I don't make a whole lot of changes, but seemed that in 2005, a lot of my older gear was starting to show its age. I replaced or significantly updated all my amplification and retired the old Oracle Delphi Mk II to make room for the SME 20/2 and added the Esoteric. The next step will probably be to investigate some acoustic treatments.
I have been a Maggie lover since I purchased my MGIIIa's back in 1987 as sort of college graduation present to myself. I purchaed these in Aug-06 to replace my Finals. They are absolutely stunning!
Vandersteen 2wq
I purchased two of these in Jun-06, but I moved one to the Theatre Room. I'd like to find one more so I have two working with the Maggies. Even though the 20.1's have very good bass response, the 2wq's deepen the sound a touch while freeing up the Maggies to work the rest of the frequencies.
Audio Research SP-8
Not the run of the mill SP-8. I had Steve at Great Northern Sound give the pre a major update. Additionally, we upgraded the phono section to accommodate low output MCs. It handles my very low output ZYX Universe quite nicely. I have made a number of changes to my system, but I have never felt the need to replace this preamp.
Audio Research VT-200
Provides the necessary horsepower to run the Maggies. I put this amp in my system early 2005, replacing my Threshold. I was originally running KT-88s and have since gone back to 6650s. This amp is a beast, but great ARC sound.
SME Model 20 mkII
Just the basic superb sounding SME 20/2. This deck was purchased as a replacement to my Oracle Delphi that had served me well for years but had developed motor issues. It sits in a cabinet I built, which holds about 150 pounds of sand in its base. I can also lock access to the turntable to keep little fingers away. Gotta love vinyl!
SME Series IV.VI
Had an SME IV on my Oracle Delphi and loved it. This one adds damping. These are just great tonearms.
ZYX Universe
This is the really low output, silver version. Easily the nicest cartridge I have owned.
Esoteric X-03 SE SACD
Added Mar-07. I had never really done much with digital prior to now. I focused primarily on vinyl as I had never found digital very listenable. Until now! The X-03 won't replace my analog setup, but I can enjoy extended digital listening sessions now.
EquiTech 2Q
Added this balanced power unit to my system early 2005. Brings the noise level way down. I'd like to add one to my theatre system some day.
Acoustic Zen Satori Shotgun
Fine cables
Acoustic Zen WOW!
1 Meter Added Aug-06. Esoteric > Preamp
Audiopath Supernal
I/C for tonearm and pre->amp
Billy Bags Tri Pro
Got to have something to hold the gear. This unit is rock solid and looks nice.
Thanks Chadnliz and Tympani. I do get plenty of wows, mostly from folks who don't have a clue about this kind of equipment. These guys are just wowed when they first see the Maggies, tube gear, and turntable. You guys have been there before. Fun to see the stunned looks when they get their first listen.
I too get wowed once in a while when listening. Guess that is why we spend so much time and money on this stuff.
Tympani, I have had no issues with the 2Q. I have my VT-200 plugged into it, and it just chugs along. I purchased the unit from a dealer who knows a lot about Equitech products and was very familiar with the VT200. I went with his recommendation. I am guessing monoblocks would draw more current, but I don't know if it would be enough to require the 3Q.
Jtori, Very similar systems! Thanks for you comments. Where are you in Michigan? I am in Northville. I'd love to connect and hear your system. As you can see I haven't experimented with room treatments yet. I see you have.
I had never really ventured too deeply into the digital arena, tending to focus more on vinyl. I picked up the Esoteric X-03 SE a week ago, and am very impressed with it. Out of the box, it had good imaging and bass, but the sound was a little sterile. I have been running it for a week non stop. I sat down this evening and am listing as I type. I am floored with how much it has opened up. The imaging and bass are still there, but the sound is much warmer. If I had known I could have gotten this out of digital, I would have ventured into those waters awhile ago. I am still a vinyl guy, but I will no longer relegate my CD listening to background music.
Thanks for your comments. Sorry, no pictures right now. I just got transferred to Michigan from California, and all my equipment is sitting in some storage facility near Farmington Hills until our home is completed around early October. It's been there for two months already, and yes, I am going through serious withdrawals. I keep myself entertained by continuing to order vinyl--I'll have a fresh supply to spin when we finally move in!
When we get moved in and I get the system set up, I'll post some pix!
