TRL Marantz Sa-14

Clio,

We have the same preamp (Joule Electra LA-100 Mk3). I've got mine hooked up to an Acoustic Reality digital amp (200+ watts into 8 ohms) so lots of juice for my speakers, which are simple 2 ways (though not very efficient). I find the overall sound a bit thin when I use the CRL Silver power cord on the TRL/SA14, not sure what your experience is. For my system, an AirSine power cord is a better match with the TRL/SA14, though I haven't bought one (I tried a friend's) since it is $750 for 6 feet...

- Jay

Jsala,

My speakers are not very efficient either, Spendor 1/2e, but the amp is getting the most out of them now. After some initial issues with break-in, I think the Joule and the D-225 work nicely together.

I am using the CRL Silver on my transport and the D-225 amp. I have a Virtual Dynamics NIte II on the preamp and I use a VH Flavor 4 on the DAC. I was thinking about going with all CRL Silver power cords as I don't experience the thinness you do. Obviously everything is system dependent, but I hear the CRL Gold will deliver more, especially in the bass, maybe that would be better for your system. I do like the VH Audio cables though, great price for great quality.

What tubes do you use in the Joule, I'm thinking of experimenting.

Jay,
I would echo Clio09's commens, try CRL Gold if you like the CRL sonic attributes and would like to get more density in your overall sound. If memory serves me right, CRL Gold use about twice amount of copper (gauge-wise). The other way to explore is to try some top quality graphite-based dampers underneath. Do you live in HK? If so and interested, please email me and I can point you to a couple good graphite damper makers/manufactures in Asia whom I have tried their products with good results.

I know a couple TRL users are also using HRS Nimbus dampers. Perhaps the Nimbus users could shed some light whether it yields improvement in that area.

TRL using ERS cloth to cover D to A chips as part of their digital mod? Based upon combined info gathered, I think so. ERS is used to shield the chips from emitting RFI. The sonic effect is to tilt the spectrum towards warmth, weight and body. Applying Quicksilver contact enhancer to the solder joints helps bring things back in balance. This explains the reports of a quieter signal with enhanced harmonics (ESR). As well as the reports of a treble that takes time to settle and in the end remains extended. (Silver based contact enhancer).

Feel free to chime in.

I myself own a TRL modded phono stage, its still here, so I guess that says something.

Reb1208,

What phono stage did you have TRL modify? I have thought about sending them one of mine to modify.

As to ERS, I have spoken to Paul Weitzel and asked him if I should use ERS in my DAC. He said NO, further adding that they actually remove ERS from units that come in to them for mods. He indicated that ERS sucks the life out of the music. In looking at the DAC chips, while I believe they are dampened, it's difficult to say how as there is epoxy covering the chips. I have my doubts though that it is ERS, but if it is, it would have to be a tiny amount. The chips in my DAC are TD-1543s and they are pretty small.

As to Quicksilver, not sure about that, although Paul's brother Brian recommended I use it on ICs, RCA jacks and speaker terminations. Maybe Jack Seaton can weigh in on this as he has a number of TRL modded units.