ethos

Responses from ethos

Mccormack DNA-1 describe the sound characteristics
I used a TAD-150 signature and stock DNA 1 for 4-5 years. I found the combination to be a great match, very revealing of upstream changes, new cables, etc. If anything, I'd describe the sound as full and rich, and perhaps not as resolving as other... 
Need some Jazz recommendations..some pop and swing
Some jazz albums filled with memorable "hooks" or popular elements that come to mind for me are:Coltrane, BalladsAdderly Somthin' ElseChico Freeman, Spirit SensitiveOscar Peterson, We Get RequestsIke Quebec, Blue and SentimentalSonny Rollins, Way ... 
Mapletree 4SE vs. TAD 150 signature best sound???
I can't comment on the Mapletree but I used a TAD 150 sig with a DNA-1 for several years and enjoyed the combination. One downside to the TAD 150 is the phono stage, which may or may not be important to you. The phono stage is ok but I'm not sure ... 
Moving From AVR to Amp
You have a great start with the Totems. If you're mostly interested in HT, then moving to a multichannel amp and pre/pro at this stage makes sense. If you're generally happy with your HT set up now, though, you might consider adding a nice 2-chann... 
Be-718 owners, what sub are you using?
Thanks for these excellent suggestions. I'm leaning toward a single JL Audio F112, at least to start with. I also like the Paradigm suggestion and will look to see who carries them locally.e 
finding the right speakers for my room + budget
You may find it difficult to dial in your new speakers with those placement constraints. I'd look into stand-mounted speakers that have a good reputation in terms of being easy to position. Personally, I like the Totem Model 1 Sigs and Usher Be-71... 
Best Keith Jarrett records
I'm surprised there hasn't been more praise for The Melody at Night With You. It's subtle and especially nice for late night listening. I also like Whisper Not.e 
Where to go after Polk LSI15's
Like you, I enjoyed my LSi 15s for about 5 years and didn't feel any real need to upgrade until recently. What I liked most about the polks was their smooth tweeter, precise imaging, and musical midrange. What I ultimately found a bit lacking was ... 
Best amp for Polk LSi15
I enjoyed my LSi15s with a McCormack DNA-1. The bass can sound a little bloated without some good clean power.e 
Power cable for quiet background
You might experiment with the cord on your CD player first. A lot of people here use Shunyata cords that are designed to quiet digital sources (older ones had the "VX" designation). I've used them myself and found that they made a big difference i... 
Has your audio system gotten you into new music?
Absolutely. I listen to a lot more "small group" music now--chamber music, live acoustic sets, jazz quartets, etc. As my system has gotten better at reproducing the sounds of individual instruments and capturing the musicianship of live artists I'... 
DNA-1 and Vandersteen Quatros
Johnnyr, thanks for the reply.Can anyone who's using a DNA-1 to power their Quatros comment on the sound?thanks.e 
Advice on going from mid level to high end
Steve,Sorry I wasn't clearer in my original post.As you suggested, I'm asking a more theoretical question. Before I buy a new component I always do a fair bit of research and will spend time auditioning different manufacturers that make my short l... 
Advice on going from mid level to high end
Wow, I really appreciate all the advice.Speakers and room treatments are high on my list of future upgrades. When I started this thread I was also hoping for some more general "philosophical advice" about making the jump from mid-level to high-end... 
Hooking up Paradigm speakers to Denon amplifier
Mofi has the most likely explanation. If you're not clear on what he means, just do a search under "bi-wiring" speaker connections and you'll get a lot more information. To test his reasoning, disconnect your speaker connections and move them to t...