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goheelz

Responses from goheelz

$5,000 to spend for analog front end - advice please...:)
Shopping used might get you to your goal, but maybe your budget is kind of low.  Which is fine, because more funds may change your outlook going forward.  You know too much to be satisfied with less, as your comments indicated.  VPI is a pretty ob... 
Is it too bright or is it high resolution?
Let me guess: you listen to mostly to digital music? Vinyl won't sound that way nearly as much.Also: Maybe think about a preamplifier that has tone controls?  Spousal happiness is pretty important, especially when it's time to upgrade.  The audio ... 
Importing files to iMac
@sbank No idea whether the Sony HAP-Z1ES can handle ripped SACDs.  But it handles DSD downloads pretty well.  Who needs to mess with physical disks at this point, short of archiving?  I've already put my CDs onto the Sony internal drive, and I ain... 
Q for owners of Sony HAP-Z1ES
I found the USB-connected CD ripping to be very slow, using Mac external drive direct into the HAP-Z1ES. OK in a pinch, but not a good method for general use, in my experience.  
Looking to build a system for under $5k
In general, I'd advise thinking about the long term. Ask: will I always be in the upstairs room with smallish dimensions? This might change your approach somewhat.For what you describe, I'd go this way. Prices are approximate, presuming you'd shop... 
How does high-pass filter requirement affect system decisions?
@nrenter Just the information I needed on the Pangea AC cables, thanks! 
Best of both worlds, Vandersteen and B&W
Subwoofer(s) is an option of course. But when you get a chance, listen to the Vandersteen 5A. Bass is excellent, and you’d keep the Vandersteen sound, which you prefer (for good reason) to the B&W house sound. 
How does high-pass filter requirement affect system decisions?
@nrenter You mention getting Pangea 9-gauge AC cables for your Vandersteen speakers.  Did these fit the low profile IEC plugs on the Vandy's?  A lot of AC cords don't . . .thanks! 
New Sony HAP-Z1ES Firmware Out Today
Thanks to everyone for the various helpful info on this thread.  Found a Sony at ta good price, and I've now installed the HAP-Z1ES in my system and ripped a few hundred CDs to the internal hard drive.  Took a little while, but now it's done, and ... 
McIntosh MAC 1900/PSB 5T burning smell
Are you building a antiques-only system?  If so, maybe get the old Mac receiver an expensive repair, which will not be cost-effective IMO, but then you'll have the sentimental glow of an Olde Audio Experience. Surely the eBay (basically flea marke... 
Sony HAP Z1ES or tablet with DAC
CAT6 cable's not going to help.  Sony HAP-Z1ES has no digital outputs other than USB. But there are both RCA and XLR outputs . . . 
Hardware Options for Streaming Music From Internet via Pandora, Tidal, etc.
The Sony HAP-Z1ES player allows Internet radio streaming via Tunein.  Thanks to a recent firmware update, it also supports Spotify streaming. 
Sony HAP Z1ES or tablet with DAC
The Sony app works via WiFi on tablet devices.  I use both iPad and iPhone as a remote. The Sony can also be powered on/off with the app.  Music selection is convenient via the app and quite easy to use. I especially like the search function on th... 
Sony HAP Z1ES or tablet with DAC
With the HAP-Z1ES, additional memory can be added via USB.  For example, a multi-TB drive to expand the stock 1 TB hard drive.  The Sony retrieves music files automatically from a computer, which in my case is located away from the music room.  I'... 
Confessions from a VPI owner of some 30 years
@slaw Lots of unfair piling on VPI in this thread.  That seems to be the way with very successful audio brands who encounter loquacious "experts" around here. But everything you describe suggests a weak dealer, rather than an all-out VPI problem. ...