I was quite unimpressed by the few responses that were quite unsubstantiated, which were made toward the Mr Nixie Control Unit that a Link was supplied for by myself.
I am quite certain the comments supplied come from individuals who have no experience of the Mr Nixie Control Unit in use. I feel confident in my suspicion the individuals have little, if no experiences of any model of the DS Audio Cartridge in use.
I do know the DS Audio Cartridges in use on a familiar system, through my knowing an individual who has unlimited financial restraints when it comes to Audio and has a selection of DS audio Cart's up to the TOTR model from the 2023 period.
This same person with such a budget, bought into the Mr Nixie Control Unit, and expressed there was a good outcome, but did not elaborate further.
Hence, my making it a known design within this thread.
I have decided to make available an alternate selection of comments supplied by others not to be found within this forum, where the comments made are based on direct experience of DS Audio Cart's and Mr Nixie products that support usage of these Cart' designs.
The comments seen in earlier posts are once more seen within the Gon Forum, as a growing common practice of ' Contempt Prior to Investigation'.
The translations from the German Language to English, seems to be the only reason for one to condemn the design, and for another, their not understanding how a Marketed Product does have a profit line to be added. ( Mr Nixie products in relation to DS Audio are potentially the most inexpensive to be discovered when supplied as a commercial offering).
All that follows later in the post, is the copy/paste comments produced from a Selection of Individuals who across a period of near four years, have been buying DS Audio and Mr Nixie Designs.
Where some individuals have been owners of all available designs from Mr Nixie, through their buying into the later produced models.
Most important is that all commentary are from individuals who do have a experience of DS Audio and Mr Nixie Designs. I am confident these will be much better aligned than those offered from individuals with a suspected Zero Experience. the individual expressing a interest in DS Audio Designs and wanting to know more of how a Control Unit interfaces with them will receive a good description of the Mt Nixie products ( Not many third party designs are able to be found reported on to this capacity).
As my summary the following will be useful:
1, There are concerns being raised for the quality of DS Audio Cart's especially relating to the Stylus Zenith Alignment.
2, Mr Nixie has produced Two Power Supply Designs in both SS and Valve Circuit, where there are expression made from individuals, to which has been the most attractive to use by the individual.
3, There are those who have tried the Control Unit with both Power supplies and the RIAA to be used in conjunction with a typical Phon' Design, inclusive of using very expensive MC Cart's in the comparisons.
4, There are a few who have their own unique preferences and have had the Mr Nixie Design custom produced to meet their own wants.
5, For the DIYer, I have added a link to a Forum Thread running for a few years which is covering building a Control Unit, which I only learnt in the past hour, Mr Nixie has stepped in and offered guidance on a circuit correction.
6, I'm confident the following is the better foundation to create a assessment/evaluation and subsequent public aired report.
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I think it's time for me to tell at least the few interested people here about the new power supply unit I'm using to power my new DS-Audio 003
Background:
I've been a huge fan of DS Audio cartridges for a little over two years and was perfectly happy with my E1. Then I became aware of two things: firstly, the new 003, which incorporates some technical innovations, and secondly, a tube power supply for DS Audio that I discovered hidden in a blog post by Holger Barske. Both of these things stayed on my mind for a few months. Unfortunately, I lacked the means to get hold of a schematic or instructions to potentially build something like this myself. Then, through a good friend, I got in touch with Jürgen Grau, aka Mr. Nixie. And credit where credit is due: the man knows what he's doing. After about an hour, I had the first schematic, and after a morning, a first circuit board design. I then sent him my original unit and all I heard was: "What are they doing?", "What a waste of materials!", "There's an easier AND better way!", etc. Jürgen was really on fire
In short, Jürgen first built a prototype for me. The features of Jürgen's development (in comparison to the power supply unit of the E1):
- Small
- No bling
- Absolute no-nonsense circuit
- Only the necessary components, but of better quality (op-amps, channel matching, etc.)
- Low power consumption
- Clean power supply
- Less noise than E1
- Variable subsonic filter
- Selectable sound characteristics via different op-amps. Since I wanted a tube sound, it was a Burson for me. Jürgen considered real tubes too compromised for this application.
The result...
...is sensational to my ears. It looks like NOTHING. Size: a tiny 10x10cm! It certainly doesn't appeal to the aesthete in me in the same way as the original O03 food dish. But that one costs €3.5k. A lot of money, in my opinion. Not to mention the even larger ones. And I've always been of the opinion that if something is really good, then the appearance is secondary
Because sonically, it's simply phenomenal. So much so that you won't give the E1 power supply a second thought. So much more body, punch in the bass, overall just warmer, magical details, no harshness whatsoever, much better lateral differentiation, improved stereo center, and above all, incredible holographic depth. And it's this last point that truly makes it magical. It's simply amazing how three-dimensional the music is in the room. The voices practically have faces, whereas before (in direct comparison) they sounded flattened and artificial. A characteristic of the Burson that is less pronounced with the OP Amp 275 and more like the E1 power supply.
Jürgen's linear power supply significantly increases the difference. The soundstage and power become more stable. In direct comparison, the E1 Original sounds noticeably thinner, more aggressive, and smaller.
The noise level with Nixie's device is significantly lower. With the needle raised, it's only perceptible if you concentrate very hard.
I'm sorry if this sounds exaggerated, but EVERY record - especially the ones with slightly worse recordings - simply sounds better, and in combination with the 003 there's nothing you can't listen to.
For direct comparison with the original 003 power supply, which I was able to briefly test at the dealer: noise levels were similar. Sonically, I also find the original 003 lacking in magic, bass, and warmth, despite still offering good detail. Conversely, one could certainly say that the original is more linear, more neutral, and perhaps delivers the high-frequency details even more pristinely. Anyone wanting that should spend 3500k or listen to the Nixie tube unit with the 275 op-amp.
In summary, for me, Jürgen has developed a sensational device. Simply a sonic powerhouse. Combined with the 003, it's perfectly suited to completely immerse yourself in the music and its details, in the soundstage, closing your eyes and losing yourself in the blackness of the 003.
In closing, I have the following words: I have absolutely no financial interest. But I am deeply indebted to Jürgen. At MY humble request, he applied his truly impressively vast knowledge to build ME such a device. Ultimately, this resulted in a marketable product for him, and I am very happy for him. I support this without any reservations because I personally consider it an exceptional success.
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Preliminary Report:
The Mr. Nixie is already running, had some initial difficulties, had to change the cabling from the preamp to the preamp, the
python-like Audioquest plugs don't fit the little gem (they would have mercilessly pulled it into the abyss behind the rack!)
I had to switch to Nordost Tyr for comparability.
Now both have the same cables available.
First, preliminary findings (only had time for 3 record sides):
1: The grounding screw is fiddly... luckily I have pliers to make the grounding clamp smaller.
2: The RCA jacks are really close together; there are much bigger RCA cables out there, but I can't afford them :-))
3: Noise is at a lower level (and my Spectral DMC 30 can amplify enormously!), the noise is "finer-grained," and therefore more pleasant.
4: Absolutely noise-free at normal listening levels.
5: The sound: still needs to break in, but after 3 hours of continuous use: deeper audio relief, better separation of sound events, better layering.
Faster, impulses are reproduced more quickly.
6: For 3 hours: Wow...
7: On studio productions, you can hear more clearly that voices and instruments were mixed together in different rooms with varying levels of reverb.
This might bother some "integralists," but in terms of high fidelity, it's absolutely positive.
8: The "naturalness" of instruments, tonal accuracy: already on par with the W1; let's wait and see, this thing develops.
=>> So far, a "Best Buy."
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So, here's something from real-world experience again.
I put my DSA003 into operation today with the Nixie tube and a Graham Phantom amplifier. Initially, the bass was powerful, but overall the sound was a bit indistinct.
Then I measured the azimuth with Feickert Adjust and lo and behold, according to the Feickert-Adjust method, a full 2° deviation, which is not insignificant for a new system in this price range, but unfortunately does not seem to be an isolated occurrence.
When I see measurements like these, I always start to doubt whether everything being measured is actually correct.
However, this usually only applies up to the first side of the record with corrected azimuth; then you can usually notice quite clearly that it has improved.
Now the duo can warm up; the bass range is already a force to be reckoned with, let's wait and see about the upper range, at the moment it still sounds a little too rounded to me.
But that's just the first impression; now we'll start by tasting the new, unheard records.
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Yes, interesting! And the DS Audios are sensitive to the setting. With mine
I had to replace the E1 twice back then, and the needle was only mostly straight on the third one. I guess I got lucky with the 003.
Regarding the Nixie: I had a similar experience. The Burson needs a little time to adjust. You can always turn down the bass. My 003 also prefers the tonearm to be perfectly horizontal. The E1, on the other hand, needed to be tilted slightly downwards at the back to become quieter. The 003 then becomes too quiet. Have fun exploring and keep us updated!
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After listening extensively with Mr. Nixie's new power supply,
My verdict is not quite as enthusiastic as what I've read in other posts here.
I also like it better than the standard part from the E1, but only in moderation.
Primarily, it's the highs that were sometimes too harsh for me, especially with S and Z sounds; now it sounds better and a bit smoother.
The midrange also seems a bit more rounded and I like it. There hasn't been much change to the bass; it was already good.
Nevertheless, I'm satisfied with the purchase and don't regret it. Considering the significantly lower price, the Mr. Nixe power supply unit remains a clear winner.
Best Buy - no ifs, ands, or buts!
I'm curious to see what the others write, who have surely been testing intensively for quite some time now….
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I got the Nixie unit so that my DS-Audio setup could play on par with my conventional setup, which consists of a ZYX Omega and a TAED Groove+ SRX MKII... Conventional setup: €11,000 total without cables. The tonearm cable, well, let's not go into that here... :huh:I didn't quite succeed. In some areas, the conventional setup is superior, in others the Nixie/DS-Audio combination, but price-wise: €1,200 + €4,000 (and the DS-1W is outdated; an E1 for €1,700 is supposed to be just as good...). The tonearm cable is a relatively inexpensive Audioquest Leopard for €800 =>> total: €6,000. The version with the E1 would cost €3,700 total
Speaks for itself, I think! And the Leopard isn't really necessary; due to the extremely high output voltage for a cartridge system, even cheaper cables work without any compromises. I tried an ancient AT cable; with the conventional system, OH MY GOD, with DS-Audio: nada, almost no change.
Retipping the Omega is more expensive than the Nixie/E1 combination.
And I'll get another 003 :sorry:, THEN I see no further need for action, my room simply can't handle any more dynamism.
Greetings,
Frank
PS: I'm not giving up the conventional branch, though; two arms and systems simply have their appeal, and the depreciation on used ones is too high for me...
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The little magic box is fun, anyway. Today
I was wildly switching between E1 and 002 and the Nixie equalizers
and switched to W1. Mostly in double or light matches.
staggered operation to run the same passages directly one after the other
to hear.
Findings:
My DS-E1 has significantly improved the spatial sound since my test
It's improved. It's now very close to 002.
The Nixie equalizer sounds just a touch more spacious than the Goliath.
DS-W1 Equalizer, to eliminate the difference between the
to balance pickups.
In the bass range, the two equalizers don't make any difference, but they don't do anything either
Too much bass. Even Dead Can Dance's "Kiko" is incredibly fun with it.
and doesn't loosen any fillings.
Overall, I would rate it highly in terms of fun factor and also for audiophiles.
Spices, a fair draw between the equalizers
attest to this. With list prices of €1250 vs. €4800, that's already a...
Announcement.
Whether there are still (very) small differences in the sub-criteria, I will
now calmly investigate over time
One thing is certain: the little box will stay!
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Hello optical scanning enthusiasts,
I had Jürgen's (Mr.Nixie) power supply unit with me
First, however, I would like to emphasize the pleasant contact with Jürgen and the professional handling of the (return) transaction!
Now, my(!) subjective assessment.
The power supply unit is better than a DS001, but only with a better power supply.
The power supply is irrelevant; I prefer to use and build σ11 ("sigma 11") power supplies for such things, where the LM78XX can be replaced by better digital regulators.
This puts it in a different league!
What I still find lacking, however, is the emotional component.
Everything is reproduced, but it doesn't grab me(!).
So far, only the tube equalizer, which Holger shows in his post, can achieve this.
Because what's available for comparison is important to many people.
My setup is a ZYX R100 Fuji low with a Monster Can and a Soundsmith Mezzo.
I compared it to a DS-E1, and elsewhere to a DS-003.
Everything about Schröder tonearms.
Anyone who only has a DS-Audio power supply available (any model) should upgrade to the Mr. Nixie (with its very good power supply)!
Basically, I think it's great to use three techniques (MC/MI/Optical) and enjoy all of them. :)
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In Japan, dealers sell the DS003 system for the equivalent of approximately €1550. In Taiwan, I have an offer for the equivalent of €2050. In Germany, it's currently being asked for €2750. Import duties, taxes, shipping costs, dealer margins, etc., make a big difference!
My entry into the world of optical cartridges therefore costs me: €1225 for the power supply with upgrades and €2050 for the DS003 = ∑ 3275 Euro
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Hello DS Audio and Mr. Nixie friends,
Today I'd like to introduce you to a new product from Nixie – the RIAA converter for easily connecting a DS Audio system to your internal or external phono preamp.
Since my fantastic Mr. Nixie Tube is currently with him for an upgrade to Super Cap and the latest technology, he was kind enough to lend me this converter to bridge the waiting time.
As you can see in direct comparison to the tube, which isn't very big either, this thing is much smaller again - barely bigger than a cigarette pack.
Since the problem exists that DS Audio TAs can only be operated with special EQ units (like the Tube), this is a real alternative to make buying such a TA easier.
I connected the converter directly to the built-in one.
I connected the phono MM input of my Technics SUR 1000 turntable and can continue to enjoy my records in high quality. On top of that, there's also the option to adjust the bass frequency on the top of the converter!
The volume balance was also very successful.
All remaining parameters are ultimately influenced by the phono stage used.
All in all, a great presentation - thank you for providing it.
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Cool piece of kit, if it then performs at the level of the other Nixie DS-Audio
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So, a first impression after two intensive listening evenings:
The converter is brilliant! After just a few minutes of listening, it was clear to me that Jürgen aka Mr. Nixie has once again created a truly excellent product. In combination with the EAR834, the 003 sounds almost as good as with the Tube - even after more than 20 different recordings, I can hardly believe how dynamic, powerful, and spacious the 003 sounds here as well
In direct comparison to the Tube, differences are of course apparent, that was to be expected - but I wouldn't have expected that this little box would translate the character of the DS003 so well!
Tomorrow I'll gladly provide a more detailed list of which records were listened to, etc. It should be noted that this converter offers a brilliant way to enjoy the 003.
Of course, I can only speak from my experience with the EAR. Let's see if I can get another phono preamp working in the next few days – my guest today was also very impressed, and if we can manage the logistics, it might be possible.
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well, I've been using the DS-W3 with the Mr. Nixie DS-Tube SuperCap for quite some time now. The combination is incredibly good. Just a few days ago, I built this combination on a Rigid Float cartridge on my Thunder turntable. And that phono stage is hard to beat
The spatial imaging and resolution are the strengths of optical systems, and they are truly astonishing. But for all those who believe this is the holy grail in this regard, I can only say that there are also conventional systems that can do it "at least" as well. I'm thinking of the Grado AEON3!
With the 003, I still had a strong feeling that I was almost listening to a CD. With the W3, the effect is significantly less pronounced; in other words, it sounds more "analog" and also more relaxed. But you probably get used to this artifact, and then it's not really bothersome, at least not with the W3. The advantages of the W3 ultimately outweigh the disadvantages, and that's practically all there is to the sound.
The W3 sounds noticeably more relaxed than the 003 and, at least for me, is significantly more enjoyable. It has a certain attack that suits many types of music. I like listening to it when I'm in the mood. But what always remains is that incredibly spacious soundstage (provided the source material is suitable), which is paramount and, for me, indispensable for good music reproduction. The W3 is one of my four personal reference speakers.
I don't understand what you mean by long-term experience? You break in the system and preamp, then you play it until it finally gives up the ghost. There's nothing more to say about it.
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my 003 had a stone that was already quite askew in the cantilever. But as strange as it sounds, this seems to be a problem for optical pickups. Sounds odd, I know. DS Audio still has some learning to do in that area.
As you say, the 003 does sound quite distinctive and with a certain attack. The W3 simply sounds more relaxed and even more mature, and for me, it has the charm of truly great systems. While maintaining the same family sound signature, it just sounds a touch more natural, which clearly sets it apart from the 003.
But you don't have to take the step, because, as is usually the case, a little more costs a disproportionate amount of money. You can sit back and enjoy listening to the 003 at a very high level if the sound satisfies you.
To gain some real experience with comparisons, I recommend listening to a system from other major lines and really trying it out at home for a while. That will get you further than always looking for the next higher-end system in the series. Even with the even more expensive DS systems, there might be some improvements here and there, but I expect the DS audio sound will be retained even in the outrageously expensive systems.
There's absolutely nothing to criticize about Jürgen Grau's DS-Tube. The device is top-notch in every respect! And I've thoroughly tested both tubes, the S4A Performance and the Voskhod 6N24P. And both are good. Personally, however, I definitely prefer the 6N24P in my system, mind you. I can't find any aspect where the S4A offers me anything more. But this impression could clearly depend on the rest of the system. I won't be switching back to the S4A, but it's not rocket science and can even be done with a simple multimeter.
A very surprising experience for me was that the new S4A did need a little break-in time to reach its full potential. After that, I installed a brand new 6N24P, which, also brand new out of the box, ran at its best after a short warm-up and has changed very little since. I wouldn't have expected that from a tube.
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