La45
I have been interested in the TRL modded machines since reading the reactions of various Agoners who bought the TRL Sony 595. I emailed back and forth to Paul, at TRL, a few times and placed an order...Now, I have an Sa-14 coming from TRL in a few days. According to Paul, in its STOCK form, the Sa-14 is NOT a very good player. BUT, according to Paul, - after they re-work the unit, nothing else compares to it except one of TRL's own $30K
machines! Something tells me, that Paul Weitzel would not make that type of comparison lightly. We'll see soon. |
La45
I have been interested in the TRL modded machines since reading the reactions of various Agoners who bought the TRL Sony 595. I emailed back and forth to Paul, at TRL, a few times and placed an order...Now, I have an Sa-14 coming from TRL in a few days. According to Paul, in its STOCK form, the Sa-14 is NOT a very good player. BUT, according to Paul, - after they re-work the unit, nothing else compares to it except one of TRL's own $30K
machines! Something tells me, that Paul Weitzel would not make that type of comparison lightly. We'll see soon. |
Jess45
Just think of all the MUSIC you can buy with the $$$$ you save, if you go with the 14. ;-) Your decision of course. :-) I'm sure you'll love either.
Best
Paul |
Hi Jess45
Yep! Paul really gets it. He believes he's "just doing his job" though. He even called my house and left a message (I wasn't home at the moment) telling me that the unit shipped on Wednesday. I expect to get it on the 19th. I'm glad to hear you say that TRL packs them up properly. Mine has to get to NJ!
I think my SA-14 is a version 1. I bought it here on Agon, and had it shipped driectly to Paul for mods. Paul seemed to be very positive about the SA-14. When I get it, I'm going to just plug it in and put a disc in, on repeat play, for a week and forget about it. Then I'll give it a first listen. I'll be glad to give my impressions. You be sure to do the same.
I'll email you privately if you wish.
Lets keep our fingers crossed and hope these machines are as good as the other TRL machines.
Paul |
Jsala - Your point about Paul is excellent. Paul and I have exchanged several emails regarding the Sa-14 I have ordered. He is very modest in his praise of the mods he does. His customers however, according to all the threads, are not as modest as he is about his mods. Paul is very clear in delineating his opinion if his mods from model to model. The Sa-14 and SA 11 earn his highest praise. Seemingly, there is a corellation between the build quality of a machine, and how it will ultimately sound. This, i believe, boads well for those - like me - who are the crazy enough, to buy a unit without ever hearing it.
Paul also communicates extremely well. Never, have I gone 24 hrs. without him responding to my email. He usually responds within 6 hours. TRL seems to turn the machines around quickly as well - within a week! The mods are extremely cost effective as far as mods are concerned these days. $550 for a mod that will bring (hopefully) truly amazing music into a life - is worth it. Next week my Sa-14 will ship.
I just hope MY personal tastes are in line with how the unit will eventually sound. Based on our 'email discussions', Paul seems to think so. So far - he has earned my trust. I'm looking forward to getting it, burning it in for a few days, then giving it a listen. :-) |
Lkdog - I'll let you know for sure. It was some of your impressions of your 595 that got me interested in the TRL mods. I think the SA-14 will be a fine sounding player - according to Paul. His advice is why I chose that model. ;-) |
Paul Weitzel and TRL offer the highest level of commitment to the customer I have ever experienced from an audio vendor. I just recieved an email from Paul regarding my SA14 which will ship on Wednesday.
I'll just say this: Paul is extremely concerned about the quality of his product. He is always evaluating his work, and his procedures, for the benefit of his customers and his products. It refreshing to see this kind of commitment to excellence.
BRAVO!!!!!! Paul
:-) |
Just got the SA-14. The machine is very heavy and sturdy in its construction. I have a disc in on repeat play. I'll leave it that way for the rest of the week, before I listen to it. That will put it at around 100 hours of break in.
As I opened the box, I, ONCE AGAIN, realized that Paul at TRL, REALLY does it right!
pt |
La45
I haven't looked inside of my unit yet. I'm just trying to get hours on it first, so it just sits spinning a disc 24/7 for now.
I'm really refering to the way Paul treats his customers. From his communication, his punctual turn around of the unit, his desire to make a beautiful sounding machine, his ability to NOT overstate his work. He even included small, but thoughtful, things in the box with the unit.
As I've said, I still have not listened to the machine, but Paul runs a first class operation. He actually delayed the shipment of my unit for a couple of days, so, "his guys" (three I believe) could evaluate the machine and make notes about it.
I haven't even mentioned the fact that his mods are very affordable. When compared to some of the other mods out there, TRL mods are a real bargain.
Since you are already listening to a TRL modded machine, I'm sure you can attest to the "bang for the buck" factor.
I just hope my ears agree. :-) |
Hi Jes45 and La45 (are you guys related?) :-)
I have to admit - I snuck a "quick listen" in last night, after only 72 hrs. When I got done listening at 4:00AM!!! - I was thrilled and amazed. Amazed, at the things I was hearing on my discs (redbook) for the first time. Haven't even begun to break in SACD yet. Thrilled, because of my decision to go with TRL. For very modest money - player and mods included - I'm not sure how this player can be beaten. Again, this is only at 72 hours! I'm really looking forward to hearing this machine blossom. 500 hours is a long way off, but it is going to ba a most enjoyable walk.
Advice - if you can find a used SA-14 or a close out model - BUY IT!!! Send it to Paul and "his guys", and rest assured, you will be getting a firts rate player - by any standard. You'll also save yourself alot of money if you are thinking of an SA-11.
As I type - the break in continues...84hrs...85hrs..........
:-) |
Hi Gang
Just passed the 110 hr mark. This machine (SA-14) is really taking on a smooth character that is beautiful to hear.
The presence and detail are still here but now all the areas of the sonic field are coming together. Bass is becoming visceral with EXTREME extension. I love that! Highs and mids are crystal clear. Vocals are right in front of you. The stage is getting much bigger and immages are becoming much more defined.
This machine is not shy about putting out sound either! I almost had to turn my preamp down. I say all this and I realize, how much I thought of this machine at 72 hrs! It's hard to think of it getting much better. I'm sure from this point out, the improvements will be incremental. I'm completely sold on the TRL SA-14. Paul and "his guys" got this one right, that's for sure. |
Reb1208
I didn't hear the stock unit. But, the guys at TRL thought they were "thin and digital sounding". Mine is a version 1. All I know, is I like what I hear, and it would take ALOT to get me to put this one up for sale.
I saw this version 2 on Agon today:
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?dgtlplay&1119556532
There is also an SA-11 for sale too.
I'll look inside at some point. The case doesn't have traditional 'screws" holding the lid on. It has very tiny alan type screws. I'm not even sure if i have an alan key small enough to fit. But, I'll see what I can do for the good of the cause. :-) |
La45
How many hours are on your machine at this point? At over 200 hrs.,mine too, is really a beautiful thing to behold. |
Lkdog - :-)
You won't be sorry! It is the most dynamic machine I've heard. The way sound seems to leap out, with such a sense of ease, is really fun! When will you be getting it back? Mine has been spining a disc for 10 days now. I love to go in for a listen - it's enchanting.
pt |
Lkdog -
I was in the same boat as you. I would like to have gotten ans SA-11 to try with the TRL mods, but budget and common sence prevailed. I saved at least $1200 by going with the Sa-14. I honestly feel like I'll have this machine for a long time. It's built like a tank too btw. So yes, I'm loving it in my system. It just makes listening fun.
Now the only reason i look at the 'digital adds' is to see if there is another player i would like to try just for fun. However - i live in the real world and have to watch the bank account. That said - I'm still a mighty happy listener. Paul is a pleasure to deal with. His turn around time is really excellent too.
Let us know what you think.
paul |
Gandme -
I'm not any sort of engineer, and I'm curious what Paul said about your gain situation.
I had the opposite happen. When i first listened to the Sa14 the gain was so high I had to actually turn down the preamp! Paul said it would settle down - which it has.
He said something about the Marantz having an output of about 2 v. Who knows what that means - I know some of you guys do - but even though the unit has settled down, as far as gain is concerned, - it is still the most dynamic machine I've heard.
I'm glad that you enjoy the sound of your Sony. It's funny how little things in our audio systems drive us crazy. Your lack of gain is a perfect example. I guess it's the perfectionist in us, that doesn't allow us to accept these little quirks in our systems.
Stay after Paul - I'm sure he'll make it right if there is a problem.
keep us up to date.
paul |
Well.....336 hours have passed. All I can say is, The TRL SA14 never speaks harshly, every sound that comes from it is enjoyable. It is detailed, transparent, dynamic, stage is wonderful, it is never tiring to listen to. Truly a pleasure. I just started to listen to an SACD (james taylor - Hourglass) and, SACD already sounds freakin' awesome! And I haven't burned in one hour on SACDs. I really couldn't be happier with this purchase. Just beautiful sound on every disc I play. Wow! |
Sorry men - didn't mean to cause undue stress. :-)
Lkdog - Hang in there. I think you will find the wait to be well worth it. So smooth and non fatiguing, (in my system) Just a pleasure! You'll see.
Jes45 - I must say - i don't think you would be disappointed with an Sa-14. But, i do understand the desire to have the latest and greatest. :-) I would have bought an SA-11, and sent that to TRL too. But funds said otherwise. I guess it all worked out though, since i do love the way this thing sounds.
All - Yes - I too am sleeping less these days. I've often found myself drifting off to the sounds of J.T. or Holly Cole. Things could be worse, ya know. :-)
Be patient men! Good things come to those who wait. :-)
Paul |
hi Jack
Concratulations! I'm sure you'll love having such wonderful sound at your finger tips. Who knows - The 14 may even stop your search, for a while. :-)
I love those recordings of paul's they really are a joy to hear. I haven't even begun to play with isolation devices yet. I am using a Signal Cable HC digital power cord on the 14. It works for me. FWIW |
La45 -
Does anyone have a TRL SA-11? How do you like your 14?
bet you like it. :-)
p |
La45 - ooops. Sorry, I was confused, I thought you got a 14. Which ever TRL unit you own, isn't it nice to think about the music you hear, instead of the gear that's playing it.
Did you get the SACD's from Fidelis Records? Nice recordings - Very tasty.
Enjoy! :-) |
Pardales -
I've been waiting to see if any one else would chime in with an answer to your question.
Regarding redbook performance. Most all of my comments above in this thread are centered around redbook performance on the TRL SA-14.
Briefly - redbook is the best i've ever heard in my system with the TRL unit. I still have a McCormack UDP1, which is renowned for its redbook performance, (deservedly so) and the TRL is more of everything the McCormack does - to me. I also have a RAM modded toshiba unit that i bought for a second system in the house and - to me - the TRL is far more engaging on every level.
I haven't got near the amount of SACDs as I do redbook CDs. But, I do have an SACD as well as a redbook copy of James Taylor's "Hourglass" disc. Before the TRL, I HATED the SACD version of the disc. Now - with the TRL - I prefer the SACD version to the redbook version. You have know idea what that says about the difference made by the TRL. I simply could not believe the way the TRL made this disc sound. I was really amazed. Also Keep in mind - the SACD circuitry on my SA-14 is not even a fourth of the way broken in!
I try not to give my opinion on how machines sound, b/c there are too many variables in everyone's systems/homes etc. I do say that -to me - it is the best sounding front end i've heard. I find that I'm not analyzing 'sound' anymore. I'm now just listening to 'music' and being impressed on a nightly basis. It is really fun to just sit back and enjoy.
The combination of gear I have right now seems to really sing. the TRL sa-14 really was the "cherry on top"- for me. :-)
Hope this helps
Paul |
Jsala
Yes, my RAM modded Toshiba has the full mod which DOES include the Super Clock 3. I prefer the McCormack to it though - The UDP1 just appeals to me more. A bit warmer sounding than the Toshiba, I would say. The UDP is a fantastic sounding "universal" player. The TRL is the way to go, as far as pure redbook and SACD are concerned.
Looking forward to hearing everyone elses impressions of their TRL machines. |
Be patient men. It WILL be worth your time. :-) Bass will NOT be a problem. Everything else will just get better. :-)
paul |
La45
Paul has a record lable called Fidelis Records. I think he only has 3 SACDs available right now. (I may be incorrect on this.)
They are recorded (DSD) in live environments such as churches, art museums etc. and are really beautiful. I have all three discs: (provided by Paul)
1. "Violoncello" - excellent
2. "Tchiakovsky 'The Seasons' arranged for piano trio" - also excellent
3. Astor Piazzolla Histoire du Tango - Haven't gotten to this one yet.
If you like well, and I mean well, recorded chamber music, you should really check them out. The staging is amazing. You can really 'see' the players in their places as they perform. I know Paul has MANY copies he would like to move. :-)
Best
paul
|
La45
Anti static sheet? Where do you get it?
Did you just lay it right on the player? Or, lay it on the shelf, then put the player on top of it? Let us know.
Thanks |
Lkdog
I'm glad to hear that your expectations of the TRL SA-14 are being met. I'm sure that the more you listen the more you will thoroughly enjoy your new player. :-)
paul |
Howard -
Just use anything loud with a large frequency spectrum.....or just LOUD! :-)
enjoy your player when it comes.
paul |
Audioezra
Brilliantly said, regarding Paul at TRL. I couldn't agree more. I've never had a more comfortable and confidence inspiring exchange in audio. You should get some of the recordings he has done. They are the software version of his mods. :-)
best
paul |
uh-oh
You know, this has been one of the more enjoyable "equipment specific" threads I've had the pleasure of reading, and yes, being involved with. I submit that we keep it that way. Let's NOT get into the personal arugments and sniping that happens, and is currently happening, on other threads.
If individuals have "problems" with other members, take it up with them through e-mail - NOT in the open forums.
Let's keep our eyes on the ball.
respecfully submitted
Paul |
Mrchips -
Are you using your SA-1s in stock form? Or, have you had them modded? It would be interesting, since you have 3 of them (wow!), to hear your thoughts on a modded unit versus a stock unit. |
Hchi -
So sorry to hear of the shipping disaster. I suppose I was very lucky. Mine made it NJ with out a problem.
On the positive side. Paul is very thoughtful with his extra 'goodies' he includes in the box. :-)
I hope your claim is resolved quickly, and appropriately.
paul |
hello Men.
Yep. Mine is headed back on Monday. It is amost unbelievable to think that the TRL guys are updating their modded SA-14s free of charge. Customer support and customer loyalty! - the TRL guys are special, and a pleasure to do business with. Brian said that I'm "in for a real treat". I can hardly wait. :-) I'm building a special box for shipping.
It's also interesting how they find new ways to improve their work - through medical equipment testing. Wow! |
Jsala -
Yikes! And i thought the shipping from NJ was bad. ;-)
I was goint to try the CRL Silver cord, but I've read that it is really difficult to maneuver and takes forever to burn in. So, for the time being, I'll stick with my Signal Cable High Current Digital power cord. It seems to do the job very well. |
Jack -
It's good to hear that you're enjoying your new player. :-) It really is a satisfying machine. After it breaks in, you'll find that you are just listening to your music. Not pondering your machine. Very satisfying. :-)
I'll be without mine until it returns from the mod upgrade. Onward and upward.
be well
Paul |
Hey TRL Gang
Just wondering if any of you have heard the TRL 225 watt per channel SS integrated? I understand it to be pretty special.
Don't mean to steer this thread down another street. Just curious.
paul |
Lkdog -
Please post your, and your friends, impressions of the ST-225.
Based on comments I recieved, in an email from Paul, I am thinking that this integrated is unbelievably good. I don't want to actually post Paul's words, but, he had some VERY high praise for the unit. You know how conservative Paul is with his opinion/praise of their work. :-)
I have a preamp/amp set up - If the ST-225 is THAT good, maybe I can save some space. I don't know what the pricing is, on the unit, though.
Let us know. (Maybe we'll have to start a new thread.) |
Jes45
I'm expecting the Sa-14 back on the 13th. Brian emailed me to give me the good news/bad news scenario. :-)
Bad news: Another 500 hours before break in.
Good news: The SA-14 ALREADY sounds better than it did when when it got to TRL in it's previously modded, fully broken in state!
Needless to say, I'm anxiously awaiting it's arrival back home! :-D |
Cjenest
Just curious. Is your amp or preamp tubed? If so, change the tubes. They'll cause unbelievable problems if they're bad. |
Hi Jack
Sure did! I can't believe these updates were free. :-)
As good as the original TRL SA-14 was, and it was good - I've noticed: the dynamics are really slamin'. It seems easier to hear the dynamic contrasts and subtle differences within them. Voices (midrange) surely are more fleshed out as well. No harshness, glare, or sizzle in the sound. Also, Bass seems to be more easily defined, both in pitch and in timbre. Noise floor - NONE. All of this comes from a pure black background. I say pure black because the system is as quiet when playing (and the music is silent) as it is when I turn everything off. I have to look up to see if I have everything on. :-)
Images within the stage seem to be more easily defined, and pin point acurate too. All of this is being said with only 24 hours on the machine. I'm looking forward to hearing it as it continues to break in.
I'd like to hear some "mega buck machines", just to give myself a better frame of reference. But, I honestly can't immagine better sound coming from a player. I'm very pleased and impressed.
I know I'm biased but, the guys at TRL really make me feel like I'M their only customer. That says alot about the way they treat their customers. Believe me - I'm probably their smallest customer, but i certainly don't feel that way.
Paul
|
Hi Jack
Wow! Paul said he is really impressed with the ST-225. Did you buy it or are you borrowing it? I understand that there is quite a waiting list. Keep us informed as you continue to listen to the ST-225.
paul |
You're killin' me Jack.......you're just killin' me. :-)
paul |
Ozzy
TRL Does not make SA-14s. Marantz does. Therefore TRL can't just pull a replacement unit off the shelf and ship it out. TRL just modifies existing units, whatever they may be. When someone, who already owns a particular unit, wants to have it modified, they ship their unit to TRL for modification. The shipping is at the buyers expense.
Oh....Marantz doesn't make the SA-14 anymore. They've moved onto the SA-11. |
Jack is correct. The TRL SA14 is a very fine machine. Especially since the mod upgrade, which has been very acurately described in the above posts. Even Brian Weitzel said, in emails back and forth, that this is a "very special" machine.
I simply don't have the desire to "upgrade" my source. That says alot - you guys all know how this hobby is. :-)
best
paul |
Unless you can find a "before and after" owner of an SA-14, the best person/people to ask would be the TRL guys. Paul or Brian would honestly be able to tell you, in detail, what the differences will be.
They don't really have anything to gain by telling you. They Don't manufacture the machines (obviously) - so one more mod isn't going to make, or break them. You'll find them to be, honest, ethical, and professional all the way.
I have no connection with TRL, other than, I am one happy customer. :-)
Best
paul |
Pardales
Good point. I know i've said this before. I don't feel the urge to 'upgrade' my source any longer. I'm not naive enough to think that my TRL SA-14 is the "best" playback source out there. But, I can't see spending multiple thousands of dollars to POSSIBLY squeeze out a bit more "improvement". It really does sound that good - in my system.
I've seen the occasional STOCK Sa-14 for sale here. I've actually considered buying it, and having it modded by TRL, just in case my player breaks. Is that neurotic? hmm....
have a good lobor day everyone. :-)
paul |
Hi Bob
I've never heard the APL, and probably never will. Can't justify the 5K for the player. A used SA-14 sells for around $1100. Add the $550 for the TRL Mod, and you've got yourself one fine sounding player. Take your left over $3350 and go on a short cruise. :-)
Or - If you're really obsessing - you could probably get a used Exemplar 3910, with the left over money, do a side by side comparison with the TRL, and sell the one you like least.
BTW - My TRL Sa-14 is not for sale. Unless you make me an offer I can't refuse. ;-)
I don't think you'd be dissapointed with the TRL SA-14
good luck
paul |
Bob.
You'll be happy you did. Think about it - If you can get your money back on the mod, and you can resell the Modded unit for what you paid - where will you lose?
What will you gain? A digital player whose sound pulls you in. Whose sound seduces you, and invites you to stay up late, loosing sleep, relistening to your music collection. You'll be smiling - shaking your head thinking 'I can't believe I was so worried about this.'
All this for $1750. AND Another big factor is the way the TRL guys will treat you - like you spent a million dollars with them.
I can't immagine NOT liking the TRL SA-14.
Of course all of this is my OPINION :-)
good luck - be brave - you only live once. :-)
paul |
La45
If you are hearing what makes you happy stay with it. I'm sure the 2000es is an excellent machine.
Two questions for you:
1. Why are you looking for the v2 Sa-14? Is it for the color? (It is beautiful.) From what I understand - After mods, there is no sonic difference between the v1 and the v2.
Also - Who told you that the SA-14 should be a reference? Just curious. Thanks, and best of luck.
paul |
Pardales
"Do I still need to break in CD and SACD seperately"
I believe I asked that very question to either Paul or Brian, can't remember which at this point, and the answer was yes. What ever you do - you'll enjoy it.
best.
Paul |
