About 4 months ago, I revamped my whole system. I purchased Coincident Victory speakers, Audio Research VSi55 tube integrated amp, and a highly modified Philips 1000 SACD player (modified by Kyle Takenaga / Reference Audio Mods), and Coincident CSD interconnect, Coincident Total Reference speaker cables and Coincident power cord (to the amp), and a Dedicated Audio Blue Star power cord (to the 1000). I also have 3 dedicated electrical outlets that are wired with Virtual Dynamics shielded copper wire, and Wattgate receptacles.
It took a little over 1,000 hours for the tweeters to break in and settle down on the Victory's... but, now they are producing some of the best sound I've ever owned! And, I have owned Wilson Watt/Puppy/Whow... double KLH 9's, Martin Logan CLS's, several Magneplanar's, Fulton Premier's, Silverline SR17's and, too many others to relate. I think I know good sound when I hear it... and, this is good sound!
All the components are really working well together. The sound stage is wide and deep, and very holographic, transparent and detailed. The background is quite with much air around each musical source in the SACD... and, even in the Red Book CD's. A good piano is reproduced with reality... the attack of the hammers, and the vibrations of the strings are there with you. Nothing seems to be left out... or added. The focus is very definite, but with no edge... at least after they break in.
You must be patient with the Victory's, and I have heard with the other UHS Coincident speakers, as well. Up until 1,000 hours, they have an irritating edge, and you might wonder if it will ever happen with them. But, suddenly it all comes in, or out, and wow... what sound! Very seductive... it draws you right in.
A good female voice is so there in presence. And, oh yes, the slobber factor is present also. You can hear it all!
The bass is very fast and detailed, but it does not go down much below 35 Hz. I believe I will try a subwoofer at some point... or, go to the Total Victory. But, in the meantime, I won't want. I'll just enjoy!
I love the way the new ARC VSi55 controls the stage and drives these fantastic speakers. Bill Johnson and gang did themselves proud with this little beauty. This has to be the sleeper in the amp field! I've owned many ARC amps, and this fine instrument will hold its own, especially with efficient speakers like the Coincident Victory's.
I can't speak highly enough of Kyle Takenaga's modification of my Philips 1000... he definitely knows how to make 'em sing! The amazing thing is how well the Red Books sound with the mod. But, SACD's are even better.
So, thanks to William Z. Johnson, Israel Blume, and Kyle Takenaga (and others), I have a very exciting and wonderful musical experience. And, oh, yes... a very good HD video system that plays through this 2 channel sound system. I'm in hog heaven!
