yakbob

Responses from yakbob

Linear Tube Audio Aero
I don’t typically recommend YT reviews as a source, but Lachlan from Passion For Sound did a pretty thorough review of the Aero that feels truthful. Tonality and timbre appear to be strong points of the Aero, and he does mention the May near the ... 
connecting Benchmark preamp to REL via high level?
Does your REL have dual low level inputs or single? If dual, your best option is to use the dual RCA low level output form your pre. see the last video on this page: https://rel.net/blogs/learn-and-explore/how-to-connect-my-rel?srsltid=AfmBOorM... 
REL vs Arendal subwoofer
I can’t speak to the arendal, but my REL 212/SE was the easiest sub I’ve owned to integrate into my system. REL’s setup guides are full of good tips: https://rel.net/blogs/learn-and-explore/its-just-a-phase?srsltid=AfmBOoo8HBc9fptfqA2yF5bsZrnOCAM... 
PrimaLuna EVO 400 v Cary SLI-100
I second dweller’s suggestion that the Evo 400 has more power than you’ll need for the Heresy speakers. The Evo 300 with a nice quad of KT-88s would offer plenty of power and save you the additional cost of the 400 and running cost of 8 power tube... 
What do the statistics say about the age of Audiophiles and the replacement rate?
@yesiam_a_pirate , i do believe these manufacturers want to expand their audience to a wider and more diverse audience. My point is that when manufacturers (like JBL) make an attempt to court them, the first people to crap on their attempt, or the... 
What do the statistics say about the age of Audiophiles and the replacement rate?
Kind of weird to see this question asked on the same forum that sh@t all over the JBL lifestyle commercial targeted at a younger, female audience a few months ago. These kids will find their own way if the interest is there. Less gatekeeping from... 
Most reputable independent tube equipment repair facilities in the US ?
On the east coast, I’ve had work done at both SoundSmith in Peekskill, and AudioClassics in Binghamton. Both provide excellent service and have the knowledge to tackle projects that others might not touch.  
Anyone own the Topping e70 Velvet? I just ordered one
I have the E70 Velvet, but at this time have only used it to run my television optical output through the main system, or my wife using the Bluetooth connection for her music library. I especially like that it defaults to the last input used, and ... 
Vinyl guy seeking recommendation for a top level cd player
Every time someone resurrects a dead thread I’m reminded how much better this place is without that shill spewing opinions as facts nonstop.   
Tom Evans Phono Preamp Repair
That’s a lot of misdirected aggression to unpack. I take no offense, and will try be more clear. Mend it Mark is from the UK, Tom Evans is from Wales. The copyright strike was by Tom against Matt. I’m not sure how Americans earned a name drop in ... 
CD Transport that has I2S hdmi output, cheaper the better.
Project RS2, but it’s $3k. There is also a Northstar model 192 on the bay listed for $750.  
Altec Model 19 Soundsystem with Subwoofer pairing
Given the space you mentioned , it sounds like you’d want subs that lean more toward the pro audio side of the spectrum (utilitarian) You didn’t mention a budget, but I would look at JTR subs. They have a number of single and dual driver designs ... 
Repair shop in New York
I can second the Soundsmith suggestion. They do fantastic work. Also, Hudson Valley Hifi in Cornwall NY.  Yes both are out of city limits, but they do it right.  
Recommendation Request: Headphone Amp/DAC combo
@mlapenta , I recently moved from a Cayin HA-3A to the Black Ice Audio Aries DAC/Amp/Pre, and am really happy with the performance it offers with a huge range of tuning options (channel balance, gain adjustment, independent left and right high fre... 
Ugliest Component of the Year 2024!
@grislybutter , I actually like the look of the new quad units in a retro Braun kind of way.