Description

This is the second of three 2-channel setups that I currently have in my house. As the title says, it's located in our basement, which we use for hanging out, playing pool, and my 6-year old daughter's play area. Especially in the summer because it's nice and cool down there! You'll notice that the 2-channel rig is next to the video/tv/xbox rig, which also gets a lot of use.

Anyways, the system just sort of happened, with none of the components bought specifically for this space (which is in a fairly small area of the basement). The Pioneer TT was purchased first, and was the first table that I purchased in easily 25 years. It was originally used in an early configuration of our lounge system. The second purchase was the NAD 502, because I found it for $5 bucks for parts/repair. All that was wrong was the backlight bulb had burnt out, and once replaced the player worked fine. I experimented with some different op amps, but eventually settled on a tube output stage using a kit from Mr. Lampizator. Then, I got really interested in the Spica TC-50s and purchased them for use with a Fisher 500C, but it just couldn't drive them effectively. Lastly, purchased the NAD 3020 integrated to try out. Eventually realized that I had a bunch of really good equipment for a second setup, and this system was born. Put everything in a Bell'o rack that I had purchased years earlier that had been in storage.

The only changes that have been made recently are the AT120E cartridge and the DIY speaker cables. Both made big improvements to the sound.

As I said, it's a smaller area of the basement, full carpeted with drop ceiling tiles, and lots of furniture. All of this factors into the full, balanced sound I get out of the system. And, the 3020 does a great job of driving the 4ohm Spicas.

Another example of a relatively low cost system, using older 2nd-hand components, but producing an overall great sound.

Comments and suggestions welcome!
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Components Toggle details

    • NAD 502
    NAD 502 bought used for $20, backlight bulb needed to be replaced, replaced stock opamps with OPA2134, but then bypassed the stock output stage with a Lampzator tube output stage. Wow!
    • Pioneer PL-112D
    The first turntable that I bought when getting back into vinyl. Decent little, inexpensive table.
    • NAD 3020
    Bought used for under $200. In great shape, needing a little de-oxit on the controls. It's next on my project list to refurbish/upgrade. Drives the TC-50s amazingly!
    • Spica TC-50
    Bought these with the sub and stands for $550. They're in great shape and sound fantastic with the 3020.
    • Spica Servo
    Bought as part of a package with the TC-50s and stands. Was not functional when I received it - needed new driver and power cable. Now that it's fixed it sounds great. Had to build a custom external crossover/splitter.
    • DIY White Lightning Moonshine
    DIY cables; sound great!
    • Audio-Technica USA AT-120E
    Cartridge recommended by the Needle Doctor. Sounds great.

Comments 2

Showing all comments by drrsutliff.

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Love the setup. Owned an original 3020 that I bought new in 78 and used for 25 years. Enjoy! (but Dweller is right about elevating everything off the floor)

drrsutliff