Description

Recently I swapped out my Arcam CD73 for a Mac Mini after conducting some A/B comparisons between the two. Naturally, the Mac Mini caused my jaw to drop when I realised there was absolutely no audible difference in sound. So next, A/B comparison time with a slightly more expensive spinner - this time a Roksan Kandy cd player. Again, no audible difference. So I've thrown it all out, cleared up a lot of space, and now I have 50,000 songs on a box the size of 5 Cds.

I've been into audio for around 5 years now and this is the best it's been.
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Components Toggle details

    • Apple Mac Mini
    Listed as my first and most important component. This brings everything together. And let's be honest, it's all about the music, and I have 50,000 tracks worth. Mac mini Intel Core Duo attached to a 320gb external running Front Row. Absolutely priceless! On board DAC sounds incredible. A/B comparison to previous Arcam CD73 shows Mac Mini come up on top!
    • Advantage S101
    The most dramatic change to my system. Perfect. 175w per channel.
    • Monitor Audio Gold Ref 20
    2 x 6.5" drivers. Metal dome tweeter. Pretty good for the money. Sometimes can sound a little forward, although I think this is down to my listening room (aka living room)
    • Nordost Blue Heaven
    Picked up for $60, this has to be one of the best bargains I have come across during my time in hifi. Incredibly open and detailed, although only 60cm in length.
    • Chord Odyssey
    4 - 2 Bi-wire. Very cheap considering the change it made to my system. Worth every penny. 2 x 2.5
    • Isotek Isol-8
    Currently connected to the Arcam. Really does put this budget player on another level.
    • Merlin Tarantula
    Not bad considering the price, although I plan to replace this very soon. Currently connected to my integrated.

Comments 34

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If you are ever bored and want to see a DIY rack, look at my system, I built it for less than $100.00 using MDF and Oak, not perfect but on my income wich is "fixed" it was still rewarding for me to build it to my needs.
Also try throwing a blanket over your tv when listening to your music and see if you can hear some "smear" disapear

chadnliz

Wow with a rear port speaker, that close to the wall has got to be a huge compromise, try a little breathing room and see what you think....I bet it will be great results.

chadnliz