Don't fall off your chair...

[Masterlu]

I fell in love with a Turntable at the Show...

Here is a quick pic; more about this later.

https://www.audioaficionado.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=7193&d=1285364686

[-E-]

Ruhroh - methinks Ivan may be going to the vinylside.

[Masterlu]

Ruhroh - methinks Ivan may be going to the vinylside.

Yes, it's True! :yes:

[jdandy]

Going from the light to the dark.

[Still-One]

Just another pretty face. :D

[howiebrou]

Looks suspiciously like a Clear Audio Innovation Wood...

[Masterlu]

Looks suspiciously like a Clear Audio Innovation Wood...

Indeed it is, with a DaVinci cartridge.

[f1 fan]

Congrats and start spinning;)

Dave

[cmalak]

I saw you gave it quite a lot of pictorial coverage in your CEDIA report...it felt like you were eyeing/feeling that table up somehow with those pics :D

[Masterlu]

I saw you gave it quite a lot of pictorial coverage in your CEDIA report...it felt like you were eyeing/feeling that table up somehow with those pics :D

Yup, I got the complete scoop on that gem. :banana:

[PHC1]

The Innovation would be a great choice. :yes:

[TommyC]

Clearaudio makes some great TTs. Check out their website.

[BearCubinNY]

I recently fell down the rabbit hole as well. It's like smoking a great cigar. There are many steps to get to a pleasurable experience, but well worth the effort. I'm now taking trips to the Village discovering the hidden world of LP sourcing. Enjoy Ivan!

Reg

[gtubes]

I did fall off my chair, I have not been able to respond to this until now, so another home for vinyl storage then!

Kidding aside, that Clearaudio table looks sweet.

[JDCheek]

Ivan, In a conversation we had two years ago we both talked about the fact that vinyl really had no lure for us. I did it thinking it would be a fad, that the cool factor would wear off. I am more than 8 months in, 400 albums purchased, and will tell you that it is the most enjoyable part of my listening. I get the same emotional attachmnet to the music that I did 30 years ago. I simply enjoy the music again. I hope you have the same experience.

[cmalak]

JD...you should update your signature to include your analog rig :thumbsup:

[vintage_tube]

On the Innovation Wood -- is that a Universal tonearm -- suspect it is, maybe a newer version?

"DaVinci" flows nicely with the word "Stradivari", now doesn't it.

Bob

[PHC1]

I recently looked at the Universal arm and had it in my hands out of a box. It is a massive tonearm and looks very well built. :yes:

[1KW]

Very nice choice Ivan. I'm sure you will love listening and hunting for good vinyl :D

[two dot]

It's about time Ivan....

Give those wonderful systems what they deserve... a good analog source.

Vinyl.

[Jerome W]

Congrats Ivan !!
Welcome to the dark side !

[Masterlu]

Thanks Guys, much more on this later when I have more time.

[80B]

Boy, that will sound sweet coming out of those Strads! :thumbsup:

[Tonepub]

We reviewed this table back in issue 29, but with the linear tracking arm. It's a beauty! I suggest a Goldfinger to go with Ivan!

(need to get one of those myself...)

[vintage_tube]

Congrats Ivan !!
Welcome to the dark side !

It's dark (and make sure you put the groove side up:D).

Bob

[Masterlu]

We reviewed this table back in issue 29, but with the linear tracking arm. It's a beauty! I suggest a Goldfinger to go with Ivan!

(need to get one of those myself...)

I'm quite sure I can get us an excellent deal on 2 of those! :yes:

[Tonepub]

I'm quite sure I can get us an excellent deal on 2 of those! :yes:

PM Sent....

[JDCheek]

JD...you should update your signature to include your analog rig :thumbsup:

Yes, I probably should. But I am still working on this system. If you remember, I have a great table, arm and cartridge, and the Fosgate Phono stage is really good. But, its into an old Denon AV receiver with Paradigm floorstanders. It actually sounds pretty good, but I really want to either upgrade the AV with an MX-150 and MC-20?, or go Class A with a separate system(finding space is a problem).

Also taking my time. I have rushed some purchases that if I had given it time I might have made better system decisions. I have been lucky that I love "most" everything I have bought.

I have even considered dismantling all current systems and building a new system. Only keep the TT, Fosgate and MDA-1000.
That move will probably take more guts than I have at the moment.

[Masterlu]

I met Jim Fosgate at the Show, great guy!

[Masterlu]

Now that I have caught my beathe; I will say a few words.

Although I had no desire to get into Vinyl; this particular table caught my eye and wouldn't let go.

The design, construction, materials, even the arm is gorgeous; so what the heck, I drop that much on cables :rolleyes:

Of course it needs the right stand, which in the picture is HRS Best, another $25K. Just have to find the proper place for this new rig!

[Still-One]

Although I had no desire to get into Vinyl; this particular table caught my eye and wouldn't let go.


You can use the table in place of that exercise gear you were thinking about. You will be getting up every 3 minutes to skip those filler tunes on every LP. :D

[Masterlu]

You can use the table in place of that exercise gear you were thinking about. You will be getting up every 3 minutes to skip those filler tunes on every LP. :D

Good tip Jim, did I mention I am an Esoteric dealer now... :ok:

[Puma Cat]

Well, now you're going to find out how engaging a musical experience vinyl can be.

Digital can't really compare, IMHO, unless we're talking top-shelf stuff like dCS and high-res fies.

If you want some advice on how to scour for records, and what types to buy, let me know.

[Puma Cat]

I recently fell down the rabbit hole as well. It's like smoking a great cigar. There are many steps to get to a pleasurable experience, but well worth the effort. I'm now taking trips to the Village discovering the hidden world of LP sourcing. Enjoy Ivan!

Reg

Hey, you have a Gyro, too!

Great tables.

[Masterlu]

I guess you could say I'm looking forward to getting it! :crowd:

[Puma Cat]

I'm sure....

[Still-One]

Good tip Jim, did I mention I am an Esoteric dealer now... :ok:
That is good to know. :thumbsup:

[Masterlu]

That is good to know. :thumbsup:

I am liking their gear alot; maybe it's time I own it. :shades:

[Masterlu]

I'm looking to configure one of these for my new Table:

Audio Stand eliminates noise increasing musical performance (http://www.avisolation.com/mxraudio_stands.html)

[Tonepub]

Not bad, I like the SRA stuff a little better. And not quite as expensive.

Actually, I'd put a set under your tube preamp, it always responds really well to good vibration control.

[Masterlu]

I am also considering this phono stage due to the distance my TT rig will be from my C1000.

http://www.elusivedisc.com/images/AESRHEASIG-Large.jpg

[Masterlu]

Not bad, I like the SRA stuff a little better. And not quite as expensive.

Actually, I'd put a set under your tube preamp, it always responds really well to good vibration control.

But it's not nearly as good looking, IMO.

The Craz Reference isoRACK plus -SRA's World Class Audio Isolation Equipment Racks (http://www.silentrunningaudio.com/products/craz_isorack.htm)

[cmalak]

I am also considering this phono stage due to the distance my TT rig will be from my C1000.

http://www.elusivedisc.com/images/AESRHEASIG-Large.jpg

Ivan...the Aesthetix Rhea is a great phono preamp at $4K and can deliver all the sonic goodies one can look for. From what I read the only knock on it is that the stock tubes can be inconsistent and some units tend to have tube noise but nothing that a bit of tube rolling can't solve. There is a Signature version @ $7000 that supposedly betters the basic Rhea. Here are two reviews that compare the Rhea Signature to the basic Rhea:

UltraAudio.com Equipment Review - Aesthetix Rhea and Rhea Signature Phono Stages (7/2009) (http://www.ultraaudio.com/equipment/aesthetix_rhea_rhea_signature.htm)
TAS 196: Aesthetix Rhea Signature Phonostage | AVguide (http://www.avguide.com/review/tas-196-aesthetix-rhea-signature-phonostage)

[Tonepub]

As a formerRhea owner, it was a pretty disappointing piece. Saying that tubes are "inconsistent" is a big understatement. Be prepared to spend a lot of dough on NOS tubes and often. This thing eats tubes. The new EAT tubes may also be a good fit, but 229 each.

If you are going to spend $7000 on this thing, spend 12k on an ARC REF2 Phono. Not even in the same league. Even a BAT VK-10SE Super Pak is a much better sounding preamp than the Rhea.

The benefit is that it will accommodate three turntables and you can set gain/loading from the comfort of your chair.

But this design is about ten years old now and much better performance has been achieved. Especially if you are thinking about a Goldfinger. This would be like putting cheap tires on your Lambo...

[Still-One]

I am also considering this phono stage due to the distance my TT rig will be from my C1000.


You might also want to consider the Zanden unit. :yes:

[turntable]

I agree with Jeff. You will not be happy with the Rhea. It is plain just too noisy IMO with LOMC.

I might agree with Jeff re the ARC phono ref 2, running a loaner in at the moment, and it is sounding really really really good. A first to my ears from ARC.

[Masterlu]

As a formerRhea owner, it was a pretty disappointing piece. Saying that tubes are "inconsistent" is a big understatement. Be prepared to spend a lot of dough on NOS tubes and often. This thing eats tubes. The new EAT tubes may also be a good fit, but 229 each.

If you are going to spend $7000 on this thing, spend 12k on an ARC REF2 Phono. Not even in the same league. Even a BAT VK-10SE Super Pak is a much better sounding preamp than the Rhea.

The benefit is that it will accommodate three turntables and you can set gain/loading from the comfort of your chair.

But this design is about ten years old now and much better performance has been achieved. Especially if you are thinking about a Goldfinger. This would be like putting cheap tires on your Lambo...

Thanks Jeff, this is exactly what I'm looking for. :thumbsup:

[schaefer11]

"If you are going to spend $7000 on this thing, spend 12k on an ARC REF2 Phono."

Ivan,

Ever notice how no one ever seems to recommend something that sounds better and costs LESS than what you were looking at?

[Masterlu]

"If you are going to spend $7000 on this thing, spend 12k on an ARC REF2 Phono."

Ivan,

Ever notice how no one ever seems to recommend something that sounds better and costs LESS than what you were looking at?

Yes, I did! :laughin:

[two dot]

Anybody going to suggest an EAR???

I believe Ivan is a dealer for those....

[Masterlu]

Anybody going to suggest an EAR???

I believe Ivan is a dealer for those....

I am, but it doesn't do much for me on the visual side. :dunno:

[two dot]

Ivan,

Once you start listening to analog... you will no longer care what anything looks like...

you will be all EARS!!!! No pun intended....

[Masterlu]

Anybody going to suggest an EAR???

I believe Ivan is a dealer for those....

Ivan,

Once you start listening to analog... you will no longer care what anything looks like...

you will be all EARS!!!! No pun intended....

I "HEAR" you! :lmao:

[Still-One]

Ivan,

Once you start listening to analog... you will no longer care what anything looks like...

you will be all EARS!!!! No pun intended....
That must be my problem, no EARS.

[PHC1]

EAR324P is a tremendous bang for the buck when it comes to phono stages. I love my EAR. :music:

[two dot]

Ivan,

Please listen to the EAR!

[Masterlu]

Ivan,

Please listen to the EAR!

Well... :ok:

[Still-One]

I am, but it doesn't do much for me on the visual side. :dunno:
If looks are key, the Zanden wins hands down. IMHO.

[two dot]

Jim,

Agreed... the Zanden is beautiful.

As long as we are talking over the top phono stages I have heard many say the new BOULDER is hard to beat!

[Still-One]

Jim,

Agreed... the Zanden is beautiful.

As long as we are talking over the top phono stages I have heard many say the new BOULDER is hard to beat!
Did you read the review of the Vitus? Even more expensive and supposedly better. :dunno:


Per MF

Even after having sat mesmerized by that Shostakovich LP through both Boulders, hearing it now through the Vitus MP-P201 was yet another revelation of what's possible from vinyl playback specifically, and from musical reproduction in the home in general.

[Masterlu]

Did you read the review of the Vitus? Even more expensive and supposedly better. :dunno:

Vitus - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitus)

Where do find this stuff? :scratch2:

Oh' there it is:

http://www.vitusaudio.com/default.aspx

[Still-One]

Here you go.
Stereophile: Vitus Audio MP-P201 Masterpiece Series phono preamplifier (http://stereophile.com/phonopreamps/vitus_audio_mp-p201_masterpiece_series_phono_preamplifier/)

[Masterlu]

I better start looking the CA's Statement... :stars:

"Honey, do you want that Villa in Italy or a record player?" :laughin:

[cmalak]

Ivan...here you go: Frontpage - Vitus Audio (http://www.vitusaudio.com/default.aspx)

Phono stage: SP-101 Phonostage - Vitus Audio (http://www.vitusaudio.com/electronic-products/sp-101-phonostage.aspx)

Review of phono stage: Stereophile: Vitus Audio MP-P201 Masterpiece Series phono preamplifier (http://stereophile.com/phonopreamps/vitus_audio_mp-p201_masterpiece_series_phono_preamplifier/) (this review is for a different phono stage model which I could not find on the Vitus Audio's web site).

[Masterlu]

Ivan...here you go: Frontpage - Vitus Audio (http://www.vitusaudio.com/default.aspx)

Phono stage: SP-101 Phonostage - Vitus Audio (http://www.vitusaudio.com/electronic-products/sp-101-phonostage.aspx)

Review of phono stage: Stereophile: Vitus Audio MP-P201 Masterpiece Series phono preamplifier (http://stereophile.com/phonopreamps/vitus_audio_mp-p201_masterpiece_series_phono_preamplifier/) (this review is for a different phono stage model which I could not find on the Vitus Audio's web site).

Friends don't send other friends expensive links! :lmao:

[cmalak]

Ivan...you know you want only the best :D

[Masterlu]

Ivan...you know you want only the best :D

I'll save that line for my wife! :thumbsup:

[Tonepub]

The Boulder 1008 is exceptional. Actually, it sounds more musical than the $35,000 model. We had it in at the beginning of the year.

Boulder’s 1008 phono preamplifier is a masterpiece! – Spotlight | TONEAudio MAGAZINE (http://www.tonepublications.com/spotlight/boulders-1008-phono-preamplifier-is-a-masterpiece/)

I'd definitely give it a try if they will send you one. With the balanced outs, you could run a long cable to the rest of your system with no problem.

[Masterlu]

The Boulder 1008 is exceptional. Actually, it sounds more musical than the $35,000 model. We had it in at the beginning of the year.

Boulder’s 1008 phono preamplifier is a masterpiece! – Spotlight | TONEAudio MAGAZINE (http://www.tonepublications.com/spotlight/boulders-1008-phono-preamplifier-is-a-masterpiece/)

I'd definitely give it a try if they will send you one. With the balanced outs, you could run a long cable to the rest of your system with no problem.

I'll look into that one Jeff, it would make a nice entry into Boulder.

[Masterlu]

I pulled the trigger today on:

Clearaudio Innovation Wood turntable silver finish
Universal tonearm
Clearaudio Davinci MC cartridge
Clearaudio Statement clamp
Clearaudio Outer Limit peripheral ring clamp

Still working on the phono pre-amp.

[jdandy]

Here's the truck dropping off the payment. :D


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2007/2310674095_41d1d79ba0.jpg

[Masterlu]

Thanks Dan! :laughin:

(It is riding low in the back too!)

[gtubes]

Here's the truck dropping off the payment. :D


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2007/2310674095_41d1d79ba0.jpg

No kidding Dan, that's funny

[PHC1]

I pulled the trigger today on:

Clearaudio Innovation Wood turntable silver finish
Universal tonearm
Clearaudio Davinci MC cartridge
Clearaudio Statement clamp
Clearaudio Outer Limit peripheral ring clamp

Still working on the phono pre-amp.

Don't forget vinyl! :D Congrats and welcome to the dark side. :thumbsup:

[Masterlu]

Don't forget vinyl! :D Congrats and welcome to the dark side. :thumbsup:

Yup, a hunting I shall go!

[TommyC]

I'm looking forward to your take on vinyl.

[BearCubinNY]

Congrats on the new rig Ivan! I'm also interested in your take. Enjoy!

Reg

[Still-One]

I pulled the trigger today on:

Clearaudio Innovation Wood turntable silver finish
Universal tonearm
Clearaudio Davinci MC cartridge
Clearaudio Statement clamp
Clearaudio Outer Limit peripheral ring clamp

Still working on the phono pre-amp.
Nice choice there Ivan. Good looking table.

[Basite]

Still working on the phono pre-amp.

I'm hearing lots of good things about the Accuphase C-27. it's pretty new still, so I don't know about any professional reviews, but I'm sure they're out there...

I heard it and it blew my socks off, costs about the same as the Rhea (slightly more, but not much, IIRC), but sounds MUCH better. an entirely new level.

Accuphase Laboratory, Inc.?C-27 (http://www.accuphase.com/model/c-27.html)

and some more pics too:
Accuphase C-27 Phono pre-amp (http://hifine.nl/Accuphase%20C-27%20web/index.html)

Keep them spinning,
Bert.

[Puma Cat]

Ivan,
You also might want to consider the Avid Pulsare phono stage; Tonepub just got one when I was the week before last, and was impressed with it on initial listening.

[Masterlu]

Ivan,
You also might want to consider the Avid Pulsare phono stage; Tonepub just got one when I was the week before last, and was impressed with it on initial listening.

"No mas"

I have it narrowed down to three...

[j3brow]

I pulled the trigger today on:

Clearaudio Innovation Wood turntable silver finish
Universal tonearm
Clearaudio Davinci MC cartridge
Clearaudio Statement clamp
Clearaudio Outer Limit peripheral ring clamp

Still working on the phono pre-amp.


AWESOME Ivan!
Sweet sweet set up.
You do not play around .... Buy once and buy right.
I'm sure you will pick an excellent phonostage. Hell you cant go wrong with your choices. Me, I would go for the ARC Ref2 - in black of course. :music:

[Masterlu]

AWESOME Ivan!
Sweet sweet set up.
You do not play around .... Buy once and buy right.
I'm sure you will pick an excellent phonostage. Hell you cant go wrong with your choices. Me, I would go for the ARC Ref2 - in black of course. :music:

That's exactly my thoughts, down to the ARC Ref 2 in black! :thumbsup:

:banana:

[Masterlu]

This is the exact HRS rack and finish I plan to put my Vinyl rig on.

http://www.highendpalace.com/2911b.jpg

[two dot]

A VERY serious rack for a VERY SERIOUS vinyl rig...

[Masterlu]

A VERY serious rack for a VERY SERIOUS vinyl rig...

Thanks Stephen!

[cmalak]

Ivan...the HRS racks are definitely SOTA and you are certainly going with their top of the line product :thumbsup:

[Masterlu]

Ivan...the HRS racks are definitely SOTA and you are certainly going with their top of the line product :thumbsup:

Yup, they are the "Real Deal" besides, I only want to do this once. ;)

[TommyC]

If I'm not mistaken, the HRS rack is very expensive.

[Masterlu]

If I'm not mistaken, the HRS rack is very expensive.

Let's just say it's more than the TT :yes:

[howiebrou]

Ivan,
You also might want to consider the Avid Pulsare phono stage; Tonepub just got one when I was the week before last, and was impressed with it on initial listening.

I wonder if it would be a good match for my Avid Acutus :scratch2:

[howiebrou]

"No mas"

I have it narrowed down to three...

I presume you are saying "no more" or are you talking about Avid's designer and owner Mr. Conrad MAS!!!! :D

[PHC1]

Let's just say it's more than the TT :yes:

It almost makes sense just to go for the Clearaudio Statement with it's own stand. :D. Clearaudio Statement Reference Turntable (http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/clearaudio/CAstatement.html)

[howiebrou]

It almost makes sense just to go for the Clearaudio Statement with it's own stand. :D. Clearaudio Statement Reference Turntable (http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/clearaudio/CAstatement.html)

And look it comes with its own dumbells!

Another alternative is the Continuum Caliburn which also comes with its own 25k stand. COme to think of it, that stand would match your Clear Audio Innovation Wood perfectly. Silver and Wood!

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u43/howiebrou/1600x10243.jpg

[PHC1]

Careful Howie, we don't want to overdose Ivan on this new vinyl drug...:D

[howiebrou]

Careful Howie, we don't want to overdose Ivan on this new vinyl drug...:D

We're at the pinacle already! Too late! I guess we haven't mentioned the Goldmund Reference II which has its own rack too, ssshhhh quiet he's coming!...

[howiebrou]

By the way Ivan, have you decided on a LP brush yet? or a demagnetiser and of course you'll need a LP cleaner. I can suggest 10 different models for you to demo! :D:banana:

[howiebrou]

By the way Ivan, have you decided on a LP brush yet? or a demagnetiser and of course you'll need a LP cleaner. I can suggest 10 different models for you to demo! :D:banana:

Oh, and since some brushes and demagnetisers work better with certain Lp cleaners you have at least a few thousand combinations to demo :D

[Tonepub]

I'd seriously consider finding the vinyl you want. depending on what kind of music you like, there are only so many examples of great pressings out there. if you are into the classic rock stuff from the 60's and 70's a lot of the best pressings are becoming unobtainum.

even a lot of the current mofi's and blue note reissues, once they go out of print tend to double and triple in price pretty quickly.

the vinyl thing without good records is a pretty big waste of time and money. the difference between early run,first stamper pressings and the bargain stuff is HUGE.

there will always be plenty of expensive gear toy buy but the good records are getting tougher to find...

[cmalak]

Jeff...it's an interesting phenomenon because usually in markets where supply is restricted (as it is in terms of good quality vinyl pressing plants) and prices rising year after year (as it is with vinyl in the past 3-4 years with the uptick in demand), you would expect to see new companies enter the vinyl recording/mastering/pressing business as they gett attracted by higher profits in that segment. Do you know if there have been any new start-ups in this area or no?

[Masterlu]

MR.P

Masterlu Record Pressings... :scratch2:

[f1 fan]

A VERY serious rack for a VERY SERIOUS vinyl rig...
:thumbsup::thumbsup::yes::yes:

Dave

[m.tonetti]

Bassocontinuo (http://www.bassocontinuo.it/eng.html) (ITALY):

Apogeo (http://www.bassocontinuo.it/e_ap.html)

http://www.bassocontinuo.it/images/ap_pic.jpg

Regale Phono (http://www.bassocontinuo.it/e_re_p.html)

http://www.bassocontinuo.it/images/re_p_pic.jpg

[two dot]

Nice racks!!!

[vintage_tube]

Those Bassacontino racks will be displayed in RMAF -- Marriott Mezzanine Level ~ Pikes Peak

Another one added to the "must see" list.

Bob

[Tonepub]

Jeff...it's an interesting phenomenon because usually in markets where supply is restricted (as it is in terms of good quality vinyl pressing plants) and prices rising year after year (as it is with vinyl in the past 3-4 years with the uptick in demand), you would expect to see new companies enter the vinyl recording/mastering/pressing business as they gett attracted by higher profits in that segment. Do you know if there have been any new start-ups in this area or no?

No because there aren't any companies making lathes or cutting heads any more and there are only a handful (3 or 4 actually) guys that can rebuild and repair them.

The biggest limitation to the vinyl resurgence is spare parts and raw materials.

Another big problem is having access to the REAL master tape. Record companies won't hand these out to just anyone and there are only a few mastering engineers that are competent. These guys are pretty busy, so even if you had the $$ to start an audiophile label, getting access to the tapes, getting a mastering engineer and actually getting the stuff pressed would be tough.

[Masterlu]

No because there aren't any companies making lathes or cutting heads any more and there are only a handful (3 or 4 actually) guys that can rebuild and repair them.

The biggest limitation to the vinyl resurgence is spare parts and raw materials.

Another big problem is having access to the REAL master tape. Record companies won't hand these out to just anyone and there are only a few mastering engineers that are competent. These guys are pretty busy, so even if you had the $$ to start an audiophile label, getting access to the tapes, getting a mastering engineer and actually getting the stuff pressed would be tough.

Great, another Party I'm late to... :dunno:

[Puma Cat]

I'd seriously consider finding the vinyl you want. depending on what kind of music you like, there are only so many examples of great pressings out there. if you are into the classic rock stuff from the 60's and 70's a lot of the best pressings are becoming unobtainum.

even a lot of the current mofi's and blue note reissues, once they go out of print tend to double and triple in price pretty quickly.

the vinyl thing without good records is a pretty big waste of time and money. the difference between early run,first stamper pressings and the bargain stuff is HUGE.

there will always be plenty of expensive gear toy buy but the good records are getting tougher to find...

I would agree with Jeff, but I would add that it is possible to find good pressing of 60s/70s/80s rock/pop, good, early pressings of jazz and classical, etc. Living in the Bay Area is certainly an asset, but you need to look where to find it.

For rock, there's a great store in San Mateo, CA, The Vinyl Solution, that has very good quality pressings of rock/pop/soul, etc. for about $3-4 per disk, and the quality of the stuff that owner puts out is first-class. I took good care of my records, and I've bought copies of stuff from him that was better than mine. Are these British, early-stamper presssings? No, usually not, but they are clean, original presssings from the day and still sound very good. For jazz, there is the GrooveYard in Oakland that specializes in high quality original jazz vinyl, and I've built up a very nice collection with guidance from proprietor Rick Ballard, including some very nice original deep groove Blue Note monos, Columbia Six-eyes, and Impulse originals or early 60's re-pressings. Also, there is very good record store that sells via the web in Madison, WI called Strictly Discs.

Regarding rock/pop re-issues, I would stay away from the new-issued 180 gram, "audiophile"pressings of rock at $30 a pop, and look for clean originals from the same period for $3-4 instead. Again, check with The Vinyl Solution or Strictly Discs. Are you going to find early-issue Beatles mono Parlophones? No, but you can still get a lot of nice stuff; look for the earliest pressings you can find. They're still generally cheaper than the $30 new re-issues, most of which are poorly pressed and/or poorly remastered.

For jazz, you can get very nice sounding, affordable re-issues from Orignal Jazz Classics (OJC). Stay away from the $8-10 Blue Note re-issues, or the ones that come with a CD for $16. Look for originals instead, or for more high-end re-masters, the Music Matters and Analogue Productions 45s are excellent, but pricey. For classical and jazz, the Speakers Corner label from Germany is superb and really tough to beat for the price, and their pressings are just what you would expect from, well, from the Germans. Also look for Blue Note reissues from Toshiba/EMI from Japan, they are generally superb.

Classical is actually the easiest...because it's low demand, it's dirt cheap, and none of the record stores will put anything out that's not flawless. You can buy boxed sets of Classical recordings, like the entire set of The Brandenburg Concertos on excellent labels like Philips or Telefunken for $3 to $4. My favorite classical labels are Telefunken, Decca, Argo, Philips, EMI, Harmonia-Mundi, Hungaroton, Columbia. There is also a fair amount of Nonesuch which was superbly mastered by none other than Robert C Ludwig. I personally rank Deutsche Gramophone last, which is shame because there are some excellent performances in the catalog, but the recordings/masterings are generally not at the same level as the other labels, though the DG label "Das Alte Werke" is excellent.

[Masterlu]

All good stuff, thanks PC

[howiebrou]

Bassocontinuo (http://www.bassocontinuo.it/eng.html) (ITALY)

Massimo,

Nice taste my friend! I use their Accordeon rack. Lorenzo from Bassocontinuo sent me a sample of their white lacquer a few weeks ago. He recommends it for the Apogeo rack :yes:

howie

[Masterlu]

Some more HRS rack systems:

Audio Federation - Harmonic Resolution Systems (HRS) MXR Equipment Rack Photo Gallery (http://www.audiofederation.com/dealership/HRS/MXR-Equipment-Rack-Photo-Gallery/index.htm)

[hkval]

Every finish is first class but, for me, Black is the ultimate for this piece of art and function.

[Tonepub]

I would agree with Jeff, but I would add that it is possible to find good pressing of 60s/70s/80s rock/pop, good, early pressings of jazz and classical, etc. Living in the Bay Area is certainly an asset, but you need to look where to find it.

For rock, there's a great store in San Mateo, CA, The Vinyl Solution, that has very good quality pressings of rock/pop/soul, etc. for about $3-4 per disk, and the quality of the stuff that owner puts out is first-class. I took good care of my records, and I've bought copies of stuff from him that was better than mine. Are these British, early-stamper presssings? No, usually not, but they are clean, original presssings from the day and still sound very good. For jazz, there is the GrooveYard in Oakland that specializes in high quality original jazz vinyl, and I've built up a very nice collection with guidance from proprietor Rick Ballard, including some very nice original deep groove Blue Note monos, Columbia Six-eyes, and Impulse originals or early 60's re-pressings. Also, there is very good record store that sells via the web in Madison, WI called Strictly Discs.

Regarding rock/pop re-issues, I would stay away from the new-issued 180 gram, "audiophile"pressings of rock at $30 a pop, and look for clean originals from the same period for $3-4 instead. Again, check with The Vinyl Solution or Strictly Discs. Are you going to find early-issue Beatles mono Parlophones? No, but you can still get a lot of nice stuff; look for the earliest pressings you can find. They're still generally cheaper than the $30 new re-issues, most of which are poorly pressed and/or poorly remastered.

For jazz, you can get very nice sounding, affordable re-issues from Orignal Jazz Classics (OJC). Stay away from the $8-10 Blue Note re-issues, or the ones that come with a CD for $16. Look for originals instead, or for more high-end re-masters, the Music Matters and Analogue Productions 45s are excellent, but pricey. For classical and jazz, the Speakers Corner label from Germany is superb and really tough to beat for the price, and their pressings are just what you would expect from, well, from the Germans. Also look for Blue Note reissues from Toshiba/EMI from Japan, they are generally superb.

Classical is actually the easiest...because it's low demand, it's dirt cheap, and none of the record stores will put anything out that's not flawless. You can buy boxed sets of Classical recordings, like the entire set of The Brandenburg Concertos on excellent labels like Philips or Telefunken for $3 to $4. My favorite classical labels are Telefunken, Decca, Argo, Philips, EMI, Harmonia-Mundi, Hungaroton, Columbia. There is also a fair amount of Nonesuch which was superbly mastered by none other than Robert C Ludwig. I personally rank Deutsche Gramophone last, which is shame because there are some excellent performances in the catalog, but the recordings/masterings are generally not at the same level as the other labels, though the DG label "Das Alte Werke" is excellent.

There are plenty of good pressings still out there, but the $3-$4 stuff doesn't cut it when you step up to the $20-$50k turntable/cartridge combination.

If you're buying records at that level, buy a Rega P9 with your favorite $2500 cartridge and call it a day. But if you're buying a mega analog front end, you're just pissing in the wind if you're buying budget records. At least in the rock world.

I would have to agree with the classical and even some modern jazz, i.e. like a lot of the stuff on ECM. Early stamper examples can still be had cheap. But if you want the Beatles, Stones, Hendrix, the Grateful Dead, Genesis, The Who, Led Zeppelin, etc etc etc., that stuff is EXPENSIVE way more often than not. And once you hear the good stuff, you'll never be able to go back. I wish I owned more of it and had payed closer attention in the 80's when you could buy these records for a couple bucks each easy.

Bottom line for the more affluent in this group, get the software while it's still available! Don't say I didn't warn you.

[rich@boulder]

As I'm sure some of you will be heading off to the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest next week, you may be interested to know that there are a few pretty good used and new vinyl stores in the Denver/Boulder/Colorado Springs area. The more well-known stores (Twist-n-Shout, Wax Trax) have a good supply of both new and used, while some of the more obscure stores are mostly indie stuff.

Twist-n-Shout in particular has a LOT of "classic" rock, both new and used. The owner is a huge Deadhead and was actually involved in promotions when the band came to the Boulder area annually. I'm not a big Dead fan, but I know him well enough to know that his collection of Dead recordings, signed photos and other tidbits is probably one of (if not the) biggest in Denver. Wax Trax is more of the indie and underground store and was opened by one of the co-founders of the original Wax Trax in Chicago.

[Masterlu]

The first wave of my new analog rig; the Clearaudio Table, Arm, & Cartridge will arrive next week.

[jdandy]

The first wave of my new analog rig; the Clearaudio Table, Arm, & Cartridge will arrive next week.

And the tension mounts!

[turntable]

Masterlu

One of the first vinyl orders you can place. The Columbia EQ on the REF2 does wonders with my Sundazed mono Columbia LP's. I have now ordered the box set.:banana:

Amazon.com: The Original Mono Recordings (Vinyl): Bob Dylan: Music (http://www.amazon.com/Original-Mono-Recordings-Vinyl/dp/B003ZYJS5Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1286631161&sr=1-1)

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51zjtI2zs7L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[Masterlu]

Thanks Shane!

[Masterlu]

I ordered my 50' run of Wireworld Silver Eclipse 6.0 Balanced cables for my analog rig today.

$8K+ retail; I'm past the point of no return... :dazed:

:D

[jdandy]

I'm past the point of no return... :dazed:

:D

Ivan.......That point came and went many years ago. :smoking:

[Masterlu]

Ivan.......That point came and went many years ago. :smoking:

I feel much better now, I think... :scratch2:

:)

[JSCC]

MR.P

Masterlu Record Pressings... :scratch2:

Ivan,

Seriously, you should give this some serious thought. I know for sure the GRP vault has yet to find an owner. Given the amount of good music in this label, this COULD BE a first move to make for your new company ... MRP! :thumbsup:

Serious! :thumbsup:

[matt_zak]

Ivan, have you chosen a phono pre yet?

[Masterlu]

Ivan, have you chosen a phono pre yet?

It's down to these two:

Audio Research Ref 2 & Aesthetix Rhea Signature

I will try them both and go with the winner!

[matt_zak]

Very nice! That should be a fun shootout :uzi:

[AVE1]

I have Had both and the Aesthetix is the winner by far. I dont think it will be as much a shootout as you think , the RHEA is a very nice pre , and with a clear table sitting in with it... heven

[Masterlu]

I have Had both and the Aesthetix is the winner by far. I dont think it will be as much a shootout as you think , the RHEA is a very nice pre , and with a clear table sitting in with it... heven

Awesome, thanks for the input! :thumbsup:

[jdandy]

Aesthetix Rhea Signature looks really nice.

http://www.aesthetix.net/images/Rhea_Signature.jpg


http://www.ultraaudio.com/equipment/pics/200907_signature_rear_810w.jpg


http://www.ultraaudio.com/equipment/pics/200907_rhea_guts.jpg

[Masterlu]

Mines being custom built right now.

[Tonepub]

good luck getting one that's quiet. Plan on spending about a thousand bucks on really good, hand picked NOS tubes, that are all matched for low noise. Otherwise, you'll be hating life with this baby. And get a few spares while you're at it, the Rhea eats tubes for lunch.

[PHC1]

good luck getting one that's quiet. Plan on spending about a thousand bucks on really good, hand picked NOS tubes, that are all matched for low noise. Otherwise, you'll be hating life with this baby. And get a few spares while you're at it, the Rhea eats tubes for lunch.

Unfortunately you hear this all too often about their phono stages. Maybe Ivan will get lucky...

[Masterlu]

Why the change of heart Jeff?

[PHC1]

Why the change of heart Jeff?

That was a "review", this is between friends. :D

[cmalak]

I know that's the rap about the base Rhea but I thought the Rhea Signature was super quiet, at least according to Robert harley at TAS (TAS 196: Aesthetix Rhea Signature Phonostage | AVguide (http://www.avguide.com/review/tas-196-aesthetix-rhea-signature-phonostage)) and Peter Roth at Soundstage.com (UltraAudio.com Equipment Review - Aesthetix Rhea and Rhea Signature Phono Stages (7/2009) (http://www.ultraaudio.com/equipment/aesthetix_rhea_rhea_signature.htm)). But hey I am just repeating what I have read. No first hand experience :dunno:

[PHC1]

I know that's the rap about the base Rhea but I thought the Rhea Signature was super quiet, at least according to Robert harley at TAS (TAS 196: Aesthetix Rhea Signature Phonostage | AVguide (http://www.avguide.com/review/tas-196-aesthetix-rhea-signature-phonostage)) and Peter Roth at Soundstage.com (UltraAudio.com Equipment Review - Aesthetix Rhea and Rhea Signature Phono Stages (7/2009) (http://www.ultraaudio.com/equipment/aesthetix_rhea_rhea_signature.htm)). But hey I am just repeating what I have read. No first hand experience :dunno:

Read the feedback on A'gon from many users. It's a hit or miss..

[Masterlu]

Two of my customers run the Rhea Signature and have nothing but praise for it.

[Tonepub]

That was a "review", this is between friends. :D

Nope, at the time of the review, I had only had the RHEA for a few months. This is where a forum really comes in handy because you can talk to people about long term experience.

I made the huge mistake of having Great Northern Sound mod the RHEA... I had so much trouble with it about a month after the review went live, I ended up almost giving the damn thing away. And the guy at GNS pretty much told me it was my problem, deal with it. From that day forward, I've been threw with modders.

So, still liking the three input concept, I got another stock Rhea, as I had an Aesthetix Callisto Signature in my second system. Loved that preamp but it was the same as the Rhea. One of the best sounding preamps I've ever heard, but it ate tubes and unless you really got them sorted, it just wasn't quiet enough.

I have two friends that have the IO with two power supplies and they've both had the same luck with tubes as I've had. As a reviewer, I have my system on 12 hours a day and can't afford to have tube trouble. That's the only reason I ended up bailing on the Callisto too, I just didn't want to keep going through super expensive tubes. It's like putting 87 octane gas in your Ferrari. Cheap tubes in an Aesthetix preamp = mediocre sound.

Sound quality wise, the RHEA/Sig are both respectable, but nowhere near the ARC REF, the Boulder 1008, the new Burmester 100, or the Zanden.

That Rhea review was almost five years ago. I've had the chance to use a lot more top shelf analog since then. My standards have risen somewhat.

If you end up keeping the Rhea, I'd seriously consider getting hand picked and matched tubes and definitely get a couple of extras that have been matched to the same values, so when you do blow a tube, you only have to pop one in. If you aren't listening to it 12 hours a day like I do, you probably won't have the issues I did. However, I'd still make sure it will drive a 50' run of cable. Just because something is balanced, is no guarantee that the preamp will drive cables that long. For all I know the ARC wouldn't drive 50' cables either. So that may end up being an issue for you.

So that's the long story, I hope it clears things up a bit.

[PHC1]

Thanks for clarifying that Jeff. :thumbsup:

[j3brow]

Looking forward to the shoot - out, Ivan
12K vs 7k, correct?

[Masterlu]

Looking forward to the shoot - out, Ivan
12K vs 7k, correct?

You are correct. :yes:

That is of no concern though, my rack cost more than both together.

[Tonepub]

Until you put about 500 hours on both of those preamps, neither will sound outstanding. Get your hands on a pair of these from Hagerman technology:

Hagerman Technology LLC: iRIAA Filter for Phonostage DIY Kit (http://www.hagtech.com/iriaa2.html)

Plug a CD player, tuner or iPod in one end and the other in your phono pre and just leave it on play for about three weeks. Then you'll know what they really sound like. Both the Rhea sig and REF 2 are full of gigantic teflon caps and will sound pretty dry for at least the first few hundred hours. Right around 500 hours is when the magic begins.

[Masterlu]

Until you put about 500 hours on both of those preamps, neither will sound outstanding. Get your hands on a pair of these from Hagerman technology:

Hagerman Technology LLC: iRIAA Filter for Phonostage DIY Kit (http://www.hagtech.com/iriaa2.html)

Plug a CD player, tuner or iPod in one end and the other in your phono pre and just leave it on play for about three weeks. Then you'll know what they really sound like. Both the Rhea sig and REF 2 are full of gigantic teflon caps and will sound pretty dry for at least the first few hundred hours. Right around 500 hours is when the magic begins.

Great tip!

[two dot]

Nobody said this was going to be easy...

[Tonepub]

That Hagerman gizmo is awesome! I don't think you want to put 500 hours on your DaVinci just to break in the darn phono pre... I know I didn't with mine.

[PHC1]

The cartridge itself will need 40-60 hrs of break in but that's the fun part. :music:

[Puma Cat]

Ivan, are you planning 50 ft run from the tonearm to the phono stage or the phono stage to the preamp? Either way, that's a mighty long run; I'd be concerned about capacitance effects...

If I were you, I'd go with the ARC....though I love my little EAR 834P! :p

[Masterlu]

Ivan, are you planning 50 ft run from the tonearm to the phono stage or the phono stage to the preamp? Either way, that's a mighty long run; I'd be concerned about capacitance effects...

If I were you, I'd go with the ARC....though I love my little EAR 834P! :p

From the phono stage to the preamp.

[Masterlu]

The Innovation Wood table will be here on Friday. :banana:

[cmalak]

Congrats Ivan. That's going to be a sweet vinyl rig.

As others have mentioned, I would definitely call Garth Leerer at Musical Surroundings and/or Jim White at Aesthetix to ask about the Rhea Signature's ability to drive a 50 ft IC or if there is any type of cable that they think could work in conjunction with the Rhea Signature in that type of an application. I would similarly call ARC to ask the same question about the Ref Phono 2. If you get consistent feedback from both that that is an issue you may have to rethink placement. Just a thought.

[Tonepub]

Good advice....

[PHC1]

Hence my suggestion on Transparent cables custom tuned to length and impedance matched between components....

[Masterlu]

Congrats Ivan. That's going to be a sweet vinyl rig.

As others have mentioned, I would definitely call Garth Leerer at Musical Surroundings and/or Jim White at Aesthetix to ask about the Rhea Signature's ability to drive a 50 ft IC or if there is any type of cable that they think could work in conjunction with the Rhea Signature in that type of an application. I would similarly call ARC to ask the same question about the Ref Phono 2. If you get consistent feedback from both that that is an issue you may have to rethink placement. Just a thought.

I already did my home work Glen at Aesthetix confirmed that this would not be an issue if the cables are of low enough capacitance; which they are. :yes:

[PHC1]

I already did my home work Glen at Aesthetix confirmed that this would not be an issue if the cables are of low enough capacitance; which they are. :yes:

Ivan, what is the capacitance of WW per foot?

[Masterlu]

Ivan, what is the capacitance of WW per foot?

David Salz is going to let me know the capacitance of the entire run shortly.

[Masterlu]

I just got off a conference call with David Salz, and Aesthetix. With the output impedance of the Rhea Signature, the only concern is impedance of the cable; which in my case is a non-issue.

[cmalak]

Ivan...sounds like you are good to go. Looking forward to pics of the table and the rest of the setup once it is up and running :thumbsup:

[Tonepub]

So with three inputs on the Rhea are you going to be adding a couple more tonearms to that table? Seems a shame to let those other inputs go to waste...

[Masterlu]

So with three inputs on the Rhea are you going to be adding a couple more tonearms to that table? Seems a shame to let those other inputs go to waste...

I'm sure I'll add a second arm. :banana:

[jdandy]

Ivan.......Just like Tom T. Hall wrote in "Faster Horses"

"it's faster horses, younger women, older whiskey, and more money" :D

[Masterlu]

Ivan.......Just like Tom T. Hall wrote in "Faster Horses"

"it's faster horses, younger women, older whiskey, and more money" :D

That just about covers everything! ;)

[j3brow]

Ivan, do you have C1000 available to add to your ARC vs Rhea Sig shoot out?
Betcha a lot of us would be interested in how significant a jump in performance.

[Masterlu]

Ivan, do you have C1000 available to add to your ARC vs Rhea Sig shoot out?
Betcha a lot of us would be interested in how significant a jump in performance.

I will be connecting the phono-pre to my C1000C/T :yes:

[Masterlu]

My Clearaudio table just arrived, one day early I may add.

Pics to follow...

[Tonepub]

Great news! Is Garth on his way after RMAF to set it up? That arm is somewhat complicated.

[jdandy]

Ivan.......When is your rack due to arrive?

[Masterlu]

Great news! Is Garth on his way after RMAF to set it up? That arm is somewhat complicated.

My HRS rack is 8-10 weeks away from being completed. :sigh:

[Masterlu]

Ivan.......When is your rack due to arrive?

No time soon, unfortunately...

[PHC1]

No time soon, unfortunately...

Got any milk crates? Remember, I am the "gear on the floor" master. :D

You can use any other stand or rack for the time being, you'll just have to "level" the TT again once set up on a more permanent rack. Of course lifting the TT with the heavy platter is never a good thing for the bearings so be sure to take it off.

[Masterlu]

Got any milk crates? Remember, I am the "gear on the floor" master. :D

You can use any other stand or rack for the time being, you'll just have to "level" the TT again once set up on a more permanent rack. Of course lifting the TT with the heavy platter is never a good thing for the bearings so be sure to take it off.

No thanks, I'll wait. ;)

[Masterlu]

Here is what 10lbs of Silver Eclipse 6.0 looks like. :)

[Masterlu]

A few of the Innovation Table...

[hkval]

Have you ever heard a Turntable of this quality on a system competitive with your quality system? Or-------Do you just know intellectually and "gutwise" that this is going to be great?
I am in awe of how complex this entire selection and setup process is.

[Masterlu]

Have you ever heard a Turntable of this quality on a system competitive with your quality system? Or-------Do you just know intellectually and "gutwise" that this is going to be great?
I am in awe of how complex this entire selection and setup process is.

Howard, I have not heard a Table such as mine on anything close to what I'm currently using.

Gutwise, I do know this is going to be both great fun; and sound incredible.

It is very complex, and I believe synergy among all the components in the chain will play a huge roll.

Did I mention, I'm having Fun! :banana:

[vintage_tube]

What tone arm & cartridge did you select?

Bob

[Masterlu]

What tone arm & cartridge did you select?

Bob

I have the Universal & the Da Vinci'

I can always add another arm... :rolleyes:

[vintage_tube]

I have the Universal & the Da Vinci'

I can always add another arm... :rolleyes:

Excellent combo -- I really like CA products & the individual components really work well with each other. You'll love it Ivan. Mark my words.

You won't need another arm -- unless it's mono & doubt you'd be into that -- I'm okay with an occasional mono recording -- but don't play them back to back.

Bob

[Masterlu]

Excellent combo -- I really like CA products & the individual components really work well with each other. You'll love it Ivan. Mark my words.

You won't need another arm -- unless it's mono & doubt you'd be into that -- I'm okay with an occasional mono recording -- but don't play them back to back.

Bob

Judging by the weight of just the TT box and the machine work of what I've seen; this thing is amazing.

I never thought I would go back to Vinyl; who knew?? :thumbsup:

[vintage_tube]

You shocked me.

BTW, I ran a resonance calculator on the 9 inch arm/cartridge and if I entered the data correctly (9g tonearm ((13.10g w/VTA)) and 7g for the da Vinci that has a compliance of 15/15u/mN) -- the resonance number, in Hertz, comes out to 10.273411074427356 Hz. Outstanding.:thumbsup:

Make sure you add a test LP to your wish list.

Bob

[Masterlu]

But, of course!

[Tonepub]

Actually, the more vinyl you get, the more you'll crave a 2nd or 3rd arm. None of it is mastered equally. A really resolving cart like the DaVinci will sound great with some records, awful with others. I use the DaVinci to play perfect recordings, the Koetsu to add a little warmth on bright recordings and a Clearaudio Maestro wood to play beaters.

You've got those two extra inputs....

Take advantage of em!

[Masterlu]

Actually, the more vinyl you get, the more you'll crave a 2nd or 3rd arm. None of it is mastered equally. A really resolving cart like the DaVinci will sound great with some records, awful with others. I use the DaVinci to play perfect recordings, the Koetsu to add a little warmth on bright recordings and a Clearaudio Maestro wood to play beaters.

You've got those two extra inputs....

Take advantage of em!

Jeff, did I mention; I'll get you back! :D

[jdandy]

I never thought I would go back to Vinyl; who knew?? :thumbsup:


http://bryanconnor.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/27in1.jpg

[Masterlu]

http://bryanconnor.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/27in1.jpg

Dan, just tell me there aren't any other formats I'm missing. :o

[jdandy]

Dan, just tell me there aren't any other formats I'm missing. :o

Elcassette. :laughin:

[two dot]

Got 8 tracks????

[Masterlu]

Whew! then I'm good... :roflmao:

[Masterlu]

Just bought my 30th album, maybe I should wait till I can spin them. :scratch2:

[PHC1]

Just bought my 30th album, maybe I should wait till I can spin them. :scratch2:

Pick a record cleaning machine yet?

[Masterlu]

Pick a record cleaning machine yet?

I have the Clearaudio Double Matrix on order.

[Masterlu]

I received a few PM's asking what the table looks like, so I'm reposting these from my CEDIA thread.

[j3brow]

I will be connecting the phono-pre to my C1000C/T :yes:

Of course. But do you happen to have an extra c1000 to bring to your analog rack to compare the PHONO capabilities of the c1000 to the ARC and Rhea. In other words plugging the phono cable signal directly from table into c1000 phono input. Thanks.

Jason

[Masterlu]

Of course. But do you happen to have an extra c1000 to bring to your analog rack to compare the PHONO capabilities of the c1000 to the ARC and Rhea. In other words plugging the phono cable signal directly from table into c1000 phono input. Thanks.

Jason

I do, but they are sealed in the box.

[j3brow]

I do, but they are sealed in the box.

Oh well. I'm sure your rig deserves a top shelf phonostage. Just wonder how far off McIntosh's phonostage is from top shelf.

[chessman]

I do not know much about tables, but that thing is sure sexy looking. :yes:

[Masterlu]

I received my silver faced PPP for my analog rig; one small step closer to completion. :)

48 LP's and counting...

[Masterlu]

It may seem silly, but I really want to know exactly how many hours my analog rig will have on it.

I couldn't find the link to the last ones I bought, but after lots of searching I finally found it.

Here it is for those interested:

ENM Company: Hour Meters, LCD Meters, Mechanical Counters and Timers (http://www.enmco.com/new/t47.html)

http://www.enmco.com/pdf/692.PDF

I went with the T47A1

[Tonepub]

I received my silver faced PPP for my analog rig; one small step closer to completion. :)

48 LP's and counting...

So you've dropped about $50k on an analog front end and you've got 48 records? Hope it lives up to your expectations....

[Masterlu]

So you've dropped about $50k on an analog front end and you've got 48 records? Hope it lives up to your expectations....

I thought I was doing good for my first 2 weeks out shopping. :scratch2:

[jdandy]

Ivan.......I purchased one of these hour meters when I installed the MC275's in the studio system and put new Gold Lion KT88 tubes in them. I have 316 hours on the tubes. This is a great little meter. I added a length of 16 gauge extension cord to its leads, and power it through a switched outlet on the PPP.

I think having one for your turntable is a good idea. You will always know how many hours are on your cartridge.


http://www.enmco.com/new/images/t47a1.jpg

[Masterlu]

Ivan.......I purchased one of these hour meters when I installed the MC275's in the studio system and put new Gold Lion KT88 tubes in them. I have 316 hours on the tubes. This is a great little meter. I added a lengeth of 16 gauge extension cord to its leads, and power it through a switched outlet on the PPP.

I think having one for your turntable is a good idea. You will always know how many hours are on your cartridge.


http://www.enmco.com/new/images/t47a1.jpg

Exactly :yes:

[Tonepub]

Or if you want portability, these work really well from Radio Shack..

Sportline© 226 Sport Timer Stopwatch (Green) - RadioShack.com (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3777308)

They come in real handy when reviewing gear, I've got about six of them, so I can keep track of how many hours everything has on it. Batteries last very long.

[TommyC]

Any update? Is the TT set up?

[Masterlu]

Any update? Is the TT set up?

Not just yet, I'm in Florida at the moment. :(

[Masterlu]

Within about 3-4 weeks, my analog rig will be a reality. :banana:

[PHC1]

Within about 3-4 weeks, my analog rig will be a reality. :banana:

I think this is the most patience I've seen from you in the last 4 years... :D

[Masterlu]

I think this is the most patience I've seen from you in the last 4 years... :D

I've been distracted by multiple car purchases. :lmao:

[joe1515]

HI Masterlu

I visit the site almost everyday but do not often post, I am an avid vinyl listener welcome to the club. Congrats on the new set up and equipment.

I am just wondering what the thought process is to spend just as much or money on the rack as to the cost of the turntable, tonearm, and cartridge combination?

Joe

[Masterlu]

HI Masterlu

I visit the site almost everyday but do not often post, I am an avid vinyl listener welcome to the club. Congrats on the new set up and equipment.

I am just wondering what the thought process is to spend just as much or money on the rack as to the cost of the turntable, tonearm, and cartridge combination?

Joe

Joe, I just saw your post.

The HRS-MXR rack is a very special piece of equipment. I recently hooked up a friend with a pair of them. His comments back to me were that his existing analog rig was taken to an entirely new level.

He also described the fit and finish of the HRS-MXR to a Bentley Azure.

The isolation properties of this rack are un-paralleled. He also owns SRA products.

Anyway, my analog rig is about to go into high gear.

Stay Tuned...

[Masterlu]

I got my Fozgometer today; what is it you say?

http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/images/fosgate/Fozgometer043_001.jpg

fosgate/fozgometer (http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/fozgometer.html)

[jdandy]

Ivan.......Leave it to Jim Fosgate to invent an excellent tool for phono cartridge azimuth alignment. This will do the trick, quickly and efficiently.

Here's the Fozgometer owner's manual for those interested: http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/Manuals/Fosgate/FozgometerManual.pdf

[Removed]

You will need a test Lp....this one is good (Analogue Productions Test LP)

[Masterlu]

I went with Clearaudio's version.

[Tonepub]

Does the straight line arm have an azimuth adjustment?

If so, here's the gadget you really want:

Cartright - Easy Cartridge Alignment from The Soundsmith (http://www.sound-smith.com/cartright/index.html)

Will allow you to dial in everything.....

[BearCubinNY]

Does the straight line arm have an azimuth adjustment?

If so, here's the gadget you really want:

Cartright - Easy Cartridge Alignment from The Soundsmith (http://www.sound-smith.com/cartright/index.html)

Will allow you to dial in everything.....

I WANT THAT! :thumbsup:

Reg

[Tonepub]

I can't wait....

[Puma Cat]

Ivan.......Leave it to Jim Fosgate to invent an excellent tool for phono cartridge azimuth alignment. This will do the trick, quickly and efficiently.

Here's the Fozgometer owner's manual for those interested: http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/Manuals/Fosgate/FozgometerManual.pdf

i use a dual trace B+K Oscilloscope....and the AP Ultimate Test record. That way I can simultaneously measure the amplitude of differences. Always better to have continuous data variables to measure rather than binary (on/off/red/green) as you need smaller data sets and you can actually do Design of Experiments! ;)

But, I am also awaiting Soundsmith's new cartridge alignment measurement device, too.

[Masterlu]

Aesthetix Rhea Signature in the House.

[howiebrou]

I can't wait....

Jeff,

I think some of the alignment tools on the market will not work on the Avid tt due to the raised spindle. I used the one avid makes and it checked out fine after having used the alignment tool that came with the sme v.

I'm sure Conrad will advise.

Howie

[cmalak]

Aesthetix Rhea Signature in the House.

Congrats Ivan :banana:. Looking forward to see the analog rig set up in your Cape digs :thumbsup:

[Masterlu]

Congrats Ivan :banana:. Looking forward to see the analog rig set up in your Cape digs :thumbsup:

Getting very close now! :yes:

[jdandy]

Getting very close now! :yes:

Ivan......I'm guessing six days. :banana:

[cmalak]

By the way Ivan, I thought you also got the Aesthetix IO :scratch2:...so you are getting both? I would have thought you would have cancelled the Rhea Signature when you decided to go for the IO, or maybe you are going to compare and decide which to keep...in any case, looking forward to it.

[Masterlu]

By the way Ivan, I thought you also got the Aesthetix IO :scratch2:...so you are getting both? I would have thought you would have cancelled the Rhea Signature when you decided to go for the IO, or maybe you are going to compare and decide which to keep...in any case, looking forward to it.

The IO's are made to order and burnt in extensively at the factory; I actually obliged a fellow enthusiast by delivering mine to him. ;)

I'll rough it with my Rhea Signature for a bit :)

[Masterlu]

Ivan......I'm guessing six days. :banana:

Perhaps a lucky guess, we'll see...

[cmalak]

The IO's are made to order and burnt in extensively at the factory; I actually obliged a fellow enthusiast by delivering mine to him. ;)

I'll rough it with my Rhea Signature for a bit :)

You mean Reg got the IO you originally ordered for yourself :thumbsup: :D Nicely done. I think the Rhea Signature for you to start with is a solid option, just make sure to get some dead quiet tubes in there as Jeff has pointed out. And when you are ready to move on up from the slums, I am guessing some lucky AAer is going to get a good deal on a Rhea Signature :thumbsup:

[Masterlu]

You mean Reg got the IO you originally ordered for yourself :thumbsup: :D Nicely done. I think the Rhea Signature for you to start with is a solid option, just make sure to get some dead quiet tubes in there as Jeff has pointed out. And when you are ready to move on up from the slums, I am guessing some lucky AAer is going to get a good deal on a Rhea Signature :thumbsup:

Yes, you figured it out :ok:

I need to get my Analog Rig operational now, I will upgrade when I return again.

[BearCubinNY]

You mean Reg got the IO you originally ordered for yourself :thumbsup: :D Nicely done. I think the Rhea Signature for you to start with is a solid option, just make sure to get some dead quiet tubes in there as Jeff has pointed out. And when you are ready to move on up from the slums, I am guessing some lucky AAer is going to get a good deal on a Rhea Signature :thumbsup:

What a Pal! Ivan showed great restraint and consideration by allowing me to skip in line. :yes: The Io is a fantastic Phono Pre. The guys at Aesthetix had it on the bench for almost 4 weeks making sure it was just right.

If it's any consolation, Ivan had the luxury of picking his color scheme. Come to think of it, I think he's doing silver on the vinyl rig. Although I would have gone for the black to match the rest of my rack gear.

Reg

[Masterlu]

Today was a cable marathon; one of the most difficult runs ever. From my "gear catwalk" through the wall, around the soffit to the back of the room. Now all the cables are in place exactly where my TT rack will be.

I ran 50' runs of XLR Silver Eclipse for my TT pre-amp, another pair of same for my Phonitor headphone amp. An RG59 for my new Magnum Dynalab outdoor antenna, an Ethernet line, a 12 volt trigger line, and a Cat 6 cable for future use.

I'm glad that's done... :o

[gtubes]

:cigar:...50 feet, now there's a few bucks..omg

[Masterlu]

:cigar:...50 feet, now there's a few bucks..omg

I think it was like $15K retail, but right now all I can think about is the Advil kicking in. :sigh:

[jdandy]

Ivan.......This plays nice with a back ache. :yes:


http://pzrservices.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451ccbc69e201157087200e970b-400wi

[cmalak]

Ivan...a job well done does require some sort of celebratory libation at the end of the night :yes:

[Masterlu]

Bottoms up! :cheers:

[Still-One]

Ivan
I am not completely sure but I thought some cable manufacturers produce different cables for phono connections than the normal XLR due to impedance differences from other components. Does anyone with a better understanding have input?

Jim

[jdandy]

Jim.......That is typically true of tone arm cables to the phono preamp inputs from a turntable. In Ivan's case the balanced XLR's will be line level signals to an AUX input on the C1000T. The phono stage preamplifier will be in the rack under the turntable.

[Still-One]

Jim.......That is typically true of tone arm cables to the phono preamp inputs from a turntable. In Ivan's case the balanced XLR's will be line level signals to an AUX input on the C1000T. The phono stage preamplifier will be in the rack under the turntable.
Thanks Dan,,Got it.

[Masterlu]

Ivan
I am not completely sure but I thought some cable manufacturers produce different cables for phono connections than the normal XLR due to impedance differences from other components. Does anyone with a better understanding have input?

Jim

In addition, I had David Salz of Wireworld crunch the impedance numbers of my cables & phono-pre.

He "Green lighted" my config. :banana:

[Masterlu]

I'm looking forward to this week; my HRS-MXR rack will be arriving Tuesday. It has taken 10 weeks to manufacture it to perfection.

I have my new Innovation TT ready to assemble, my new phono pre is good to go, my new silver PPP is burning in on the bench.

I had a new dedicated 20 amp line installed as well. Many new pics to follow...

[Puma Cat]

I'm looking forward to this week; my HRS-MXR rack will be arriving Tuesday. It has taken 10 weeks to manufacture it to perfection.

I have my new Innovation TT ready to assemble, my new phono pre is good to go, my new silver PPP is burning in on the bench.

I had a new dedicated 20 amp line installed as well. Many new pics to follow...

How's the record collection looking?

[Masterlu]

How's the record collection looking?

I thought I was doing real good, but since I bought a 4 shelf album storage rack, it doesn't look very big. :o

[Puma Cat]

No, you're only now getting an idea of how these things go...I have a double row Ikea Expedit with 8 LP sized bins and another two-bin pine box, and it still does not hold everything that I have to store.

Or clean....

[KingRT]

I fell in love with a Turntable at the Show...

Here is a quick pic; more about this later.

http://audioaficionado.org/attachments/turntables/7193d1285364686-dont-fall-off-your-chair-dsc_1619.jpg

One of my favorite looking tables!
I was going to buy a Mitchell est. 5k total, but I was getting mixed direction in regard to the right cartridge using the McIntosh C46. Fremer said one thing a Mitchell dealer said the opposite. Gave up, MM or MC dunno. Now I see this....Furnature Art or Turntable.

[Masterlu]

Thanks Mike, it's both Art and a Record Player. :)

[Luv4nature]

Aesthetix Rhea Signature in the House.

A freaking good phono amp ! You'd be impressed with its pace and attack, yet retaining all the virtues of tube and analogue sound.

[Masterlu]

My HRS rack system just arrived.

[BearCubinNY]

My HRS rack system just arrived.

Another backbreaker! Good luck and say hello to Mr. Advil again!

Reg

[Masterlu]

Another backbreaker! Good luck and say hello to Mr. Advil again!

Reg

Ha, ha, you're not kidding. Mine's a little taller but you had two of them. :yikes:

[Still-One]

Ivan, just think you can do this all over again in Parkland. :lmao:

[Face]

Very nice! I saw Reg's earlier this week and was impressed by the appearance and build quality.

Have fun putting it together. :D

[Masterlu]

Ivan, just think you can do this all over again in Parkland. :lmao:

Thanks Jim :strangle: