New Ad-VENTURE for Bob

Owner

Zephyr: Thanks for your kind words, as well as steering me to acquire the Grounding block. Its useful to control and reduce your system's noise floor...does wonders for dynamics, PRAT, and overall enjoyment. I have not yet dipped my toe into the more extensive world of isolators and more involved ground boxes, like the Entreq and IsoClean. Just enjoying the music now, and trying to reload my available funds. Having trouble updating my page with the 'Gon...not able to add my new HF power cord...any tips on how to work thru their IT issues?
by the by, I often admire your system, with the care and thought you've put into all of your components and the room...would love to hear it someday.
Enjoy....

mribob September 17, 2015 22:26

Owner

My system is now performing at its best level yet! What's changed?
1. received my Hegel H-30 back from some simple warranty repair, and now its stone quiet, yet performs with awesome control of the Ventures. Great warmth, detail, sound stage, PRAT. Interfaces amazing with Veloce LS-1 battery powered line stage.
2. Purchased a High Fidelity Ultimate power cord, now on Hegel. I believe in the magic of the magnets...I now have two HF iIC's, and one PC. Moved the Enklein to my Playback Design DAC, which also helped.
3. Simply enjoying the music...at a very refined level. Oregon papa may bring over a pair of Shataki Holographs tor me to play with shortly..otherwise now only left to improve the room...which is my biggest challenge.
Glad to be able to buy, and sell gear on the 'Gon to allow me to reach this level of sonic performance, and minimize buyers remorse.
La Shana Tova

mribob September 13, 2015 20:57

Owner

Had Oregonnpapa over the other night for a pleasant listening session. Great to spend time with fellow hobbyists we meet on the 'Gon who live close by. He brought over a bunch of well recorded CD's from master tapes, very well done and awesome sound. Figured out my rig can still use some fine tweaking...turning down vol on subwoofer used in two channel...and needing to reconfigure balanced out for two channel from my Oppo..wasn't getting enough output into my pre...but digital files thru DAC sounded just wonderful. All made better sipping some really nice single malt's..
Thanks, Frank...great evening. Looking forward to hearing your improved ARC rig at your place.
Nice to focus on music, and not so much on the gear.

mribob July 25, 2015 01:30

Owner

FINALLY! I have had an anoying ground loop hum as I integrated my two channel rig with my HT rig. i had tried everything: grounding blocks, cheaters, and isolation transformers. its hard to do trial and error with just one person. I hired the fine folks at George Meyer A/V repair in Santa Monica. They sent their technician to my house, and together, after 1.5 hours we finally discovered the culprit--it was a faulty isolation transformer from ARTcessories. Once we removed it, and hooked up the balanced IC's from A/V pre pro into preamp, and placed a few strategic cheater plugs, my system is finally stone cold quiet. The added resolution, sound staging, and enjoyment I am now getting is huge. Can't believe it took this much time and trouble.

On anther topic, my dealer loaned me an Enklein David power cord, to go along with my Enklein Taurus cord. The extra detail, density and grip of providing better power cords to amp and pre can't be emphasized enough. I know that many people love the HF magnet PC's, also at high prices. There are many recipes to achieve audio nirvana, not one path....I have enjoyed my journey and will now try to enjoy more music, and less gear...Hopefully Done for Now, instead of Ever Evolving...but I know that won't be honest.

mribob July 16, 2015 20:11

Owner

I sold my beloved VAC phi beta, and hope I don't regret it.
I think I may have found the cause of my silly ground hum. It turns out my Marantz 8802, and 7005 before it only have a two prong power input receptical, not the standard three prong with a ground. I was using an upgraded power cord, with a 3 prong from the wall. When I switched PC's to the stock two prong unit, much of the hum and background noise disappeared. Now with the battery powered Veloce, my Hegel and Playback Design are playing better together, and my noise level has dropped to almost zero. Who knew it would be this simple. Any other folks found this a potential problem?

mribob May 28, 2015 16:06

Owner

Several new changes, all of which have helped.
1. Veloce Litho series, battery power, tubed pre...very quiet and resolving
2. Marantz 8802 prepro for 4K on HT, has better sound for theater, and also very quiet, replaced Marantz 7005. Have not added extra Dolby Atmos speakers yet, have no more amp inputs...
3. PSAudio Power Plant P-5, for digital and HT sources
4. New Samsung 78" 4k UHD curved monitor, added benefit of focusing 'sweet spot' and sound stage better than my older big flat screen between speakers.
Every little bit helps get me to where I am enjoying listening more...less and less about gear and what's next.
Appreciate everyone's thoughts and suggestions

mribob April 23, 2015 19:00

Owner

Dan;
Thanks much for a very thoughtful suggestion, and for taking the time to study the challenges my room presents via the photos. I had a chat with my 'Boss' last night about different speaker positions...she has not bought into my whole 2 channel hobby appreciation, and wonders why big speakers need to be pulled into the room, and not just place tight along a wall. We explored various options, but she was reluctant to provide WAF.
I agree with the folks who feel getting the room right is critical to optimizing the sound quality of good gear...I will continue to explore various options but for now, no joy...
Your system is very well thought out, and I'm sure brings you lots of enjoyment. Thanks for the helpful suggestion.

mribob January 05, 2015 15:23

Owner

Freestuff:

I have briefly entertained getting into Vinyl especially after listening to 'Documentroom' system with his AMG turntable. I have a serious WAF to add more gear into our family room. I don't have the luxury of a dedicated listening room, and placing a TT, Cart, and records would be problematic, but also worthwhile. My digital has improved greatly and I am enjoying my room more than ever.
Who knows, you might be motivating me to take the plunge! Thanks,
Bob

mribob October 15, 2014 17:24

Owner

Knghifi:
Thanks for your kind words. I was lucky to have incredible support from the team of Playback Design. I am not very computer davy, and they provided a 'turn-key' process, by configuring the laptop, installing the JRiver, and helping me install the MC19 update. Prior to that, the sound from my Oppo 95 analog balanced direct into pre was more life like. Now, its the opposite. Key is to take care of the little things, even the upgrade to Audioquest usb cables made a big difference, but also getting the HF CT-1U between DAC and pre I think made the most difference. It took several months of tinkering, and getting expert assistance to have me reach this level, but if I can do it....back to listening....

mribob August 25, 2014 03:58

Owner

System edited: Continued to evolve, and make several changes all at once. Replaced Oppo 95 with fully modded 105D from Ric at EVS, nice positive improvements in both video, and particularly audio, with two channel balanced out. took the plunge into the world of High Fidelity Cables, auditioned from Cable Co, loved the improvement, and purchased a pair of Ultimates for the DAC to pre, and another pair of CT-1e's from pre to amp. The addition of a second pair of magnet guides in the system really helped flesh out the sound, and improve sonic density, detail, warmth, and detail, and lowered floor noise. I can't believe how good my system now sounds, and how well it integrates for both serious two channel listening, as well as HT. Also received more help from my Playback Design dealer, helped me upgrade to JRiver MC 19, and reconfigure settings, which made a noticeable improvement in my enjoyment of computer audio, up sampled to DSD level. now I understand what the fuss was about...computer audio when done well is simple amazing, and love the ease of sitting on sofa with iPad and randomly searching my music. I think I am now where others have achieved, less focusing on gear and tweaks, and really listening longer, and enjoying much more.

mribob August 23, 2014 15:52

Owner

Added the Enklein Taurus power cord on Hegel amp after in home demo. It clearly bested my Tara Lab the One, and my new HiDiamond P4...made a very significant improvement, which I found hard to understand, but no denying the improved sonics. For folks who question high priced power cords, its a matter of quality...and if you can find it in a less expensive cord, great. For me though I am now hooked on Enklein..its a silver cord with incredible dynamics and balance. Moved my HiDiamond now to VAC pre and Playback Designs DAC. Each little thing I try now has resulted in nice improvement.

mribob February 13, 2014 16:57

Owner

Dev;
I discovered the Granite Audio Ground Zero from reading Zephyr's page
under 'all out assault'. I looked up the company via the manufactures listing
tab, and dealt with Don, the owner. He was very informative and easy to
work with. I believe they list for around $550usd, but of course that's list. I
like the concept of a star grounding network system, but don't pretend to
understand all the nuances involved in lowering our systems ground floor. I
know other folks spend a lot of money on Tripoint, or Enteq, or similar
solutions with dedicated electrical panels. I try to optimize my room
selectively and fitting within my budget. I put my ear up to the speakers
today with my DAC on pause, and the VAC volume at normal listening
level. There is a very faint tube hiss, but this has helped me achieve the
lowest noise floor I've been able to establish. I know you have stringent
demands on quality, and have a very trained ear. Not sure if this will
accomplish your goal to eliminate the phono hiss, but call Don and ask, or
see if they will provide an in home demo. For this price, it can't hurt. Thanks
for the recommendations on the Ultra 5's..made a very nice positive
addition.
I'll post photos this weekend. Can't wait to see you update your rig and post
your changes.
Best,
Bob

mribob February 04, 2014 04:21

Owner

Kevin;
I guess I deserved that, should proof read my typing better before posting...funny comment.
But now with these extra tweaks, getting very close to where I want my system to be. Appreciate everyone's helpful comments to get here.(hear).

mribob February 01, 2014 18:00

Owner

System edited: Made several new changes in short order. Changed my beloved FMS speaker cables for Klee Grand Illusion, with JPS jumpers. These cables have a higher internal resistance load by design, and the jumpers worked much better than my FMS jumpers. My bass, slam and sound stage have all improved nicely. Part of that could also be due to the 3 Stillpoint Ultra 5's I added under each Venture Speaker. Better isolation provides better sound. Great, and easy tweak. Thanks to all the fellow 'Goners who have recommended this product. Also replaced my two SR power cords and eliminated their pesky wall warts with HiDiamond P-4's. Also eliminated a 'choke point' on my sound detail and improved lower floor noise. Final add was the Granite Audio Ground Zero. I read about this product from Zephyr's page, and it really works. I had an annoying low grade ground loop hum and tube hiss, this fixed it very quickly and easily. Now I only need one more power cord..not sure if it will be another HiDiamond, or explore an Elrod listed for sale here. Loved the Enklein Taurus I auditioned, but its a bit pricey for new cord, but sounds outstanding...we'll wait and see. Now I am very pleased with the overall improvement from these various changes. Silly hobby.

mribob January 28, 2014 04:23

Owner

System edited: updated some photos of gear on spikes and Stillpoint footers. Also photo of Stein Harmonizer, they really work as advertised.

mribob November 25, 2013 01:30

Owner

System edited: Added two sets of Stillpoints Ultra SS footers, under VAC preamp, and Hegel amp. Moved my music hard drives off the platform shared with Playback Design DAC, reduced vibration. Added second pair of Stein Music Harmonizers, and also pair of blue stars mounted on speakers, one star on ceiling as recommended. With speaker toe in re-tweaked, and now on spikes, my system is best its been! been listening to music all day. However, need to give a positive shout out to Ed of Playback Designs. I had messed the settings on JRiver playback; and my digital music had lost some 'magic'. I called Ed, who sold me the unit. He drove over one hour to my home on a Saturday, conferenced in Jon Tinn, who remote accessed my computer, fixed my operator error mess, helped with DSD downloads from Acoustic Sounds, since my computer skills are limited. I have never experienced better customer service from any company. Can't recommend getting a trusted 'bricks and mortar' dealer, and the service beyond the sale with Playback Designs . I love their design and how they implement digital playback with usb and up converting in a one box eloquent solution. I have never just been 'gob-smacked' with music enjoyment, that I sat mesmerized to my digital files, and a kept exploring and listening all day. Great experience. it's been hard to get the equipment to this level, now to focus on the music and enjoyment, until the next tweak....footers under my speakers. considering the Stillpoints Ultra 5's vs Sistrum platforms. Happy Holidays, and enjoy the music! I am, thanks to Ed and Playback Designs.

mribob November 16, 2013 22:12

Owner

Dev,
Good to hear from you. I have always respected your suggestions. At time I have three original spikes from Venture under speakers on my wood floors. My photos show no spikes on carpet pads, which I will update shortly. Is your recommendation for the top of the line ultras, or the model just below? 3, or 4 cones per speaker? Do you have them threaded into screw mounts of speaker bases, or just balance speakers on cones?
Still trying now to adjust final tweaks, but loving my rig more than ever.
Any changes in your set up?
Be well, bob

mribob October 28, 2013 17:19

Owner

Charles, and Roxy;
It's nice when there is a greater consensus of how these products work well across different systems. I appreciate your comments. I saw some of the Stillpoint footers this weekend while in Carlsbad. The ultra's were impressively well made, but a set of 4 costs almost $2750 retail! To place them under a pair of speakers is a huge investment. The next line down; the SS5's are a bit more reasonably priced; but I will definitely consider your endorsement of Sistrum; and contact them a bit later. I find this aspect of final dressing a system to be challenging, and to sort out 'snake oil' from the real deal products; and at reasonable pricing makes your comments posted on the 'Gon even more valuable to me.

mribob October 20, 2013 20:55

Owner

Roxy;
Thanks for reading and responding. I always thought of the Sistrum platforms as more of an isolated component stand, like for amps on the floor. I had never considered them for isolation of components placed on an equipment rack. I checked out their web page ,and the prices certainly seem reasonable. How do you use them; and are you pleased with performance to price ratio?
I couldn't see your system on the 'Gon.
Best, Bob

mribob October 18, 2013 02:19

Owner

Added a second pair of Stein Music Harmonizers, A and B boxes, and more magic stones and a pair of diamonds. I also finally spiked my speakers, and took them off carpet pads. Its all additive in our hobby. The combined effects of the Stein products, and spiking the speakers has been rather nice. Not jaw dropping, but certainly improving quality of bass, and richer, wider sound stage. More micro details are emerging regarding decay of notes, shimmer and sparkle, and much less 'grunge'. I didn't understand grunge before, but now that its gone; its noticeable improvement. All in all, a rather nice step up in sonic enjoyment. Now to sit back and enjoy listening to music, and not focusing on the gear.
Will try adding some footers next under amp and sources. Would like the Stillpoint ultras but find them pricy. I am trying a set of Wave tech footers under the Playback Design, and will also consider the Pyon ultra's, which seem more reasonably priced. I'd appreciate any thoughts on resonance control and suggestions on footers for these applications. Thanks.

mribob October 16, 2013 16:58

Owner

Just added Stein music Harmonizers set of one pair of A and B, plus magic stones. I listened to advice from fellow "Goner, Exlibris, see his system under all out assault.
I have a problematic room, with my gear installed on a diagonal on the back corner, which has a negative impact on sound stage and detail. I installed the Stein pieces as recommended, and waited around 1 hour to listen. Well, just a tad bid more of everything..more detail on cymbals, better reverb and air around notes of violin and guitar and piano. Bass tightened up a bit, better balance between the two speakers and improved sound stage. Don't know how they work, but in my room, I'm keeping them and now have helped tame my challenging room issues. A recommend 'tweak' if you have a challenging room.
Thank, Exlibris for the recommendation.

mribob September 29, 2013 17:05

Owner

System edited: added new photos of room and system..The support I have received from Playback Design; and local representative; Ed; has been the most outstanding customer service I've ever experienced. I am a novice at computer audio; the Playback Design dac is outstanding; and built like a tank; and easy to use...my problem was in understanding how to interface computer audio with a windows 8 PC and JRiver software. Ed has made three trips to my home just to help trouble shoot and teach me how to use the computer, download files; and access features. All music files played thru the PD dac sound incredible with DSD up conversion. I am now just looking to incorporate room tweaks, but has to pass the WAF, which is tough. Room is my biggest challenge; and I'm envious of fellow 'Goners who have dedicated listening rooms. Can't emphasize enough how skeptical I was regarding computer audio; and getting rid of my transport..but Ed and PD has made a believer out of me, especially with DSD.

mribob April 21, 2013 20:42

Owner

Dev;
Thanks for your thoughtful posts; and helping me get to a new level of sound quality. I took your advice on the Siemens tubes for my VAC preamp; and it made a nice improvement. My Hegel H-30 however was a huge improvement in detail and sound stage over our common Bryston 28sst's. What amp are you using now on your new EA speakers?
I never imagined that I would now be firmly in the computer audio camp...I guess there are two schools of thought here on the 'Gon; one group feels that a high quality transport and DAC; like the Esoteric K-01, or EMM provides best sound quality on redbook CD's...the camp I used to believe. Then I tried DSD files played thru the Playback Design PD5D, and upconverted to 2xDSD. I had an epiphany; and never heard my rig sound so fabulous...all the SQ I was hoping for in my upgrade path were now evident. Jawdropping is a bit overused; but that's how I felt. No more transport now, except if you count my Oppo 95 for HT. Still struggling to master the software features of JRiver, ripping; tagging, and creating play lists. Hopeful for a larger library of DSD downloads...
Have you heard any DSD files? I know you have a great analog rig; but I feel what I have now must come pretty close...
Thanks again for your helpful comments. Enjoy,
Best,
Bob

mribob March 15, 2013 20:28

Owner

need to update photos; I purchased a new cabinet to house the gear; and put the TV on top; this one allows my center channel speaker to fit inside; instead of being on a stand between my two mains; so its improved the sound stage.

Also eliminated my 'hum' by simply lifting the ground switch on my VAC preamp...now finally dead quiet background which also improves the microphonics and detail retrival.

Will consider a few tweaks shortly; perhaps the Synergistic Research Basic platform under PD or Qsonix to reduce EF, or room treatments. If anyone has tips on how to master the JRiver software controls; I'd be grateful.
Photos to come this weekend.

mribob March 13, 2013 20:58

Owner

System edited: NEW Upgrade of source: Just sold my Ayon; and purchased a Playback Design PS5D, and entered the world of computer audio...no more transports or silver discs. I have heard the future; and its DSD downloads, played through a great DAC. My system has never sounded more analog, or had such great sound stage, and detail; and depth. I did enjoy all the warmth and richness of the tubed Ayon; but the PD unit is a huge step up in detail. I am struggling a bit to learn and master the JRiver software interfaced in my PC laptop, and all the intricacies of computer audio; with usb cables, and hard drives...but now no more jitter, just better sound than I ever heard from spinning CD's.. I have around 100 hours on my new unit; and will post photo and more detail as the unit continues to burn in, and I start to embrace my transformation from CD player, to computer audio...wow...never thought I would take this plunge, but Ed from PD provided an in home demo; ad it made all the difference, and allowed me to purchase with confidence, and no remorse. Now I know what all the fuss is about. More later...

mribob March 13, 2013 05:09

Owner

Gammojo: please use my email of [email protected] and I'l be happy to share how happy I am with the Hegel; surprising improvement over the pair of Bryston 28sst's with the Ventures...now with the JL audio sub added; I am really feeling my system is sounding as good as it can be; and exceeding my expectations...maybe finally done; except for small tweaks here and there...I reccomend the Hegel H-30 running as a stereo amp, not mono blocks; and support the positive review by Robert Harley.

mribob November 04, 2012 00:17

Owner

System edited: Decided to add a dedicated sub to just the two channel aspect of my rig..even though the Ventures are full range; and go down deep; they didn't quite go down deep enough for me. I know that there are some purists who don't like a sub added; but in my system; with the sub being run from the extra pair of outputs from my VAC pre-amp; the JL is behaving in a very musical way. The integratiion into my room, and system was easy; not too boomy; just helps flesh in the low end; and surprisingly made the midrange richer; with more sonic density..I only have the one sub for two channel and a seperate sub for HT...don't feel the need to daisy chain and have two subs for the two channel rig. Didn't believe the positive effect on music until I tried it; bought the sub from a fellow 'Goner; and had a very positive transaction.

mribob November 04, 2012 00:14

Owner

System edited: udated photos, tried to show Hegel H-30; but its a simple black box; doesn't photo too well. Also added Synergistic Research Tesla T-2 shielded PC to preamp; and now my hum has gone away...love it....

mribob August 02, 2012 16:34

Owner

System edited: System is now sounding better than ever...Just added full set of brand new design FMS balanced IC's and AES digital cable, to pair with my Nexus 3's speaker cables. Also added a pair of new Synergistic Research Power cords; a Hologram D for my DAC/transport; and Tesla 2 for the VAC preamp... Most important improvement is how the Venture dealer, Mike Slaminski fine tuned and optimized my room and speaker set up. He spent 3 hours measuring, and calculating exact best sounding set up and toe in for the Venture's...once we made the final toe in of 6 degrees, it was like a dirty lens was just cleaned...the bass become much deeper, and better balanced; the sound stage became expansive, yet detailed...both improved depth and width..Now I am almost done tinkering; and simply enjoying the music daily... My system synergy of Venture powered by new Hegel H-30, VAC Phi beta tubed preamp, with new enhancement of allowing tube rolling, Ayon CD5s, Qsonix, and FMS cables has me off the merry-go-round...this rig was not inexpensive; but now finally sounding as good as I had hoped it would in my room. will soon put in new Siemens tubes into VAC; and try the Synergistic Basiq platforms under Qsonix and DAC...not sure if they will add or be neutral...if anyone has experience with this product; please share... I am in love with warmth; detail, sound stage, and low end that the Ventures provide...one of the best sounding speakers I've heard at any price.

mribob July 28, 2012 21:11

Owner

Milpai:
I will; thanks for the reminder...this has all been fairly recent; other changes have been to replace the MIT and PAD cables with all FMS new copper cables; the Hegel was a big pleasant surprise; amazed that one amp running stereo had more current; and better fine level detail, warmth, and sound stage than my pair of 1000 watt Bryston mono's...I guess its the quality of the watts, not the amount. Also; I re-tubed my VAC pre; and it corrected the bass drop out of right channel and eliminated my anoying hum, that I had blamed erroneously on either my Ayon CD5s, Marantz processor, Directv box, or MIT cable junction boxes...sent all gear back for check up, only to discover I had a bad right channel tube in VAC pre...
I am done for present, and really just enjoying listening to the music; and loving what I'm hearing...the Hegel/Venture marriage is perfect, with VAC tubed pre to balance things out..running all balance IC's. My music server thru the Ayon is now outstanding, love the DAC in this piece.
Photos coming soon, thanks for looking

mribob June 13, 2012 22:43

Owner

Gammajo:
the new equipment rack is nice; a subtle but noticeable improvement in fine level details and decreased grunge. I have the Ayon on MIG isolation cones from Synergistic Research; have not tried the Stillpoints. the new fuse also has helped with subtle improvements; but its all additive.
I am enjoying the digital sound all the time now; great low end; smooth clear highs; slight improvement when I play hi-res HDtracks downloads from my Qsonix thru the built in dec over rebook playback alone; but at time; I'm very happy with system balance and synergy. No need for subwoofer for two channel; the Ventures and ayon go extremely low.
All in all; I am at a happy place. Ayon was great to deal with; no hassles in going over my new unit; returned it better than ever...
Happy Holidays.

mribob December 16, 2011 20:39

Owner

Installed new component rack; a semi-custom Bedrock 'Rack of Silence'. This allows better detail, quiet, and cooler performance for my tubed pieces; the VAC and Ayon. Overall, a nice improvement for not too much money. Pics soon.
My magic is back since I had my VAC tuned up by VAC in Florida. Deeper base notes, richer sonic densities. Helps my Ventures and Ayon really sing as good as they are able.

mribob October 22, 2011 12:25

Owner

Gamm:

Yes; Paul has been working hard; and found one faulty tube; which he replaced; and is testing it at their shop; and it matches the sonic quality of the units they will bring to demo at RMAF shortly..so I'm looking forward to getting it back; and restoring the magic; he and Ayon have been great with customer service; these things will happen; but its nice to know that they will stand behind their products and help us in any reasonable manor..can' say that about other vendors...more once I get it back and can listen to it again...I'll try the mat when I get it back; I also bought an upgraded fuse; which I'll put in once the unit returns...more later.

mribob September 22, 2011 21:48

Owner

Glenhifi; thanks for your kind words; and for reading my long story...
Gammajo: I have ordered a new isolation rack from 'Bedrock rack of silence'; it's being made for me now, custom; and should be installed in three weeks. However; I had a sudden problem with my Ayon; all the features work; but I lost the 'magic' and especially the sonic density and low end frequency and slam I initially had. Sent it back to Paul at Ayon; and he seems stumped.As its both my DAC and transport; I'm not able to enjoy my rig; and I'm hoping that Ayon stands up; and helps me out with quality customer service...more on this to follow. The unit is only two months old; and I was out of town for two of those weeks; and not using it.
Cammajo; not sure what you are referring to the cd5 fitting in; is it your custom cabinet; or a isolation platform? Is your unit still making magic for you?

mribob September 20, 2011 02:54

Owner

Dev;
Thanks for your help and responding many times to me via personal emails. You also have a good eye. The photo on the top right I got of my speakers when set up at the dealers; its not my room; but a better photo. being in SoCal; most homes are built on a slab; so my wood floors are glued on a cement slab; not a suspended floor. The excellence III's are about the same size as my MBL 111's, perhaps just a tad deeper; and smidge taller, but not as wide...the Ultimates I believe are same depth; but stand around 6" taller...not visually overpowering; but sonically excellent. Looking forward to hear your comments on your new VAC 450 statement tubed amplifiers..

mribob August 10, 2011 04:57

Owner

Gammajo; turns out the Ayon CD-5 is just a tad too wide to fit on the Cayin isolation platform I had hoped to obtain..so I am still searching for a better platform to rest it on, you are rigth; its a heavy beast at 50lbs.

Let me know your results on the cd mat; with the style of transport; and the secure cover; wasn't sure the mat would provide much benefit.

I plan to order upgraded fuses for both the Ayon piece and the VAC preamp; have you had any experiences in sonic changes with a fuse upgrade?

Thanks for your comments; and suggestions.

mribob August 09, 2011 14:55

Owner

System edited: added some photos, will try to get better shots with a tripod later; but wanted to try to capture the wonderful fit and finish of the Venture speakers; but its their sound that is pure magic; when paired with the Ayon CD-5s, and VAC phi beta preamp. Also added Marantz 7005 AV processor and Oppo 95; need to experiment more with the HT side of things; using only hdmi and balanced outputs.

mribob August 08, 2011 00:54

Owner

Gammajo: your room looks great! It took the Ayon about 250 hours of break in time to really sound open and detailed; without sounding 'digital'..I tried it initially direct t amp; ;hoping to eliminate some gear, but when I put the VAC back in; even with extra IC's, etc; it sounded even better; so I have Ayon set to fixed volume out at -10; and in processes of getting a Cayin magnetic isolating platform for the CD5-s; which should also help. Love it with upsampling. Not at all digital in character. How many hours are on yours?

mribob July 24, 2011 05:47

Owner

Wife is traveling with camera; photos up in two weeks upon her return; the Ventures are really beautiful....sorry

mribob July 23, 2011 22:38

Description

Room Details

Components Toggle details

Venture Excellence III Signiture's

Veloce Litho series Litho

Hegel H30

Playback Design PS5D

Oppo 105D, modded by EVS

Qsonix 205

Marantz AV8802

Bedrock Rack of Silence Rack of Silence

Aerial Acoustics CC-5

Parasound A-51

Velodyne DD-15

JL Audio Fathom F113

Equi-tech Q15

EnKlein Taurus power cord

High Fidelity one pair CT 1-Ulitimates, 1 pr CT-E

Klee Grand Illusion ribbon sc

PS audio Power base PS audio base

Hi-Fi tuning fuses Black; premium

Tara Power cords The One

Stein Music Harmonizers A and B and magic stone

Standout Design six foot

Stillpoints Ultra SS footers

Stillpoint Ultra 5's

Granite Audio Ground Zero

HiDiamond 2 P-4 power cords

Audioquest USB 1 pr Coffee, 1 pr Carbon

PS Audio P-5 Power regenerator

High Fidelity Ultimate reference PC

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