gdnrbob

Responses from gdnrbob

True audio stories! Do you have any?
The 'Ampzilla'. Wow, that was a while back. Thanks for the trip through memory lane. 
What matching pre-amp to use?
You are welcome Coco-nico, I knew Steve and his crew would take care of you. 
'outboard' high end dac's
+1 for Schiit DAC's.You should call them/email them regarding the DCD/PSM issue-which I have no knowledge of.Though I can say, they are very reasonably priced and perform as well as higher priced products. 
What matching pre-amp to use?
I don't think there is a RLD-2 and $1600 is too much.As far as McCormack being fatiguing, I rather doubt it. Who suggested this? It sounds like they are really pushing the CJ- which I have no experience with, so I can't offer any info on what you ... 
Devialet for Wilson Audio Sasha 2 Speakers
I think there are better alternatives to the Devialet, too. 
What matching pre-amp to use?
Why not get a McC preamp? I have a Microline Drive and the RLD-1, both are stock and sound great, they are both upgradable by SMc- a company I can't recommend more.Actually, there is a MicroLine Drive on Agon that has been upgraded. As far as a CD... 
Finally stepping into the hobby after 30 years of watching from the sidelines
Well, if you are going with Vandersteen 3a sigs. I would suggest getting a McCormack amp. Steve McCormack uses Vandys and I can attest, they sound great.- And also in your price range.If you want tubes, then Atma-Sphere would be my first choice. 
Protecting AMP and Cleaning AC Power
The guys at McCormack told me not to use anything between the amp and the wall outlet. So, I don't.I do have a PS Audio Dectet for the other stuff. I, too, am concerned about power fluctuations and spikes, but, despite numerous power outages, my D... 
Different PCs gives me very different results
In my humble opinion, I think it is time to upgrade your OS to Win 10.Your current machines are utilizing dinosaur tech, and aren't even supported by Microsoft- so there are a lot of security issues, to say the least.You can get a cheap laptop wit... 
High end UPS for Expensive audio eequipments
Much depends on where you live.Here on the East Coast, our power is pretty stable ( though I am now typing this on UPS supplied current due to an unexpected power outage).Some parts of the US have more variable power and a power conditioner is of ... 
Tinnitus worries...
Racer45, sorry to hear you are so sensitive to even wind sound. With that information, I really think you should see a hearing specialist, Now.My tinnitus is a pita, but nothing that makes me notice it during the day.Thankfully, medical science ha... 
Tinnitus worries...
I have it, too. But, my stereo doesn't seem to be influencing it. I would suggest consulting a hearing specialist. Sometimes something like TMJ might be a trigger. 
Finally stepping into the hobby after 30 years of watching from the sidelines
There will always be another 'deal'. Patience is a virtue when buying used.I just scored a pair of Vandy VSM's on Ebay for $200 bucks.Things just appear sometimes and you need to grab them before the next guy. 
Recommendation for Improvement over McCormack DNA-225
+1 hifiman.I own the McC DNA-1, upgraded to Gold special this past spring. It is a pretty smooth amp. When I contacted SmC, they were very attentive and wanted to give me what I wanted for the price I wanted to spend.Please do give them a call and... 
2 channel system: Adcom amp/Musical Design preamp: speakers?
Zu cube or Omen Bookshelf.Vandersteen 1 or 2'sI have the Adcom 555, she is one tough old bird.