I'd like to invite the Ravers over on Oct-23. As many know, I have hosted the last 3 October raves, and it has rained, often torrentially, for each one! Topround has guaranteed good weather, so at least we have that going for us (yes, a Caddyshack reference).
The ground rules: Start ~ 1 PM, end when it ends. Now that that's taken care of...
System 1: Main 2-channel rig. I had hoped to have some Von Schweikert VR-33s here for the rave, but the money fairies had other ideas. I did make a huge improvement to the sound of the room, however you can't see it. I added 3/4" plywood over a layer of green glue (Thanks Bryan) and under new carpeting. Each piece of plywood is separated from the adjacent pieces by the width of one CD (guess how I managed that) and screwed down mightily. The change in SQ is nothing short of dramatic. (Floor is suspended and heavily braced from below).
Anyway, Logitech Touch, EE DAC, Rotel 1072 CDP (might borrow a Krell SACD Std from my brother), VAC Std MKII pre and Tommy's latest and greatest (literally, the most recent and what he says in the finest piece he has ever built) Cherry Plus amp that we heard at Jim's in Sep., Von Sch VR4JR MKIs, ProJect Perspective Carbon TT.
If someone wants to bring some powercords, balanced or unbalanced cables or even speaker cables (8') (Hmmm, I wonder if any Raver is in the PC or SC business) we could swap around no problem. Or a digital cable. Or DAC. Etc.
Evan, maybe the Aethers will be here by then (not holding breath) and could come visit?
System 2: TV system. You guys haven't seen this yet, but I got a 58" plasma, Marantz 5004 receiver and Playstation, so I'd like to spend some time checking out people's Blu-Ray concert vids. (I have only 3). Same B&W in-walls as before. Borrowing my buddy Dewesh's 15" Rhythmik sub (and he actually thinks he's getting it back, HA)
In the past, we have set up systems in this room completely separate from the HT system, so whatever people want to bring we can throw together. I have a Forte preamp that can anchor whatever. If we do nothing but video that's fine too.
My brother Dave's store: Has moved to Clinton, NJ, about 1/2 mile off of Rt 78, Exit 15 so right on the way for you New Yorkers. If anyone wants to stop by on the way let me know and I'll post directions - very easy to get to. He's trying to steal the Oct rave from me but I told him he has to get his own!
I'll put directions on the Yahoo group in a bit. Hunterdon County, NJ, exits 11 or 12, Rt 78
(Sharen shouts from the kitchen "RSVPs appreciated!")
Oh, still 2 dogs and 2 cats.
I'll be there. I might bring a homemade pair of Ic's if I can get some good rca connectors that work well with this type of cable.
If you ned any dogs or salads , let me know, my pleasure of course.
Leave the umbrella at home but bring a windbreaker because it is going to be a beautiful fall day with no rain :thumb:
Mike
Quote from: mfsoa on September 21, 2010, 04:05:35 PM
Topround has guaranteed good weather, so at least we have that going for us (yes, a Caddyshack reference).
Everyone bring your 1 Iron, just in case! :rofl:
QuoteTopround has guaranteed good weather....
He must of checked the Magic 8 Ball..... :rofl:
(http://www.toys.ie/product_images/A01834_M.jpg)
See you on the 23rd. .....thanks Mike !! :thumb:
Dayem...I'm gonna miss this year's gathering in the forest again...you keep picking the same weekend of the Record Fair... :(
I'm like a junkie...got to get my annual music fix. :lol:
I'll have to read about the rave , and look at the pretty pixies...will miss the pie.
Quote from: AcidJazz on September 21, 2010, 10:16:12 PM
Dayem...I'm gonna miss this year's gathering in the forest again...you keep picking the same weekend of the Record Fair... :(
I'm like a junkie...got to get my annual music fix. :lol:
I'll have to read about the rave , and look at the pretty pixies...will miss the pie.
Why can't you go just Friday and Sunday to the Record Fair ? :?
Quote from: AcidJazz on September 21, 2010, 10:16:12 PM
Dayem...I'm gonna miss this year's gathering in the forest again...you keep picking the same weekend of the Record Fair... :(
I'm like a junkie...got to get my annual music fix. :lol:
Record Fair? Details please [-o<
Quote from: tmazz on September 21, 2010, 11:10:12 PM
Quote from: AcidJazz on September 21, 2010, 10:16:12 PM
Dayem...I'm gonna miss this year's gathering in the forest again...you keep picking the same weekend of the Record Fair... :(
I'm like a junkie...got to get my annual music fix. :lol:
Record Fair? Details please [-o<
http://wfmu.org/recfair/
Martin,
You must go on Friday to get all the good records before the collectors buy it all up :thumb:
Ever see those guys flip thru records? Amazing,
I saw one guy flip thru 2 stacks of records at the same time, he could flip thru 4 records per second and pull out like a machine all the good ones. Amazing...like a machine some of those people.
Mike
Yeah Mike, those guys are like seasoned record hunters...there was also a guy flipping through the $1. cd boxes and scanning the bar codes with a handheld device :shock: He said it contained a database of albums with a sliding scale of their worth.
CHris, cuz, I will always wonder what I missed, since the radio station table is constantly rotating in new crates of cd...full of goodies.. :lol:
I'm going to try and go Sunday to the Record Fair....I hope. :?
Does anyone have an Uberbuss that likes to travel? I'd love to hear one in my system without having to pay and then be forced to keep it because it sounds too good!
It'd be interesting to hear the effect on the Cherry Plus w/ its 1800 watt torroid.
-Mike
Quote from: mfsoa on September 23, 2010, 11:17:41 AM
I'd love to hear one in my system without having to pay and then be forced to keep it because it sounds too good!
:rofl: I can relate to that sentiment...
looks good for me
Mike,
Will be attending. Let me know you would like me to bring anything.
Thanks
Unfortunately I'll be in Ohio for Parents day. I was hoping to go two for two. Now to look forward to November!
Gregg
Mike...I'm in, it will be great to meet some of you guys for the first time. :thumb: :thumb:
I'll be there Mike remember I'd light to help out Beer or what ever........Bill
Make sure everybody brings their pom poms, especially you topround..... :rofl:
Hey Mike,
You know we look forward to the event, rain or shine. For head count purposes, I'd like to be on the list. However, I likely may not have my car; so would like a lift, if anyone is going via the Holland Tunnel area and is willing to give me a ride...... Please let me know, PM or otherwise. Thanks in advance. :thumb:
Shek
Mike,
I hope to attend. Thanks.
Jim
Hi Mike -
Looking forward to attending.
I have 3 or 4 BR concert disks I can bring as well. What do you have already?
Gene
Gene,
Return to Forever at Montreaux
Jeff Beck at Ronnie Scott's (Tal.... :drool:)
Pat Metheney Group, forget title but live from South Korea - (To me, this disc represents music-making of the highest standard - very impressive)
-Mike
OK - I have the Beck title, will leave it home,
I'll bring;
Chris Botti in Boston
k.d. lang: Live in London With the BBC Concert Orchestra
Mike...are you talking
Pat Metheny-We Live Here-Live in Japan?
I got that DVD, should I bring it??
Ed
I can bring Tori Amos Live at Montreux on Blu Ray
As usual for a rave, bring what you want and usually it gets played - If not, no biggie.
Looking forward to this - I think the system is sounding fine (I'll probably switch it on Sat AM and think it sounds like crap :o).
If someone has a digital cable they'd like to show off, I'm game. I'm currently using some sort of cheapy Monster digital and am curious to try something else.
Turntable is up and running (new belt and 4m cables to reach to the preamp) so maybe we can spin some, but I'm hearing a slight lean to the left (more air in L channel) that I can't dial out. Good thing it's a < $100 cartridge, if that's the culprit.
Is the upcoming gorgeous weather this weekend a good or bad omen?
-Mike
Quote from: mfsoa on October 07, 2010, 06:04:26 AM
Turntable is up and running (new belt and 4m cables to reach to the preamp) so maybe we can spin some, but I'm hearing a slight lean to the left (more air in L channel) that I can't dial out. Good thing it's a < $100 cartridge, if that's the culprit.
Mike,
Sounds like a cartridge alignment issue. Without knowing what kind of arm you are using, I can't be sure of what adjustments you have available to you. But one of the easiest places to start (if you can is the anti-skating control. If the anti-skating is not set properly the stylus will press harder on one side of the grove than the other, causing a channel imbalance. Try adjusting it and see if that effects the imbalance you are hearing. On most arms with adjustable anti-skating the adjustment is somehow marked with a numerical scale that you are supposed to set equal to the tracking weight you set up for the cartridge. However the calibration on the control is often not a good as it should be, so like most anything else in this hobby, the only way to know for sure that it is set right is to do it by ear.
If you want more info on TT setup, the follow web page give a really nice high level overview of the process:
http://www.soundfountain.com/amb/ttadjust.html
Thanks tmazz,
I have a ProJect TT and arm that uses the dangly-weight type of anti-skate. I've tried no AS, correct AS and too much AS and get the same impression of lack of air in the R channel. I just did as good of a setup job as I can w/ the ProJect protractor.
Some say azimuth can affect channel balance and some disagree - I haven't played with this - It looks as close to level/perpendicular as possible. What say you?
I haven't yet started working my way backwards w/ swapping cable channels, which could identify a preamp or phono preamp issue. I don't want to swap leads on the cartridge as this was a pita to do on initial setup, but I might want to ultimately.
The problem isn't super bad, but does seem present more than not.
My albums are pretty beaten up, so the TT is not my main source so I'm not too worried about the imbalance thing right now.
-Mike
The easiest way to check azimuth is to drop the stylus on a small mirror. If the cartridge is perpendicular with the platter the actual certridge body and the reflected one will form a continuous straight line. If the azimuth is not set correctly then the body and the reflectionwill start to form a slight v around the point where they both meet. Of course this is much more difficult to do if your cartridge is "nude" or the body itself is not perpendicular the the headshell. without a straitedge to use for a reference the reflection provides you with no useful guidance. In that case you would have to play some kind of mono test and measure the output voltages at the turntable jacks to make sure they are the same across the two channels.
You are correct about some people not thinking that azimuth adjustments are important. For example, SME does no provide for any kind of azimuth adjustments on its Series IV and Series V tomearms.
Tom
However, it's not the body that has to be parallel to the record surface (although, in a perfect world that would work). It's the stylus being 90 degrees to the groove that is important. Much harder to see, and even that is not entirely correct. What azimuth is really supposed to do is to minimize crosstalk between channels (or maximize channel separation). You really need to measure the output of each channel with a constant sine wave from a test record, one channel at a time.
But, for someone who can't or doesn't want to do that, then eyeballing a square cartridge body is probably the best method available.
Quote from: BobM on October 07, 2010, 11:11:46 AM
However, it's not the body that has to be parallel to the record surface (although, in a perfect world that would work). It's the stylus being 90 degrees to the groove that is important. Much harder to see, and even that is not entirely correct. What azimuth is really supposed to do is to minimize crosstalk between channels (or maximize channel separation). You really need to measure the output of each channel with a constant sine wave from a test record, one channel at a time.
But, for someone who can't or doesn't want to do that, then eyeballing a square cartridge body is probably the best method available.
You're right, I was just trying to keep it simple.
Quote from: mfsoa on October 07, 2010, 06:04:26 AM
As usual for a rave, bring what you want and usually it gets played - If not, no biggie.
Looking forward to this - I think the system is sounding fine (I'll probably switch it on Sat AM and think it sounds like crap :o).
If someone has a digital cable they'd like to show off, I'm game. I'm currently using some sort of cheapy Monster digital and am curious to try something else.
Turntable is up and running (new belt and 4m cables to reach to the preamp) so maybe we can spin some, but I'm hearing a slight lean to the left (more air in L channel) that I can't dial out. Good thing it's a < $100 cartridge, if that's the culprit.
Is the upcoming gorgeous weather this weekend a good or bad omen?
-Mike
Mike
I will not be there . Family crap. I have digital cable that Buddy made . Joe will be bringing it to return to Paul so you can all hear Buddy's cable
Bummer, Evan.
I guess you'll just have to have a mini-rave at your place once they're broken in :thumb:
Quote from: mfsoa on October 07, 2010, 04:01:49 PM
Bummer, Evan.
I guess you'll just have to have a mini-rave at your place once they're broken in :thumb:
I sure will. You know they are never really mini
Buddy's Digital cable is quite good...I use it also, beats out my old AudioQuest something, and the good ole Monsters.
Levi told me not to pay any $$ until I hear the Buddy digital cable. (The 'Lil Buddy Cable, named after his dac?!)
Straight RCA? BNC option?
I ask because I went to hook my CDP up to my EE dac via optical, and oops, no optical out on the CDP!
So I'd like to use RCA to BNC from the SB Touch to EE, and RCA to RCA from CBP to EE.
I think he can make up whatever connectors you specify...I got RCA's...I have nothing with BNC...
Quote from: mfsoa on October 07, 2010, 04:19:03 PM
Levi told me not to pay any $$ until I hear the Buddy digital cable. (The 'Lil Buddy Cable, named after his dac?!)
Straight RCA? BNC option?
I ask because I went to hook my CDP up to my EE dac via optical, and oops, no optical out on the CDP!
So I'd like to use RCA to BNC from the SB Touch to EE, and RCA to RCA from CBP to EE.
The loaner cable is rca all the way.
I am planing on coming always liked mikes speakers
10-day weather forecast: Sunny and 63°. Could it be? :thumb:
I'll get directions out this weekend.
-Mike
Mike - thought I'd let you know I'm planning to attend. Finally you're having a rave on a weekend I'm not working.
Mike Fox
One week away, Weather.com says 61 and sunny
Cross my fingers on weather. I am in NJ Oct-Nov, I will be there.
quoc
Hey Mike...looks like I will be making your Rave this year (now watch the dark clouds close in :lol: ) I have the OK from Modwright to bring their KWA100 SE tour demo amp to the rave for audition.
So stock up on that yummy pie... :thumb:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action-gallery;sa=view;id=48770)
QuoteIf you ned any dogs or salads , let me know, my pleasure of course.
Leave the umbrella at home but bring a windbreaker because it is going to be a beautiful fall day with no rain
Mike
Hi Mike, hopefully you'll see this - If you could bring some shrimp salad and maybe one or two others (slaw etc.) that'd be great.
You called the weather at Jim's back in September - Still looking good. :thumb:
-Mike
no problem on the salads.
mike
Can Evan bring the autoformers if he is coming?
you have to ask joe.I ONLY HAD THEM FOR A FEW HRS
Mike,
I'll try to attend. Still recovering from RMAF. Reporting and photographing takes a lot of time away from enjoying the show.
Paul
I will like to attend so anyone want to carpool from long island?
Paul
I can make make it, have to leave a little early to cover my son as wife out of town.
Address?
I think the LI boys are going to avoid the long trek to Mongolia this time 'round. I know I'm heading the other way ... out to wine country on LI's north shore for a little harvest festival wine tasting, corn mazes, wine tasting, pumpkins, wine tasting, picnic, and wine tasting. aa
Are you going to swallow the wine or spit it out :rofl:
If Joe goes do you want me to send him with the Nuforce amps ? they are not that special even though I haven't left them on all day like I heard you should for better sound. They are the Ref 9V3 SE
Quote from: etcarroll on October 21, 2010, 05:08:20 AM
I can make make it, have to leave a little early to cover my son as wife out of town.
Address?
I'll send you a P.M. Are you not part of our Yahoo Group? Directions were/are sent to the group via email.
Thanks, got 'em.
I used to get notifications from the Yahoo group, but they stopped the same time NY Rave disappeared from AC, I assumed the Yahoo group also got 'disappeared'.
Guess I'll have to log into Yahoo and see what's up.
EDIT - Nope, I don't have the NY Rave as a group anymore.
Looks like lukasz of lampizator dac fame will be making a showing at this rave. all the way from Poland!
google lampizator
he is bringing a version of his dac
Mike
Hey guys shoot the directions and time to me also so I can GPS my way over to Mikes on Saturday.
Thanks
Ed :thumb:
Nuforce - I think we'll have our hands full w/ the Cherry Plus and the Modwright :drool: but they are small, and you never know... From the StereoTimes review the Plus pretty much spanked the Nuforces, and mine is a step up from that unit (1800 watt transformer) Lets see, 1800 watt transformer, 90% Class D efficiency, what does that get us :shock:
Superb weather in store, Thanks Topround 8)
-Mike
Ouch...the electric spanking of the war babies...I hear shockwaves echoing throughout the world.., :lol:
Looks like I'll have a Krell SACD MKIII for the rave if anyone wants to bring SACDs. It hasn't been unboxed from a repair yet, so I assuming it'll work.
Would still be interested in trying digital cables, power cords (any Kaplans in the group gathering dust?) balanced or RCA ICs, whatever.
Paul Kaplan, you don't happen to be coming, and happen to have your new power conditioner in your trunk, do you?
I'm pretty sure Dewesh is bringing his tiny but mighty Mark and Daniel Minis (I think) - if anyone else wants the bring speakers, have at it.
No Cherry Monos :(
-Mike
I'll bring some speakers, and some SACDs ,and concert Blu-Rays
If anyone needs to get back onto the yahoo group, please send me a P.M. with your email address and I'll send you an invite.
Mike I'll bring Virtue Audio Piano M1 CD Player, Wywires-Juice power cord and some of his IC's if you want me to...I also have the tour N2X's....let me know if thats too much stuff and I'll keep some home.
Ed
Sure Ed bring 'em and we'll throw them against the wall and see what sticks.
Love to hear what the Wywires are about...
-MIke
I've got a spare AA DLC & PS3 that I can bring for the 'Second System' that seems to be emerging.
I have a PS3 in the room where the ad-hoc system is going.
I think my buddy Dewesh is bringing his Cherry JR for this room.
Not sure what your AA DLC is - Is that the DAC? I'll at least have my Rotel 1072 CDP for this room, but we can certainly swap sources if we want.
I'm picking up the Krell tonight so it'll have a whopping 20 hrs of on-time before the curtains rise. I'm thinking my EE dac won't fare so well v. the Krell - Will be interesting. Gotta talk to Mr. Op-amp about some upgrades.
-Mike
Quote from: mfsoa on October 22, 2010, 09:08:17 AM
Not sure what your AA DLC is - Is that the DAC?
The DLC is a preamp (Digital Line Controller)
http://www.audioreview.com/mfr/audio-alchemy/preamplifiers/dlc/PRD_118161_1591crx.aspx
OK, Thanks.
I have an old but still good Forte Model 40 preamp that I was going to use for the 2nd system, so if it's a bother you may leave the pre home or bring it as a just-in-case or let's-try-this-one
-Mike
Hi Mike,
I am doing a double shift at work tonight, if I get a little sleep in the morning I like to come. I can bring some Kaplans and other cords, plus the autoformer.
Regards,
Joe
Well don't kill yourself but of course would love to have you...
I haven't been to a rave since spring looking forward to seeing everyone. I picked up beer this afternoon Mike I'll have it on ice ready to go. It's fall Pumpkins rule
Quote from: topround on October 21, 2010, 06:27:36 PM
Looks like lukasz of lampizator dac fame will be making a showing at this rave. all the way from Poland!
google lampizator
he is bringing a version of his dac
Mike
Be sure to lock the bathroom door behind you, their idea of personal space is different than ours. :D
http://www.lampizator.eu/Munich/monachium/monachium_etc%20162.jpg
Lukasz will be there tomorrow, and it does seem like a lot of people have been dropped from Yahoo.
Mike
Quote from: topround on October 22, 2010, 06:49:25 PM
... it does seem like a lot of people have been dropped from Yahoo.
Mike
No one's been dropped that I can tell. There are currently 93 members. I don't have authority to remove members but I have turned off notification for 2 people who've said they no longer want to receive them.
Well my car is packed-up and I'll be headed out in a bit.
I hope you guys all have a wonderful day! Congrats Mike on the weather. :thumb:
Change in plans for me--I got tickets to the Phillies game and heading down that way to take my youngest.
Sorry Mike.....GO PHILLIES!!!!! :thumb:
Could not find the NY Audio Rave group in yahoo search just now. Does anyone have directions for todays rave?
pm sent
Hey guys ,using my cell to post.wish I could join you but I'm in Woodloch Pines. Chris were you here ? because there isz a video game that has your name as the high score. Mike andx guys have a great time with the rave
Big thanks to Sharon and Mike for hosting a wonderful rave, complete with great weather.
I thought the Modwright amp sounded very musical in your system, in some ways it was better than the Cherry and in some ways the Cherry is better. tough call.
Lampizator Dac was excellent. The EE dac was killed by it in my opinion, but then again the Lampizator is so much more dac, so it should be better.
Best of show for me was Karls 6c45pi tubed preamp. It took a little while to warm up but when it did it was great, very open and dynamic and rich. It took a while to get all the kinks out but in its finished form it is excellent.
The Kaplan cable PC just killed the Pangea. I have a Pangea and I hate mine, very non musical.
And Buddies digital cable was truly excellent!! If I had a dac I would buy this cable, it was clean and rich and supremely musical.!
It was great to see everyone again, and I missed the ones that could not make it.
Who hosts November?
Thanks Again
Mike
I'd like to say thank you to Sharon and Mike for a most pleasant day
When I go there I feel like I can take off my shoes and kick back
It was great to see every body and I'll see some of you tomorrow
hopefully at the WFMU Record Fair Thanks again.............Bill
Thanks to Mike and Sharon for a wonderful rave :rofl: and fall afternoon deep in the neck of the woods. We even have the weather on our side. :thumb: I recall last year when it was pouring and I was asking do I need a Raptor!
We even have a guest from across the small pond today. I did not get to listen to the Lampizator but just look at those 2 tubes
I believe Mike's main system sounds better this year than last year.
Here is how it looks before the Modwright amp and Carl's pre were put on.
I did not get to listen to the transformer volume control from Dave Slagle.
At today's rave, in the main system, we have 3 DACs, the EE, Lampizator and I believe there is also a Meitner DAC? We also have 3 pr, 2 active and 1 passive, the VAC and Carl's are tube pre and Slagle's TVC. And there are 2 amps, the Cherry Plus and the Modwright
Well I did listen to a few, but I was not sure which equipment is connected. A flashing LED, artist in session, would help!
Quoc
Last photo is Carl's6c45pi tube pre which is a gutted out chassis from an another well known underground pre. I did get to listen to it on the Krell SACD playing a 2L sampler disc. It sounds very nice on Mike's system, I am impressed.
Quoc
First must be big "Thanks" to Sharen and Mike for another wonderful gathering (couldn't have picked a better weather day this time, Mike), as usual, for this loud (musically speaking) bunch. The "improved" apple pie is again THE winner of show :drool:.
Musically speaking, I think there's concensus that Karl's preamp impressed everybody with its big, spacious and sweet sound. This was the 1st time I heard a direct-heated-tube preamp. A CA friend several years urged me to check into that, but.... Also, credit to Mike's improved system. I didn't listen to the Lampizator that much because everybody else was clamoring around the listening area at the time. I thought I'd come back to it later, but that "later" opportunity didn't come up (was having fun also in the other listening room with Barry's Gallo speakers.... always liked the unconventional look of a Gallo)..... Overall, I had a great time with Karl's, the Krell, and Dave's autoformer, which I thought was a great discovery to me. Great also meeting everybody, old and new.
Now, a technical question. I started with the "Quote" option to this thread, but got this warning - "Session verification failed. Please try logging out and back in again, and then try again". Does anyone know how that came about? This message was typed using the "Reply" option. I know (checked) I was logged in at the time.
Shek
Quote from: goldlizsts on October 24, 2010, 03:29:49 AM
Now, a technical question.
Sorry bout that shek, it seems to be working now. I've not seen that error. Hopefully it was a one shot.
anyone know how i can get in touch with Buddy?
Mike
Thanks to Mike and Sharon for a great day. I'd like to post some of the pics but I don't seem to have the 'Gallery' entry on my headings.
And here's the link for the 2L sampler disk I brought;
http://www.2l.musiconline.no/shop/displayAlbum.asp?id=35847
Gene
Thanks to Mike and Sharon. Had a great time.
I also want to thank Sharon and Mike for a great day. Nice house in a beautiful setting with great weather, fine food, good music and great people - wow.
Mike's system sounded wonderful - I liked the combination of Karl's preamp with the Cherry best. I also though the Lampizator was the best DAC there that day.
Thanks again to the hosts, and everyone else who was there. Now, who's hosting November?
Mike Fox
Sharen and Mike,
Thank you for hosting another fun rave at your home. Thankfully the weather cooperated this year. I enjoyed listening to all of the equipment. The Lampizator DAC was excellent with gobs of detail. I also enjoyed the ModWright amplifier. It lent wonderful textures to the music. Karl Tam's preamp was excellent with nice sound-staging and detail. But I have to say your system is excellent as it stands; none of the equipment substitutions were trans formative, just different.
As usual the food and drink were plentiful and delicious. Thank you again.
Jim
So where are the pictures ? :drool: At least when I took pictures at Jims I posted them right away. :yay2:
:wtf: :pop
Big Thanks to Sharen and Mike, the most gracious of hosts, for a wonderful gathering of friends, music, and food! I got to listen to Mike's main system before the equipment swapping began, and it sounded wonderful to my ears.
Best to All, Barry
Quote from: evan1 on October 24, 2010, 02:21:34 PM
So where are the pictures ? :drool: At least when I took pictures at Jims I posted them right away. :yay2:
:wtf: :pop
I got 'em, but can't post 'em.
Thanks to Mike and Sharen for hosting another great rave. Everything - people, food, talk, music and equipment were top notch.
Thanks Mike and Sharen for hosting a pleasurable Rave. Finally, had a nice day to enjoy our surroundings.
Your system sounded very good, especially playing sacd's on the Krell. We tried different combinations. I liked the set-up with your VAC or Carl's preamp going into the Cherry hooked up to the Krell best.
Had a fun time!
Joe
What....... me worry?
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=586)
Gotta shrink these down more.
You done with that beer?
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=592)
So when my wife said I couldn't buy more vinyl, I sez to her..............
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=590)
What, just solid state??? Wake me when the tubed gear arrives.
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=593)
biwiring according to Mike
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=598)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=597)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=589)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=596)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/MGalleryItem.php?id=588)
Quote from: etcarroll on October 24, 2010, 07:22:28 AM
I'd like to post some of the pics but I don't seem to have the 'Gallery' entry on my headings.
Sorry Gene. The Gallery Link in the toolbar was broken from the hacker attack. It is scheduled for repair.
details:
http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?topic=2596.0
Meantime, here you go:
http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery
I see you already figured it out. :thumb:
Rich
Thanks Rich - I just kept poking around till I figured it out.
I uploaded some pictures I took over at audiocircle in my gallery...haven't figured out how to find the gallery here...feel free to copy and paste as you wish, and add info on the gear etc.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;sa=album;id=5742 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;sa=album;id=5742)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=600;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=602;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=603;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=604;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=617;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=608;preview)
(http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action-mgallery;sa=media;id=615;preview)
Well the ones I copy/paste didn't show up, but the link works. #-o
Never mind...found the gallery via that link Rich posted above...even a caveman could do it huh. :lol:
Well...maybe not, the pics still not showing up.
Link to AN gallery. http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery;sa=album;id=74;nw;start=0 (http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery;sa=album;id=74;nw;start=0)
AC doesn't allow submarining pics. John is a talented programmer! ;) So you have to go there, click on the first one, and use your keyboard arrows to do a nice slideshow.... :)
Pictures are awesome, Thanks Martin!!
Nice pad Mike!
Big Thank you to Mike and Sharen, rulers of their Land, for the hospitality. I had a great time, enjoyed the company of good peoples, animals and the Tree people.
Its been a couple years since I heard the system...the bass sounded tighter and until The Man Himself detailed the changes to the room, I thought it was due to the change of amp and/or adjustments to the port of the bass section. Good job!
I also thought the Modwright added a nicer texture to the midrange and upper bass vs the Cherry. I don't think I got to hear the Modwright with Mike's preamp, but among the three DACs, the Lampizator stood out.
Food was 'zeloucious' as usual.
We found a yummy looking whole wheat pizza someone brought when we were cleaning up. WHomever brought it, thank you for Sunday breakfast, I took home piece. :drool:
Thanks Sharen for the doggie bag. :thumb:
Mr. October hits a home run !!!! :thumb:
The fourth time was the charm..... 8)
Thank you Mike and Sharen for a great time...and the sunny weather....really enjoyed your Rave and my fellow Ravers.
Once again, fine food and drink....and good company.
With the additional improvements in your room, your system sounded mighty fine...made for a very enjoyable "magic hour" !!
Two rooms...two different setups.... 8)
Thanks to Barry (Gallo speakers) and Bill (DIY amp) for the HT experience. :thumb:
Some nice equipment making the scene in the audio room:
Lampizator Dac :thumb:
The 6c45pi tubed preamp buildt by Karl :thumb:
Modwright KWA 100SE :thumb:
Dave Slagle TVC :thumb:
It was fun comparing the above....and the late night spinning of vinyl sounded special....thanks !! :beer:
And....thank you Martin for the photos.....nice job !! :thumb:
See you all at the next Rave.....
Chris
Hey Chris can you link some pics into your post from the gallery here @ AN?
If so, thanks.
http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery;sa=album;id=74;nw;start=0 (http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery;sa=album;id=74;nw;start=0)
Just gave it a try....not working.... :shock:
I see Rich mentioned "under repair"....since that outage.
Oh yeah I forgot about the vinyl...I thought the tone and punch of the vinyl was superior to the digital.
Well my personal taste ie.
I tried posting your pics here but they are too big.
When posting pictures in posts if you use the "Direct Link" at the bottom of the picture's detail page (here) (http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=mgallery;sa=item;id=620) then it will appear. The URL from right clicking on the picture won't work.
Anyone pick up some BD concert disks and a Blockbuster envelope with Talking Heads 'Stop Making Sense' in BD in it. Also, the 2L BD. I brought them into Mike's, thought I brought them back to the car for ride home, but now can't find them.
Gene
Gene,
I have those items, they were left in the kitchen.
Shall I mail them to the address on the Blockbuster envelope?
-Mike
Yes, that would be great. Sharon stuffed me with coffee and coffee cake as I was heading out, I put down those things, forgot to pick them up. :duh
I did enjoy the coffee and cake on the 2.5 hours ride home.
Once again, my thanks to you and Sharon for the hospitality, I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and especially listening to your speakers. The Modwright amp - Krell SACD combo was pretty nice as well. :thumb:
DAMMITITALLTOHELL!!!!! :evil:
Ah Mike, was there by chance a set of 4 RAVE demo disks with the BD disks? Seems I didn't get them to the car either.
Unless the 2L BR belonged to Blockbuster...don't think you would want Blockbuster having that.
Quote from: etcarroll on October 25, 2010, 05:15:29 PM
DAMMITITALLTOHELL!!!!! :evil:
Ah Mike, was there by chance a set of 4 RAVE demo disks with the BD disks? Seems I didn't get them to the car either.
Mike has all of your stuff...I knew it was yours...because of the Rave Cd's. :thumb:
I was looking at Levi's past coverage of the Raves...and I see I was there last year at Mike's Rave, thought I had missed that one... :duh
Old age is setting in, can't recall where I was last year... :rofl:
Quote from: AcidJazz on October 25, 2010, 08:16:41 PM
I was looking at Levi's past coverage of the Raves...and I see I was there last year at Mike's Rave, thought I had missed that one... :duh
Old age is setting in, can't recall where I was last year... :rofl:
Lucky that we have photos... :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
Quote from: AcidJazz on October 25, 2010, 08:16:41 PM
I was looking at Levi's past coverage of the Raves...and I see I was there last year at Mike's Rave, thought I had missed that one... :duh
Old age is setting in, can't recall where I was last year... :rofl:
Wow, I don't feel so bad now, I just forgot disks, you forgot where you've been. I'm at least 3 years away from that. :thumb:
Quote from: AcidJazz on October 25, 2010, 06:26:45 PM
Unless the 2L BR belonged to Blockbuster...don't think you would want Blockbuster having that.
I assumed Mike meant my address on the BB envelope.
I hope he did anyway. :roll:
Quote from: goldlizsts on October 30, 2010, 12:54:54 PM
(http://www.kodakgallery.com/gallery/sharing/shareRedirectSwitchBoard.jsp?token=880284391903%3A306049866&sourceId=533754321803&cm_mmc=eMail-_-Share-_-Photos-_-Sharee)
Your doing some funky things lately
Evan,
You just caught me. I was trying to upload a Haloweeny pumpkin for the occasion. I've been experimenting, to see how I can get it to work. Haven't succeeded yet. So, as soon as I saw the "X" in the square, I "Removed" it, obviously not fast enough to evade you, pal. I had tried a couple of sites, uploaded to them sites, and then copied the link (URL) and inserted into (//) here, still didn't work...... The 2 sites apparently do not permit such transfer..... A/N doesn't have any Gallery place, so I couldn't upload into the Gallery area, like on the other site where I could..... If someone here knows how to do the upload, I'm all game to learn it.
Shek
go to preview and then towards the bottom left click on additional options
http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=post;topic=2531.120;num_replies=123 (http://www.audionervosa.com/index.php?action=post;topic=2531.120;num_replies=123)
This was what I wanted to do. If it works, then you're the greatest, Evan, besides Rich......
Happy Holloween, Everybody! :rofl:
Finally a little time on my hands-
Maybe a little late for "You're Welcomes" but, to all the Thank Yous, you are very welcome!. Sharen just read through the thread and also sends her You're Welcomes as well. I told her she's becoming the NYAR Den Mother yet for some reason she refused to accept the crown!
As host, you don't usually get to spend the time with the gear that you'd like, but I can say that Lukas' Lampizator DAC was excellent!! A step up from the EE dac. The Musateux (?) DAC was kinda cold and solid-statey compared to the EE and Lampizator.
I'm surprised at the lack of comment re the Modwright KWA100se (I think?) amp. Maybe we are just being nice to either Tommy (Cherry guy who is friends w/ some of us, me especially (OK, that's the disclaimer)) or Dan M, a massively respected designer who I don't think I've ever read a bad thing about. A gorgeous piece but I think the overall room balance (very damped) favored the Cherry Plus. Surely the Modwright was "smooth n' musical" but this came at the expense of excitement. I understand that the EE dac was switched to the SS output for much of the Modwright session to try to get some life back into the system. (although I had my "up-front" tube in it at the time). I now see why the Modwright is the first recommendation for SS amps that don't sound like SS amps.
I guess comparing its bass performance to that of a highly regarded (by those who have heard it) 700+ watt Class D amp isn't fair, but I saw some puzzled faces and questions of "Where did the bass go". The difference in bass performance was truly remarkable and something I could not do without.
It was also interesting to hear the imaging of each amp. To quote Clement Perry from his StereoTimes review of the Cherry Plus: "One of the strengths of the Cherry Plus lies in its ability to allow instruments a sort of corporeal existence beyond the loudspeaker's physical plane: perfect for small apartment dwellers and owners of mini-monitors. This feat is not commonplace nor is it easy to ascertain through fancy or expensive tweaks, so I would call it a major attribute of the Cherry Plus." Stunning bass performance aside, this ability to produce images that are startlingly removed from the speakers is one of the strengths of the Cherry Plus. It lives and thrives in this realm of other-worldly, freaky-type of image specificity that the Modwright barely hinted at. Sorry if my ranting over the Cherry amps seems hyperbolic - I'm actually restraining myself here - but they are that good, in the right setup. I heard a Cherry on some lean n' clean VMPS RM-40s that no one at the event liked, and sure enough the Cherry took them in the exact wrong direction. I'd imagine the Modwright would be just the ticket in this system. StereoTimes did a very good job describing what sets the Plus apart from other amps.
So I guess this is a case of system matching at work. I'm sure in the right system w/ the right material and the right expectations, the smooth Modwright would be intoxicating. But I's needs me bass and I's wants me speakers to look like they have no relationship to the music being heard and I've not heard an amp that can do this like the Cherry.
I was very impressed with Gary's (Toprounds friend, I hope his name is Gary) preamp! I forget what he said he'd charge for it but I remember thinking that it would be a stompin' bargain at that price, with no sense of bargain performance.
As for the passive attenuators, I give them a "meh" like I did at Jim's in September. If I only listened to solo female voice, maybe.
Joe, you suck! The Kaplan Cable is excellent - I have done some swapping w/ the Pangea and while the Pan has a more gut-whomping bass, the Kaplan is far more even-handed throughout the range. I really like it! Haven't removed the Gabriel Golds yet so don't really know what they contribute, but certainly when we popped them in the sound took on a greater sense of ease and musicality. Very nice. Oh, you suck because I now know when I return these to you my system will sound worse than it does now!! Thanks a LOT!
Thanks, Topround, for the beautiful weather. And Mother Nature made her point by sending a 5 minute sprinkle our way, just to remind us what's waiting for next year!
Thanks again to the gang, see you around.
-Mike
Just guessing here, but I would imagine Dan voiced his amp with his preamp.
The Modwright pre can sound very solid state and greyish in tone, with excellent size of stage. Coupled with his warmish amp, the combo could be great!
Pangea, they just plain suck, but they are cheap! Good for a printer or refridgerator if you ask me.
Great bass, but no musicality at all..
The preamp you heard was a choke coupled 6c45pi tube. With all cheap parts inside. It was built by Karl. Next step is we are going to transformer couple it with Tamura transformers!
Could be even better! And with tube rectification done right it could be even better again!
I love the madness of it all.
I liked the Lampizator as well, very musical.
I am not really into the audiophile stuff so much anymore, I like analoguish gear than conveys truth and beauty, I need emotion to come thru, more s o than tight bass.
\
Mike
Quoteanaloguish gear than conveys truth and beauty, I need emotion to come thru, more s o than tight bass
But I think there is the impression that "analog-type" sound means lopping of the highs, limiting the bass performance and having vague imaging.
IMHO musicality in gear does't necessarily mean you have to sacrifice excitement, imaging and bass performance. Why not have emotion AND all the other goodies? Many think they are mutually exclusive and perhaps they are, to some extent?
A system (IMHO) needs to be able to startle and stun if called upon, and to coddle and whisper. A tough act for sure.
Karl :duh Karl :duh Karl :duh. Sorry.
Another Rave thought - Later in the evening we played some vinyl, and even on my relatively modest (maybe $1500 total) TT/phono pre, it did things that gave us listening pleasure that were simply unmatched by the excellent $2500 Lampizator dac or the $6000 Krell SACD Standard MkIII.
I have no idea what it is, and that's frustrating. I just don't know. Can't say. Can't describe it. Can't quantitate it. Can't measure it. Don't know what it is but it's there.
Pleasure. I can't describe it any better.
+1 on the vinyl.
Something about it is special, a certain connection to the music that no digital I have heard can duplicate.
Of course digital can sound great, but it just can't do what vinyl does.
Perhaps because it does it so differently, the 2 formats go about recreating music in two very different ways.
I am not sure why as well :o
It just is.
Mike
QuoteI have no idea what it is, and that's frustrating. I just don't know. Can't say. Can't describe it. Can't quantitate it. Can't measure it. Don't know what it is but it's there.
Must of been.....
the beat ! :rofl: (There was dancing going on.... :thumb:)
As topround Mike mentioned...."..certain connection to the music that no digital I have heard can duplicate."
That's it....more "open"....more "alive"....more "air".....but just not as convenient as a Cd.
6K$? DOes one even need a DAC with that?
I think I know what the Digital front end is missing...but, can't tell you, maybe one year I will show you... :rofl:
And the LPs played weren't even 'audiophile' pressings...yet... :yay2: more bounce to the ounce.
Quote from: mfsoa on November 06, 2010, 09:50:30 AM
Another Rave thought - Later in the evening we played some vinyl, and even on my relatively modest (maybe $1500 total) TT/phono pre, it did things that gave us listening pleasure that were simply unmatched by the excellent $2500 Lampizator dac or the $6000 Krell SACD Standard MkIII.
I have no idea what it is, and that's frustrating. I just don't know. Can't say. Can't describe it. Can't quantitate it. Can't measure it. Don't know what it is but it's there.
Pleasure. I can't describe it any better.
It's a lot easier to utter the words "$6K SACD player" when it's borrowed :thumb:
Quote from: lonewolfny42 on November 06, 2010, 06:19:51 PM
[....more "open"....more "alive"....more "air".....but just not as convenient as a Cd.
But that's the way it goes in this hobby (and most other things in life , for that matter), nothin' for nothin'......