I am glad everyone is enjoying their new outlets.
Now, in regards to the other 99.8% of the Spartan...
I am learning so much about music and how we perceive sound. After some experimenting with different cables, I am now of the mind that the Spartan does not impart its own signature, as it lets one hear the present components. New experiences I thought the Spartan added, disappeared when I changed components. Thus, the Spartan is like sprinkling Fleur de Sel on the finest foods (the creme de la creme of sea salt, literally). The Spartan puts your system under the microscope, and reveals everything. It is not a bandaid. By microscope, I am not talking about etched detail in the upper frequencies. Rather, you can hear all the subtle cues that construct note texture, harmonics, evolution, spatial cues, and ambiance. If you have a musical system with a natural and beautiful sound, then it will sound more musical, more natural, and more beautiful.
My stereo is so responsive. I can change a single of anything in my system and hear the difference usually in 10 seconds. It will shine a light on your weak links. Is this a good thing? I think if one wants to get the most out of a reference stereo, then yes. I am closer to sitting in front of a live performance than ever before. You've been warned...
Now, in regards to the other 99.8% of the Spartan...
I am learning so much about music and how we perceive sound. After some experimenting with different cables, I am now of the mind that the Spartan does not impart its own signature, as it lets one hear the present components. New experiences I thought the Spartan added, disappeared when I changed components. Thus, the Spartan is like sprinkling Fleur de Sel on the finest foods (the creme de la creme of sea salt, literally). The Spartan puts your system under the microscope, and reveals everything. It is not a bandaid. By microscope, I am not talking about etched detail in the upper frequencies. Rather, you can hear all the subtle cues that construct note texture, harmonics, evolution, spatial cues, and ambiance. If you have a musical system with a natural and beautiful sound, then it will sound more musical, more natural, and more beautiful.
My stereo is so responsive. I can change a single of anything in my system and hear the difference usually in 10 seconds. It will shine a light on your weak links. Is this a good thing? I think if one wants to get the most out of a reference stereo, then yes. I am closer to sitting in front of a live performance than ever before. You've been warned...