Want to have separate 2 channel and HT

[Jack in Wilmington]

I got too much time to sit and think at work. Here is what I came up with, see if you guys can help me.

1. Want to move my Onkyo receiver, Anthem amp, Panasonic Blu-Ray player and Denon SACD player to make a dedicated HT system. Planning on useing my mains in both systems for now either with an AB switch or some kind of hookup.

2. Then set up a 2 channel setup on the other side of the room consisting of my Music Hall turntable with Pro-ject phono preamp, Rotel CD player, Headphone amp.

Now you see I need an amp of some type in the 2 channel setup. Would it be better to add a integrated amp (was thinking PrimaLuna or Rogue Audio) to run the 2 channel or
leave the Anthem in the 2 channel setup and get a preamp. This would leave the Onkyo to handle all the duties in the HT setup. I'm probably overlooking something. I know a lot of you guys have two dedicated systems and this will be easy for you to figure out. But my poor head hurts.

[Poultrygeist]

A Niles DPS-1 allows me to have a 5.1 HT bedroom system and a two channel set up at the back of the same room by sharing just the rear speakers of the HT. I connect the AV receiver to the Niles and a high power T-amp along with the rear speakers. I can then switch between power sources ( two channel or 5.1 ) with a push of the button. The Niles is robust, will accept large gauge speaker wire and doesn't degrade the signal.

[poppachubby]

Since my Sony AV Pro is a gutless wonder, I have patched in a Marantz 1515 and Yamaha CDX-510U to my mains. The only trick is making sure NOT to run both amps simultaneously, but that's no biggy.

This is a temporary measure until I can come up with the scratch for a decent 5.1 Pro. You are looking at 2 seperate systems, which I also have. The thing is, they are in 2 seperate rooms. If it was in one room, I would integrate everything the best I could.

My feelings these days are....


...less is more.

As for your question...why would you need a pre if you were to use the Anthem? Surely the Onkyo can handle the BR and SACD units. I forget the way it's done, but some of the guys here, particularily JoeESP9 have an excellent method for system integration. I think you would only need a pre amp with some more modern abilities. Emotiva has what you would need I think.

[JoeE SP9]

Thanks PC. Less is also cheaper.
I use the same speakers, electronic crossovers and power amps for the front of my MC (can't call it 5.1 no center channel) system as for 2 channel.

All 2 channel sources are connected to my preamp. For 2 channel music only the front speakers and amps (etc.) do anything. My processor can't degrade 2 channel sources because it's not used for them.

For any MC source I use my preamp in bypass mode. The front outs from my processor go straight through my preamp to the same power amps and speakers.
Some preamps have a switch for bypass mode. My ARC SP-9 doesn't. I use one of the regular inputs with the volume control set for unity gain (I measured it with my Fluke). My processor then drives the front amps and speakers through my preamp and the rear speakers and amps directly. This way, for MC sources all control comes from the processor.

This is my "compromise" since I can afford and have space for only one good system. Technically I guess I have a 4.3 system. I don't have enough space for an ESL center. Anything else doesn't timbre match. The SPW-1 sub for my rears is actually two subs in one box. So maybe I have 4.4.

The Emotiva preamp would work very well in this kind of hookup.

[PeruvianSkies]

Since my Sony AV Pro is a gutless wonder, I have patched in a Marantz 1515 and Yamaha CDX-510U to my mains. The only trick is making sure NOT to run both amps simultaneously, but that's no biggy.

This is a temporary measure until I can come up with the scratch for a decent 5.1 Pro. You are looking at 2 seperate systems, which I also have. The thing is, they are in 2 seperate rooms. If it was in one room, I would integrate everything the best I could.

My feelings these days are....


...less is more.

As for your question...why would you need a pre if you were to use the Anthem? Surely the Onkyo can handle the BR and SACD units. I forget the way it's done, but some of the guys here, particularily JoeESP9 have an excellent method for system integration. I think you would only need a pre amp with some more modern abilities. Emotiva has what you would need I think.


Your setup looks cluttered to me, maybe you need to apply "less is more"???

[Jack in Wilmington]

Since my Sony AV Pro is a gutless wonder, I have patched in a Marantz 1515 and Yamaha CDX-510U to my mains. The only trick is making sure NOT to run both amps simultaneously, but that's no biggy.

This is a temporary measure until I can come up with the scratch for a decent 5.1 Pro. You are looking at 2 seperate systems, which I also have. The thing is, they are in 2 seperate rooms. If it was in one room, I would integrate everything the best I could.

My feelings these days are....


...less is more.

As for your question...why would you need a pre if you were to use the Anthem? Surely the Onkyo can handle the BR and SACD units. I forget the way it's done, but some of the guys here, particularily JoeESP9 have an excellent method for system integration. I think you would only need a pre amp with some more modern abilities. Emotiva has what you would need I think.


The Anthem is only a power amp not an integrated. I still need something to process the signals from the sources right? I'm just not sure which is the best route to take, preamp or integrated.

[poppachubby]

Your setup looks cluttered to me, maybe you need to apply "less is more"???

Hahahaha, I didn't know what all the fuss was about, with you posting here. Is that supposed to provoke? If so you'll have to try harder. Otherwise thanks for the encouragement. :Yawn:

[poppachubby]

The Anthem is only a power amp not an integrated. I still need something to process the signals from the sources right? I'm just not sure which is the best route to take, preamp or integrated.

I see, I see. Is there a budget in this scenario Jackson?

[Jack in Wilmington]

I see, I see. Is there a budget in this scenario Jackson?

I was thinking $2000, but I am always open to the used market. I was leaning heavily toward tubes in the 40 to 60 wpc range, if you think they will drive my speakers. I think Joe's idea would work if I understood it. Whew.

[frenchmon]

The Anthem is only a power amp not an integrated. I still need something to process the signals from the sources right? I'm just not sure which is the best route to take, preamp or integrated.

Hi Jack..seeing that you have had your power amp connected to your receiver in a home theater configuration all this time....you may miss it if you buy a preamp to go with it in a two channel system. IF it where me, I would leave the Anthem in the home theater and get a very nice integrated that has out-puts to add an amp later down the road if you wanted more power. Remember...this new two channel is going to be your baby....for you only. If your family is like mine, they always have control over the home theater in our house, but the two channel is mine and no one is even interested in it. So if that sounds like your house, do it right. Build it one piece at a time if you have too. Our good friend Audiogon has some nice toys at a very good price if you watch it daily...but you should make a list of the amps you want. Building another system is fun indeed! I'm excited for you....keep us posted on what you do....and remember, pictures if you can. IF you like tubes...look in to Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, Belles, and PrimaLun and Rogue sounds good as well, but I've read a good few reports about some Rogue models being noisy....you may want to check with RGA about Rogue.....I think he has had some experience with them.


Cheers.

[poppachubby]

Joe's method is the best example of integration I know of. Again, you would need a modern preamp for that to work.

Tubes are an interesting proposition, giving you the best of both worlds. I think tubes are incredible for daily listening and reference, but SS is super fun for cranking up.

I'm kind of busy but I'll have a look at Agon.

[frenchmon]

I was thinking $2000, but I am always open to the used market. I was leaning heavily toward tubes in the 40 to 60 wpc range, if you think they will drive my speakers. I think Joe's idea would work if I understood it. Whew.

Yes 60 watts will be plenty. I have a buddy who has a 25 watt vintage McIntosh tube amp that just awesome in a two channel configuration.

[Jack in Wilmington]

[QUOTE=frenchmon]Hi Jack..seeing that you have had your power amp connected to your receiver in a home theater configuration all this time....you may miss it if you buy a preamp to go with it in a two channel system. IF it where me, I would leave the Anthem in the home theater and get a very nice integrated that has out-puts to add an amp later down the road if you wanted more power. Remember...this new two channel is going to be your baby....for you only. If your family is like mine, they always have control over the home theater in our house, but the two channel is mine and no one is even interested in it. So if that sounds like your house, do it right. Build it one piece at a time if you have too. Our good friend Audiogon has some nice toys at a very good price if you watch it daily...but you should make a list of the amps you want. Building another system is fun indeed! I'm excited for you....keep us posted on what you do....and remember, pictures if you can. IF you like tubes...look in to Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, Belles, and PrimaLun and Rogue sounds good as well, but I've read a good few reports about some Rogue models being noisy....you may want to check with RGA about Rogue.....I think he has had some experience with them.

Hi Frenchie,
Thanks for the encouraging words. I see we're on the same wavelength. It would be nice if RGA would give us his thoughts on the Rogue, but he may be in the middle of an article for his column. My local shop has a Audio Research SP9 preamp that they took in trade.
I like the looks of the PrimaLuna ProLogue Two integrated and they have it on sale for $1599. I see Poppa like the idea of SS also, what do you think of the Rotel RA 1520?

[poppachubby]

Jack, do you know which generation of SP9? You do realise that the ARC SP9 is a real class act, yes? Put it this way, my system goal is to have any generation of SP9 as preamp.

They really are wonderful. In good condition they still command decent scratch, around $7 - 800. The MKII can be even more. Often they have been modified which can put the price up OR down, depends. From the point of view of an analog lover, the ARC will have much to offer you. A wonderful phono stage which is also manually adjustable to accomodate MM or MC.

Anyhow, make sure you audition this wonderful piece of gear and realise that it COULD possibly be the last preamp you need.

Frenchie is the Rotel expert. I have poor knowledge in modern day SS. However, I think you have to decide what you want in terms of performance. Super huge power or maybe superb dynamics or maybe both! Krell and Bryston can give you the best of all worlds, but for a price.

There is a local seller unloading a Phase Linear 400. Ever heard of this company Jack? They actually go under alot of people's radar. Vintage, however superbly designed with both power and dynamics. Think old school Bryston....before there was Bryston.

Here's one selling on Canuck Audio Mart in mint condition. The unit local to me is not as pristine but comes with a Bozak pre for the cool price of $300.

Minty Phase Linear...http://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/184302-phase_linear_model_400_series_ii/

Local PL w/ Bozak...http://london.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-electronics-LOOKING-FOR-POWER-W0QQAdIdZ216741964

Actually Jack, we could split on this if you want. I wouldn't mind having the Bozak and I could ship the amp to you. This 400 is the original with analog VU meters...cool!!

[frenchmon]

I have the Rotel RBH 1080 amp @ 200 watts per channel and the matching preamp RC 1090 and I just love them. I have all the power I need....RGA also has the RC 1070 preamp thats the same as the 1090 preamp but with treble and bass management nobs. He seems to think its a very good preamp. I also took the RC 1090 to MrPeabodys to plug into his Adcom system and he thought it was a very good preamp as well... he was impressed...gave Rotel a little love, and had a change of heart concerning Rotel.

With any audio gear you buy there is always a negative associated with it. So the knock on Rotel is that they are bright. I don't find mine bright at all could be my warm interconnects and speaker cable though.

I think my Rotel amp can use a little more bass weight, but thats no biggie as the bass is more than satisfying. I have heard the RA 1520 at the local hi fi shop but not in any extended listening. It was a rather attractive piece and what I did hear sounded good. They where driving B&W's. As far as Rotel goes, I like them. I also like Adcom which have a little more on the bass weight I mentioned.....I have an Adcom amp in my home theater. You may want to give Adcom a look as well for solid state but I don't think Adcom has ever made a integrated amp. But you may be able to get a good deal at Audiogon on a amp/preamp out-fit and add a Grant Fidelity Tube buffer to give it a little sweetness. You could also get the RA 1520 and add the GF buffer as well. Like I said...I know its your purchase, but I am excited as well. Cant wait to see your write up with what ever you choose. IF you can swing a deal on the sp9 you would be set...but it wont be cheap.

[Jack in Wilmington]

I have the Rotel RBH 1080 amp @ 200 watts per channel and the matching preamp RC 1090 and I just love them. I have all the power I need....RGA also has the RC 1070 preamp thats the same as the 1090 preamp but with treble and bass management nobs. He seems to think its a very good preamp. I also took the RC 1090 to MrPeabodys to plug into his Adcom system and he thought it was a very good preamp as well... he was impressed...gave Rotel a little love, and had a change of heart concerning Rotel.

With any audio gear you buy there is always a negative associated with it. So the knock on Rotel is that they are bright. I don't find mine bright at all could be my warm interconnects and speaker cable though.

I think my Rotel amp can use a little more bass weight, but thats no biggie as the bass is more than satisfying. I have heard the RA 1520 at the local hi fi shop but not in any extended listening. It was a rather attractive piece and what I did hear sounded good. They where driving B&W's. As far as Rotel goes, I like them. I also like Adcom which have a little more on the bass weight I mentioned.....I have an Adcom amp in my home theater. You may want to give Adcom a look as well for solid state but I don't think Adcom has ever made a integrated amp. But you may be able to get a good deal at Audiogon on a amp/preamp out-fit and add a Grant Fidelity Tube buffer to give it a little sweetness. You could also get the RA 1520 and add the GF buffer as well. Like I said...I know its your purchase, but I am excited as well. Cant wait to see your write up with what ever you choose. IF you can swing a deal on the sp9 you would be set...but it wont be cheap.


I'm going to E-Mail them and get some more info. Thanks Frenchie and Poppa

[Feanor]

....

There is a local seller unloading a Phase Linear 400. Ever heard of this company Jack? They actually go under alot of people's radar. Vintage, however superbly designed with both power and dynamics. Think old school Bryston....before there was Bryston.

Here's one selling on Canuck Audio Mart in mint condition. The unit local to me is not as pristine but comes with a Bozak pre for the cool price of $300.

Minty Phase Linear...http://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/184302-phase_linear_model_400_series_ii/

Local PL w/ Bozak...http://london.kijiji.ca/c-buy-and-sell-electronics-LOOKING-FOR-POWER-W0QQAdIdZ216741964

...
I owned a Phase Linear 400 for years during out my hifi hiatus ... it is a terrible sounding amplfier ... bright, harsh, opaque: avoid it like the plague. OK, maybe it doesn't sound so bad with Bozak but that isn't a typical speaker.

[blackraven]

Jack, if you are considering tubes, you should take a look at this tube amp and hybrid tube amp from Van Alstine. They have a 30 day money back guarentee. Read some of the reviews on www.audiocircles.com under the Van Alstine column. By the way. I run a HT system and a 2ch system sharing the front speakers. I use an amp switcher from niles audio, they also make line level switchers as well. I have found no degradation in sound what so ever.

http://avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=250&Itemid=235


http://avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=108&Itemid=210

[JoeE SP9]

The SP-9 that Overture in Wilmington had appears to have been sold. There is a SP-9 MK3 on Audiogon.

I've had mine for 14 years. Buying an ARC SP-3 in 1981 spoiled me for anything other than a ARC preamp.

Were I to replace my SP-9 it would only be with something demonstrably better. A used SP-14 is a real temptation and reasonably (~$1100) priced. It's slightly better than a SP-9 and has more features. Everything that IMO would be a real improvement is in the +2K price range used. A lateral move which I see no point in doing could include various Conrad Johnson's or The Audible Illusions Modulus.

If I didn't own a preamp and was looking for one (new or used) I would look for one with a HT bypass switch and a remote.

[poppachubby]

The SP-9 that Overture in Wilmington had appears to have been sold. There is a SP-9 MK3 on Audiogon.

I've had mine for 14 years. Buying an ARC SP-3 in 1981 spoiled me for anything other than a ARC preamp.

Were I to replace my SP-9 it would only be with something demonstrably better. A used SP-14 is a real temptation and reasonably (~$1100) priced. It's slightly better than a SP-9 and has more features. Everything that IMO would be a real improvement is in the +2K price range used. A lateral move which I see no point in doing could include various Conrad Johnson's or The Audible Illusions Modulus.

If I didn't own a preamp and was looking for one (new or used) I would look for one with a HT bypass switch and a remote.

Joe I have a line on a Bozak 919. What can you tell me about it? I need to know if it really is a giant killer.

[frenchmon]

The SP-9 that Overture in Wilmington had appears to have been sold. There is a SP-9 MK3 on Audiogon.

I've had mine for 14 years. Buying an ARC SP-3 in 1981 spoiled me for anything other than a ARC preamp.

Were I to replace my SP-9 it would only be with something demonstrably better. A used SP-14 is a real temptation and reasonably (~$1100) priced. It's slightly better than a SP-9 and has more features. Everything that IMO would be a real improvement is in the +2K price range used. A lateral move which I see no point in doing could include various Conrad Johnson's or The Audible Illusions Modulus.

If I didn't own a preamp and was looking for one (new or used) I would look for one with a HT bypass switch and a remote.


JoeE I know what you mean. You feel the same way about ARC like I feel about Canton speakers.

I had a very extensive listen to a AR LS 15 and it had so much class it was not even funny. The LS 15 was driving a McIntosh 225 tube amp. It was only 25 watts per channel. The sound that came through was like it had this sophisticated, velvety sound to it. I played a few of my own tunes that I am use to playing on my own system and the LS 15 preamp just kicked the music up about three notches. There was great detail and it seem to place each instrument in its own space, but not only its own space, but it was like each instrument was front to back...it had depth. There was this feel of sophistication. One tune I listened to that I am use to listening to on my system was Dexter Gordon's tune "Hi Fly" off of his "Gotham City" album. Art Blakey on drums and his cymbal was totally different from what I am use to hearing. It was a softer sounding cymbal with greater seperation in its own space....I was floored at how real it sounded.

I took my own speakers over for a shoot out and discovered my buddy's Acoustic Research LS 15...and the sound was coming from my own speakers. He also has a few more systems I never got a chance to listen to. He has 2 more Acoustic Research pieces of gear. A SP-6 tubed preamp and a an AR amp VT-100.

I got to get back over to MrP's house to listen to his Conrad Johnson out fit again....I think when im ready to get a new preamp, it coming down to a AR, Conrad Johnson, or a Belles tubed preamp. And the Rotel preamp will go in a second system with my Adcom amp.

[poppachubby]

JoeE I know what you mean. You feel the same way about ARC like I feel about Canton speakers.

I had a very extensive listen to a AR LS 15 and it had so much class it was not even funny. The LS 15 was driving a McIntosh 225 tube amp. It was only 25 watts per channel. The sound that came through was like it had this sophisticated, velvety sound to it. I played a few of my own tunes that I am use to playing on my own system and the LS 15 preamp just kicked the music up about three notches. There was great detail and it seem to place each instrument in its own space, but not only its own space, but it was like each instrument was front to back...it had depth. There was this feel of sophistication. One tune I listened to that I am use to listening to on my system was Dexter Gordon's tune "Hi Fly" off of his "Gotham City" album. Art Blakey on drums and his cymbal was totally different from what I am use to hearing. It was a softer sounding cymbal with greater seperation in its own space....I was floored at how real it sounded.



frenchie you asked me once regarding too much tubes in the chain. Sounds like you have heard exactly what happens... fidelity!

My humble EICO and Golden Tube rally together much better than they should. I like to think I am getting performance well out of their respective values.

[frenchmon]

frenchie you asked me once regarding too much tubes in the chain. Sounds like you have heard exactly what happens... fidelity!

My humble EICO and Golden Tube rally together much better than they should. I like to think I am getting performance well out of their respective values.

I don't remember asking you that...are you sure you don't have me confused with another person?

[Jack in Wilmington]

The SP-9 that Overture in Wilmington had appears to have been sold. There is a SP-9 MK3 on Audiogon.

I've had mine for 14 years. Buying an ARC SP-3 in 1981 spoiled me for anything other than a ARC preamp.

Were I to replace my SP-9 it would only be with something demonstrably better. A used SP-14 is a real temptation and reasonably (~$1100) priced. It's slightly better than a SP-9 and has more features. Everything that IMO would be a real improvement is in the +2K price range used. A lateral move which I see no point in doing could include various Conrad Johnson's or The Audible Illusions Modulus.

If I didn't own a preamp and was looking for one (new or used) I would look for one with a HT bypass switch and a remote.

They E-mailed me this morning to tell me it was a MK1. Couldn't find any info on it, so I was moving on anyway. Would have been a good deal, cause I could have driven up and picked it up in 10 minutes.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Jack, if you are considering tubes, you should take a look at this tube amp and hybrid tube amp from Van Alstine. They have a 30 day money back guarentee. Read some of the reviews on www.audiocircles.com under the Van Alstine column. By the way. I run a HT system and a 2ch system sharing the front speakers. I use an amp switcher from niles audio, they also make line level switchers as well. I have found no degradation in sound what so ever.

http://avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=250&Itemid=235


http://avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=108&Itemid=210

That sounds like it's just what I need. Niles makes a lot of really helpfull components. Not much in the used market from Van Alstine. I'll keep looking. Thanks

[frenchmon]

Jack heres a little consideration for you...you will be pleased if you dont want to spend a lots of loot now.

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1284062909&/Rotel-RB-1080---Black-200-watt

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1283953184&/Rotel-RB-1080-Power-Amplifier


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1284173499&/rotel-RC-1070-


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1284410391&/Adcom-Amplifier-gfa545-gfa-545


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1283290617&/Adcom-GFA-545-power-amplifier


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1284091194&/Adcom-Preamp-GFP-565-Nearly-Ne


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1282960234&/Adcom-GFP-750-Very-Good-Condit

[Jack in Wilmington]

Jack heres a little consideration for you...you will be pleased if you dont want to spend a lots of loot now.

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1284062909&/Rotel-RB-1080---Black-200-watt

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1283953184&/Rotel-RB-1080-Power-Amplifier


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1284173499&/rotel-RC-1070-


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1284410391&/Adcom-Amplifier-gfa545-gfa-545


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1283290617&/Adcom-GFA-545-power-amplifier


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1284091194&/Adcom-Preamp-GFP-565-Nearly-Ne


http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatran&1282960234&/Adcom-GFP-750-Very-Good-Condit

Hey Frenchie, any thoughts on Jolida? I've been eyeing up a Jolida JD502B tube integrated. Also a Peachtree Nova, which also has a DAC. I started moving things around today just to make sure everything was going to fit its new home.

[frenchmon]

Hey Frenchie, any thoughts on Jolida? I've been eyeing up a Jolida JD502B tube integrated. Also a Peachtree Nova, which also has a DAC. I started moving things around today just to make sure everything was going to fit its new home.

I have been looking at the Jolida tubed phono amp. I've heard nothing but good things about Jolida but dont have any personal experience with it. I also had been wondering about the Nova seeing that it could be used in several configurations....DAC as tubed or solid state, amp or preamp and it can also be used as a DAC for a i Pod. MrP and I had a good listen to the Nova but it was a waist. They had the NOVA paired with speakers and integrated amp that where way out of its class, so we really did have a chance to see its real character.

[blackraven]

Jack, I heard a 60wpc Jolida Integrated amp drive a pair of Paradigm S6's and it sounded pretty good.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Jack, I heard a 60wpc Jolida Integrated amp drive a pair of Paradigm S6's and it sounded pretty good.

Thanks BR, I think I'm going to make the jump.

[frenchmon]

Jack..whats the difference in the JD502BRC and the JD502S ?

[Jack in Wilmington]

Jack..whats the difference in the JD502BRC and the JD502S ?

Well Frenchie, the RC designation is for remote control and from what I can gather the S is for the Hong Kong version which is different on the outside. May have some different inner specs. I have a feeling that this is going to be the biggest change in my system since I changed speakers. I have a lot to learn. Like I have no idea what tube rolling is and do you need to let the unit warm up because of the tubes? I might not always read an article in one of my HiFi magazines on a tube amp or preamp, but I will be more interested just from a knowledge standpoint. Sent the payment this morning and the seller said he would be shipping it out first thing Monday. It's only coming from Pennsylvania, should be quick.

[poppachubby]

Hey Jack, don't panic. I knew nothing either. It's fun to learn. I had some knowledge from my bass amp. Yes, let them warm up for about 10 minutes before using but they don't start rockin until 30 - 60 minutes. You'll see what I mean.

http://www.audiotubes.com/speaking.htm

[Jack in Wilmington]

Hey Jack, don't panic. I knew nothing either. It's fun to learn. I had some knowledge from my bass amp. Yes, let them warm up for about 10 minutes before using but they don't start rockin until 30 - 60 minutes. You'll see what I mean.

http://www.audiotubes.com/speaking.htm

Hey Pops thanks for the link. That's great. Some of the guys I work with play in bands and they all prefer the sound of tubes. They have SS also for certain songs, but they just say tubes have a different sound and they all have this funny smile when they say it.

[frenchmon]

Well Frenchie, the RC designation is for remote control and from what I can gather the S is for the Hong Kong version which is different on the outside. May have some different inner specs. I have a feeling that this is going to be the biggest change in my system since I changed speakers. I have a lot to learn. Like I have no idea what tube rolling is and do you need to let the unit warm up because of the tubes? I might not always read an article in one of my HiFi magazines on a tube amp or preamp, but I will be more interested just from a knowledge standpoint. Sent the payment this morning and the seller said he would be shipping it out first thing Monday. It's only coming from Pennsylvania, should be quick.

Wow Jack...cant wait to read your review of your new gear. Tube rolling is just slang for switching tubes in and out to find the right tonal qualities you like. Looks like Jolida has a heck if a sale right now....you caught them at the right time.

[poppachubby]

Hey Pops thanks for the link. That's great. Some of the guys I work with play in bands and they all prefer the sound of tubes. They have SS also for certain songs, but they just say tubes have a different sound and they all have this funny smile when they say it.


In the world of musical gear, there's no argument regarding tubes. They are the best in terms of tone, and for stringed instruments, it's all about tone.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Wow Jack...cant wait to read your review of your new gear. Tube rolling is just slang for switching tubes in and out to find the right tonal qualities you like. Looks like Jolida has a heck if a sale right now....you caught them at the right time.

That clears up tube rolling, thanks. It comes with 6550 tubes. I read a review on the 502 and the reviewer swapped out KT88 tubes and he said it gave the bass more depth, but that the KT88's are more fragile. It will be fun to experiment.

[poppachubby]

That clears up tube rolling, thanks. It comes with 6550 tubes. I read a review on the 502 and the reviewer swapped out KT88 tubes and he said it gave the bass more depth, but that the KT88's are more fragile. It will be fun to experiment.

You shouldn't even be thinking about rolling right now. You must first get the stock tubes burnt-in, and then get your ears attuned. I would say 100 -200 hours and then consider rolling. At this point you will hear the differences quickly.

In the meantime begin your education. Figure out which tubes are in your realm. Learn about which NOS are good and which new prod. are too. Get your head around pricing and value.

You're in for a treat. Tubes are unbeatable for daily listening. If you take it further, they are excellent for reference as well.

[Jack in Wilmington]

You shouldn't even be thinking about rolling right now. You must first get the stock tubes burnt-in, and then get your ears attuned. I would say 100 -200 hours and then consider rolling. At this point you will hear the differences quickly.

In the meantime begin your education. Figure out which tubes are in your realm. Learn about which NOS are good and which new prod. are too. Get your head around pricing and value.

You're in for a treat. Tubes are unbeatable for daily listening. If you take it further, they are excellent for reference as well.

You're right. My wife says I can go "Bull in the China Shop" real quick. I need to get back to moving my gear around. Had to cut the grass this morning. Then went to the swim club for a 3 hour dip.

[frenchmon]

Swim club...ima jelous and a idiot at the same time. This is the second summer I have lived in this house since moving here from North Carolina. I have a nice pool in the back yard and have not opened it yet.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Well guys I finally finished the project of dividing my setup into two seperate entities. My new Jolida JD502B arrived on Tuesday, much sooner than I thought. I was no where near ready yet. Finished up the HT section on Wednesday night. Did a little prelim work as far as getting speaker wires ready on Thursday night. Took the manual for the Jolida to work on Friday and read it cover to cover three times, just to make sure that I had it down pat.
Started to unpack it after dinner. This thing is heavy, Holy crap. I thought it was stuck in the box. Started to put the tubes in. Wouldn't you know it , the picture in the manual and the unit are marked different. The small tubes are marked from left to right on the amp
V2 V1 V5 V6 and the manual says V1 V2 V6 V5 Don't they proof read these things. I followed the markings on the amp and it worked. Whew. Hooked up the speakers and the sources. Crossed my fingers and hit the on switch. In about 15 seconds this warm glow started to take over the tubes. It was prettier than a Christmas tree. Gave it about 5 minutes to warm up, while I tried to figure out what to listen to first. Decided to pull out one on my audition CD's, Renaissance "A Man For All Seasons". Wanted to hear female vocals to start with. After 5 minutes, I had to get the tissues. It was that damn good. I turned the lights out and the only thing on was a couple LED lights and the glow of the tubes. It was as close to seeing them live as I have ever felt at home. Next up was some acoustic guitar "Friday Night In San Francisco" just magical. The plucking of the strings sent shivers down my spine. Decided it was time to fire up some vinyl. First up was Steely Dan's "Aja" an album that I have listened to many times. There are some moments when you know a passage in a song that you really like and when it comes and all of a sudden it sounds different, warmer, smoother and you like Wow! I have a feeling I'm going to have a lot of those moments. I'm starting to feel a warm glow and I realize that the tubes are putting out a bit of heat.

Here are a couple of pictures of the revamped shelf unit.

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/medium/DSC00226.JPG

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/medium/DSC00227.JPG

[poppachubby]

Jack, the pics didn't post. Please get them up, I really want to see the amp AND your set up.

Friday Night in San Fran is better on vinyl, but I know exactly what you mean. The attack and persussive style on the strings really comes to life with the tubes. I think you'll find alot of those small details, and low level info coming to the top.

Let your amp warm up for about 2 or 3 hours and then put on some female vocals. Crank it up and prepare to sail away. BTW, what speakers are you using?

Congrats, you're now in the club. When tube/SS arguments pop up, you'll be in there like a dirty shirt now.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Jack, the pics didn't post. Please get them up, I really want to see the amp AND your set up.

Friday Night in San Fran is better on vinyl, but I know exactly what you mean. The attack and persussive style on the strings really comes to life with the tubes. I think you'll find alot of those small details, and low level info coming to the top.

Let your amp warm up for about 2 or 3 hours and then put on some female vocals. Crank it up and prepare to sail away. BTW, what speakers are you using?

Congrats, you're now in the club. When tube/SS arguments pop up, you'll be in there like a dirty shirt now.

Hey Pops thanks for the assist on the pics. I was up till midnight listening to music, so by then the amp had been on about three hours and you're right female vocals were almost hypnotic. Those are my Usher X719's in the picture, they have never sounded this good. Not even at the dealers.

I've been watching one of those famous tube/ss arguments developing in the hybrid post. Geoffcin has got his heels dug in and he's not coming up for air.

Now I have to get some speaker wire and finish my project. I got one of those Niles DPS-1 speaker boxes so I can run my 2 channel and my HT thru my Ushers. Just have to wire everything up, because I had everything bi-wired and the DPS-1 isn't set up for that. Nothing is easy, but it sure is fun.

[poppachubby]

Geoff is playing devil's advocate because he has a couple of tube amps. He is infact quite qualified to offer an opinion.

I have my H/T mains bi wired to a vintage integrated. That's how I listen to music upstairs. Right now I have my Eico doing the controlling, the amp is SS. I just use a CDP. It sounds quite nice and has got me thinking that I should buy a decent SS power amp. We'll see.

Anyhow, that amp of yours will sound better in about 30 - 50 hours. Some people don't agree with burn in, but I have experienced it. Yes your ears become attuned, but the amp/tubes also change subtely.

[errol van]

If you have a 5.1 receiver you can use the 2 channel receiver for the front and use the 5.1 for center and rear speakers. Just use the 2 channel and connect it through the aux to the tv and when you use the tv all dvd,cd, blu ray etc will come through the front speakers via the aux connection. You can split the systen that way if you chose and you will have 2 channel stereo for music and 5.1 for movies!