Description

This is the first system I have built. It is a combination of new and used components (craigslist and audiogon). When I first turned it on I was amazed at what I heard and couldn't get the smile off of my face.
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Components Toggle details

    • Signal Cable Analog Two
    High quality hand made cables. No BS here. I also have the speaker and upgraded power cables from them as well.
    • VPI Industries VPI Aries Scout
    Great turntable. In love with it from first sight.
    • Dynavector 20XH VPI
    Excellent match with the Scout TT.
    • Technics SL-1200 mkII
    Technics Sl1200 M3D
    • Shure M44 7
    Standard DJ cartridge. Will be trading or selling soon to acquire an MC cart with a lower output.
    • Vandersteen 1c
    Speaker is as great as all the reviews.
    • Usher SR4
    Heavy rack with enough room for everything. Appears to be well built and sturdy.
    • Antique Sound Labs AQ-1001dt
    So far this amp isn't bad. I'll most likely try re-tubing in the near future as it was a used purchase.
    • Audio Research SP-6a
    just picked up off Audiogon!

Comments 11

Showing all comments by ayles.

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Owner
Just added a pair of early 80's Klipsch KG4s. They are giving the Vandys a huge run for their money. I had to replace one of the horn tweeters, these things are amazing.

ayles

Owner
System edited: Recently picked up a Technics SL1200 M3D for a couple reasons. Wanted to have a back up TT and the 1200's are just bad ass.

ayles

Owner
Hi Jimbojrjb,
So far I love the preamp! I picked up locally but found it on Audiogon. It has a recent factory service. New tubes from AR and cap upgrades. I am using it with the VPI Dynavector MC cart that outputs 1.0mv. I have the pre set to the low gain setting. I haven't tried hooking it up to anything other than the turntable. But from my research I have read that the output is too high for digital sources. Adding this pre to my system has been the single best upgrade in sound. I never really understood the term "tight bass" until now... I don't see how it could get much better.

The Vandys are great too! I was looking for a good speaker that wouldn't break the bank. I don't listen at high volumes so I though they would be a good choice. When they are properly positioned the speakers disappear and present an amazing sound-stage.

ayles

Owner
System edited: Just added an Audio Research SP-6A Preamp.

ayles

Owner
Thanks Jtori! Your system is pretty amazing! I am hoping to have a dedicated listening area in the near future. At this point I haven't done much of the necessary set up (room measurements and placement)for the Vandersteens since there is a move in my near future. I am definitely looking forward to a better sorted room.

I agree with your statement on price! When I started saving for the system I would get enough money to get one level of a turntable, but kept thinking if I only save a little longer I can get one that much better.

ayles