Soulution 520 preamp

[Car commander]

Originally Posted by PlanarSpeakerFan

Yup, but it sounds like you are really happy with the performance as it is, so there's probably no need. Upgraditis can be an expensive affliction.

Ken

The only way I would upgrade is if I needed warranty work done. Otherwise I am trying to keep a lid on upgrade itis.

The only limit to this is the depth of your wallet and space.

[hoosiertom]

Originally Posted by cmarin

Unfortunately bad weather has delayed shipping schedules significantly. Hope to receive cables by Friday and report after a week of testing.

Any updates on the Vovox cables... What combo ? IC, SC, PC ??

All the best,

Tom

[cmarin]

Originally Posted by hoosiertom

Any updates on the Vovox cables... What combo ? IC, SC, PC ?? All the best, Tom

Hi Tom,

Yes. In fact I just shipped the demo cables back yesterday. I haven't had a chance to complete all the comparisons yet, but here's a quick summary of my experience with the Vovox cables.

The Vovox demo set included: a digital SPDIF IC (from Berkeley Alpha USB to Trinity DAC), XLR IC (from Trinity DAC to Soulution 725 pre), XLR IC (from Soulution 725 pre to Soulution 711 pwr) and SC (from Soulution 711 to Magico Q7 mkI).

I used MIT power conditioners and PCs.

The Vovox cables were neutral, transparent and musical in spades. They let the best of the Trinity/Soulutions shine through the Q7s without constraint. I must add that the Trinity DAC is a very special component and it was also well complemented by the Vovox cables.

The same was true when I tried the Vovox cables with the Robert Koda K15 preamp. The cables let the richness and musicality of the KODA come through unscathed.

I've become a firm believer in the quality of the Vovox cables. They are the real thing. And although I am still evaluating other cables, the Vovox will be a part of my system; either as the only set, or as an alternate option similar to what I have with my Solution/Robert Koda K15 preamps.

Best regards,

[Still-One]

One local dealer called with the opportunity to go hear the 711 stereo amp this weekend. Unfortunately we will be in Aspen for the next several days. I am hoping they will still have it when I get back.

[Car commander]

Originally Posted by Still-One

One local dealer called with the opportunity to go hear the 711 stereo amp this weekend. Unfortunately we will be in Aspen for the next several days. I am hoping they will still have it when I get back.

I don't think you will be disappointed.

[cmarin]

Originally Posted by Car commander

I don't think you will be disappointed.

+1 The 711 is an amazing amp. It will not be your limiting factor. It is superseded in my opinion only by the 701 monos.

[Car commander]

I have read that the 701 monos sound different than the 710 or 711.

[cmarin]

I've had both the 710 and the 711. There is no question that the 711 offers a significant improvement over the 710.

The 711s will keep up with the best sources, preamplifiers, and cables. They will not be the limiting factor.

If your sources or cables or isolation components or power conditioning is the limiting factor, then the 710 will be ideal. But if the ancillary components are at their best, then you need the 711 to maximize the performance of your system.

I've heard the 701s with the same equipment that I've had in my room (berkeley ref DAC, soulution 725 and Vovox cables). The monos are basically twice the price of the 711 and offer greater headroom and all the performance that additional capacity implies (greater dynamics and effortlessness).

For the money, the 711 can't be beat. Now if you happen to have an extra $75k or so burning a hole in your pocket, then the monos would be the choice.

[Car commander]

Hmmm, not everyone thinks the 725/711 setup is better than the 720/710 setup. I also don't think its a limiting factor. YMMV.

[PlanarSpeakerFan]

Originally Posted by Car commander

Hmmm, not everyone thinks the 725/711 setup is better than the 720/710 setup. I also don't think its a limiting factor. YMMV.

Jim,

I'm curious about what makes the 725/711 potentially better than the 720/710. Are they more transparent, more dynamic, offer greater detail or enhanced musicality? Or is it more a question of flavor? It would be interesting to do an A/B comparison. By the way, I couldn't be happier with my K-01/520/501/D3 system. It gives me all the performance I need and it is extremely musical to boot.

Ken