communique1

Responses from communique1

System Rebuild
Got neither. Got a great deal on Sophia 1's. I've actually heard these before unlike the other speakers. Also partnered with Bat Pre. 
What were your humble beginnings on the path to high end audio?
Wow!  Many years ago as a lowly Airman I ran across a dealer in Hawaii who was VERY generous. Even though I knew about the "High-End" I never thought I would be able to afford it. Much to my surprise and benefit, this dealer built my first system:... 
System Rebuild
Narrowed down to two speakers. Acoustic Zen Crescendo or Nolo KO. Same price for either. If anyone has listening impressions of either or have compared either your input would be greatly appreciated. I listen to 80% jazz at a minimum, but not nece... 
HAVE ALL SALES STOPPED ON AUDIOGON ???
As a buyer ready to pull the trigger, its frustrating to see so many potential items as "local pickup only." Nothing like getting your heart pumping only to see those three dreaded words.  
System Rebuild
So just updating that I went to hear the Sopra No.2 this weekend. Was not an ideal setup, room too small, and listened through Naim streamer and VAC integrated. Given the environment, I was not moved. Dealer admitted that setup was not ideal and w... 
System Rebuild
erik,  I already have  a great analog front end, so I phono capabilities aren't a priority. It's also a preference to stay with tubes if at all possible. If going Mytek, I am considering the manhattan...trying to get the best possible performance ... 
System Rebuild
Thanks pdreher! The Harbeth's made my want list because of opinions such as yours. What size room do you have them in? 
System Rebuild
Thanks to all for suggestions. Been to HiFiBuys several times. A big Vandersteen/ARC shop. There's also The Audio Company with 15 minutes of my home with huge inventory of ultra-HiEnd gear. (Focal- Sopra and up, VAC, Von Schweikert Audio, Magico, ... 
System Rebuild
No..Atlanta 
System Rebuild
Thanks tomic601. The AYON is a dac/pre/CD player with tube pre and regulation. It's at the top of my list for that reason. I forgot to mention that I've never heard these speakers and there's no where to audition. I've owned Alon's so I have a goo... 
Like the new look to audiogon ?
Just have to chime in and say the new look is a step backwards. 
Best Cheap Amps for Magneplanar Speakers
I used Ghent Audio mono amps with 3.6r and they worked wonderfully...@$1300/pr. 
Seeking Suggestions on Preamp Upgrade (CJ, Aesthetix, EAR)
I'd recommend you investigate the Primaluna Dialogue Premium which I now own. I've owned CJ ET-2SE, Aesthetix Calypso, Allnic L1500, AR LS17SE, and First Sound Presence Deluxe MKII in the past 4 years. If it wasn't for the lack of remote, the Firs... 
Shunyata Venom IC's review
I've been listening to IC and Speaker cables VS Analysis Plus Solo Crystal IC and speaker cables for the past few days. Thus far the speaker cables have made the greatest positive impression. Quieter background, less stringency, awesome placement ... 
My final table , hopefully !
JONDthe SAM Reference is $2K US plus shipping! Its built like a tank. Weighs about 80 lbs and it sounds awesome.....