I have a great sounding system nowadays. It's all solid state, but I have been thinking about getting a tube amp for a while. I owned 2 tube amps years ago and then recently I had the Supratek tube preamp as well. I really liked that preamp, but ended up selling it when I got my Hattor Big preamp which is beautifully built, sounds great and has a lot of flexibility with dual mono readouts and an excellent attenuator and remote control. The Supratek also had a cheap Alps pot in it which I did not care for. My purpose isn't simply to get a tube amp and try it out. It is to get a tube preamp that uses very high-quality parts and is very low noise. Another criteria is simply the weight. I really don't want to deal with 60+ lb amps.
My main interest has been the modified Dynaco ST 70 amps. They put out about 35 W per channel or a bit more and weigh about 35 pounds. I have looked at many different versions as I can and I believe the best one is the Miller Audio version. It was Dave who first made me aware of this version. I then checked out the website and gave Bryan Miller a call. He was very gracious with his time and I called him again recently. His prices are very good and he will do custom orders. I've looked at a couple of utube videos again yesterday and today and I think all things considered, Bryan's is the best version for me. I prefer a preamp that uses the 6NS7 tubes like I had on my Supratek. It also has a solid state rectifier which I prefer over a tube. I can also choose the type of chassis that I want, various colors and cosmetic options. I also may request some different parts than what Bryan offers.
I'm attaching a couple of utube videos if anyone is interested. Dave previously told me that the 35 W per channel that the Miller version puts out is plenty to drive my JM Reynaud Voce Grande speakers. They are rated at 88.5dB. Bryan Miller also told me that his version comes close to putting out 40 W per channel.
There were a couple of other tube amp options available to me recently. One was an Underwood HiFi integrated that a member here suggested. Apparently the parts quality is good and the price was right at about $1300. I called the owner Walter who told me that he would not accept an order. It appears he's in the process of selling his business, or if that doesn't work out, then closing it down completely. He told me he is 73 and wants to retire and enjoy the beaches of Hawaii where he lives.
I was also told about a Willsenton R8 integrated that has been highly modified. But that was some days ago and I still don't have any photos of the amp or any details about what mods were done. So the best candidate for me at the moment would be the Miller ST 70. It will run me around $2500, but I am fine spending the money as the amp would be put together exactly how I like.
Any comments or suggestions are still appreciated and I'm not sure yet when I would put in an order for the Miller amp.
Skunkie Designs tests new vs old
https://youtu.be/mloj0S-hris?si=Ol3nqcdDvgzIZQZ5
Novalux tests regarding negative feedback, a solid state rectifier etc.
https://youtu.be/flnI_e_u1dw?si=PrG8TUdqEBLG4Pmt
Skunkie Designs comments about the Willsenton R8
https://youtu.be/LD10RvhKNP4?si=YS4zmgdXnRyTPZ0u
Nick
Regarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
Quote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
Quote from: Nick B on January 17, 2026, 08:45:00 AMQuote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
In this video she compares Original ST-70 to the Tubes4Hifi version. FWIW she really likes the latter. At 21 minute mark says in no uncertain terms to forget about the R8 and Musicshare X7. Apparently, in her opinion, they are significantly defeated by the ST-70. And she has much experience with all of them. Again, FWIW.
Also, at the 22:25 mark she says she might be willing to build kits for customers if it is shipped to her. I'm sure she can build or mod just about anything, not just the ST-70. Might be something to keep in mind, and maybe reach out if you have a kit or mods in mind?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mloj0S-hris
Quote from: Nick B on January 17, 2026, 08:45:00 AMQuote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
check your email i sent u a link
Quote from: toobluvr on January 17, 2026, 10:54:44 AMQuote from: Nick B on January 17, 2026, 08:45:00 AMQuote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
Thanks for all the information. I took a look at the video and she did a nice job on the comparison.
Quote from: toobluvr on January 17, 2026, 10:54:44 AMQuote from: Nick B on January 17, 2026, 08:45:00 AMQuote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
In this video she compares Original ST-70 to the Tubes4Hifi version. FWIW she really likes the latter. At 21 minute mark says in no uncertain terms to forget about the R8 and Musicshare X7. Apparently, in her opinion, they are significantly defeated by the ST-70. And she has much experience with all of them. Again, FWIW.
Also, at the 22:25 mark she says she might be willing to build kits for customers if it is shipped to her. I'm sure she can build or mod just about anything, not just the ST-70. Might be something to keep in mind, and maybe reach out if you have a kit or mods in mind?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mloj0S-hris
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
In this video she compares Original ST-70 to the Tubes4Hifi version. FWIW she really likes the latter. At 21 minute mark says in no uncertain terms to forget about the R8 and Musicshare X7. Apparently, in her opinion, they are significantly defeated by the ST-70. And she has much experience with all of them. Again, FWIW.
Also, at the 22:25 mark she says she might be willing to build kits for customers if it is shipped to her. I'm sure she can build or mod just about anything, not just the ST-70. Might be something to keep in mind, and maybe reach out if you have a kit or mods in mind?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mloj0S-hris
Thanks for all the information. She's got a nice channel and does a good job of explaining all the measurements and results.
A couple of things about the various kits. On occasion, I appreciate a vintage look. With the original ST 70, I really don't care for the stainless steel and the way it looks in the front. So I would definitely be opting for a different looking chassis and I like what Miller offers. I'm also a big fan of the 6NS7 tubes. Miller does offer an auto bias option, but I'm not sure I want it as that bias needs to be set internally. The modded Willsenton R8 isn't being considered anymore.
I will take a look at the parts on Miller's site and see what it all adds up to. I don't think Bryan's labor would be that much more of this lady. I think her name is Stephanie
Quote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 12:36:41 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 17, 2026, 08:45:00 AMQuote from: ejk on January 17, 2026, 02:22:28 AMRegarding the R8. Willsenton has put out an mk2 version of the R8 but not admitting to it that corrects some faults that caused failures that Skunkie found. You would have to watch the whole series on youtube as I dont remember which episode.
I was just on the Skunkie website and there are a lot of videos including on the Willsenton. Don't think I want to go thru the whole series to find out all that was modded. Next issue is who would do the work. So far a modded ST 70 and the Miller version seems to be the best choice.
check your email i sent u a link
I did get it and thanks for that. Thought I answered you here last night, but looks like I didn't tap on Post to save it.
Evan saw a post over at AC about the ST 70. At the bottom of the page, there are a couple of links that a member posted that indicate that Erhard Audio was the first to come out with the auto bias board and 6NS7 version. Miller Audio then bought out Erhard Audio in 2024.
Here's a link to the brief thread over at AC.
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=189900.msg2031036#new
An update on the amp search. I've been in touch with Bryan from Miller Audio a few times and he's a pleasure to deal with. Very responsive. I asked if the inputs on the front of the amp can be moved to the rear and he said he can do whatever I want, but doesn't recommend it due to the potential noise issues. His ST 70 version is one of two amps I am considering right now. The other is the Erhard Audio Elvis MkII. I read the link that Evan sent me from AC about Miller Audio apparently buying the rights to the ST 70 kit from Erhard as well as the auto bias board which Miller now is the distributor for. Jack then found a listing on USAM for an Erhard Elvis Mk II amp that had been briefly listed for sale. As I wasn't able to contact the owner because he had taken it off of the active listings, I simply put a want ad for that specific amp and the owner contacted me that same evening via email. It has a left channel issue but will be repaired under warranty within a week or two. The price is under $2000 and that is very appealing to me. It has 60 W per channel and looks to be very well built with good parts quality. I'll be discussing it soon with the owner. This would be a very nice option for me to have a good quality amp and at a very reasonable price to see how I like a tube amp.
Quote from: Nick B on January 22, 2026, 12:46:18 PMAn update on the amp search. I've been in touch with Bryan from Miller Audio a few times and he's a pleasure to deal with. Very responsive. I asked if the inputs on the front of the amp can be moved to the rear and he said he can do whatever I want, but doesn't recommend it due to the potential noise issues. His ST 70 version is one of two amps I am considering right now. The other is the Erhard Audio Elvis MkII. I read the link that Evan sent me from AC about Miller Audio apparently buying the rights to the ST 70 kit from Erhard as well as the auto bias board which Miller now is the distributor for. Jack then found a listing on USAM for an Erhard Elvis Mk II amp that had been briefly listed for sale. As I wasn't able to contact the owner because he had taken it off of the active listings, I simply put a want add for that specific amp and the owner contacted me that same evening via email. It has a left channel issue but will be repaired under warranty within a week or two. The price is under $2000 and that is very appealing to me. It has 60 W per channel and looks to be very well built with good parts quality. I'll be discussing it soon with the owner. This would be a very nice option for me to have a good quality amp and at a very reasonable price to see how I like a tube amp.
I figured due to noise issues was the reason for the AC to be on the opposite side of the inputs.
Quote from: ejk on January 22, 2026, 02:39:21 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 22, 2026, 12:46:18 PMAn update on the amp search. I've been in touch with Bryan from Miller Audio a few times and he's a pleasure to deal with. Very responsive. I asked if the inputs on the front of the amp can be moved to the rear and he said he can do whatever I want, but doesn't recommend it due to the potential noise issues. His ST 70 version is one of two amps I am considering right now. The other is the Erhard Audio Elvis MkII. I read the link that Evan sent me from AC about Miller Audio apparently buying the rights to the ST 70 kit from Erhard as well as the auto bias board which Miller now is the distributor for. Jack then found a listing on USAM for an Erhard Elvis Mk II amp that had been briefly listed for sale. As I wasn't able to contact the owner because he had taken it off of the active listings, I simply put a want add for that specific amp and the owner contacted me that same evening via email. It has a left channel issue but will be repaired under warranty within a week or two. The price is under $2000 and that is very appealing to me. It has 60 W per channel and looks to be very well built with good parts quality. I'll be discussing it soon with the owner. This would be a very nice option for me to have a good quality amp and at a very reasonable price to see how I like a tube amp.
I figured due to noise issues was the reason for the AC to be on the opposite side of the inputs.
Miller is familiar with the Will Vincent amps and some hum and some don't. He has one now on a trade in. I spoke with the owner of the Erhard Elvis Mk 2 and he said the amp is very nice cosmetically, that he has owned a Will Vincent ST 70 and felt the Elvis Mk 2 was a much better amp. He has a Cary SL 80 integrated that he really likes and just got in a Pass 25 integrated which he's going to try out and see which one he likes better. I'm just not interested in an integrated and the price of admission to try out the Elvis is very reasonable.
Watch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Quote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Thanks much, Dave. I had not seen that video and it does affect my thinking quite a bit. My main concern with a tube amp is that it rolls off the top end. Danny and Ron really liked Bryan's amp and especially after the terminal strips were replaced. I'll contact Bryan and discuss this some more. The deal I have regarding the Erhard is quite good, but I'm willing to spend more to achieve the best sound quality I can for the money.
Really nice job by Danny with his videos. He is so straightforward and has his clients best interests in mind. Having over 50 parts in that Polk crossover was surprising.
Quote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
Quote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
Quote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
Well, we sure think alike regarding Danny. It's already quite an achievement for the Miller amp to be praised by Danny and then to have a custom version built really puts it over the top.
Quote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
Quote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 11:07:51 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
I know someone who put 2 silver caps in their Aric Audio preamp which cost 3000.00 a pair. Aric thought the guy was nuts until after Aric installed them and gave it a listen and was amazed at the sound. He said he wouldn't offer the upgrade on his website but if someone would ask he would do it again.
Quote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 01:14:00 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 11:07:51 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
I know someone who put 2 silver caps in their Aric Audio preamp which cost 3000.00 a pair. Aric thought the guy was nuts until after Aric installed them and gave it a listen and was amazed at the sound. He said he wouldn't offer the upgrade on his website but if someone would ask he would do it again.
Huh?? Three grand for two caps? Any idea what company made those?
Quote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 03:55:47 PMQuote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 01:14:00 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 11:07:51 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
I know someone who put 2 silver caps in their Aric Audio preamp which cost 3000.00 a pair. Aric thought the guy was nuts until after Aric installed them and gave it a listen and was amazed at the sound. He said he wouldn't offer the upgrade on his website but if someone would ask he would do it again.
Huh?? Three grand for two caps? Any idea what company made those?
Maybe Jupiter I dont remember.
Quote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 04:19:10 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 03:55:47 PMQuote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 01:14:00 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 11:07:51 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
I know someone who put 2 silver caps in their Aric Audio preamp which cost 3000.00 a pair. Aric thought the guy was nuts until after Aric installed them and gave it a listen and was amazed at the sound. He said he wouldn't offer the upgrade on his website but if someone would ask he would do it again.
Huh?? Three grand for two caps? Any idea what company made those?
Maybe Jupiter I dont remember.
Just confirmed
Jupiter silver foils vitamin q and cosmos
Quote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 04:21:42 PMQuote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 04:19:10 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 03:55:47 PMQuote from: ejk on January 24, 2026, 01:14:00 PMQuote from: Nick B on January 24, 2026, 11:07:51 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 24, 2026, 09:42:42 AMQuote from: toobluvr on January 24, 2026, 04:58:54 AMQuote from: P.I. on January 23, 2026, 06:55:48 PMWatch the first 2 minutes-ish about the Miller amp Danny is having built.
https://youtu.be/W2lJ0Wu1l2w?si=N_o_c91s72i6NAA8
Beat me to the punch. Was gonna forward you that same video. Been watching Danny for years. Find him to be very direct, honest and sincere. He's very experienced and has heard VG stuff. Just my gut but I implicitly trust his opinions, and would not hesitate to buy what he recommends. To me, just the fact he is going with that Miller amp says an awful lot, is high praise, and IMO it most probably is a reliable recommendation.
If I was going to buy performance per dollar Miller's KT88 version without bias would be my jam.
I appreciate your unbiased view on this. I'm sending Bryan an email and want to talk more about a maxxed out version like what Danny is getting. From my limited experience with connectors, I'd prefer using ETI, AECO and WBT. Not sure about internal wiring. I've had cables made using the silver gold wire and also using the square copper wire, both from neotech as I recall. Don't know if those would be suitable for wiring in an amp.
I know someone who put 2 silver caps in their Aric Audio preamp which cost 3000.00 a pair. Aric thought the guy was nuts until after Aric installed them and gave it a listen and was amazed at the sound. He said he wouldn't offer the upgrade on his website but if someone would ask he would do it again.
Huh?? Three grand for two caps? Any idea what company made those?
Maybe Jupiter I dont remember.
Just confirmed
Jupiter silver foils vitamin q and cosmos
Thanks for confirming. I had copper Jupiter caps in my Border Patrol dac. I will let the WBF guys buy the $3k caps
Aric includeds the Jupiter Vitaman Q silver caps as an upgrade to the Motherlode XL for $770 and the combination of the Comet/Vitamin Q for $4800. If you want something like that in an upgrade and the money they can be provided if the builder has a source for them.
Quote from: Jack on January 24, 2026, 06:25:43 PMAric includeds the Jupiter Vitaman Q silver caps as an upgrade to the Motherlode XL for $770 and the combination of the Comet/Vitamin Q for $4800. If you want something like that in an upgrade and the money they can be provided if the builder has a source for them.
I guess he decided to add it as an option.I haven't checked his website in awhile.
I included the Vitamin Q cap option in my XL order which is still months out before delivery.
I spoke with Bryan Miller about the Danny custom ST 70 build. Bryan said there are different parts that will be tested and he will use different boards. Once I heard that, I didn't ask for a timeframe and decided to go with the Erhard Elvis amp. The Danny custom could take quite a while and that is the version I would want based on Danny's videos and his discussion of his likes and dislikes.
The Erhard should end up being very good and it will give me a good idea if I want to have a tube amp in my system or not. It is used and the price is good. The seller shipped it back to Erhard to fix a left channel issue and that will likely be done in a week. I never did hear back on the Willsenton amp and that's fine as it wasn't my first or second choice anyway.
The Erhard amp arrived in Montana and is being repaired. I might have it within a week, but there's no hurry.
I finally heard from the Willsenton owner and that was a very interesting conversation. The R8 is heavily modded and with some circuit modifications to simplify things. The owner is a very knowledgeable DIY guy and followed the videos of Steph at Skunk Works on utube and also an extensive thread on the stereonet forum. I wasn't aware Steph had gone into extensive mods on this unit nor was I aware of DIY thread. The owner said he has the best transformers and best parts for that circuit. Apparently the transformers are Japanese, but I can't recall the name.
So if the Erhard doesn't work out, I may get that Willsenton and try it out.
Quote from: Jack on January 25, 2026, 08:30:56 AMI included the Vitamin Q cap option in my XL order which is still months out before delivery.
Cool. Another Aric convert.
Evan
He just released another new model using 12 volt tubes instead of 6SN7's. Can be ordered either SE or Balanced. One piece unit like yours.
Quote from: Jack on February 15, 2026, 07:47:03 AMEvan
He just released another new model using 12 volt tubes instead of 6SN7's. Can be ordered either SE or Balanced. One piece unit like yours.
Yes I saw it. I just cant give up the 6sn7 tube
It's been a while since I posted on the tube amp situation. The Erhard arrived a few weeks ago. It was repaired by the manufacturer, Holger, and he sent it to me. It was nicely packaged and arrived in perfect condition. It is a beautiful piece and very well built. Has 4 KT 88 tubes and 3 6NS7 tubes and only weighs 45 lbs. I remember my McCormack amp weighed 60 lbs, so I appreciate the lighter weight.
I have just been playing music on JPLAY. Was repeating some songs, but mostly letting the software pick my favorites and other songs. The amp needed a lot of time to really sound good. Not sure how many hours are on it or if any tubes have been replaced. But it has enough hours on it now to draw some conclusions...
Let me start by saying that I've put in a lot of effort in noise reduction via cables, Dave's UberBUSS and some noise reduction devices by iFi. My system is quiet and resolves beautifully. I am using very good equipment including Leo's Starkrimson Ultra amp that I've had for a couple of years. I enjoyed my solid state sound.... fast, powerful, clean, detailed, layered, wide and deep soundstage, expansive and holographic. I have some silver cabling and that contributes to some of those attributes.
So since I've raved about solid state, what about a tube amp?? Well, it's been 30 years or so since I owned the VAC 90 monos and Modjeski RM 9. Both very nice amps. I will say I am really enjoying the Erhard Elvis Mk II. The midrange is very nice with an increased presence, warmth and oomph. The soundstage width and depth is similar to the solid state, but the layering isn't as detailed and structured like solid state and with silver wires. The top end isn't as resolving or maybe it's a bit hidden by a stronger midrange. The Erhard 60 w per side is plenty of power for my 88.5 db JMR Voce Grande speakers.
I will be using the Erhard for the foreseeable future. Generating some heat with summer approaching isn't a concern. In reflecting on the differences between solid state and a tube amp in my system, one isn't really better than the other. Just different flavors presented according to the designers visions. If I were backed against a wall and had to make a decision, I would lean toward the solid state presentation 🎶
Just an update on that Erhard Elvis Mk II amp. I have concluded that a good tube amp can be quite an addicting sound. Am quite happy with it.
I would be curious how the max modded Willsenton R8 and Miller Dynaco ST 70 tube amps would compare. But don't think I want to buy more amps and have to sell... at least for a while 🎶
I have lived with the Erhard for a while now and it's a great amp. I have used the Raytheon, Sylvania and RCA nos versions of the 6NS7. It's a close call between the Sylvania VT 231 and RCA 6NS7GTB and I slightly prefer the RCA. I am surprised by the detail retrieval, layering and improved texture on voices and instruments. If Evan reads this, I will bet him a (cheap) NY steak that he'd like the Erhard better than his Quicksilver amps...
Jack also has and likes the Erhard Elvis Mk II as well.
He might even be able to sell the Quikies for enough to cover the cost of the Erhard.
Quote from: Jack on June 28, 2026, 10:40:40 PMHe might even be able to sell the Quikies for enough to cover the cost of the Erhard.
Yes, indeed and even enough to buy me that steak dinner 🤤
I took my Elvis out of the system a couple of days ago and replaced it with the 25s. While the 25s are really good amps that do nothing wrong there is still something missing in the presentation that the Elvis delivers. I suspect it is the emotional element to the music that you get from a good tube amp and my new Verity's seem to love tubes.
The Elvis does offer more of an emotional connection and also presents a bit more of a realistic soundstage. There are some really excellent products out there for very reasonable prices.
Swapped the legendary Music Reference RM-10 into the system this morning in place of the 25s and that tube sound is back. Though the EL-84 sound is a bit different than the KT-88 sound of the Elvis it still has that extra tube "body" to the sound plus a bonus of running a whole lot cooler than the Elvis as Summer kicks in. Maybe at some point I'll go get the Granite Audio 861 monos out of the storage facility and get them rebiased. They are capable of running EL-34/KT-77 and KT-88/6550 in either triode or ultralinear mode. I think the last time I used them in Florida was with EL-34's so I may just stick with those rather than a complete rebias for the higher power tubes.
Will be sticking with the Erhard for some time. My heat pump doesn't make much noise, so listening is unaffected. You would not be able to bias the Granite monos or you just prefer to have someone do it? I remember the 1st time I attempted to bias my VAC 90 monos. One of the tubes started smoking, but it didn't suffer any damage. It wasn't a problem after that, but I do appreciate the Erhard being auto bias.
The music with the new fiber optic line is very good. I have no idea if the previous owner ever used it or if any of the components require much break in.
No, I've biased the Granite's multiple times over the years but it's just a pain in the ass multi-step process on each amp. Also some tube amps bias tends to drift over time while some like the RM-10 never do. If I remember correctly the last time I used the amps the Gold Lion KT-77s were in it so I will just put them back in and only have to do a touch on the bias. Will only get about 35-40 watts with them but that is a plenty with the Arindal's as the RM-10 did a fine job tonight with just 30wpc.
With your new fiber setup the only new piece should be the ONT(fiber modem) so no real break-in should be necessary. If you think it needs it just put the Red on a radio station and let it play. My iPower X should be here later today so I will see if I actually hear any difference from the stock PS on the Mesh unit.
Ok, so just a big pita to rebias sometimes. I am curious how the Granite will differ from the Erhard.
I mentioned possible break in as the system seems to keep improving. Now I am hearing some music that I haven't heard in months. My vague recollection is that it didn't sound as good with the Starkrimson. But I have added some cables and noise filtering products, so it's hard to say. The resolution is excellent and I am hearing things Ive not heard before. As the Starkrimson is nicely boxed in the garage on a shelf a bit difficult to access, it will remain there for now.
Yep, just a PITA. Not sure how different they will sound except with the Granite's you will have twice the transformer horsepower.
It sounds like with the current amp/preamp combo you have hit the perfect balance of tubes and SS that works with the Reynaud's. So as long as the heat doesn't become and issue later in the Summer it sounds like your system is good for a while.
Quote from: Nick B on June 28, 2026, 09:38:08 PMI have lived with the Erhard for a while now and it's a great amp. I have used the Raytheon, Sylvania and RCA nos versions of the 6NS7. It's a close call between the Sylvania VT 231 and RCA 6NS7GTB and I slightly prefer the RCA. I am surprised by the detail retrieval, layering and improved texture on voices and instruments. If Evan reads this, I will bet him a (cheap) NY steak that he'd like the Erhard better than his Quicksilver amps...
Jack also has and likes the Erhard Elvis Mk II as well.
I'm reading but not biting yet. This is my go to place
https://www.deesteakhouse.com/
Saw this earlier but not for me
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650336294-erhard-audio-aretha-tube-preamplifier-ray-single-ended-tube-amplifier-black-finish-original-packagin/
Just got back from Barbados last night and my 2 new bass traps from GIK were waiting for me. I ordered them with the 50 hz range limiters and results are positive. I was dealing with some overload in the lower regions on some music like Patricia Barber and this cleans ups the vocals and piano very well.
Quote from: Jack on June 28, 2026, 11:43:25 PMI took my Elvis out of the system a couple of days ago and replaced it with the 25s. While the 25s are really good amps that do nothing wrong there is still something missing in the presentation that the Elvis delivers. I suspect it is the emotional element to the music that you get from a good tube amp and my new Verity's seem to love tubes.
Did you talk with Aric about his amps before going with the Erhard? He doesn't seem to have anything with the same power output.
I bought the Erhard based on Nick's experience with it and sound wise it hasn't dissapointed. I do have one of Aric's Transcend amps on order but I don't expect to see it until around the first of the year. And yes while a good deal that Erhard combo is pretty low powered for most applications.
Quote from: ejk on June 30, 2026, 09:50:08 AMQuote from: Nick B on June 28, 2026, 09:38:08 PMI have lived with the Erhard for a while now and it's a great amp. I have used the Raytheon, Sylvania and RCA nos versions of the 6NS7. It's a close call between the Sylvania VT 231 and RCA 6NS7GTB and I slightly prefer the RCA. I am surprised by the detail retrieval, layering and improved texture on voices and instruments. If Evan reads this, I will bet him a (cheap) NY steak that he'd like the Erhard better than his Quicksilver amps...
Jack also has and likes the Erhard Elvis Mk II as well.
I'm reading but not biting yet. This is my go to place
https://www.deesteakhouse.com/
Saw this earlier but not for me
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650336294-erhard-audio-aretha-tube-preamplifier-ray-single-ended-tube-amplifier-black-finish-original-packagin/
That's a nice place. Sure hope I don't need to pay up... 😔 The Erhard sounds super and I am wondering if getting rid of the router with the coax connection and going fiber optic has something to do with it. Jack has much more experience with tube amps, so his liking the amp means more than my opinion. The Aric Audio line is very appealing and especially his preamp, single or dual chassis. But my Hattor really does a great job. I'm lucky the previous owner didn't break it in enough.
Quote from: ejk on June 30, 2026, 09:54:51 AMJust got back from Barbados last night and my 2 new bass traps from GIK were waiting for me. I ordered them with the 50 hz range limiters and results are positive. I was dealing with some overload in the lower regions on some music like Patricia Barber and this cleans ups the vocals and piano very well.
Glad you are enjoying nice travels. I have no acoustic treatments and am fortunate that there are no apparent room anomaly issues.... I think. Oh, are you using the Quicksilvers occasionally or sticking with the 25 monos? I still like Leo's amp a lot.
Quote from: Nick B on June 30, 2026, 09:20:02 PMQuote from: ejk on June 30, 2026, 09:54:51 AMJust got back from Barbados last night and my 2 new bass traps from GIK were waiting for me. I ordered them with the 50 hz range limiters and results are positive. I was dealing with some overload in the lower regions on some music like Patricia Barber and this cleans ups the vocals and piano very well.
Glad you are enjoying nice travels. I have no acoustic treatments and am fortunate that there are no apparent room anomaly issues.... I think. Oh, are you using the Quicksilvers occasionally or sticking with the 25 monos? I still like Leo's amp a lot.
This week I am listening to the Ultra.
Quote from: ejk on June 30, 2026, 11:33:40 PMQuote from: Nick B on June 30, 2026, 09:20:02 PMQuote from: ejk on June 30, 2026, 09:54:51 AMJust got back from Barbados last night and my 2 new bass traps from GIK were waiting for me. I ordered them with the 50 hz range limiters and results are positive. I was dealing with some overload in the lower regions on some music like Patricia Barber and this cleans ups the vocals and piano very well.
Glad you are enjoying nice travels. I have no acoustic treatments and am fortunate that there are no apparent room anomaly issues.... I think. Oh, are you using the Quicksilvers occasionally or sticking with the 25 monos? I still like Leo's amp a lot.
This week I am listening to the Ultra.
👍 🎶
I wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Quote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Using the Link Up cable for a few years now from wall to LHY SW8 switch and it is an excellent cable then I use TWL from switch to IFI lan to streamer
Quote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Nick,
Thanks to a certain amount of busy-ness and laziness on my part, I still rely on wifi to get my signal to my streamer. I don't know how much improvement I can achieve by running a cable to my streamer because I haven't tried it. [My streamer is literally ~30 ft away from my router.] My loving wife would thrash me within an inch of my life oo/ if I were foolish enough to string a cable from the router to the streamer inside the house. There is no cable connector/outlet in the audio room. With a skilled technician and helpful guidance from people such as yourself, I'm confident I could run a cable from the garage* to the crawlspace beneath the listening room's floor and up (into the room) behind the audio gear stand. The probable length of said cable would likely be 40' to 50' depending on how many angles the cable would have to negotiate.
In your opinion, is it worth my time and trouble to go wired? Is the difference in sound quality so pronounced that once I hear it, there's no going back to wireless?
* The garage sits below the main floor. The crawlspace is beside the garage and under the listening room/formal dining room. The main floor is a floating floor. The cable 'point/box' is inside the garage.
Thoughts?
Seeing an ad for Innuos gear jogged my memory that I had been researching an upgrade for my system last Fall by adding a ROON server (possibly the Nucleus One?). That idea got shelved when I flew back to Taiwan and got very distracted by cancer. :shock:
I may have to start my research all over again.
Quote from: ejk on July 04, 2026, 12:00:04 AMQuote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Using the Link Up cable for a few years now from wall to LHY SW8 switch and it is an excellent cable then I use TWL from switch to IFI lan to streamer
Interesting that you use the same cable. Sometimes these things don't need to be costly
Quote from: mresseguie on July 04, 2026, 08:07:02 AMQuote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Nick,
Thanks to a certain amount of busy-ness and laziness on my part, I still rely on wifi to get my signal to my streamer. I don't know how much improvement I can achieve by running a cable to my streamer because I haven't tried it. [My streamer is literally ~30 ft away from my router.] My loving wife would thrash me within an inch of my life oo/ if I were foolish enough to string a cable from the router to the streamer inside the house. There is no cable connector/outlet in the audio room. With a skilled technician and helpful guidance from people such as yourself, I'm confident I could run a cable from the garage* to the crawlspace beneath the listening room's floor and up (into the room) behind the audio gear stand. The probable length of said cable would likely be 40' to 50' depending on how many angles the cable would have to negotiate.
In your opinion, is it worth my time and trouble to go wired? Is the difference in sound quality so pronounced that once I hear it, there's no going back to wireless?
* The garage sits below the main floor. The crawlspace is beside the garage and under the listening room/formal dining room. The main floor is a floating floor. The cable 'point/box' is inside the garage.
Thoughts?
Michael,
I have streamed wireless before and it was a pita in my situation. A few years ago I was discussing a new streamer with Jack and it was the wired Holo Red. He suggested a mesh router system which I hadn't heard of. I have 3 TP Link routers that act together to cover a large area. One unit is wired to the incoming main line (from my garage) and is in the master bedroom. The other 2 units are in the computer room and the living room where you know my system is. Each router then has ethernet inputs and so I simply plug in the Holo Red to that router. No routing ethernet cables, hacking holes in walls etc. It really works well and is way better than the single unit routers of the past.
My TP Link units work great and I believe that's what Jack uses. I got mine from Amazon. I am not familiar with other brands, but maybe Jack could recommend others as well.
Today I received the 2nd iFi LAN iSilencer inline filter. I plugged this one into the ethernet switch box in the garage. The other iSilencer is plugged into the router that serves the audio system in the living room.
I had some concern about this 2nd unit dulling the top end a bit. I am already playing music and that doesn't appear to be a problem at all. The result, though, is additional increased resolution. It really is amazing how the subtleties of the recording can be covered up because of crappy cables and line noise.
The best listening will be later this evening, so I will be able to evaluate more. The iFi products are really a great value.
Quote from: Nick B on July 04, 2026, 10:40:52 AMQuote from: mresseguie on July 04, 2026, 08:07:02 AMQuote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Nick,
Thanks to a certain amount of busy-ness and laziness on my part, I still rely on wifi to get my signal to my streamer. I don't know how much improvement I can achieve by running a cable to my streamer because I haven't tried it. [My streamer is literally ~30 ft away from my router.] My loving wife would thrash me within an inch of my life oo/ if I were foolish enough to string a cable from the router to the streamer inside the house. There is no cable connector/outlet in the audio room. With a skilled technician and helpful guidance from people such as yourself, I'm confident I could run a cable from the garage* to the crawlspace beneath the listening room's floor and up (into the room) behind the audio gear stand. The probable length of said cable would likely be 40' to 50' depending on how many angles the cable would have to negotiate.
In your opinion, is it worth my time and trouble to go wired? Is the difference in sound quality so pronounced that once I hear it, there's no going back to wireless?
* The garage sits below the main floor. The crawlspace is beside the garage and under the listening room/formal dining room. The main floor is a floating floor. The cable 'point/box' is inside the garage.
Thoughts?
Michael,
I have streamed wireless before and it was a pita in my situation. A few years ago I was discussing a new streamer with Jack and it was the wired Holo Red. He suggested a mesh router system which I hadn't heard of. I have 3 TP Link routers that act together to cover a large area. One unit is wired to the incoming main line (from my garage) and is in the master bedroom. The other 2 units are in the computer room and the living room where you know my system is. Each router then has ethernet inputs and so I simply plug in the Holo Red to that router. No routing ethernet cables, hacking holes in walls etc. It really works well and is way better than the single unit routers of the past.
My TP Link units work great and I believe that's what Jack uses. I got mine from Amazon. I am not familiar with other brands, but maybe Jack could recommend others as well.
Nick,
Is this the sort of device you have?
https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/range-extender/re220/
Michael
That device should work fine but you might want to consider moving up the line a bit to one with the external antennas. Also I would buy it from Amazon where you have a return option if it doesn't do what you want.
Quote from: mresseguie on July 06, 2026, 08:40:11 AMQuote from: Nick B on July 04, 2026, 10:40:52 AMQuote from: mresseguie on July 04, 2026, 08:07:02 AMQuote from: Nick B on July 03, 2026, 11:26:56 PMI wanted to mention the improvement gained by adding some good and inexpensive Cat 8 ethernet cables from Amazon. I hadn't paid much attention to the one cable from the mesh TP Link router to the iFi converter unit. Mentioned it to Jack and he suggested the Link Up Cat 8 cables. Nicely built and shielded and for only $12 each. I put them in yesterday and the improvement is quite impressive. The cheapie cable had been suppressing detail and now that detail is coming through. Vocals are more separated and the soundstage presentation is more realistic. There is also a good improvement in the texture of voices and instruments. That is something I have been after and violins and brass for example have a more realistic texture. The decay of notes is improved as well. I just didn't want to spend a couple of hundred dollars right now on an upscale ethernet cable.
I have another iFi LAN iSilencer coming and it will be placed at the ethernet switch box in the garage. Will advise if that makes it difference.
Nick,
Thanks to a certain amount of busy-ness and laziness on my part, I still rely on wifi to get my signal to my streamer. I don't know how much improvement I can achieve by running a cable to my streamer because I haven't tried it. [My streamer is literally ~30 ft away from my router.] My loving wife would thrash me within an inch of my life oo/ if I were foolish enough to string a cable from the router to the streamer inside the house. There is no cable connector/outlet in the audio room. With a skilled technician and helpful guidance from people such as yourself, I'm confident I could run a cable from the garage* to the crawlspace beneath the listening room's floor and up (into the room) behind the audio gear stand. The probable length of said cable would likely be 40' to 50' depending on how many angles the cable would have to negotiate.
In your opinion, is it worth my time and trouble to go wired? Is the difference in sound quality so pronounced that once I hear it, there's no going back to wireless?
* The garage sits below the main floor. The crawlspace is beside the garage and under the listening room/formal dining room. The main floor is a floating floor. The cable 'point/box' is inside the garage.
Thoughts?
Michael,
I have streamed wireless before and it was a pita in my situation. A few years ago I was discussing a new streamer with Jack and it was the wired Holo Red. He suggested a mesh router system which I hadn't heard of. I have 3 TP Link routers that act together to cover a large area. One unit is wired to the incoming main line (from my garage) and is in the master bedroom. The other 2 units are in the computer room and the living room where you know my system is. Each router then has ethernet inputs and so I simply plug in the Holo Red to that router. No routing ethernet cables, hacking holes in walls etc. It really works well and is way better than the single unit routers of the past.
My TP Link units work great and I believe that's what Jack uses. I got mine from Amazon. I am not familiar with other brands, but maybe Jack could recommend others as well.
Nick,
Is this the sort of device you have?
https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/range-extender/re220/
Michael,
This is what I bought in 2023 and it has worked very well.
TP-Link Deco X55 AX3000 WiFi 6 Mesh System - Covers up to 6500 Sq.Ft, Replaces Wireless Router and Extender, 3 Gigabit Ports per Unit, Supports Ethernet Backhaul, Deco X55(3-Pack)
https://a.co/d/09L7bcwn
Devices like mine might work fine. But with the location in the garage, you might want/need units with antennas. I had routers with antennas for years and I always had to rotate the antennas to tighten them. A big pita and I love my current 3 unit TP Link mesh system
Nick
I got the impression from what he wrote that the actual router was in the house but in another room. If that's the case even though the Mesh system might be an improvement over his current router, especially if it's the providers router, the extender should work fine and worth a try first with the no hassle return policy from Amazon. Plus there is the idea, championed for years by Auralic, that if your streamer works fine with no drop outs on WiFi then you eliminate the noise issues that can come with hard wired ethernet. I ran my Auralic streamers for almost a decade in both houses on WiFi with no issues. I only had to hard wire when I bought the Red.
Jack,
I read Michael's post again and you're right. I also didn't really address his question. I started streaming wirelessly with the Squeezebox and always had trouble with it. Then went wireless with the Auralic Mini which worked better. So I have become a bit jaded with wireless streaming and my current wired connection is very low noise and sounds great. Does wired give me an advantage in sound quality? I doubt it. I have also become spoiled with the mesh system and could probably get by with 2 units. But these aren't expensive systems and having 3 routers has worked out great.
Having this flexibility gives me wired and wireless options in the future should I upgrade my streamer at some point.
Guys,
Just a quickie note.
My streamer is <more or less> in line of sight to my Comcast router at an approximate 30 foot distance. Using wifi yields decent sounding music, but I want to try wired to learn if I can hear any improvement. There is a cable (splitter??) box in my garage, but I don't need to attach anything there.
I'll be in Alaska in two days, and I'll do more research while I'm there. I will see what's available on Amazon. If I have any more questions, I'll ask here.
Thank you both for your suggestions. 2026 is turning out to be another super busy year for me.
The reason I went wired was when streaming was new the signal would always start buffering but not with wired. Today speeds and tech is different.
Quote from: mresseguie on July 06, 2026, 11:18:31 PMGuys,
Just a quickie note.
My streamer is <more or less> in line of sight to my Comcast router at an approximate 30 foot distance. Using wifi yields decent sounding music, but I want to try wired to learn if I can hear any improvement. There is a cable (splitter??) box in my garage, but I don't need to attach anything there.
I'll be in Alaska in two days, and I'll do more research while I'm there. I will see what's available on Amazon. If I have any more questions, I'll ask here.
Thank you both for your suggestions. 2026 is turning out to be another super busy year for me.
Keep us posted what you decide, Michael. If you haven't looked into inline filters and optical isolation devices, it would be worth checking out because of the noise reduction and increased resolution. The iFi products I use are a very good value and I have an UBER just like you do.