System edited: Added some vintage KEF speakers and the latest Monarchy SM70 amp version before Monarchy is gone.

ssglx December 31, 2014 11:57

System edited: Just documenting several recent changes to the system. Sold my beloved Soliloquy 5.3i speakers to simplify. I miss them alot, but they went to a good home and will be enjoyed I think. Also upgraded to a MF V90 dac which I think is pretty fantastic.

ssglx December 25, 2014 14:40

Hi Devilboy. I have 2pair of the Golden Helix cables. Would love to try the Double. I love mine. I find them to be terrific. Most transparent cables I've tried without a doubt. They also excell at transient response and bass impact. Explosive but also delicate and natural sounding when paired with complementary cables and components. I never tire of them.
I will say that my Morrow SP2's have a bit more natural timber but at the expense of openess and impact. Both are fun

ssglx February 24, 2014 23:24

System edited: Updated system pictures.

ssglx February 15, 2014 00:36

Uhh...actually back up with two systems again. Grin...the exposure amp is pretty awesome. Amazing how much clean thrust i can get out of 5 1/4 inch woofers; and the speed beats the pee out of the floorstanders.

ssglx February 14, 2014 22:20

System edited: Added my new integrated amp (Exposure 2010-S2) and uploaded some pics for documentation. Loving the new amp. Very powerful sounding.

ssglx February 09, 2014 14:21

System edited: I'm down to one system temporarily. Sold the Audio Refinement amp and tuner. Might put the CD player up for sale too.

ssglx March 19, 2013 23:08

YeeHaw! Just put in a new pair of Sophia Electric 6SN7 tubes. Ran a few hours with no signal to burn them in a bit. But right away nom they sound big bold and vivid. I though the Chinese tubes were ok for my use but I REALLY LIKE THESE.

ssglx December 06, 2012 03:48

About 3 weeks ago I replaced the V-dac's wall-wart power supply with a standalone model from Pyramid. It made a significant difference, mainly in bass drive and definition. well worth it.

ssglx December 04, 2011 20:21

Thanks for stepping in Timrhu. I enjoy the dialog. Oddly enough, for some things they do the 5.0 may have been the best speaker in their line.
The 5.3 floorstanders have more midrange fullness and accuracy and go deeper in the bass, but they don't have the extreme quickness and bass timing and heft that the 5.0's do. The little monitors rock, while the 5.3's can't quite keep up.

ssglx August 02, 2011 10:16

Mjcmt,

Yes I am a large fan of Soliloquy speakers. I only heard the Sat5's once. They sounded pretty good, but somewhat congested when compared to the 5.0's when placed well out in a room.
If you come across a pair of 5.0's at a good price, you should snap them up, if nothing else you will then have spare drivers for both.
The 5.0's are an incredibly lively speaker if you give them room to breath and don't fall into to the heavy damping/high mass trap.

ssglx August 01, 2011 10:03

Thanks for the proper term Mjcmt. Its sometimes difficult to describe to others the configuration. It definitely sounds good.
I'm now just waiting for the wife and kids to be gone for a period when I can really crank it to find the upper limit.

ssglx July 08, 2011 09:57

System edited: Very pleased with the latest reconfiguration to my Monarchy amps. I had been running just a single amp in stereo mode because I didn't like the sound of the amps in bridged configuration at higher volumes. In stereo mode that amp seems to retain its sweetness up to its maximum for some reason. Yesterday I switched to both amps in stereo mode, biamping the floorstanding Soliloquys. With one amp running the tweeter terminals and one running low end I got a hum or oscilation. On the suggestion of an amp building friend I re-configured to one amp per speaker, but in stereo mode bi-amping the speaker. Well it sounds wonderful. All the high purity sound, but now more powerful. Very pleased with the change.

ssglx July 06, 2011 11:06

I felt like the Dac Magic probably had more information present. On some program material it sounded pretty fantastic, but often-times the next cut on shuffle play would sound oddly electronic, like extra processing or something. Couldn't live with it.

ssglx December 20, 2010 17:28

System edited: updated pictures and added Musical Fidelity V-dac. Really enjoying putting the ATV on shuffle play and watching slideshows of family pictures and vacations.

ssglx December 19, 2010 13:42

I'm using the ATV's hard drive. I've actually returned the Dac Magic now and have a Musical Fidelity V-dac in its place. Smoother sounding. I like it quite a bit.
The internal dac in the ATV is pretty decent. Smooth sounding, but doesn't have the dynamics or imaging of the separate dac, or of my CD players.

ssglx December 19, 2010 13:33

System edited: Added a new digital source. I have loaded most of my music collection (and all of my family's vacation photos) onto an AppleTV. It sounds decent straight from its internal dac, but now I also have a Cambridge Audio DacMagic to go with it. Just a little bright, but overall, and with most of my music colletion, it sounds quite good.

ssglx November 14, 2010 00:26

Timrhu,

I didn't answer your question about the Monarchy amps. I do like them very much. Quite musical and with good clarity, even with the tube pre-amp. I did have their gain reduced to better match the preamp. I'm currently running just one amp in stereo mode to save power in the summer. 24 watts/ch will go loud enough to hit the sweet spot for realism and imaging.

Chris

ssglx September 07, 2010 09:27

Hi Timrhu,

I did try the (#2) Vibrapods on the Soliloquy stands, but I think I had peeled off the pads for the test. I live in Raleigh, so I got another set of stick on pads from David Berman just so I could reverse the change. I suspect the Vibrapod test would be fairly similar even on top of the pads though. After this eye opener test I ended up selling the stands back to the dealer (I should have kept them for their asthetics).
With the 5.3's I went though a similar process to get them to sound the way I wanted. They were rather cold sounding on the factory spikes with all configurations of cables and gear. I put them up on various interfaces, settling on the rubber/cork isoblocks on bamboo cutting boards. This gave the best combination of warmth, clarity and tunefullness.
I very much like the 5.3's, but they contrast greatly with the 5.0's. Their base favors the deeper range and the midrange is a bit more balanced and uncolored. I will admit however that the 5.0's are the more spectacular of the two. They really rock with quicker timing and drive, and the highs really stand out. The imaging is also another level better. Oddly enough, I don't get the bass "room lock" with the 5.3's that I get with the monitors. The 5.3's are probably the more accurate, but the monitors are more fun.

ssglx September 05, 2010 13:35

System edited: Added a pair of Morrow Audio MA-2 interconnects. I cannot say enough good things about these cables. Many of my CD's sound better than ever with fantastic instrument separation and detail.

ssglx August 01, 2010 01:49

I really like the Cary preamp. Stock tubes and all.
After it (or the Monarchy Amps) warm up on music for awhile, the music really flows.
Really good tone, good highs and good bass. Certainly not as tight and rockin as my solid state YBA/AR Complete integrated amp, but fairly close when using quick sounding cables.
Listening to jazz or bluegrass is just killer.

ssglx February 03, 2010 03:07

System edited: Added a vintage B&O TX linear tracking turntable with an MMC-2 cartridge. Several years back I had the top of the line Beogram 8002 table. I sold my full B&O system to finance the start of my current hi fi habit. It wasn't until I put expensive pair of Nordost Heimdal interconnects into the connection with my preamp before it really sounded good, but I'm reliving my old record collection again and having fun.

ssglx February 02, 2010 17:56

System edited: Made a few changes in the last couple months. Added another CD player (Marantz DV-6001) which is just excellent. A bit softer presentation, but very listenable and colorful sounding. Currently connected to the Cary/Monarchy electronics and the Soliloquy 5.3i speakers. Terrific combination. I also treated the male prongs of my power cables with the teflon tape tweak I saw discussed on Audio Asylum. I feel a little silly, but it really did change the sound (doesn't everything?!). Became more veiled, but purer. I slapped my spare Heimdall interconnect on it and boom! great extension and transparency, but very non-digital with no grain. I'm happily running back through my favorite CD's taking in the added resolution.

ssglx November 02, 2009 00:34

Actually, the AR system is the one that rocks! the electronics are relatively smooth, but very punchy with great PRAT even at low levels.
The floorstanders are currently hooked up to this system and the sound is very solid.
As far as getting another room, not likely as I'm continually battling with the wife to keep this one!

You earlier had mentioned a passive pre. I did try a K&K transformer based passive (S&B transformers) and it worked quite well with the Monarchy's. I have since reduced the input sensitivity of the amps to operate the tube preamp more in its sweet spot. I am very happy with the sound.

ssglx August 18, 2009 16:53

System edited: Added newer picture.

ssglx August 17, 2009 02:20

System edited: General updates to descriptions.

ssglx March 07, 2009 11:40

System edited: I've configured the Monarchy amps now to run as monoblocks. Pretty awesome power delivery now. Just spent a short while with the change, but the system sounds really strong now, better separation of instruments and very listenable at high levels.

ssglx November 30, 2008 21:25

The system is sounding really, really good these days. Added a dedicated line, and have the Soliloquy floorstanders up now on rubber and cork laminated Isol-Pads. Very clean, colorful, and satisfying. Pushing them right now only with a single Monarchy 24 watt amp, but I can achieve lifelike levels without strain. Low level listening is good too.

ssglx November 10, 2008 01:27

System edited: Added Audience Maestro interconnect. Somewhat subtle, but interesting contrasts with the Au24.

ssglx April 27, 2008 11:42

System edited: I had the Monarchy amp modified to double the input voltage required for full output to 1.3v. This allows my pre-amp to get more quickly into its sweet spot on the volume dial, and its turned out quite nicely.

ssglx April 20, 2008 12:57

System edited: I just have to say I'm really enjoying my system these days. The tube preamp and Monarchy amplifier just sound great. The Monarchy amp just has so much character, tone and accuracy. It doesn't do rock especially well, but for jazz and bluegrass its fantastic. At 24 watts/ch it wouldn't seem to have alot of power, but it plays with authority and plenty load with my Soliloquys.

ssglx February 04, 2008 03:58

System edited: I've recntly added the Cary Audio AE-3 Mk II preamp and Monarchy SM-70 Pro amplifier. Very different sound from my Audio Refinement integrated. I'm really enjoying the change. The Monarchy only requires 0.6v input to achieve full output. I'm toying with the idea of trying a passive preamp. Anyone running this setup with Monarchy amps?

ssglx January 23, 2008 10:38

System edited: Udated pics and added Heimdall interconnect. I'm really enjoying having two sources now. With the Heimdall I've found what I'm looking for with the AR Player. A warmer but-still-exciting sound for my brighter recordings. The AR definitely sounds more accurate and resolved. The Rotel is for sheer slam and presence.

ssglx November 26, 2006 11:51

I'm thinking of trying a silver type IC to bring out some sparkle with the Audio Refinement CDP. The Signal Cable Analog II's have great bass and heft and good midrange tone and resolution, but are not extended sounding and don't have much sparkle.
What could I try that is less than $300 that will preserve the rich tone and strong bass?

Thanks for experienced feedback.

ssglx August 19, 2006 15:05

System edited: Made several cable changes to integrate the new equipment. I've gained alot of experience in the process. The rig is sounding great! I also added a bit of parallel noise suppression which made a noticable decrease in hash. I'll add those to this page when I get more time.

ssglx July 18, 2006 02:09

Sol322,
I've had the Analog II IC's in I think for about a month. I ran it for a few days before really listening and noted its characteristics immediatelely which really haven't changed that I can tell. It actually sounds about right on brighter CD's that were too hot on my Rotel/Transparent IC rig, but then I put in the music that sounds fantasically open on the Rotel and I can tell I'm missing some air and openness on top. I kind of like having two source rigs with different characteristics!

Sounds like quite an assembly under your CDP. I almost hate to play around with that area much for fear of driving myself nuts. I need to get out more as it is.

I am familiar with the affect of cones (Audiopoints and Black Diamond Racing) under the speakers though.

Chris

ssglx June 28, 2006 16:44

Luis,

I have several Jacques Loussier CD's and I really love his combo. Some of the most enjoyable music that I have.

My rack is a VTI 304. Great looking, not very expensive with spikes and MDF shelves. I actually have another one that I will press into service when I build a second low powered system.

Other tweaks are Vibrapods under the speakers (terrific impact on clarity and bass quality, tried many things here), and sorbothane under the Rotel CD player. Haven't done much critical listening with cones under the player so I can't comment much.

Oh yea, I spent quite a bit of time experimenting with speaker stand fills. I tried many materials and settled on a 50:50 mix of steel shot and sand as the best balance between liveliness and relatively low coloration; No lead!! kills the dynamics of my little speakers. Though I've not thought about it in awhile now that I use the 'pods to decouple from the stands.

Other tweaks (still in the wrappers) that I have yet to try is a Power Wrap for my fixed power cord on the Rotel, and Enacom capacitors(?) to try across the speaker terminals.

Having fun,
Chris

ssglx June 27, 2006 22:33

Sherod,

It was the newest Taipan. Supposedly broken in demo from a dealer.

I'm also currently using a Signal Cable Analog II interconnect with the ARC player. Its very punchy, vivid and colorful. My first time for experiencing this, but it has a very open midrange, but less air and extension in the very upper end.

ssglx June 27, 2006 16:49

Geez, just borrowed a Shunyata Taipan power cord and the difference is quite large. The highs are now quite open sounding and present, with more sustain. The bass is definitely tighter and deeper and the music is more microdynamic. The system is imaging better and voices now sound more balanced and pleasurable. I'm impressed!
On the negative side, the thing lists for $700 (more than I paid for the CDP) and the overall sound is maybe a little bleached (less tonal color than before), and female voices have a bit more sibilance.

ssglx June 04, 2006 11:41

I've had the Audio Refinement CDP in the system now for a few weeks. Its definitely different than the old Rotel that I know so well. The Audio Refinement's bass is not as solid or defined and it doesn't image as well, but it does seem more balanced and more listenable on some recordings.

I've been playing around now with power cords on it. First a Signal Cable Magic, stronger bass and much more extension and openness on the top end (a little too much maybe, and some hash); and the entry level Soundstring Digital PC, good bass, clean, but not as open as the Signal Cable.

From what I've read and what is available to me, I'm thinking of trying a Transparent Audio PC, a VH Flavor 1, an Audio Horizons, or a Eupen filtering cable.

Any Knowledgeable advice?

Thanks,
Chris

ssglx May 20, 2006 12:28

Pescolar,
thanks...I tried to integrate mine with a sub a few times in a few configurations and always went back to just the monitors. The sound is just more coherent and with my setup (cables, and vibrapods under the speakers) I get really all the deep bass I need. The little 5" woofers are also so quick and articulate that I don't even think about a sub anymore.
However, with some of the cables I used, deep bass was weakened to the point that I could see using a sub.
So my answer is, tweak the setup and you won't need a sub in my opinion.

ssglx April 26, 2006 17:03

System edited: system updated: Spearit Sound is selling off their Audio Refinement stock so I snapped up the tuner and CDP. They both sound very good. I actually have never heard FM radio sound that detailed and extended. I've just broken in the CDP and now switched my main Transparent IC to it. It really sounds lovely. More liquid than my Rotel and more listenable with some of my more brittle sounding CD's. But the Rotel really just has no match for strong and percussive bass. The Rotel doesn't have the resolution, but it creates a more vibrant image. I'll try the ARC unit next with my Au24 interconnect. This sure is fun!

ssglx April 21, 2006 19:26

Most likely not warmth. They are very "fast" and very bright and open sounding. If you have Bryston gear and Theil loudspeakers, I'd say you would have waayyy too much upper end with Mapleshade. If you enjoy the balance of what you have, I'd leave it alone. If you want a warmer/darker sound then that is another path.

ssglx April 18, 2006 16:23

Philoman2, you certainly have a great system for a teenager. I was experimenting around at your age (in the 1970's!). A friend of mine had the AR 3a's at the time. Wonderful warm speakers they were.

Phd, do you have the Golden Helix as I do? or the Double Helix (plus treatment possibly?). I am thinking about upgrading the Mapleshade speaker wire to his top-line product.

ssglx April 16, 2006 23:45

Phd, thanks for the response! I did try some power conditioners to my CDP and did experience a difference; but on balance I did not like it. Most of the high end hash was gone, but so was my perception of openness. Also, the strong musical tones that I so love from my system dried out noticeably.

Do you also have Mapleshade speaker wire?

ssglx April 16, 2006 00:51

I auditioned a bunch of cables (interconnect and speaker) and bought a couple to keep; but guess what? I mostly liked what I heard, but I'm right back where I started and happiest with the interconnect and speaker cable listed above.

Other cables I tried (this go-round) included Cardas, Transparent, Anticables and Audience. I ended up keeping the Anticables (spkr) and the Au24 (IC) too because I find them to be interesting and quite good sounding.
The Mapleshades can get a little tizzy, but I prefer them because of the incredible clarity and bass punch; and the Au24 has very accurate timbre/tone and sounds lovely and forgiving, but the Transparent Link 100's just sound more up front and exciting on electric guitar and drum kits, and satisfy any need for a subwoofer with their strong deep bass response from my little 5" woofers.

I guess I'm most satisfied with a more lively and "hifi" sounding system.

ssglx April 09, 2006 18:32

Actually I did just order a pair of Anticables (before seeing this post). They may warm up the vocals like I want and get rid of some zing. We'll see.

ssglx February 28, 2006 02:56

System edited: pictures added. I've played around with deadening the speaker end of the room or my listening end and I didn't like the results. It took away too much of the terrific livelyness that I've got, especially at lower volumes.

ssglx December 21, 2005 10:44