spinaker01

Responses from spinaker01

Electro-Harmonix 6550 in ARC
I'm using the EH6550 now in my VT100 mkii. They replaced a set of winged C 6550s. Sound great to me... 
Canare speaker cables: to change or not to change
From all reports I've heard, the Canare cables (especially Star Quad configured variants) are very good indeed. You would likely need to spend considerably more to hear an improvement. Many cables may sound different, not necessarily more accurate... 
Where stands the music of Chet Baker with you?
Strangely, I like his stuff better after he lost his youth, looks, teeth, ego, etc. Allowed him to just focus on the pleasure of making music. Was he a genius? Probably not, but I appreciate his contribution nonetheless. 
ARC CA-50 tube changing
I had a CA-50 and bias setting was not too hard, just remember the high voltages involved and be careful! 
What is your listening level?
Levels are a funny thing. Someone here mentioned ideal levels for each record-and I get that. I also think that every system (and its interaction with the specific space) can dictate what the prefered listening level is to some degree. A live room... 
Speaker suggestions at around $30k
Revel Unltima Salon 2. Possibly the best all rounder I have ever heard.Wilson Sashas. Also amazing but perhaps more finicky to place than the Revels. Upper echelon Sonus Fabers like the Futuras. 
System
I admit I was speaking in generalities, and I freely concur that exceptions do exist, they are just rare. Glad you found some. I think a key to your happiness in this situation may be that you have a pair. This always seems to give better results ... 
So, what's your audio resolution for 2012?
Definitely cleaning up the system cables mess, etc. Possibly getting out of multi channel and using the 2.1 channel equipment for home theater duties as well. I seem to be happy with it and it would assist in the clean up goal. 
System
There are basically two types of subwoofer sound. The under $1000 home theatre boomers and thudders and the over $1000 (probably more like $1500) for real subs like Velodyne, JL and Martin Logans that can actually integrate well into a music syste... 
What is the best DAC under $500?
Also highly recommend the MF V-DAC. 
What did you get for Christmas?
Hey Glenfihi,Like I said "a present to myself" ....so, as long as I can make the payments..... :) 
Any Caviar Fans Here?
I agree,way more interesting than another cable or vinyl vs digital thread. Never really tried the stuff, but am a bit afraid to. I already have lots of expensive indulgences. Happy New Year all!! 
What did you get for Christmas?
BMW Seven Series sedan. A gift to myself... 
Searching for new speakers: Wilson, B&W, ??
Well, as opposed to some responses here which don't answer your question, but merely implore you to buy the brand THEY did, I'll give this a shot. The B&W's are great speakers. For the price difference, try to go with the 803 as the extra bass... 
Modded SB2 or SB touch?
No brainer, go with the SBT. Its an impressive unit and at $280, a certified audiophile bargain.