This is so endlessly sad. It's been 761 days since the cancer demon took the person dearest to me and my deepest sympathy goes to everyone who has to go through a similar ordeal. Sincerest condolences to John's family.
Back in 2006 when I was unsure whether to buy a Stax 3030 or 4040 system or yet something else, I had mailed John asking for his expertise. I thought perhaps I'd be happy enough to receive a few lines sometime. Instead, the next day I had received detailed, personalized advice about what I would have to pay attention to and what to expect in the context of my system. Same as with Mapman, John didn't know me, he was not going to sell anything to me nor did he have any other interest but the ambition to help someone make the choice he would likely be most happy and satisfied with. Thanks John.