Smooth sounding DAC - I like the sound of the UltraAnalog Chips - even though they are outdated compared to some newer stuff.
Built like a tank
I am looking to upgrade to a Tube Pre-amp. I have been thinking about BAT VK30 or 3i,Audionote, and VAC lines. That is my next move. The classe is a bit on the dark side, however smooth and good bass.
- Valve Amplification Company PA-90c
These are awesome amps IMHO. Seperate power supplies for each for a total of 4 chassis. Each side runs 4 EL34's, 1 12ax7,& 1 12au7. I demo'd a lot of amps before choosing these and they are the one peice of my system I think will be staying for a while. Easily push my Aerial Model 6's that are quite tube unfriendly - very inefficient.
I really like these speakers and feel they do everything well. I was looking for a speaker that could play various types of music from Ella to Zepplin and these fit the bill. Fantastic imaging and soundstage, however are quite picky with regard to rooms and placement. You have to play around a good bit to get them right, but once they are set up correctly they sound fantastic
I really like these interconnects - they are very balanced and mated well with my system.
- HomeGrown Audio Silver Lace
Best value in Audio right now - IMHO. Very good all around at a very reasonable price point
Good cable - use this from pre-amp to amp's.
- Acoustic Zen Satori ShotGun Bi-Wires
Awesome - when I switched these in my system it made a true believer out of me. I did not think speaker cables made as much difference as IC's - WOW. These transformed my system - MUCH better bass, tigher, deeper, harder. Liquid Mid's, etc, etc. Highly recommended
- LOT's of different kinds Various
Virtual Dynamics II's Granite Audio Homebrew - John R's desing Elco
Older model. I have been curious to do a comparision between the VansEvers and an industrial Tripp Lite. Let you know if I do.
Great Value and pretty sharp looking too. The whole set up was around $400
These were a rebuild project - I gutted and completely rebuild replacing ALL parts except the trannies. Used Curcio upgrade input and power boards. Ton of work cosmetically. Sound awesome - vintage tube sound - love it. I switch these in every so often.