Atma-Sphere, Ralph Karsten


So I had tube gear many moons ago for a very short period of time. Now I have Atma-sphere UV-1,  serial 002. And the most upgraded one of its kind, lol... Also have a set of M60’s 3.3 and recently purchased some older MA-1 Silvers. Being mostly new to tubes and completely new to Atma-Sphere, (OTL)  I’ve had a ton of questions. And let me say this.... The crew at Atma-sphere has spent a lot of  time with me through explanations,  and a few issues that  came up. Non of which,  was an Atma-sphere issue. It was other components.  Ralph and his crew really knows Audio. And what’s more they have a passion for their work which is very, very  hard to find, I live close, I go there. When I brought in my PreAmp,  Adam was so proud,  and happy to see it was in such good shape. The pride beemed from him. At that point I knew this company was a special one.  Everyone at Atma-Sphere doesn’t look at it as a job.  They are extremely passionate about what they do. And they take so much pride in their work. It’s really incredible.  They,  and Ralph,  have spent time not only to answer my questions. But to make sure I really have an understanding of the question I ask. They really make sure their consumers know, and understand their products. The service I have received from them, is really unheard of, in this day and age. Few manufacturers care about after the sale. But this is where Ralph understands the relationship actually begins. No one understands that business model these days.  I never get the impression I am bugging them. In fact usually get more in-depth answer than I ever anticipated. In this day and age,  In this day and age it’s incredible to find a manufacturer that cares about the consumer. Let alone as much as these guys do. There is not enough words, or gratitude,  I have for them to write here. 
    People don’t share gratitude much anymore.  But these  guys truly deserve it. If anyone ever wants an awesome sounding Amps,  or Preamps,  hand built by passionate people. And what has to be the best or close to the best customer service in the industry.... Ralph and his crew go more then the extra mile.... I’ll never buy any other product, ever...... They are simply incredible. And some of the nicest people I have ever met. 

    Full Disclosure.... I am just an extremely happy consumer.... Average Joe blow off the street. 
128x128pstores
I bought used MA-1s here on Audiogon some years ago, and later upgraded to v3.2. I am very happy with the sound. The support from Ralph &co has been outstanding.
I don't own any A-M gear either, however one of the best sounding systems I can remember hearing was using M-60 mono's and an MP-1preamp driving Classic Audio T-3 speakers at RMAF a few years ago.  Super impressive and if I had the space and $ I would replicate that system.
He is a real stand up guy. Always helps out with his vast knowledge on hifi gear!
The few interactions that I have had with him here make me want to purchase his products. Very intelligent, a gentleman and generous with his time and knowledge. I wish that I had more efficient speakers!!