sdcampbell

Responses from sdcampbell

What most important in the sound of your cables?
The new version of Nordost's cable line should be on your "short list". They have speed and clarity in spades, and the newest versions also have just a touch of warmth. I recently upgraded my system to a full loom of Nordost Frey, and was astonish... 
Repair or Replace ???
Better -- infact, probably a good deal better. The 105 is an astonishly good unit at a great price. I currently own the Oppo 103D and like it a lot. However, unless you watch movies fairly frequently AND have a large, hi-resolution video source, t... 
My current options: Anthem MCA30 or Bryston 3bSST2
If you can save your pennies until you can swing the Bryston, look into one of their 3-channel amps. I had a Bryston 5B-ST (3-channel) in my HT setup for about l0 years, and it was a fine amp. I currently own a Bryston 4B-SST2, and it is -- by a s... 
Best bargain find ever ?
My post back in July 2002 kicked off this thread, and I'm back some 12 years later with my best A-gon bargain yet! Last week I bought a Lyra Skala cartridge with VERY low mileage for $999 (retail is $3995). This completes the upgrade of the entire... 
How far have you gone?
Seattle to Phoenix and back -- but it also gave me a chance to see my son and grandson. 
180W 4ohm Bryston amp too much for 150W 4ohm SF?
You should have no problems with the SF / Bryston combo. As a general rule, you are always better off with more power than less, as the amplifier has more headroom, thus avoiding going into distortion. Distortion creates heat that can destroy the ... 
Grado Reference Series
I have owned both, and the Reference stayed in my system for about 10 years. The two cart's you ask about sound very much alike, although the Reference has better detail and dynamic response. From the wording in your letter I'm assuming you don't ... 
Ayre & Vandersteen
I have owned Vandy speakers for many years, and have found they aren't too fussy about the amp paired with them, provided:1. the amp has enough power to "wake them up" -- Vandy's are a bit reticent at low volumes;2. the amp is tonally well-balance... 
Of all your gear, what piece impresses you most?
Tough choice, since I like all of the components in my current system. Sort of like one of the Commandments from "Animal Farm": "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others". I can fairly easily choose my favorite two compon... 
DAC upgrade assistance needed
If you prefer to re-enter the water cautiously, you should look at the Musical Fidelity M1A DAC. I recently took my first step into computer-based audio and bought the M1A. I was genuinely astonished at the quality of the sound, and I'm very glad ... 
Weakest Link? Your honest opinions.
It's been quite a few years since I posted a comment on A-gon, so hello again. To get immediately to my point, I think Elizabeth's comments have much merit, but I'm going to be even more fundamental. When starting to improve a fairly basic audio s... 
Built-in phono or seperate for budget system
The Audible Illusions 3A has a very good phono stage -- not the equal of the best phono pre's, but certainly as good as any of the "budget" models. Since this new system is going to be used mainly for incidental music rather than serious listening... 
Any HDMI recommendations?
I am using HDMI Silver Serpent Reference cables from BetterCables.com, and have been very pleased with the picture quality on my Pioneer Elite KURO FD-101 50" plasma. The price-to-performance ratio makes them an excellent buy as well. For more inf... 
10 Great Classical LP's
Since you are just beginning to explore classical music and the "best recordings", I suggest you buy a copy of "The NPR Guide to Building a Classical CD Collection", by Ted Libby. The book is very informative, easy to read, and contains recommende... 
Which amp. Bryston 4-Bst orParasound A-21
I also own Vandy 3A Sig's, and have been driving them for about 5 years with a Bryston 4B-ST. The combination has proven very satisfying, and revealing enough that changes in IC's, etc., are quite discernable. I "test drove" a couple of Parasound ...