I have to admit it has been a little unnerving for me thinking about how I would react the first time I fired up my new Monbrison/Montille combo after all the build up on how good it would sound before I even received it.
What if I didn't like it? What if it was a step backwards or in the wrong direction from where I already was? That would've been seriously disappointing
and disheartening, but from the title of this post I'm assuming you can guess the outcome...
WOW! I didn't want to pass judgement till I heard it for myself but can officially drink the Kool Aid now...Now I understand why there is such conviction for the work that Shindo-san does.
I've been haphazardly putting systems together trying to "balance in" the good things and "balance out" the bad things but could never quite get what I was looking for and my house was turning into an Audio Bazaar as gear moved in and out at a rapid pace. I even tried once to build a synergistic system with all components of another single brand but was left with a system that seemed to sound the worst of them all (too lean, too dry, too analytical, too hifi-ish, etc.).
Finally with this combo I am listening to music and not just hearing background sound with my laptop on my lap reading about what pieces of gear to consider next. I finally feel I've landed in the right spot and can stop the madness...Did I say "finally" enough!!
Seriously though I'd like to thank all the wonderful folks on AA, specifically Alberto, for talking me through this next step and helping me find my bearings here. This is a great community and really the first that I've actually spent a good amount of time on with regard to participation.
I'd also like to thank Matt at Pitch Perfect Audio for working with me to find a setup that would work for my space and existing gear. Without hesitation I would recommend to anyone considering Shindo (or any other lines that PPA carries) to contact Matt, I guarantee that you'll be in good hands.
I'll try and post some pictures soon...but i can't guarantee that my butt won't be stationary in the listening position most of the next few nights.
Now if only someone would buy my Bel Canto REF500M amps so I can buy more gear!!!
Wishlist: Shindo Mr. T, Shindo/A23 Cables, DAC, Vinyl Rig...Donations Welcomed
