TRL Marantz Sa-14

Hi all,

Here are the power cords that I tried with the TRL SA14:

- Most tube-like sound: Bolder Cable Nitro
- Most SS-like sound: Cable Research Lab (CRL) Silver series
- Best of both worlds: Ven Haus AirSine

Please refer to my descriptions of the sound above. I was quite surprised by how different the power cords were. I was also surprised how the Nitro sounded when paired with the TRL SA14 since in the past with other components the Nitro had great extension and a balanced presentation. It just shows how different components interact differently with different power cords.

Jack, thanks for the input. I am tempted to send the SA14 back to TRL. My thinking was to give them a bit of time to see if they further refine/finalize the mod, since the shipping bills really add up. I'll reach out to Brian. I hope he has fully recovered.

LKdog-

Thanks. I look forward to hearing from others who may have the Marantz SA-11. I might give Paul a call on this and
see.

Jack, have you heard this player?

Jay -

Yes, send it back. I marvel at the midrange resolution every time I play a CD.
You will not be disappointed.

Remember guys that cables must integrate into a system, there is no "one" cable that will work best for every system. Cabling plays an important role in system synergy. For an example, if you had a Krell based system, your cable choices would be different than someone with a SET based system.

Lkdog: Your cable choices would be different now, with your TRL modified Musical Fidelity A300, then before the mod ... right? Prior to the mod, your A300 was a little edgy. At that time, I would have recommended Cardas to help tame your amp. After the TRL mod, I would recommend a more neutral cable like the FIM/CRL. (Sorry for singling you out ... it is a valid point and I hope that you don't mind me using it as an example)

TRL Family: We can not assume that there is one perfect cable that will integrate well with every system. It is important to know the characteristics of various cables so that we can optimize the synergy to make our systems the best they can be.

LA45: Hey Cuz, how have you been? I haven't heard the SA-11 yet, but will soon, as TRL got verification of shipment from Marantz USA yesterday. I'm making a special trip to hear the first one out the door (Tom Moore's), and will happily report back my findings. The TRL/SA-11 will have to be a "very, very special player" in order to make me want one. My TRL/SA-14 has set a pretty high standard in which to beat. (Just ask Oldpet and Lkdog)

Jsala: Send it back. The difference is more significant than the original mod.

Best,

Jack Seaton

Jack is correct. The TRL SA14 is a very fine machine. Especially since the mod upgrade, which has been very acurately described in the above posts. Even Brian Weitzel said, in emails back and forth, that this is a "very special" machine.
I simply don't have the desire to "upgrade" my source. That says alot - you guys all know how this hobby is. :-)

best
paul