Under, thanks for the info. I've actually updated to a custom built PBN unit that combines both a phono preamp and a line preamp driven by a single, very large power supply which includes the ability to operate the phono preamp on batteries. Same company that makes Sierra. I bought that unit used from Peter Noerbaek (who owns PBN) -- it was his personal unit. I'm not sure what the list price is but I'll have to ask him so I can post it. Again, thanks for the info. The K-2, as you state, is well worth the price!

ozfly March 10, 2005 00:10

Thanks for the kind words Brent. I love to have folks over and also look forward to hearing your systems. Your toe-in advice was very useful.

ozfly July 22, 2004 19:28

Thanks Bob. It was great having you over. While everyone should enjoy their own system based on their own ears, it's nice to get some knowledgeable opinions through a more objective listening partner. By the way, others are welcome -- anytime anyone else is in Charlotte, drop me a note.

ozfly June 17, 2004 23:46

Dennis, I have yet to buy a digital camera. But I noticed that disposable ones are available so I may go that route.

I have just upgraded the electronics to the Sierra Olympia power amp (will be reviewed in Bound for Sound soon) and the Olympia preamp combo -- a custom unit previously owned by the owner of PBN. The preamp combo has a 80 lb power supply that feeds both a line amp and a phono preamp. The phono section can be run battery only. All I can say is "Wow!"

Also, I've auditioned both the Opus 21 and Talk Thunder 3.1 Balanced cd players and decided to stick with what I have. They are both very fine units, but not enough better than my current setup to justify the price.

Finally, I've ordered the Origin Live Sovereign turntable with the Origin Live Conqueror tonearm and a Dynavector XV-1s cartridge. That should be coming in a couple of weeks so I'll have to update my system.

Once I get all that, pictures will be forthcoming. I am amazed at the build quality of the Sierra electronics. I'll open up the covers and take a few photos. Thanks for the suggestion Dennis.

The multi-player will have to wait until next year. I've already stretched my wife's patience this year ;-)

ozfly April 27, 2004 12:36

Cpdunn, I'm just starting to look for the multi-formats. Chances are that I'll wait until next spring to see if more companies join the fray and if prices drop. In the meantime, I'll keep checking the reviews / threads here on the Gon.

ozfly June 05, 2003 00:29

Cpdunn, Ernie's cord is very nice. I was switching back and forth between it and an old BMI cord and thinking that the BMI (fairly inexpensive) sounded a bit better -- but it was close. I thought I switched back to the BMI. Lo and behold, when I checked the system configuration to repost my system, there was Ernie's cord. No complaints here -- nothing like a little break-in time.

The CAL is a nice unit. It's a bit warm. The DAC is not great so I'm glad the Perpetual Tech is there. I'm hoping to pick up another unit down the road as a back-up since CAL is no longer in business and I like the disc changer. But, my more urgent need is to find a high quality multi-format player.

Yes, those speakers are absolutely amazing. Effortless detail, phenomenal midrange, feel-it-in-your-bones bass (but without a perceptable hump). Scanspeak and Focal. They are big. My wife was talking to her visiting sister and other day and complained about the size but then said "but they sound really great". Yesss!!!

ozfly June 03, 2003 19:33

System edited: Much was changed from my prior system. Gone are the Brystons (BP-25, 7B-ST's) and the Thiel CS-6's. The Audio Magic Reference cable was replaced by the Revelation Audio Labs Prophecy. A number of non-stock power cables were added. Stillpoints resonance dampers were the latest tweaks (Isolpads are used with other equipment). Dedicated lines were added into a new listening room. Acoustic treatments include RoomTunes floor standing PZC's for the corners and the RoomTunes tuner pack. Next upgrades: Add new front end to allow playing the new digital formats. Explore new interconnects. See if I can find a tube preamp with a 50 ohm or lower output impedence and has a phono preamp.

In terms of the title, this is my ninth system counting major upgrades as another system. I'm sure there's more to come ;-)

ozfly May 18, 2003 19:08

I've added the ExactPower 2000 (maintains voltage and a clean 60 cycles)and was very pleasantly surprised. I'm seriously considering the Sonic Frontiers Line Stage 3 SE or one of the AR tube preamps. Analog to come (the software costs would be high -- but, after researching all the comments on the forum, well worth it). Thanks. Keep suggestions coming please.

ozfly May 13, 2001 17:43