tgonzales

Responses from tgonzales

Magnepan 3.7i with two (2) DWMs with Pass Labs XA100.5
The combination of a 3.7i and DWM on each XA100.8 pushed it. It would occasionally leave class A. Now with the JL Audio F112 "driven" directly from the pre-amp, this is not a concern.The XA100.8 rarely leave Class A now, but ultimate SPL can only ... 
Magnepan 3.7i with two (2) DWMs with Pass Labs XA100.5
I'm driving them with Pass Labs XA100.8 mono blocks.  100wpc in class A and 200wpc in A/B. 
Magnepan 3.7i with two (2) DWMs with Pass Labs XA100.5
My listening room is a touch smaller 15 x 21 x 12.  I found the panels were very musical but did not offer bass extension nor feel.  I ultimately replace them with a pair of JL Audio F112 v.2.  The JL Audio are a trade off.  The backbone of music ... 
JL Audio F110 Vs F112
I had the opportunity to test a pair of F112s vs a pair of F110s.  Same location, same system.   The F112s produce more powerful (visceral) bass and seem less stressed (less movement) than the F110s.  I would not consider it a night-and-day upgrad... 
JL Audio F110 Vs F112
I already have the F110s and would be trading them in for used a pair of F112s.My room precludes using four subs.  We have an open doorway/wall at the rear side of the left wall, which is where I'd place #3, and I have a wall mounted turntable on ... 
What are some of the downsides of owning a Magneplanar .7 or 1.7i ?
I agree with the 911 comments and subs.  I tried the DWMs with the 3.7i's which sounded nice but a pair JL Audio F110s gave the visceral feel that both the 3.7is and 3.7i + DWMs lacked.I'm not one for loud or boomy sounds, but I was surprised how ... 
What are some of the downsides of owning a Magneplanar .7 or 1.7i ?
I have had both the 1.7s and 3.7s.  They both are wonderful speakers which I can't imagine would disappoint any audiophile.  The main downside (thesis question) centers on the sound.  Power is an overrated concern.  I've used Pass Labs XA60.5 and ... 
High End Amp Price Collapse musings
The economics mentioned in the first post assumes a rational market where demand is created by first order information. Consumers would buy the best product and shift demand based on somewhat perfect information. Hifi is more akin to religion. The... 
Recommendation for Improvement over McCormack DNA-225
I had the DNA-225 for many years and thought they were very good.  I moved to the Pass Labs XA60.5, XA100.5 and then XA100.8.  They are markedly better than the DNA-225, specially in imagining and purity of mid range.  With that said, if you have ... 
Pass Labs X-1 vs XP-20
After demo period, I have made the following observations concerning the Pass Labs X1 vs XP-20:  Pros:Better sound: I think the XP-20 is clearly better than the X1 with regard to transparency, bass definition/power and upper frequency sparkle (sna... 
Michell Gyro SE + SME IV upgrade path
I ended up following regafan's recommendation of adding the HR Power Supply and Orbe clamp (but not the full patter upgrade).  I'm very surprised what a difference it made.  The PRaT became snappier and bass really filled out.  Not night and day d... 
Michell Gyro SE + SME IV upgrade path
Excellent points.  There is no doubt swapping a Michell for VPI would deliver differently but not necessarily better.The Gyro feels like the potential weak link in my analogue chain.  The tone of Michell is fantastic besting my Oppo 105 with Hi-Re... 
Best Equipment Stand
On the upgrade of the turntable, I tend to agree.  It is utterly beautiful which shouldn't be a consideration but is.  I really enjoy seeing it.Not to change the subject at all but the new SME 15A and VPI Classic 4 have been tempting me, but that'... 
Best Equipment Stand
Very good points.  Thank you.I could move the system downstairs, but this is the first time I have a dedicated room and it's very comfortable.The joist support and wall rack are probably the best next ideas to explore.Thank you again for all the g... 
Best Equipment Stand
Thanks for the recommendation of Core Audio.  Stunningly beautiful which would compliment the Eames chairs that I have in the room.I agree that a wall shelf would be the best solution.  The bay window to the rear of the room precludes a simple job...