sandthemall

Responses from sandthemall

Tube Preamps that work well with SS amps?
I've used a Don Sach Model 2 preamp with an old  Carver TFM-35. Sounded really great.   
Mc 240 vs. Prima Luna
So coincidental that those were my two choices for my first foray into tubes. In the end, I went with Primaluna. I do have regrets but it's not like can't get one down the road. The problem is that the Primaluna is so damn easy and fun. It's got i... 
At33ptg II perfect straight out the box
New AT33ptgII on a 1200G headshell going through a new Hagerman Trumpet MC sounds amazing. I’m coming from AT740ml/AT750sh and it’s a very noticeable step up. I can only imagine how it will sound when everything settles down. Really happy as the ... 
Best Phono You've Heard Under $2200
@gochurchgo YES, I was also concerned about loading issues as I had the AT740ML loaded at 100pF on the Phono Box RS. But at 200pF on the RS it sounded about the same. This cart now sounds simply ’more detailed’ with no sibilance issues at all. T... 
Best Phono You've Heard Under $2200
Initial impressions of Hagerman Trumpet MC with an AT740ML (mm) cartridge: Wow!!! Ballsy. Bass Supreme. Simply better in every dimension from top to bottom than the Phono Box RS with an outboard power supply. First off, it’s much louder than the ... 
Is advice from a constant upgrader to be avoided
I prefer to listen to folks who keep their old equipment. Generally this is because they've made of good initial choices to start with and enjoy the ability to sample different gear and compare now and then. I also don't pay much attention to pe... 
Suggestions for high efficiency speakers?
I just bought Tannoy (Turnberry GR) as my first foray into higher efficiency (93db) speakers. I’m never going back to anything less than 91db efficient. But also impedance never goes below 5 ohms with these Tannoys. My previous speakers were 88db... 
Best Phono You've Heard Under $2200
Thanks @bkeske, It’s scheduled to arrive today so very excited to listen to it in my system. Yes I do respect Mr. Mulveling’s input and this was a large part of me looking into the this phono stage as his posts are always well-reasoned and though... 
Best Phono You've Heard Under $2200
I've done a bit of research on this segment. And I've put an order in for a Hagerman Trumpet MC. Will report back. Current phono stage is a Project Phono Box RS with outboard power supply. It's great with MM but just too noisy with MC. Was think... 
Tube integrated amp recommendations
For first time tube equipment, it’s tought to beat Primaluna. Just try to break a Primaluna. No way. It has a protective response for every idiot move. Also EL34 are very holographic to me. I’m currently using 7581A tubes. Evo 400 is a level st... 
Horn speakers are really bright?
Some people may have bright rooms.    
TT and cartridge choice
Technics 1200GR and Audio Technica AT740ml cartridge. This will give you extra dough to get a separate phono stage. But see how it sounds with the Mac stage before moving to a separate phono stage.  The Technics will be difficult to beat. Made i... 
Describe the sound of point source loudspeakers?
I just bought Tannoy Turnberrys. I may not be much help here as my room is what I consider merely adequate for dedicated listening.But what I noticed is that there is only a small noticeable difference. Like a subtle cohesiveness from top to botto... 
Great song to test bass
My test for bass is not necessarily about bass quantity but more 'presentation'.The intro to the Logical Song by Supertramp has a low-tuned tom roll as the drums come into the mix. It tends to be just low enough in pitch and volume that it can bec... 
Who Tried Power Conditioners Over The Years and No Longer Use Them Today, Any Why?
I plug my amp directly into the wall. It sounded worse into a Furman 15dmi.In my 50 years, I’ve never had an issue with a lamp plugged into a wall outlet so I’m going to experiment with simpler types of protection.What I’m discovering in general i...