sns

Responses from sns

Pass Labs X250 with merlin VSM-mm/system overhaul?
The Joule preamps are commonly used with Merlins. I use a modified Joule LA 100Mk.III, this will nicely warm up any SS amp. I also can't imagine Merlins sounding their best with any SS amps, these speakers are best suited for tube amps. I'm not sa... 
I ask again, has anyone heard the Tempo El.Preamp?
You must have missed Ed merchant review a couple days ago, I believe it was a modified Tempo. I'm also interested in this company, use many boutique parts. 
need warm and LAID BACK hi-rez/focused power cord
Bob is on to something. If you really want the best cap in those crossovers try the Duelund VSF copper foil caps, be prepared to be blown away by the naturalness! No other cap I've tried comes close to these, two sets in my Merlins which use a hig... 
is audiogon good for the audio industry or bad?
I no longer visit 'actual' audio stores and audio is more a part of my life than ever. DIY is my present preoccupation, tons of self-satisfaction, dealers no help here. The web has made it possible for novices like me to undertake projects I never... 
A DAC for Linn Genki cdp upgrade?
I previously owned a Mimik, I used this with a variety of DACs, including the Numerik. The Numerik was not enough of an upgrade over the Mimik, I doubt its an upgrade over the Genki.The Benchmark DAC is reportedly a nice DAC, I've only heard it in... 
How to lower noise floor through mods?
Atmasphere has it right, start modding with something less valuable. You build up your skills on the cheaper stuff, as you become more skilled you become more confident in working on the more valuable pieces. Read some basic electronics books and ... 
Review: Tempo Electric / Arthur Loesch 1.1 Control Preamp Tube preamp
I've not heard this preamp, I believe its a good piece based on the quality of parts. What I like about this preamp is the attention to detail, mixing and matching qulity parts is essential to high quality sonics.I am in the midst of parts upgrade... 
Cardas ICs are too warm for Tube amp
This is all about synergy. I've had many high and low priced cables in my system over the years. The GR's are just a nice all around cable, don't do anything exciting, just plain musical. Other cables do certain things better, the GRs are consiste... 
is audiogon good for the audio industry or bad?
I well remember the audio hobby before Audiogon. Tons more quality audio retail stores, but this was the only way to get to hear a variety of equipment. The rise of the internet in general has also been amazing for the audiophile. We used to have ... 
Proceed CDP vs. ML
I have both a Proceed CDD and ML No. 37, sound very similar in my system. The No. 37 has a bit more refined jitter reduction scheme and a bit better power supply.I don't know if the Proceed CDP transport and software is the same as the CDD. 
How to lower noise floor through mods?
I've investigated replacing the electrolytics in my Cayin power supply with a better electrolytic. Problem is the Black Gates/Rubycons are too low voltage rating (at least I've not found a source for higher voltage) for use in power supplies. I su... 
need warm and LAID BACK hi-rez/focused power cord
The power conditioner feeds the most components, try there first.I'm also not sure the Oyaide SWO GX is going to give you the more recessed soundstage you want. All the Oyaide's are more forward sounding than the Porter Ports in my system. You wan... 
New DAC Not a Dramatic Improvement?
Markphd and Tholt make some very good points. Audio Appreciation 101 is absolutely necessary. The lack of bang for buck is at the heart of why I'm slow to change out components, way too confusing and endless circling. I tend to keep components for... 
A DAC for Linn Genki cdp upgrade?
Well, if you like the Linn sound and want to stay in Linn, I really liked the Ikemi, thought it a nice increase in resolution from the lower models in Linn line. If you want go go outside the Linn line, so many choices... 
How to lower noise floor through mods?
T bone, just looked at your system, like it! Also looks like you're comfortable with a fair amount of DIY.The Jadis pre is nice, some VH Audio V-Caps, or better yet, some Duelund copper foil caps (depending on voltage ratings) should both give you...