j_k

Responses from j_k

Voltage stabilizer for big amps??
Look at the Equi=tech equipment at http://www.equitech.com. I do not have the same power issues you have in CA, but this system has done wonders for the sound of my system (ALL ARC VT-100, LS-25, DAC3MKII and CD2). In addition, I have my home thea... 
best way to save my wood floor
A sheet of granite the size of the speaker with felt attached to the bottom. A good place to look for this is kitchen counter vendors or tile supply shops. Usually these people have samples, scrap (like from sink cutouts), or will order what ever ... 
Best of Digital receivers under 1000 Bucks
Onkyo Integra DTR-6.1... 
Twin lead or coax for downlead from FM antenna?
Use the RG-6... If the antenna in the attic, it doesn't need surge protection; If it is outdoors, surge protection is a really good idea. The issue one should watch is the possibility of added EMI / RFI that can occur when adding a tuner to a syst... 
Copper v. Silver IC sound
I am not going to verbally flame anyone, but I also have what some would consider to be a highly resolving system and have found the opposite of Jtinn with good silver wire. If one uses silver wire of inappropriate quality, I would generally prefe... 
Integrated comparison
I think the ARC CA-50 sounds nice with 1sc... Cary also does a nice job. I personally prefer the ARC sound vs. the Cary... Both are nice pieces of equipment and I think you should make the choice based on the sonic differences. People say the ARC ... 
unamplified orchestras or bands?
Thats why there are many violins and other "soft" instruments playing in unison. Also why the bigger louder instruments are in the back usually. Orchestras (to me) always sound better unamplified. Band Shells used to be the way that sound was natu... 
Audio Research PH-2 Phono Stage
Buy the PH3 on audiogon for $995 if you are considering 500-1000 price range -- better sound in every aspect. In the "new today" ads. I do not have any affiliation with the seller or ARC in any way. 
New to Vinyl and need immediate help
I agree with the AI Modulus 3A suggestion. If you do not go that route, ARC PH3 is a good versitile phono amp for $1K or so used. 
Exactpower EP2000 vs. PS Audio Power plant P600
I have not played with the ExactPower, but I have auditioned a Power Plant P600 and the Equi=tech. I wound up returning the Power Plant and keeping the Equi=tech. I have a ET5R with Q & MSW Options. I understand that most would consider 230V 3... 
Spades or bananas
I use silver spades and a Craftsman wrench to tighten the posts. Takes a kind touch on the wrench, but that extra 1/8 of a turn really helps with a "gas tight" bond on the connection. The downside is the spades really get mashed and are only good ... 
The Little Tube Amp That Could?
ARC VT-60 for sale on Audiogon -- I have previously owned a VT-60 and they are very nice for the $$. If you could go up to $1700, there are some VT-100 (which I own now) which is much better. 
From Maggies 1.6QR to B&W N805. Upgrading or Downgrading?
I personally would not consider B&W 805 an upgrade from maggies... The above advise is good, and here is my $.02 -- Try a pair of Avalon Accoustics Monitors (no longer in production) or Sentinels. They are very nice in small rooms. I am not su... 
How can I tell if I need more power?
I have heard your speakers with ARC VT100 (any version)amp and LS-25 pre-amp. A very nice system... Richard Vandersteen does endorse running his equipment on ARC, as I have been to several audio parties with Richard present... I am not affiliated ... 
Which HT Receiver would you buy?
Check out the Onkyo Integra DTR-5.1 or 6.1...