Current system evolved over the past 8 years. The real journey began while living in Italy. Had the opportunity to purchase the Franco Serblin Ktemas (#75) from Audio Plus in San Benedetto Italy in 2013.
Moved to Hanford CA where I continued to expand my SimAudio equipment list from my original purchase of the 340i to the 600i and eventually settling with the 740p, 860a and 810lp. Along with upgrading my preamp and power amp I decided to focus on my front end. Purchased the VPI Classic TT with Lyra Delos cart. At the time, I was semi content with the current setup of the Simaudio and FS Ktema, but honestly the synergy was missing. The Ketemas did not shine until I moved to Tokyo and purchased my current Accuphase setup.
Fast forward to 2015, living in Tokyo Japan and took upon myself to purchase the Accuphase 3850, A-70 and the DC-37 Dac. Followed with adding the Dela/Melco Audio streamer. Prior to departing Japan I purchased the Lyra Etna. Now, finally the Ktemas were happy with the synergy between Accuphase and FS Ktema. Truly a magical synergistic combination.
While in San Diego, I decided to focus on personal audio with the purchase of the Blue Hawaii SE along with Stax 009. Great combo, but a little to bright for my liking, so decided to purchase the Audeze CRBN following an audition at Source in Torrance CA. Quickly realized I enjoyed this HP much better than the Stax. Sold the Stax 009 in 2023. My love for personal audio derived from the time I lived in Japan.
Now, it is 2023 living in Washington DC and time to update. Last update was in 2018. Sold the Simaudio gear and replaced with a NAD MV10 for convenience. Purchased the Synthesis A40 Virtus to add tube sound to the system. Really enjoying the contrast of sound in comparison to the Accuphase amp. Decided to sell my Transparent Reference speaker cables for Audio Note lexus. Will need to update later following evaluation if this was a sound choice.
Update 2025: Moved to Wilmington NC.
Replaced the Synthesis A40 with the A100. Needed more power to run the Ktemas. Sold the Estat setup. Purchased a Mass Kobo 433 along with ZMF Atrium Closed and Modhouse Tungsten.
