Two Channel Upgrade Prolog

jmierzur

My two two-channel purchases have arrived and are installed in the system. For the most part (with the exception of the ICs and power cables), the two-channel system is now complete.

Museatex Bitstream DAC

The DAC was purchased used and included full modification by John Wright, including Black Gate Caps. The modifications were completed approximately two months ago by the previous owner stating only 5 hours of use; no indication was provided on how long the unit had been powered up. Once the unit was in my possession, it was connected to a CD player, powered up and left to continuously play for several days before any listening.

After several days, I managed to have an opportunity to sit and listen to the system with the DAC. Doing a direct comparison between the universal player and DACs output, it was apparent that the DAC removed a harsh glare that allowed more details to be presented to the listener. In addition, I find that instruments sound more natural and realistic. Overall, the sonic refinements are a welcome addition to the system.


A great review of this DAC has been composed by a fellow CP member. Thanks for taking the time to compose this review as I used this information to reach my decision to purchase this unit.

Simaudio Moon P-5 Preamplifier

Hmmm, where to start…

After purchasing the above DAC, I started to ponder my prior decision to purchase a high end HT SSP (Anthem D-1) to replace the existing Rotel RC-980BX preamplifier. As I mainly listen to two-channel music 95% of the time, I wondered if the two-channel performance would be adequate to justify the cost. I decided this did not make much sense as I would be purchasing features I do not require for my normal listening habits.

So, I searched the web for preamplifiers that I would consider for my system. I decided on one that was available and presented my case to the significant other who graciously granted my request. My sincere thanks go to her for understanding and wanting to cure me of my afflictions.

The preamplifier arrived Friday; the existing system was gutted and rebuilt Friday night with the final connections completed Saturday morning. The preamplifier was connected to the power supply and left powered on.

Once everyone was safely tucked into bed that evening, I secluded myself within the entertainment room to loose myself within some music. The system with the Rotel preamplifier and new DAC sounded very good and I was happy to have this component at the heart of the system. But I was not prepared for the sonic improvements the Simaudio preamplifier contributed.

Using a universal player as a transport for the DAC, I have both the player and DAC connected to the preamplifier. Having the two connections allows me to listen to two-channel SACD/DVD-A sources as well as conduct the direct comparisons between the player and DAC as noted above.

Listening to the player’s or DACs output, it was immediately obvious that the new preamplifier allowed the signal to flow through with little coloration. Everything was more intricate and focused in space in a coherent manor and the dynamic content of material was significantly increased. Just to make sure I was not imagining things, I played some older recording that I love and had cursed those responsible for the inferior recording with too much compression. To my surprise, the material contained more content than previously noticed with acceptable dynamics. My apologies have now been extended to all that I cursed, but they are not entirely forgiven for applying too much compression.


In conclusion, do not underestimate any component of the whole system; experience has shown me that no individual part is king. It has been enlightening to experience the individual merits of each component upgrade from the power supplying the system through to the acoustical environment and understand the impact each has provided.


JM

PS - I took a picture, but forgot to bring the camera for image retrieval. Will post another day.

Edit - sp and omitted words.

dorokusai

Lush will be overjoyed with your new purchase

That's some top notch gear John, have fun.

jmierzur

dorokusai wrote:

Lush will be overjoyed with your new purchase

That's some top notch gear Jim, have fun.

Just curious, Lush continues to call me Jim as well even though I reply with my correct name. Is it mentioned anywhere in the forum that it is 'Jim'? If so, I will please direct me to this area so I can update it to John. Thanks.

dorokusai

jmierzur wrote:

Just curious, Lush continues to call me Jim as well even though I reply with my correct name. Is it mentioned anywhere in the forum that it is 'Jim'? If so, I will please direct me to this area so I can update it to John. Thanks.

I think it's just a visual issue...I have mentally noted your correct name for future reference.

Tour2ma

John, if he forgets just call him "Mork"...

Curious as to what else is in your rig?

reeltrouble1

John,

Interesting review. I am myself searching and plan on making a major move for the Woodshed Rig during 06. I am most interested to hear your thoughts on the DAC as compared to running the signal straight from your source. Would you be able to say what source is being used? I have some thoughts in mind, but as always believe collaboration to be a valuable tool.

RT1
RT1

jmierzur

The following comprise my system for two-channel:

- Pioneer Elite DV-59AVi universal player (video and CD transport)
- Museatex Bitstream DAC (full mods and Black Gate caps)
- Simaudio Moon P-5
- dbx 120x
- Simaudio Moon W-3
- Dynaudio Confidence C1
- Two (2) SVS PC-Ultra


RT1

When I use the remote and switch directly from one source to another, the differences are noticable. If someone else was in control of the remote and switching between the two, I feel confident I would be able to distinguish which source is playing. If one source was selected and left playing, it may be more difficult to determine the selected source. Next time I have someone over, I will have to try this little experiment. An old cheap DVD player will be poped off the stack sometime in the near future from the upstairs rig to accomidate the main system's cast off equipment. I think that I will compare its output at that time.

Tour2ma

Thanks for the list. Sorry to say that I'm not familiar with most of the pieces.

beardog03

2 PC-Ultras... :eek:

YA MAN..!!!

how do you have them hooked up..?

LuSh

jmierzur:

Like I said in my email, give the DAC a solid week of listening, then switch back to the Pioneer, you should hear what I mean. This DAC wont throw things in your face, you'll see what I mean in a few weeks. The Moray cable will help, borrow one from a dealer.

I myself will be receiving a bunch of stuff to try out this week...

Audience Au24 speaker wire
Moray James Power Cable x 2
Blue Circle BC61 power cable
Skylan isolation pucks

and I ordered an upgrade PC for my Blue Circle BC606, the BC62...hoping at least some of this stuff increases dynamics and bass, I don't have to much faith in the Power cords because of my prior experience, perhaps allowing my equipment cleaner power will allow me to hear it, perhaps its all just really snake oil. Regardless I'll have some fun. The Audience speaker wire should be a big step up from my 8TC...I'll post reviews once I hear everything and spend some time with it.

jmierzur

Hi Lush,

The refinements from the DAC are significant. I did not go into too much detail as you have provided a comprehensive review of the unit and my post already was much longer than initially intended. As I stated, it is a welcome addition to the system. I fully understand what it brings to the table and do not wish to live without its contributions.

The DAC with the optical cable is fine for now. As I stated before, there will be no cable changes this year; this has been "The Year of the Component". Four of the most expensive components have been upgraded this year. When the time is right, I will look at all the available cable options. The only exception at this time is a new PS Audio PC with a removable ground pin for the DAC as it has a ground loop problem. I will be dropping the unit off at John's house later this week so he can examine the unit to see if there are any problems with the DAC.

If you are looking to clean up your power, remove the filter you have, leave the power cords alone and try a balanced isolation transformer (BPT BP-2 would make an excellent addition to your system). You can also try a voltage regulator with waveform correction (Exactpower EP-15a). You can also add both of these to the system for a complete solution. Optionally, there are also PS Audio re-generators you can try that do both in one unit.

Do a search for the BPT BP-2.5 to see my comments and find links to product reviews. The results are exactly as described in the reviews.


Hi Beardog03,

The subs are still connected in the same manor since the last time you asked. Retrieved from the prior thread:

"For the L+R signal path, I am using the dbx active crossover; LF to the PCU and HF to the W-3/Dyns. One PCU is placed behind each of the L+R speakers. Hookup was easy, integrating both required some time and patience.

In addition, the SSP has the front set to large, the remainder of the speakers set to small and the sub set to yes. The LFE is split and sent to each sub. Works like a charm."

Edit - additional comments for Lush

jmierzur

Attached pictures in post 7 as promised. Thanks all.

jmierzur

In my never ending quest for better sound, I decided to continue with the two channel system upgrades this year. The next area of the system to receive attention was the interconnect cables. Speaker cables were upgraded to Harmonic Technology Pro-11 cables earlier this year and I have no plans of any future upgrades in this area.

I had experimented with ICs on the same equipment I currently possess when I was first introduced to Simaudio products. After much experimentation, I discovered that I preferred the sonic characteristics of Harmonic Technology interconnect cables. Remembering this and not wanting to revisit this subject, I proceeded to acquire the required number of Pro-Silway MkII ICs to connect the system components together. An additional Precision-Link cable was acquired for connecting the Pioneer universal player to the preamplifier for two channel SACD playback.

After letting the cables settle into the system, I noticed the high frequencies are more extended without a hint of being bright or harsh. Everything sounds clearer as I can hear more details within the music with the soundstage being more precise and layered. The dynamic transients are now faster, adding a new level of realism to the overall presentation.

It is safe to say that I am glad I decided to acquire the ICs at this time instead of waiting for a future date. The power cabling will be the remaining change to the system.


On a different note, I have also been thinking of replacing the dbx active crossover I currently use. One route I explored was looking at Bryston active crossovers. Due to the cost of these units (even used), I do not think there will be any further inquiry. Another unit of interest is the Velodyne SMS-1 subwoofer management system. As this is a new product, I will wait and see how it is received by others before deciding if this is the correct course of action.

jmierzur

I had the opportunity to test a MJ (Moray James) digital IC cable over the weekend. There appears to be two digital ICs from MJ priced at approximately $350 and $500 CDN. The cable I tested was the $350 cable.

The cable was inserted into the system and left playing for about 30 hours before any listening test were conducted. The Museatex DAC was connected to the player by both the Moray James and AR Master optic cables. Listening tests were conducted by both my wife and me. The tests were blind with the listener not knowing which cable was in use at the time. Switching was performed by the non-listener so the listener did not have to move from the optimum listening position.

The results of the testing were that my wife preferred the optical connection while I remain undecided which will be a long term solution. Her reasoning for preferring the optical connection what that she liked its smoother overall presentation. As for myself, there was a difference, but I am not convinced it was a positive one.

Both connections methods allowed for a very detailed overall presentation. The digital IC cable had a slight difference in the high frequencies. I am not sure at this time if I would call it more detail or a high frequency glare. Additionally, both cables presented a slightly different localization of objects within the soundstage. This was unexpected in the listening tests and my wife did not note this change.

At this time, I think that it might be best to devote more time to research and test the final solution for the player to DAC connection. The MJ cable will be returned. I do not think that I am missing anything using the optical cable so I think this issue within the system can be addressed at a future date. In the new year, I will try the higher priced MJ cable along with several other brands to see what they bring to the table…

Moray James Cables

The cable I tried does not resemble the one pictured in on the web site.

schwarcw

Nice writeup John. Beautiful setup! Thanks for the insight and info.

jmierzur

At the close of 2005, I was using a one meter AR Master optical cable between my Pioneer universal player and Museatex DAC. Wanting to determine if I could squeeze any additional performance from my system, I borrowed a one meter MJC (Moray James Cables) digital IC from a local retail store. During the trial period, I could not determine if the cable provided any benefits and decided to return the cable and address this question at a future date. A longer version of the assessment can be found above.

After trying several different digital cables (which will remain anonymous) to assess if there would be any merit in changing cables, I decided to once again trial a MJC digital IC. This time I contacted Moray directly and decided on his latest design with a 1.5 meter length. While Moray was building this cable, I dropped off my four pairs of HT (Harmonic Technology) IC at his residence to be cryogenic treated with the new digital IC.

I retrieved the HT and MJC ICs still cold from the cryogenic chamber at his residence. When I returned home, the cables were installed in the system and left to play for the better part of three days before any critical listening. This listening test only included me so no blind comparisons were conducted. Switching between the AR Master optical and MJC digital ICs produced a difference in the sonic characteristics of the material played.

The sonic characteristics of material when using the MLC IC, regardless of genre, took on a more natural and dynamic characteristic than I have ever heard with the current components. Ambience cues of the venue where the material was recorded were effortlessly conveyed. Vocals and instruments were depicted with a more realistic tone and exhibited additional micro dynamics to produce characteristics of unamplified acoustic sources. I also noted a more defined point source localization of sounds within the soundstage. Having this information retrieved and presented for classical pieces within the room further created the illusion of attending the ‘live’ performance of the piece.

I was not expecting any significant differences between optical and analog digital ICs. Based on my above trials, I am forced to concede there are differences between the two methods to convey a digital bitstream. I am almost positive this cable will be purchased from Moray in the next few weeks.

At this time, I have recently acquired some Dynaudio Confidence C1 monitors with matching Stand4. When the C1’s have been mounted on the damped (lead shot) Stand4’s, I will conduct another listening trial of the MJC digital IC with the C1 monitors. Preliminary listening of the C1’s on the existing Skylan stands indicate they are significantly superior to my Dynaudio Contour S 1.4 monitors in resolution, tonality and dynamics.

steveinaz

My experience with different digtal cables has resulted in these observations:

1. AES/EBU: The warmest, smoothest, most "analog" like
2. Fiber Toslink: Most neutral, analytical, articulate
3. Coax, RCA-BNC: Falls smack-dab in the middle between Toslink and AES/EBU.

FWIW.

jmierzur

Thanks for highlighting that different components produce different results.

LuSh

It's funny jmierzur, Moray's digital connects will never measure a 75ohm impedence!! That's unheard of! And he's more then willing to admitt it. I asked both John and Moray if they impedence match off each other or role frequency's in order to achieve synergy, both said no. Because it would be commercial suicide to only test their equipment only with each other.

jmierzur

The speakers have turned out to be a significant upgrade. I anticipated there would be improvements across the board, but did not realize the magnitude and extent of the changes. If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend listening to any speaker with Esotar drivers. Further comments on these speakers can be found on the AudioAsylum as there are two reviews of this specific speaker.

The two channel system is now complete; the speakers have been installed on the stands and positioned in the room and four PS Audio Prelude power cables are in transit. Most of the two channel upgrades have been purchased as demo or used items and have allowed me to build a system better than I had ever planned. Many thanks to Audiogon and Canuckaudiomart sellers.

Tour2ma

jmierzur wrote:

The two channel system is now complete...

If we had a nickel for every time we've read that...

Congrats... You've made quite a journey over the past five months, but I have a feeling it has not yet ended.

jm1

Tour2ma,

The two channel system is complete. I can not justify the price to incremental performance ratio for any further upgrades. Can I please have my nickel back? Are there any specific deficiencies you had in mind that I need to address? I am not interested in ‘tube’ based components or TT/phono pre.

You are somewhat correct, there are further additions envisioned in the near fture for the benefit of the entire system. At this time, nothing will be swapped out. When the time is right, I plan to move to a LCOS based display with a high definition video source; but that will be another story.


PS

Old user (jmierzur) with new account (jm1); invalid email address in profile combined with non-rememberable password equates to no account access. Contacted administration with no replies therefore new account created.

Tour2ma

jm1 wrote:

Can I please have my nickel back? Are there any specific deficiencies you had in mind that I need to address?

1. No... how do I know you wouldn't waste it on audio equipment instead of something useful like beer or drugs?
2. No... just a general smartass comment. I and many others have been "there". You can scratch that audio itch and make it better, but sooner or later it comes back.

WTH is up with this message that popped up when I chose to reply?

Message from Club Polk wrote:

Old user (jmierzur) with new account (jm1); invalid email address in profile combined with non-rememberable password equates to no account access. Contacted administration with no replies therefore new account created.

Is CP now like ebay with notices of name changes?

jm1

Tour2ma wrote:

WTH is up with this message that popped up when I chose to reply? Is CP now like ebay with notices of name changes?

I had an old email address in my profile. I changed the account password to something unique. Can not recreate the password to successfully logon. The reset password functionality emails reset directions back to your profile email address, which is invalid in my case. So its new account time. Not sure what you received in a popup; I put the 'PS' and text that follows in my reply to identify my new account name.

The audio itch may come back one day, but as far as I'm concerned, this thread is completed.

jm1

Tour2ma wrote:

2. No... just a general smartass comment. I and many others have been "there". You can scratch that audio itch and make it better, but sooner or later it comes back.

During the lunch hour, I was near one of the local audio retailers and stopped in for a visit. While looking around, I noticed that two of the fully acoustically treated rooms had Simaudio Evolution Series components. At that point, I should have immediately left the store.

One room had the SuperNova CD player, i-7 integrated with Monitor Audio GS60 speakers. The other room had the Andromeda CD player, P-8 pre, W-8 amp with Wilson Audio Sophia Series 2 speakers. I did not look at the cabling of either system.

The Moon Classic series components have been a favorite of mine for quite some time. I have liked their sonic characteristics over several other high end brands I have had the opportunity to audition. The Evolution series takes the Classic Series level of refinement another step further. I did not think there was that much room for improvement in their components.

I was surprised at the level of performance of the SuperNova/i-7. They give you a lot of the refinement of the Andromeda/P-8/W-8 at a significantly reduced cost.

I had completed my four year plan with the above system. Now it looks like I will have to formulate a new four year plan.

Tour2ma

Calamine anyone?

jm1

Several weeks ago, I was at Moray’s residence paying for the Digital IC I had trialed at home and decided to retain. While we were talking (about audio of course), the subject turned to his new digital cable design. Being skeptical about any differences between these two digital cables, I asked if the new cable would be any better than the one I currently own (I had just paid for the cable). In summary, his expression and reply was ‘yes’. He also offered to build a new 1.5m cable for me to trial with the option of an upgrade purchase.

Several days ago, I delivered four PS Audio Prelude power cables to Moray for cryogenic treatment and retrieved the new Digital IC. The cable was installed; the player was set to repeat for one day and left on for two more days. I used familiar classical pieces initially and progressed to mainstream material. It was apparent there were improvements to the spatial localization of instruments within orchestral works. There was also additional low level information (hall ambience, instrument texture) conveyed that I previously had not noted. Mainstream works also benefited; Led Zeppelin II sounds better than I remember.

Take what you want from this experience. Before having the external DAC, I believed ‘bits’ were ‘bits’; that is no longer the case. I just hope Moray does not ambush me with anything on my next visit.

---

The power cables should be finished the cryogenic treatment in the next couple of days. These will replace the stock cables used from the BPT BP-2.5 balanced power transformer to the two channel components. Who knows, in the next couple of days I may also be a power cable convert.

---

With the imminent arrival of summer, the two channel system will be neglected until the seasons once again drive me indoors. The end caps for the tube traps will be stained, finished and then mounted. I am also contemplating constructing a ceiling acoustical treatment to preserve room energy while trapping the first refection point. As the material cost is not significant, this should be an interesting experiment. I wonder how this concept will be received by the spouse.

Simple – Natural - Elegant

jm1

I have been looking at the PS Audio power cables since the current series was released. My main reason for changing the cables is the construction of the plug and IEC connections. My initial intent was to replace all the current cables with Power Punch cables. I was not planning on implementing these changes until later in the year, but could not ignore the sale price of the cables on Audio Advisor.

I installed four PS Audio Prelude power cables on the two channel components (universal player, DAC, pre and power amp) once they were finished the cryogenic treatment. These replaced stock Simaudio and Pioneer cables provided with components and a PS Audio Power Punch cable used on the DAC. The Power Punch cable was moved to the right sub and I have received, but have not installed, a 3m Prelude cable for the left sub.

About one week after installation, I finally had an opportunity to partake of some music. I listened for about one hour during an evening with the intent to unwind and let the music guide me on a journey. One particular work I played (Carmen Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 25 by Pablo de Sarasate; Perlman, New York Philharmonic Orchestra, Mehta) moved me more than usual. Once the work was completed, I restarted the work and payed closer attention to the intricacies of the music.

I found the differences with the new power cables to be subtle, yet significant within the context of my environment and preferences. I noted an additional amount of separation of instruments and layering within the soundstage of orchestral works. Instruments took on a more distinct and focused localization within the soundstage. This was particularly pleasing on the mention work with the soloist’s part; there is a clearer separation of soloist and orchestra. I can not say that I noticed any subtle or dramatic differences while listening to mainstream material, but that does not imply that the above noted benefits did not improve this type of material.

I welcome the improvements the power cables provide to improve my overall listening experience. From my perspective, the cost of the cables for the noted improvements to the soundstage was a worthwhile purchase. Even if I did not note any changes, I would have kept the cables due to the improved connections. Had any negative changes been present, I would have kept the prior cabling within the system.

jm1

The system is still evolving...

Replacing stock component fuses with aftermarket 'audio' approved fuses. Created a thread in the DIY, Mods & Tweaks forum.

jm1

Finally, there is a (an English) review of the Dynaudio Confidence C1 speakers I cherish so much. The review is quite long, but I found I agree with his observations. I would recommend reading this just to see how he evaluated the speakers and how animated he was regarding the speaker. The review should also be rated PG-13 for language content.

Confidence C1 loudspeakers - A State of Awe

Final paragraph of review:

"The Dynaudio Confidence C1 Mini-Monitors are as close to perfection as loudspeakers get. Chip Stern"


If you have the acoustical environment and system components to support these speakers, I highly recommend these speakers.

JM