Wind up here after 5 years of running around the block, spending and swapping equipment. I have reached the limit, space and budget wise, I doubt that I can get better sound unless I drastically can change my sources, maybe a PC based system is on call, but the reliability issue of physical HDs have me thinking otherwise.
The three key components in my system are the First Sound Preamp, the FTA-2000s and the Scheu. Boy does Vinyl sound fabulous on this deck.
Sorry for the mess, but there is only so much space in a NYC 1947 apartment living room.
Got into this transport, first for the said fluidity and naturalness of attack. Secondarily for its aesthetics...nevertheless, it never ever fails to elicit some sort of comment on its looks from people.
Forty Seven Labs 4715 Shigaraki
Value and naturalness, excellent pairing with its natural brother, the Shigaraki transport
Moerch Up-6? Yellow dot
with many option arms, ideal for the Eurolabs. The sound, refined, quick and weighty when the recording calls for it. A beautiful, almost surgically precise piece
Denon DL-103
A Japanese model, in continous production since 1968.
First Sound Paramount HotRod MKII
a beast of a preamp. In Emmanuel's words,
Forte Model 4
full featured SS preamp with separate power supply on phono amp duties. Extremely flexible dipping switches for all sort of cartridges. Sounds excellent, dynamic
Scott Nixon 40 watt monoblocks
modified by Parts Connexion, Canada
Bob Brines FTA-2000
a mass loaded design, with a Fostex F200A alnico mid sensitivity fullrange driver. Large cabinet, definetly not wife friendly, but the sound, beats ALL other speakers I have had the pleasure of owning and still own. Bass that is tight, fast and with plenty of slam.
Unknown flat copper ribbon power cords
An experimental cord that I purchased from someone in Audiogon. Supposedly, a model that was to be made into a commercial product. Never was released. Gives the First Sound plenty of power.
BPT 2.5 signature
Bybee option, plus other items
McIntosh MR-78
From Ebay, from the back of a truck. A mint 1978 piece. Unbelievable sound from the local WNYC station
IKEA Lack plant stand
the best $17.99 one can ever spend. Added as base to the transport and the amplifier, it add speed and dissipation of vibrations as the best out there
