First Encounter-PWT & PWD combo ... and then some!

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by Ryan Conway

The SD memory slot found in the PWT is only used to store Album Metadata (covers, track titles, etc.). Additionally the SD card can also be used to update the firmware of either the PWT or PWD. The SD memory has no bearing on performance as the memory is not used as part to the solid state memory buffer for music.

Hi Ryan,

I did read this part. My question is - could I update it beyond the stock 1GB? Example 4GB or more?

Thanks.

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by PHC1

Jerry, was this decision based on any real listening tests?

Yes Sir! This was based on real listening. Via Rockport speakers, a new range/label the distributor now carries.

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by Stillone

Jerry

I did listen, but only for a short period. A couple of weeks ago the local PSA dealer had a set for two days to try and determine whether or how many he was going to order.

It is not the best listening environment but they sounded pretty good. Until I can get the opportunity for an extended listen with familiar material, I will not rush to judgement. Since it would hard for me to see that small screen from my seating position the lack of video outputs is a real issue and would probably kill a purchase on my part.
Jim

Yes, the screen is rather small but to me, that is not a concern as its performance is what I went after. This is something I did consider when plunging in.

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by JSCC

Yes Sir! This was based on real listening. Via Rockport speakers, a new range/label the distributor now carries.

So I take it you liked the sound of the Class D JR over the MC501s? Wow, I'll have to give them a listen. Quite a bargain at the price.

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by PHC1

So I take it you liked the sound of the Class D JR over the MC501s? Wow, I'll have to give them a listen. Quite a bargain at the price.

Hi Serge,

I was and had been very critical/skeptical about Class D amps some years back when they were first launched. I did not really care much for them as they dont seem "natural" sounding during my initial encounter.

However, things took a change when I heard these supposedly improved M501's monos recently. They exhibit none of the not so nice qualities. What attracted to me further were the way they pushes the Rockports and of course, the beautiful looking solid aluminum milled chassis housing.

You really got to give them a listen. At $7k per set (discount not withstanding), what is there to complain right? Moreover Jeff Rowland had designed a sort of DC power conditioner (external add on) which give out a whopping 384 watts to power each monoblock (or one can start with one piece first and then add on the other). I am giving these a miss for now as understand the principle is similar to that of the PPP.

Of course, the icing in Jeff's lineup, the two piece Criterion Pre and 300 series mono amplifiers (with DC build in) could be a contender with anything out there in the market. Of course, other on my lists would be the Wavacs, which to date, I am still being hounded/tempted by the dealer.

You should really go and give these small little baby powerhouse a listen. 500 watts into 8 Ohm and double that into 4 Ohm speaks volume of its design.

Cheers!

[Still-One]

Originally Posted by PHC1

So I take it you liked the sound of the Class D JR over the MC501s? Wow, I'll have to give them a listen. Quite a bargain at the price.

Serge

These Spectron Class D amps can be run mono and will power anything and handle difficult loads. They sound is darn good too.

The Musician III Mk2

Jim

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by Stillone

Serge

These Spectron Class D amps can be run mono and will power anything and handle difficult loads. The sound is darn good too.

The Musician III Mk2

Jim

Yup. I have read the reviews. They are indeed powerful and musical as the reviewer states.

As there are no distributors and at double the pricing, I had to choose Jeff's. At least, I am sure they are 240v version and had strong & reliable backup from our common friend Ron O.

Since you are into listening, do really listen to the higher end Criterion and 300 series monoblocks. Though not as powerful as the Spectrons, the build and sound level is really nice. Pricing too ..... over here, easily S$70k for the 4 piece family combo (preamp is 2 piece outfit)! I would have, if I had the Sasha's or Rockport Aquila or Altair... serious!

[PHC1]

I've heard the Jeff Rowland stuff years ago but have not heard the class D stuff. Not that I would ever replace my Lamm M1.2s with the Rowlands but I was thinking a pair of JR 102s may be nice for a secondary or tertiary system.

[JSCC]

Originally Posted by PHC1

I've heard the Jeff Rowland stuff years ago but have not heard the class D stuff. Not that I would ever replace my Lamm M1.2s with the Rowlands but I was thinking a pair of JR 102s may be nice for a secondary or tertiary system.

The M201's are a nice pair. Same bodywork, and same powerhouse ... 200 watts and double into 4 Ohm. The recent Jeff Rowland Class D amps had ironed out all the initial teething issues. Although of the same model, the changes had been done.

You really got to hear to believe. As a secondary "small" system, worthy of consideration.

[1KW]

Originally Posted by JSCC

What I did was sold off the MC501 and got myself the new Jeff Rowland Class D amps.

Jerry good luck with your new amps. I have stopped looking or thinking about other amps which is a nice place to be; I will have my 501's for many years Heck I would probably still have my MC252 if not for all the superlatives here on AA and AK about the 501's.