CTC Blowtorch

Rcprince - OK, thanks very much for the information. Thus far, I have not noticed noise of any type with the ASR. Sonic quality evaluation is still in the works, but so far so good.

Larryi -

Good information, thanks. Both cases on the Blowtorch are extremely thick. I'm not sure if that will make enough difference or not. Unfortunately, side by side placement is not going to be an option under any circumstances - at least with my present rack. There's simply no room. Still looking for a replacement phono stage as well. This is going to be quite a juggling act!

Dopogue -

I sent John an email yesterday, but no reply yet. More than anything, I was looking for anecdotal evidence from those who had tried stacking vs. separating, and what differences if any were heard.

I received the Blowtorch three days ago, and as I stated, must initially stack them. Even so, this is without question the most silent piece of gear that I have owned or heard. The blackness is simply remarkable. I intend to get in touch with Mapleshade to provide me with two more shelves, but in the interim there seems to be little if any problem at all.

Brian - thanks again for all of the advice, and most particularly your information regarding the seller. The transaction was flawless.

Rcprince - point taken. I presently have an ASR Basis Exclusive phono stage in house for evaluation. This is another unit with a control box and separate power supply (very heavy and battery powered). I may try vertically stacking the power supplies of the Blowtorch and the ASR, and also the respective control units. Umbilicals of both are long enough to allow this. Also, there is the possibility that I may acquire a Vendetta if the owner decides to sell. We shall see.

Fred - we may have to get you up here for a visit after a while. A drive out into the country would do you good!

I have one comment about the preamp itself. It is simply awesome. C, T, and C created a masterpiece here.

Hi Bob,

I have thought about it. I end up with a bit of a space problem though. The photos don't show it, but I now have the JC1 monos on large amp stands on either side of the existing Samson rack. Unless there is a good sonic reason for not doing so, the additional shelves seem like the better answer. I'm going to ask Mapleshade for an opinion on this.