore 0/93 than the Art or Ella. I can't speak for the Devores except to say they have gotten some very positive reactions by reviewers. I do own the Pharoahs and I think they are very we...