Stillpoints and reference-level speakers

Agear is correct in using the APCD2 coupling discs on his cork floor. You should also use these discs on hardwood,stone or tile floors. I prefer the sound benefit when using a coupling disc between the point tip and the bottom of the component. The coupling disc increases the surface area of the point tip by equalizing the mechanical impedance of the different surface materials. If you have carpet over a sub floor or over concrete I would always direct couple the point to the floor below. Tom..Star Sound Technologies

Agear, I tried the Apprentices without the cups against the bottom of components and with them. Having them was somewhat better. I do also use them on my hardwood floors. I did try IsoClean feet instead of the Star Sound cups and heard no difference. I would imagine that not using the cups would be better on carpet.

I don't know whether it is the HFC ics, speaker wires, pcs, or the WGPC, the Star Sound Apprentices, the Koda K 10 preamp, or even the new Empirical Audio Legacy music server, but I'm playing louder, enjoying it more, and have had few complaints about the music being too loud.

That's good TBG, any time we can play loud and enjoy the tunes is great, makes me feel young again when I crank the volume, and It sounds very real, then I get to see the visual show of dishes rattling and walls vibrating, Oh well, Kid at heart!

Ok here are my initial impressions of the Stillpoints Ultra SS footers vs. the Star Sound Apprentice stand with 4 sets of 1.5 inch Audio Points. My new speaker is the Lahave Khara. These speakers came with Stillpoints as Stillpoints uses Lahave as their reference speaker.

First and most obvious thing I noticed took me completely by surprise. The volume increased without me touching the volume knob setting. What? I said out loud. How can this be? No doubt about it however. The music has more energy, improved dynamic contrasts, and sharper leading edges.

The Stillpoints have a softer, rounder sound. I don't want to say more just yet, as I sear the sound is settling in as the Apprentice spends more time under the speaker. Things were a little too high energy at first, but after just two hours the sound is relaxing if you will.

I will add more comments tomorrow night.

Bill, the SS stands take a couple of days to relax. They always sound a little edgy and forward at first blush....