strateahed

Responses from strateahed

Maverick Audio TubeMagic D2 DAC
Jedinite24 you're right ... that was my sentiment exactly. I was surprised myself. But I had to go back and forth to between the D1 and Modwright BDP-83 to finally settle on the D1 for Redbook. (I'm listening to some Duke Ellington on the D1 right... 
Maverick Audio TubeMagic D2 DAC
I have Maverick's first DAC - the D1. It looks like they addressed a couple of things in the re-design. I had mine modified by Joseph Chow of Audio Horizons (approx $300). He put in new caps, couplers, and upgraded wiring to reduce the noise. This... 
Wyred4Sound vs. Channel Island
I don't have direct experience with the W4S mono's, but purchased a W4S ST-1000 while one of my CI D200's was out for repair (whole other story). My original plan was to sell the Channel Islands. I ended up selling the ST-1000 and keeping the CI m... 
Preamp modifications - who would you use?
Since the previous poster mentioned Dan Wright, I'd like to weigh in again with the whole idea of modifying equipment. The OP asked about preamps. That is one of Joseph Chows specialties. I have a Dan Wright modified player as front end. Does it s... 
Preamp modifications - who would you use?
Check with Joseph Chow at Audio Horizons. He designed and developed one of the most highly regarded preamps around. He has a separate upgrade (mod) business unit, and will make a recommendation once he's assessed your gear. I have been very happy ... 
What are the alternatives for Kimber and Cardas?
Here's another vote for WyWires. They were rated #1 in their price category in a recent PFO review. There were some well-known names on the list. So I installed WyWire IC's earlier this week. Thus far what jumps out most is the realism and emotion... 
Looking for a new tube preamp
What about the "Dude" from Tube Research Labs (TRL) 
California Audio Show ths wknd bttr than expected
Thanks for the feedback Cedar. We agree on the room with the Acapella's. Phenomenal sound stage, with front to back layering like I've never heard ... except maybe at a real concert! Then again, one might expect that from a system that costs nearl... 
Vinyl Cleaning: Device to keep label dry?
Craig_c, I think that question was for me. I get my micro fiber towels at Pep Boys ... same place as I get the Peak purified, mineral free water. The towels come in bags and are used to clean auto glass. There's a long "Steam Cleaning" records thr... 
Vinyl Cleaning: Device to keep label dry?
Gradys - I never tried a typical RCM w/ fluids. My process consists of cleaning one side at a time using Disc Doctor Cleaner applied/scrubbed gently with record cleaning brush; wiped clean with micro fiber towel #1, then steamed with Perfection St... 
Vinyl Cleaning: Device to keep label dry?
Yesterday I read about a device called the "Spin Clean Record Washer" on the Needle Doctor site, complete with demo video. It's designed in such a way as to eliminate the wet label concern ... looks promising. I can see how it could probably be us... 
California Audio Show ths wknd bttr than expected
Oh yeah, forgot to mention Evolution Acoustics with Dartzeel and Playback Designs. To me this was one of the best sounding rooms playing digital front end ... smooth, natural, and engaging. This was my first audio show and one of biggest surprises... 
California Audio Show ths wknd bttr than expected
Ditto the OP. Check out this show if you have an opportunity. The sound in some of the rooms was very engaging, especially listening to some of the vinyl I brought along. Got a chance to meet and talk to a few folks that I've purchased from or cor... 
Need USB cable recommendation
Kimber makes a nice USB cable at a decent price. Check the needle doctor's website. 
Recommend Well-Recorded Hard Bop Jazz on CD?
Orpheus10, it is the same; and I wholeheartedly agree with your HOF statement. Foster_9 didn't mention it in OP, so I thought I'd throw it in. To me, the CD has a very analog quality.