Trying Not To Be An Audiophile...

by tboooe on Opinions Pleasesmall roomsubRELSonus Faber GuarneriMutec

Description

I am a recovering Audiophile just getting back into music after a few years off. This time around I want to focus on just enjoying the music instead of chasing every last ounce of decay, detail, air, etc of the music and spending more time analyzing the shortcomings of my system instead of just enjoying it. I also put myself on a strict budget to keep myself from going crazy like I did before (see my previous system) chasing the elusive dream of a perfect system.

I listen mainly to singer/songwriters, acoustic, and jazz so I wanted to put together a system that was above all else musical and able to capture the natural timbres of voices and instruments. Soundstage depth and focus is also important to me as this creates more of a sense of realism. With this system, I am able to literally listen for hours without any fatigue.

My room is rather small, 9x10x9 so setup is a bit challenging. I found that moving the speakers away from the front wall helped tremendously to increase soundstage depth and helped to bring everything into focus. There are large openings on the wall directly behind the listening position which is a great help in such a small room.

Future additions:

Sonus Faber Guarneri or Olympica I - I have really fallen in love with the SF house sound. This next speaker upgrade will be my last for a while.

Misc cables - I want to start experimenting with cables to see if I can get more minor improvements.

Thank you for reading! I look forward to any advice that will help me achieve my goal of creating a musical and emotional system (on a budget of course!).

UPDATE 05 April 2016

Added a REL T/5i sub.  WOW!  What a difference.  I am kicking myself for waiting so long to add a sub into my system.  Now I am thinking about adding a second one.  Maybe that would be overkill in my little room??

UPDATE 30 March 2016

Added the Mutec MC-3+USB converter to replace my old Musical Fidelity V-link.  The Mutec also acts as a signal reclocker too which has helped to smooth out the sound.

UPDATE 16 October 2014

Added GIK 244 panels along the midpoint of my sidewalls to deal with some bass issues and the first reflection points. Improved mid bass and clarity.

UPDATE 15 Aug 2014

Added RealTraps Mondo Corner bass traps. The overall improvement has been astonishing! I should have added these a long time ago!

UPDATE 12 Aug 2014

Added the Light Harmonic Light Speed split USB cable. This cable separates the data and power signals resulting in an incredibly lifelike and clear sound.

UPDATE 04 Aug 2014

Added Vicoustic Cinema Round panels at the 1st reflection points. One of the best upgrades I have ever done.

UPDATE 25 March 2014

Replaced my Acoustic Zen Silver Ref II interconnects with Tara Labs The 2 + HFX Ground Station. The sound is just as clear as the AZ but with more air and sense of organicness.

UPDATE 31 Jan 2014

Replaced by beloved Sonus Faber Cremona Auditor monitors with the Guarneri Evolutions.

UPDATE 15 Nov 2013

Added the Vicoustic Flexiwood 75 absorption panels for the front wall behind my speakers.

UPDATE 16 Oct 2013

Added the Synergistic Research Element Tungsten AC cable for my Luxman D-06 CDP/DAC.

UPDATE 27 Sept 2013

Added a Keces DC-116 19V, 6A linear power supply for the music server PC.

UPDATE 09 Sept 2013

Added a PC based music server to replace a Sonos ZP90. Also added a Synergistic Research USB Active SE cable, Musical Fidelity V-link USB Converter.

UPDATE 27 Aug 2013

Added modded Synergistic Research MPC by Michael Spallone

UPDATE 16 Aug 2013

Added Stillpoints Ultra Minis under my PS Audio P3.

UPDATE 26 July 2013

Added the Synergistic Research Element Tungsten AC cable for my PS Audio P3.

UPDATE 07 June 2013

Replaced by Musical Fidelity M6i with Accustic Arts Power 1 Mk2.

UPDATE 26 June 2013

Replaced my Musical Fidelity M1 DAC with a Luxman D-06 CDP with digital inputs.

Added the PS Audio Powerplant P-3 AC regenerator.
Read more...

Room Details

Dimensions: 10’ × 9’  Small
Ceiling: 9’

Components Toggle details

    • Sonus Faber Gauneri Evolution
    To me, great monitors that give me what I look for; musicality with lifelike reproduction of vocals and instruments.
    • REL Acoustics T/5i
    8" subwoofer.  Amazingly in my small room this little sub is able to go down to 20hz without any boominess.  I may just another one!
    • Accustic Arts Power 1 MK2
    Very transparent integrated amp. It almost sounds as good as it looks
    • Luxman D-06
    I use this mainly for its DAC but the CDP is great for times when I want to listen to a new CD without having to wait to rip it. The sound is relaxed and liquid, typical Luxman.
    • Tara Labs The 2 + HFX Ground Station
    Typical Tara Labs sound..very clear and airy.
    • CAPS Zuma
    Purpose built, silent pc based music server.
    • PS Audio Powerplant P-3
    AC regeneration device. This has brought my system to a new level. I am sorry I waited so long to add this.
    • HD Plex 300W ATX Linear Power Supply
    300W, 18A linear power supply for my music server. It definitely made the sound more clear, the highs linger longer, and the midbass more tight.
    • Tara Labs The One
    Very neutral speaker cable with a clear, clear, fast sound.
    • Acoustic Zen Silver Bytes Digital Cable
    Another very good cable from Acoustic Zen. Detailed and clear.
    • Light Harmonic Light Speed SPlit USB
    Split USB cable that separates the power and data. The sound is incredibly lifelike and clear.
    • Musical Fidelity V-Link USB Converter
    Very good entry level USB converter.
    • Synergistic Research Element Tungsten AC Cable
    Added for my PS Audio P3 AC Regenerator and CDP/DAC. I noticed a substantial improvement in clarity and reduction in noise.
    • Virtual Dynamics PC The Nite II
    I have tried all kinds of PCs but only Virtual Dynamics gave me more dynamics and body. I use this for my amp.
    • Oyaide Cryo'd Outlet R1
    Palladium plated outlet. Adds another level of clarity and resolution to the system. I use this for my DAC and transport.
    • Oyaide Cryo'd Outlet SWO-GX
    24K gold plated outlet. It gives some additional bass and body to the music. I use this for my amp.
    • Vicoustic Room treatments
    Absorption panel for the front wall behind my speakers and 1st reflections points. They look really nice and as well as also working good to tame reflections.
    • RealTraps Mondo Corner Bass Traps X 2
    These made a huge difference to the soundstage and bass in my system. Room treatments are key to making any system sound better. I ended up covering these in acoustic fabric to make them look a little better. Hopefully I succeeded.
    • GIK Acoustics 244 (Extended Range) Panels
    Added the 244 panels at the mid point of my side walls to deal with bass issues and first reflections.
    • HiFi Tuning Supreme Fuse
    I have found these fuses can sometimes make a nice little difference. In my Accustic Arts Power 1 int amp I heard more clarity and dynamics but in my PS Audio P3 AC regenerator I heard no difference. I have paid a lot more to get less (and sometimes worse) improvement.
    • Stillpoints Ultra Mini Footers
    Used beneath my PS Audio P3 the Minis added more clarity, focus, and sharpness to notes.
    • Michael Spallone Synergistic Research MPC Mod
    GREAT upgrade to diodes and caps which resulted in blacker background, better distinction between instruments, and highs which seem to linger just a bit longer. Very recommened
    • Minimserver Server
    Digital media server software
    • Mutec MC 3+USB
    USB converter + reclocker.  I think the reclocker really helped to smooth out the sound.

Comments 252

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Owner
Thank you guys...one of these days I will get around to trying out some tube gear, preferably SET with my Evolutions.

So far after the changes to the speaker position I am thoroughly enjoying the music! Vocals are much more holographic and I am hearing more nuance than I have ever before. The music is much more engaging and organic. I have a few favorite albums that I have avoided listening to because I just thought the recording was poor. The music sounded flat, compressed and a bit bright. Since repositioning the speakers these same albums sound completely transformed. Incredible! I will be adding some bass traps and absorption panels for 1st reflection points on the sidewall and ceiling in the near future. Things are good!

tboooe

Tboooe,
Here's an example, my 300b is an excellent SET and easily drives my speaker, I love this combo. I wouldn't suggest my SET as the best choice for your speaker however. It may be a good match but I'd feel that in your case the LM SET845 is the better option for reasons stated in earlier posts. Of course we'd all agree auditioning would be the optimal solution.
Charles,

charles1dad

Hi John,
I understand your point and humor ( belatedly ). I'm a strong advocate of SET amplifiers but have always made a case for appropriate vspeakers. Tboooe's speaker was matched to the LM SET and the reviewer "raved" about the results. I thought that should have given Tboooe some level of reassurance. John I think the Fire Bottle KT 88 SET could mate very well with your particular speakers. Most probably the SF Evolution is a tougher challenge to drive than your speakers (educated guess).

I believe that in comparing the two amplifiers the transmission tube 845
with its required high voltage circuit design and very stout parts and built is likely the more suitable match for the Evolutions. Admittedly this is speculation and perhaps the Fire Bottle SET could be used. These 2 SET amplifiers are clearly designed and constructed Differently is what I was attempting to point out.
Regards,
Charles,

charles1dad

Look, I am not trying to upset anyone here. I was just remarking to Charles that he had flipped sides of the fence from the amp debate of last month between whether a SET amp was worth trying or not. It just struck me as ironic that he went from the adventurous side of the fence (just try it) to the conservative side of the fence (I don't think it will work) on the same subject.

Don't everybody get all sensitive....I was just noting what seemed to me to be irony. Do folks recognize irony?

And yes Charles, I get it, not all SET amps are created equal, just as all 200 wpc SS amps are not created equal. There is a lot to be said for a beefy power supply. Sheesh.

jmcgrogan2

John, IF knowledgable advice that suggests that the OP be cautious about pairing an expensive low-powered SET amp with his speaker.Particularly since I own a VERY similar speaker to the OP and you do NOT, is consider by you as negativism...then I guess I am guilty. :0(

daveyf

I understand Charles, I was just joking, really. It's just that when you were cautioning Tboooe that Dennis' Inspire amp may not be good enough to drive his speakers, I was having flashback's to Daveyf's comments about SET amps in general not being enough to drive his speakers.

I can't say that I would argue one way or the other, each person must find their own path. There is another thread where the OP swears that a 200/400 wpc SS amp is not strong enough to drive his 96 dB 4 ohm speakers. The main goal is personal satisfaction. I don't know if 12 wpc will be enough for me, but at least I found an amp at a price that I'm willing to try. I wouldn't pay $5000 just to find out if 12 wpc will be enough for me, but for $1500, I'll give it a go.

Cheers,
John

jmcgrogan2

Hi John, Do I sound negative? Don't mean to be. Just being cautious as these two amps and speakers represent different scenarios rather than 1:1 replacements
Charles,

charles1dad

Yes Brett, how did you know? Flames and pink flamingos....pretty cool, huh??? ;^)

jmcgrogan2

John, Since your new amp is receiving a custom paint job.... how about adding some old school style Hot-Rod flames..... :)

isochronism

Charles, now you're starting to sound like Daveyf with all of this amp negativity.
I'm just busting your chops. Hey, I wish I had the cash to throw around on the amps that I'd really like to try, but those days are gone. I'm on a much tighter budget now. I think this amp will work, and it's American made, but only time will tell. I do realize that my speakers are an easier load than Tboooe's.

jmcgrogan2

John,
I believe this amplifier you've chosen could work well with your speaker. I'm not nearly as confident of its pairing with Tboooe's Evolutions to be truthful.
Charles,

charles1dad

Charles, my speakers are Soliloquy 6.3i's, a relatively easy load at 91 dB and a stable 8 ohm load.

Here is a link to some of Dennis' amps.

He is doing some custom paint work on my amp so that it will match my SLP-98P preamp

jmcgrogan2

Tboooe,
I'm not so certain this amp is adequate for your SF Evolutions. The beauty of the LM 845 is the exceptionally robust design with stout transformers and power supply that will control your speakers. That's a different animal compared to a 12 watt KT 88. Not implying it's a bad amp at all, but is likely targeted for a different speaker than yours. That Line Magnetic amplifier is heavy and big for a reason.
Charles,

charles1dad

Owner
John, please tell me more...I am on the lookout for SET amps to try since I am getting no where with the Line Magnetic dealer.

tboooe

John,
When Dennis Had speaks of bass and dynamics I actually attribute these qualities more to power supply, transformer quality and the circuit driver stage implementation more so than output tube choice.
Charles,

charles1dad

Hi John,
Congratulations on your new amplifier. What speakers will they be driving? This is the key determinant for a successful outcome. I'm not familiar with single ended pentode/ beam tubes as I am with DHT tubes. Given the builder involved(I assume he'll use good output transformers, these are essential) I suspect that you'll be happy with this amplifier. Please keep us informed.
Charles,

charles1dad

Charles, you wet my whistle to try the SET sound. I just ordered a SET "Fire Bottle" Inspire amp from Dennis Had (formerly of Cary). 12 wpc from a pair of KT-88's, using a 6SL7 (or 6SN7) as a driver, with a 5AR4 as a regulator.

Dennis claims that the KT-88 tubes offer most of the midrange glory of the 300B, 845, and 2A3 tubes when run in SET, but also add more dynamics and bass slam. I haven't received it yet, but it looks like it will be a fun little toy to play with.

Cheers,
John

jmcgrogan2

Tboooe,
The good news is speaker placement doesn't cost you anything ( other than a hernia, small price to pay for better sound LOL). It seems in your particular room that toe- in has yielded very impressive improvements.

I know there are other good SET amplifiers available but considering cost and performance the LM SET 845 appeared to be such a fine match for you. If I lived nearby I'd gladly help you get your speakers to that stubborn dealer so you could hear for yourself.
Charles,

charles1dad

Owner
Daveyf, ok i will give it a shot this weekend once my hernia recovers. Though when I had a lot less toe in (and with the speakers closer to the front wall), the sound was not nearly as dynamic and detailed as it now.

tboooe

Tommy, I think you may want to try placing the GE's perfectly parallel to each other....this is the way I listen ( IOW, NO toe in whatsoever)...
report back if you try this, you might like it. :0)

daveyf

Owner
Hi Charles. I absolutely would love to audition the LM 518 but so far no luck and I am definitely not going to bring my speakers to the dealer over an hour way. Right now I am looking into other SET options.

tboooe

Tboooe,
You feel better so all wasn't loss. Are you still interested in the Line Magnetic SET?
Charles,

charles1dad

Owner
Ok I have definitely jumped the shark. Even now I must admit I have gone too far. I have always been a bit OCD and anal but tonight I went over the edge. I just spent the last two hours with an auto leveling laser line aligning my speakers, audio rack, and listening position to the room. What I found out was my room is skewed by about 1/4" along the short wall. This meant one speaker was closer the front wall by 1/4". I was also using the edges of my wood flooring to align the position and toe of my speakers so this resulted in one of my speakers actually being toed in too far as well. My listening chair was also off center by 1/8" and my audio rack was off by 1/4". I even perfectly centered my area rug. The best part....I noticed absolutely no difference in sound. However, my feel better!

tboooe

Owner
Thank you Newbee! Any advice is greatly appreciated. Right now the speakers are toed-in pointing at my ears. I will try crossing them in front of me and see how it goes.

tboooe

Not to butt in but since you have greatly enhanced you sonic presentation, here is something else you can try which might even improve what you have accomplished already.

Toe in your speakers until their axis cross in front of your listening position. This will minimize the effect of side will reflections quite a bit and give you better focus. It will also allow you to put your speakers closer to the side walls and give you a wider sound stage (assuming you can adjust your listening position accordingly).

It has worked exceptionally well for me.

newbee

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