mikej

Responses from mikej

Which is the best preamp for the BEL 1001 MKVs?
Hi, my favorite is the Theta Gen. VIII which is what I'm currently running. In the price range you mention I'd look into a PSE HL-1. It's the best I've heard under $2k. It also has a lot of features other Pre-amps don't have. If you're willing to ... 
Theta Dreadnaught as a two channel amp
Hi, sorry for the late reply...I've been travelling.The BEL amp I'm referring to is the Brown Electronic Labs 1001 Mk V. It's been in production since the 70's. I've compared it to a lot of different amps over the years in various systems. It's si... 
Speaker upgrade
Vandersteen Quatros would be perfect. Those or a used pair of Model 5s. 
Owners: How do you like your Vandersteen Quatros?
Hi Cardani, There is no website for BEL. He only makes those filters for his amps impedance anyway. So unless your amp is the same they won't work well. Your best bet is to use the adjustable Vandersteen XOVRs. They're the best out there unless yo... 
Owners: How do you like your Vandersteen Quatros?
I like them quite a bit. Since I've never heard the Merlins I can't offer you any constructive feedback on switching between the two. I guess the real question is what do you want to improve on? The Vandersteen's attributes are pretty clear, but i... 
Theta Dreadnaught as a two channel amp
Hi, BEL is still in business. The new models are still $3,895. I was thinking that a used Dreadnought I would be significantly less than that. A new Mk V is simply the best I've ever heard so I'd certainly recommend it. Cheers, Michael 
Theta Dreadnaught as a two channel amp
The Theta Dreadnought 1 or 2 is excellent. The only amp in the $4k and under price range that can smoke it is the BEL Mk IV or Mk V amp. (Then again, the BEL smokes most things...) For the money you can't lose. However, if you can find a BEL used ... 
Vandersteen 1C with 845 S.E.T.
Go for it!The tubes will sound more powerful typically watt for watt than solid state. Also, the 1Cs are very easy to drive. Given two caveats: first, you don't try to rock to Led Zeppelin at ear bleed volumes; second, you don't have too large of ... 
Grand Pianos paired with Classe/Theta electronics?
I strongly suggest you demo a pair of Vandersteen Model 2Ce Signatures. Not only will you be able to save money for the surrounds, it will resolve just as well your front end electronics. Also, they are not as bass shy as the SF speakers are.Good ... 
Paradigm Studio v2 VS. Vandersteen 2Ce Signature ?
Ouch...well, if you're in CA I can help out. I think you should make a point of auditioning the speakers before you buy if you can. I know I listened to my 5s repeatedly in 3 systems before I decided to buy them. Even though the 2s are less expens... 
Paradigm Studio v2 VS. Vandersteen 2Ce Signature ?
Just to clear up what the sound of the Vandersteen Model 2CEs is: They sound like the upstram components. It's one of the most transparent speakers up to $3000 that you can buy. People who think they're mellow/laid back or warm need to listen to t... 
Have the Vandy Quatro's Started to Ship Yet?
Hi, I don't think the Quatros are as good as the original 5s. However, they are close. Maybe 85%? 
Please Reccomend Good speakers for $2000 - $2500
The Vandersteen Model 2 is a sure fit. Make sure you audition it and the Maggies before you make a decision! Both are the best values in the price range and they are VERY different. Good luck! 
Have the Vandy Quatro's Started to Ship Yet?
Despite any reports to the contrary the Quatros have been shipping in limited numbers for several months now. Delays are mainly related to amplifier parts for the subwoofer system. See my system for my comments in the speaker itself. As for new pu... 
Mono block or vertical Bi amps for Vandersteen 2Ce
Yes, I've run my 2Ce Sigs as stereo and mono powered speakers. My favorites in the "reasonable" cost category are the Quicksilver V-4 Monoblocks and the BEL 1001 MkV stereo amp. Both will rock the house and be reliable. No need to bi-amp. Just get...