jwells

Responses from jwells

B&W Signature 805s v. Merlin TSM-Ms ?
Jamesw20. While I haven't heard the sig 805s, I have a hard time believing they outperform the Nautilus 801s, and I felt the merlins handily outperformed the 801s. Take that for what it's worth, but the choice for me was easy. I think the best adv... 
B&W Signature 805s v. Merlin TSM-Ms ?
Based on my experience with the Merlin VSM-MMs and B&W Nautilus 801, 802, 805s, I'd recommend the Merlin TSM-MM or MX. Note, the TSM (and VSM) have been upgraded to either the TSM-MM or TSM-MX (premium) status. I personally found my merlin VSM... 
Seeking $15,000.00 speaker to replace Quad 988's
I'd second the recommendation for the merlin vsm-mx's. I have the VSM-mms and can say that thesese speakers are unreal. Bass goes down to 30HZ, microdynamics have to be heard to be believed, macrodynamics are incredible as well, SOUNDSTAGE (you ca... 
Sony SCD-1 audiocom mod vs. Wadia 861 anybody?
I have noticed the same lack of depth with my modded scd-777es. I use it as a transport into an audiomeca enkianthus X dac to phenominal results. The Modded scd777es is a very nice stand alone player, though it is completely outclassed by the dac.... 
Audio Aero Prima DAC
If you can't find one used, then you may wish to check out the audiomeca enkianthus X dac. It uses the same anagram chipset, and it is very, very nice. Just something to consider, as the prima dacs used are very scarce. 
Poor man's reference DAC
For 3k, you should be able to find a used Audiomeca Enkianthus X DAC. I own one, and I find it to be a fantastic performer. 
Disappearing Speakers Sound Better To You ?
Sol, thanks very much for the recommendation! I'll definitely check it out. I should have been clearer about my PSBs, as I'm a PSB HUGE fan. While the Golds could occasionally seem to disappear into the soundstage, the effect was only transient an... 
Candid opinions regarding Kharma Ceramique 2.2
Thom, let us know what your demo experiences are. I listen to much the same type of music as you, and I'd be interested to know what you come out with. I'm incredibly happy with my Merlin VSM-MMs, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on anything you... 
Disappearing Speakers Sound Better To You ?
Sberger, chances are, it is simply your speakers. My previous speakers, PSB Stratus Goldi's, while wonderful sounding, never gave the illusion of disapearing. If you are upgrading, might I suggest considering the Merlin TSM-MM speakers? Based on m... 
Disappearing Speakers Sound Better To You ?
Rx8man, are you a pharmacist? I ask b/c I was in pharmacy school before going to med school. Pharmacy is a fantastic field. I am using a pair of Merlin VSM-MMs. I posted a review at http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/frr.pl?rspkr&1087278775&... 
Disappearing Speakers Sound Better To You ?
I get greatly more enjoyment whenever speakers seem to disappear, though that isn't to say that certain instruments aren't placed directly in front of the speakers when the recording dictates. If I can clearly place the speakers as the source of t... 
Optrix CD Plus/Upgrade Opinions
I've never tried optrix in particular, but I HAVE tried auric illuminator, and I know it provides a nice upgrade in sound (smoother highs, deeper bass, richer sound overall). I imagine optrix would but a similar upgrade. 
Candid opinions regarding Kharma Ceramique 2.2
I share some of the same listening preferences as you, and I find my Merlin VSM-MM's to be heavenly. If you haven't considered these, you may wish to check into them. All of the qualities you mention looking for seem to epitomize these speakers. 
Speakers to consider in the $2200 range
I owned a pair of PSB Stratus Gold I's retail ~$2800, but you can find them for ~1200 used. I highly recommend these, as they are wonderful speakers and an exceptional value. The speakers are well suited for your large room and will provide ample ... 
Personal speaker evolution
Aiwa mini system ~$100Technics rack system/floorstander...I was young and seduced by the though of those 12" and 15" paper, and I do mean paper, woofersPSB Stratus Silver i's $800Psb stratus Gold I's $1700Merlin VSM-MM's $7700...these are simply u...