TRL Marantz Sa-14

Tony,

They used the Alesis Masterlink (modded) as a transport because that is what you were going to mate your Audio Mirror with. It makes sense that if they have what you are using as a transport, they should use it as well. :)

I can't wait to hear your impressions of the TRL ST-225. You're using the TRL cables too, right?

I know what you mean about never leaving tubes. I didn't think I've ever say that either ... :)

Best,

Jack

So, who now has the Pioneer 563 on loan?

Jack

Which one, Jack? The APL unit? I thought that was a dead issue.

paul

I think that it is. I just wanted to know if anyone actually heard one, besides the guy that made mention of it (and a comparison to the TRL 595) over in the Vinyl Asylum.

Best,

Jack

I picked up a used Black Marantz SA-14 v1 last week. I sent it off to Paul @ TRL yesterday.

I currently own a TRL Sony 2000ES, which I have been quite happy with, but have been watching this discussion thread for the last 8 months enviously. In a recent burst of upgrade-itis, I also picked up a used Conrad-Johnson 17LS preamplifier as well.

Paul said that the Marantz SA-14 should be quite a step up from the Sony. Looking forward the improvement in my system.

I did a brief comparison of the SA-14 in its stock form versus the TRL Sony 2000ES, before I sent it out. No more than one hour switching between the two units.

The SACD performance of the SA-14 was OK, good detail but a different sound than the 2000ES. Didn't form a conclusive opinion but probably gave the nod to the 2000ES.

The Redbook performance of the SA-14 was another matter. I found it to be thin and definitely less musical than the 2000ES. Not that I expected the SA-14 Redbook performance (in stock form) to be anything to write home about.

So now the wait, shipping from Canada to US, modification, shipping back to Canada, 500 hour burn in. If all goes well, I should be able to celebrate the New Year in style!

Will provide an update once I get the Marantz unit back from TRL.