Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
ghostrider;525058 Wrote: Get an extension cord or sit in the same seat. :rolleyes: How does that translate to battery power? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
Understood. The question still exists: Wondering if anyone has been able to mod the TP for use with battery power? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
iPhone;525114 Wrote: Audiophile wise it just doesn't seem to make a lot of sense. I appreciate your opinion, but having experienced many, and owned a few pieces of Red Wine gear I feel you are incorrect. iPhone;525114 Wrote: The Transporter is mainly designed for use with full stereo systems of which the majority run from AC mains. Correct, and in some cases the TP is the only piece of hifi gear that runs on mains. I'm aware that my system may be niche, but the point of the OP was to learn about the possibilities. You can attempt to sway me with off topic posts, but the question remains: Wondering if anyone has been able to mod the TP for use with battery power? I know it's not easy - I was told so by the biggest proponent and maker of battery powered audiophile products (his email is in my second post) - but before I try it myself I was hoping to find someone who has attempted it in the past. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
krochat;525127 Wrote: If this is really your only requirement, you can use any computer UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) to generate cordless AC power for the Transporter. Kim d...@mn! Why didn't I think of that!! Thanks for the kick Kim. The one you point out even has a Pure Sine Wave instead of a stepped pseudo Sine wave. Thank you thank you. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
Will do. I'm going to hit the streets and research those I find. Shipping on these are usualy a killer due to weight. Thanks again. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
I spoke with Vinnie at Red Wine and it doesn't look as feasible as I had hoped. If anyone else can chime in it'd be appreciated. Email from Vinnie - Unlike the SB3, which has a 5Vdc input and has internal voltage regulators and supplies, the Transporter is much more complicated because it takes a 120Vac input and has a power supply board that generates the various required voltages from the 120Vac. I'm sure it also consumes a more power. I would be cool if the Transporter can be modded to be powered by the Black Lightning: http://www.redwineaudio.com/products/black-lightning -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Battery powered Transporter
Hi All, Wondering if anyone has been able to mod the TP for use with battery power, á la Red Wine Audio? I'm setting up in Australia, a 240v country, having sold off everything except my Red Wine amp and TP - the only 240v gear I owned besides the speakers which were to large to ship. Now I'm speaker hunting and found a beautiful set of 6 FE Fostex driven horns in the $5k range (hand made in Oz). Given the layout of my new apartment it would be nice to be able to but my TP on a wheeled rack that I can slide up to the couch and only concern myself with the speaker cables (very thin with this quick setup). The wheeled cart is curved and thick clear acrylic made for up to a 65lb amp/pre and the TP looks very nice on it. Battery power would be nice so I don't have to unplug/plug when I move it from one side of the couch to the other. AND I now truly appreciate Vinny's low noise associated with his gear. AND there seems to be a heck of a lot of room vacant in the TP. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=76126 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter to headphone amp options
Moving overseas. Every bit of my gear is gone except the TP, an underused Red Wine Clari-T, and my AKGs. It's been a sad week. I'm limited to 70lbs international luggage in no more than 2 suitcases. The TP is light and the Clari-T is small so I figure I can give up a few pairs of pants and a shoe or two to bring them with me. Anyone have advice on either a 220v or battery headphone amp I can get in Oz? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=75310 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Can a TP drive headphones?
AKG K 501 Efficiency 94 dB SPL/mW Frequency range 16 to 30,000 Hz Rated impedance 120 ohms THD 1 % Max. input power200 mW -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=75887 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter to headphone amp options
Thanks All. Anyone have experience with the Grace m902? http://www.gracedesign.com/products/m902/m902.htm I've demo'd the Benchmark Media DAC1 PRE as pointed out by Phil, but I wasn't all that impressed. The Mapletree Ear+ HD seems to be a very nice option, especially since I get to assemble it if I choose. I have an email into Lloyd to see if I can swap in balanced ins for the standard RCA. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=75310 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter to headphone amp options
HalleysComet;517626 Wrote: Had a brain fart there. Muddled recollections of old gear. It's been too long since I had the Grace. I checked out my old listening notes (yes, I AM that anal). The Grace actually sounded better on the Senn's but did not drive them all that well on loud orchestral peaks, but the bass had nice quality. The combo of the Grace with the 701's is what caused me to sell the Grace. Overly analytical, and too forward sounding for my taste. The Mapletree is not rounded off or bloaty in the bass, unlike some tube units. If it is romantic, it is only in the midrange, and certainly not with my 701's, but somewhat with the Senn's. I have a new pair of Beyerdynamic Tesla's on order, which I hope will be a spectacular pairing with the Mapletree amp. Obligatory slim-content: The Transporter is an incredible source device with the Mapletree amp. Most days I listen to various internet feeds with the Sennheisers (relaxed, and rich), but settle down to serious listening with the AKG's in the evenings. Fun stuff! Who needs speakers? Good stuff. I'm happy with my 701's and looking to hold them for quite some time. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=75310 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter to headphone amp options
Howdy All, I'd like to run my TP with a headphone amp but I'm not sure the best way to do it. What is your opinion? I'd like to keep the signal path minimal and not add anything that goes between the TP analog out and my small tube amp. And I'd like to continue to use the TPs DAC.* Can I add a headphone amp to the balanced outputs and still retain the single remote functionality of the TP? If so, what amp would you suggest? * Alternatively, if I had the deep pockets we'd all like would/could you suggest a DAC/Pre/headphone amp that is an improvement over the TP's DAC and fills my need? My amp has no headphone out. Many thanks. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=75310 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
iPhone;508080 Wrote: ...The only reason I use it [iTunes] is that I am forced to use it with my iPhone... I don't want to go off topic, but you do have many alternatives to iTunes that include syncing your iPhone. Check out Songbird. There are a few posts here that mention other alternatives as well. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
True. I haven't tried Aps and doubt Apple would allow anything but iTunes to handle that. Although, it's been over a year since I used iTunes and I manage my aps with the App Store built into the Phone. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
George, have you looked into this: http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Sony-MZM200-HiMD-Recorder?sku=244773src=3WFRWXXZYXSEM=0CAWELAID=31497537 I can't recommend it high enough. MZ-M200 Hi-MD Recording Modes: Linear PCM (44.1kHz 16-bit) - Uncompressed - 94 Min. ATRAC3plus (256 kbps) - Compressed - Up to 8 hrs ATRAC3plus (64kbps) - Compressed - Up to 34 hrs -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
Robin Bowes;508260 Wrote: On 19/01/10 21:16, matka wrote: Why flac ? - very simple, the sound quality question is no longer relevant and also all my music is in flac. I don't want to transcode. Really, flac for your stated use case is total overkill. You're just making your life harder for zero benefit. Transcoding is easy [1]. The smaller file sizes of even high bit-rate lossy format means that copying to the device takes less time, and you can store many more tracks (typically, 8-10x the number of flacs). R. [1] http://projects.robinbowes.com/flac2mp3 He said he didn't want to transcode. End of story. Transcoding itself is easy, but it's a pain in the @ss just the same. You need to have a FLAC library, keep it separate from the MP3 library, then devise creative ways to manage, compare, and update each library. I travel with FLAC, I sync with FLAC, and I'm slowly getting grid of the residual mp3s left from the early days. Why would one want to step backward? As for storing more tracks, you are obviously wrong, if he doesn't wish to delete his FLAC library: FLAC alone FLAC + MP3. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
matka;504243 Wrote: I have a relatively long train commute to work and would like to optimize the use of that time by listening to music at the best possible fidelity. I'm looking for an advice for a portable player with the best possible audio quality, however, besides audio quality, I do have some other requirements that eliminate Apple products. - beside mp3, it must play ogg and flac - simple usb mass storage interface without music management software. Think files and directories. Recommendations are appreciated. BTW George, what OS are you running? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] why is increasing the power supply amp rating
iPhone;508106 Wrote: 1) ... 2) Again no reason. It is part of getting people to spend money they don't need to. In the Audiophile world, linear power supplies are considered High End and Switchers are considered less Audiophile. Of course none of this matters with the Squeezebox because there are internal switching supplies inside the Squeezebox after the main power supply. So feeding a Squeezebox with a Linear PS versus a Switching PS makes no difference whatsoever. This has been discussed by Phil and myself on this Forum many times and backed up with the testing we have done. Save your money and don't be fooled by claims that a Linear PS will improve your Squeezebox. The only reason to replace the OEM PS is if it dies (buy a new switching supply) or if one has a system issue that is solved by using a Linear PS (ground loop problem, audible noise, etc). Other then that the OEM Switching Power Supply is all one needs. I disagree. Perhaps if you isolate the line your WalWart is on, move it to another room where it does not come in proximity of other audio equipment and then only use your SB as a non-audio display it may make little difference. Sean posted some of his results (a few years back?) and he found little difference. Typically that would be good enough for me, but on a lark I tried a linear supply I had for an expensive biomedical application and found a much darker sound floor. I purchased the CI Audio PS and was very happy with it for the time I owned that unit. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=74250 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
Robin Bowes;508293 Wrote: The only benefit seems to be that you don't have to transcode, which I've already pointed out is easy [1]. Oh, and you save a bit on disk space since the mp3 copy of your library takes up a certain amount of space. [color=blue] You're still missing the point: If you have a FLAC library and an MP3 library it can only take more physical space than a FLAC only library. 1+1 = 2, not 1, not 0. Robin Bowes;508293 Wrote: See [1]. I travel with FLAC, I sync with FLAC, and I'm slowly getting grid of the residual mp3s left from the early days. Why would one want to step backward? To take more music with you when you travel? I can fit my entire library on a 500GB drive in MP3 format, but it takes up much more space in FLAC format. [color=blue] True. But I'm content with having only, say 1/6th of my library with me when I'm commuting to work. After all, it's not a 1872 hour commute. Even in Boston traffic 72 days may be a bit longer than average. I'll sacrifice 20 minutes a week updating my portable device with my FLAC files rather than transcoding each time I add an artist and spending time to manage two separate libraries. flac2mp3 works okay, but if I may quote your Read Me (this may be out of date as I haven't tried it recently, but it looks like it doesn't receive many updates.): flac2mp3 is a perl script that will search for flac files within a directory hierarchy and convert them all to mp3 format, creating a matching directory structure in the process. Looks like it just makes an MP3 copy of an existing FLAC, hence, more space used. (Perhaps it would be more accurate to say it copies the files to a matching directory structure and then transcodes them as MP3s?) -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
I agree keeping 15% additional space isn't that big of a deal, but unless someone can point me to an automated method for transcoding, adding to, and organizing a separate library I think it's more of a hassle than it's worth. Much easier to use a FLAC native device. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
My bad. Thanks and apologies. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
How long is everyone going to ignore the OT? Yeah, flac2mp3-whatever can transcode just like a hundred other programs. The OP wants a PLAYER that plays FLAC, ogg, and mp3. Allow me to quote: ...eliminate Apple products [from his choice of players] - beside mp3, it must play ogg and flac - simple usb mass storage interface without music management software. Think files and directories. Start another post on the benefits of mp3flac2-whatever from Robin-the-eternal-guest. Why does audiophile forum become I know better than you and ignore your question a good deal of the time? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Audiophile portable player - with some conditions
Assuming you'd rather not cary a bunch of CDs with a good CD player (old school already??) around you may want to consider a MiniDisk player. The newer Hi-MD players support uncompressed linear PCM and SONY's ATRAC3plus and ATRAC Advanced Lossless Technology is a big step above where they were a few years back. I have a lot of my vinyl on MD and it sounds as good as the original. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73717 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] How to make vacuum tubes by hand....
I'm not sure if his gear is DIY or just old. I've been looking for a mini-Spot Welder like the one he uses but the price on new one's are well out of my reach for the amount I'd use it. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=74088 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] How to make vacuum tubes by hand....
Way out of my league and level of patience, but it's a nice reminder where that great sound and warm glow comes from. I picked it up off a DIY site. The video is at the bottom. http://paillard.claude.free.fr/ -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=74088 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
ralphpnj;504338 Wrote: Sometimes it's the less than elegant solutions which work the best. Great idea - simple, easy and does the job. Agreed. Your idea may be the way I go browellm if I can figure out the right string in Playlist Generator. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Phil Leigh;503768 Wrote: alternatively I think FredFredrickson's SQL Query plugin can be made to do this? Themis;503773 Wrote: The Multi Library plugin, has is too. Thanks - I'll certainly look into both of these. ralphpnj;503803 Wrote: Although the solutions given above are all very good, I use a much simpler way of identifying the 24/48, 24/88.1 or 24/96 tracks in my library. I simply added the following to the album name and album name tag: (24bit-96kHz)... My plan, but I have to find them first. Going forward I plan to do the same. In fact Raising Sand is one which I have two copies of. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
The DS doesn't require SServer, but I do share these on a portable 1.2TB drive which goes to the cabin for TP use. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Here's what I found: First, Multi Library doesn't seem to do the trick, at least without creating an entire new library. Custom Browse does indeed list the tracks by bit rate, but I can't figure out how to get it to put names along with the bit rate so you end up with something like what's seen in the image below. One of Erland's other plugins Playlist Generator may be just what I'm looking for if I can find the right SQL string to add to it's customization screen. As it is, it will generate a playlist based on included excluded artists, included excluded genres, a user defined amount of tracks. Now if I can specify bit rate of 24, or define a parameter so it returns tracks which have a bit rate greater than X amount, I think I'd have just what I'm looking for. My hope was to find a plugin that gave a list of artists or albums with specific (or greater) bit rate, but this seems close enough. Thanks for all of the input. +---+ |Filename: Screen shot 2010-01-07 at 1.42.28 PM.jpg | |Download: http://forums.slimdevices.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8992| +---+ -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
[UPDATE] I attempted to add 20 tracks from Custom Browse to the play and the Mac hung, fans at max, and 88% of system resources were devoted to msql. Killing SQL only caused it to restart and suck the resources again. A reboot complete server reboot was needed -- the first one since early summer '09. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Thought about. I've use d a few tagging programs and the most stable is Jaikoz, but even as few as 300 tracks can take over an hour. I can't imagine what 12k tracks would do to it. I'll figure out more on the Playlist Generator plugin and let ya'll know what I'm able to do. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Huh. I'll try it again, but the write portion on the demo is capped at 20 tracks. MAYBE it takes less time because it's already run your tracks and saved them? Whereas with my setup it takes so long because each file needs a fresh look? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Is my logic correct here? Arcam DAC vs. CI AUDIO
darthkringle;503661 Wrote: Yes, it has direct analog; however, I have to use some degree of tone controls due to having a very lively room. So my guess is that while the CI Dac is the main sound quality, the Arcam is still having to do some processing as I am not using pure analog direct due to tone controls. Now that I think about it, even using the analog outs with the tone controls in the Arcam, am I getting ANY benefit from an external dac? Or would it have to be in a pure direct mode? Your ears are the best indication. If either the DAC or the Arcam produce a more accurate D to A conversion it's of little use if they don't sound as nice to you as straight analog output. This is an overly obvious answer and I apologize in advance for it. If the Arcam is providing tone control using the analog input, which I assume it is, it should be able to do the same using digital input. I'm a Mac user and not familiar with all of the available PC add-ons for the SServer but I hear great thing about using the Inguz plugin. Perhaps that is an option in your case. In short, it comes down to what you like to hear and what you want to hear. My former CI Audio DAC gave me a much larger soundstage and better black noise floor than the Transporter alone and I held on to it for that reason until I moved the TP into an environment (and lesser system) where I couldn't hear a difference. It went on Audiogon and sold in a few hours leaving me $150 less than what I spent but still $600 in my pocket for new music. That reminds me: the VDA2 was very good but the VDA2 plus VAC1 was much better. Much better than any other $200 upgrade I've bought. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73099 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Is my logic correct here? Arcam DAC vs. CI AUDIO
PS - my current livingroom setup is a SB3 analog into a Rotel pre/amp. I've tried digital direct and CI Audio DAC, but the analog-in works just fine. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73099 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Howdy All, Snobbery question perhaps, but is there a way to seek out my 24/96 tracks in my library without taxing my addled brain to remember which I bought that way? Best, K -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Seeking the HQ tracks in my library...
Cool - I'll give it a shot if I can locate it. Many thanks. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73657 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mac OSX, Lossless and alternatives to iTunes
Chander;184528 Wrote: Just wait until MAcOSX Leopard, in a month or 2, because it will probably handle the FLAC format natively ! Hard to imagine, but it's been three years and two OSs since we guessed Apple would include FLAC support. They haven't. I'm aware that you can install codex for QT which allow FLAC support in iTunes, but I'd rather replace iTunes instead. I'm more frustrated today at iTunes than I've ever been. I want a simple front end to import, add art work, and manage tags. Has anyone ran across anything they like? I've used both Cog (feature lacking) and Play (from the makers of Max) but am still open to something new. Oh - I really like Songbird, but the Mac being used as a server is PPC not Intel so I can't use that. In the same vein, since that Mac is basically only a server now I really don't need a feature rich front end anymore. Just something to manage tags and import. Thoughts? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=33182 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Is my logic correct here? Arcam DAC vs. CI AUDIO
darthkringle;499867 Wrote: The CI AUDIO Dac was receiving the Optical, and the Arcam was receiving the Spdif. Thanks for any further thoughts. Optical is S/PDIF as well as coax. Try listening a different way: give yourself an entire week with the CIAudio using it's coax input. Get a feel for it. Move your speakers (if possible) to maximize the soundstage. Learn how it sounds. Then, next week, plug the coax into your Arcam and give it a few days. You may realize in the first day that you can't go back to the CI Audio or that you can't live without it. (In my case, my Transporter is running thru the CI Audio VDA2 with VAC1 PS.) -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=73099 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] What happened to my Transporter?
You may have better luck in the General Discussion forum if the support line cannot assist. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72992 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] audiotests in menu of transporter
Phil Leigh;497213 Wrote: ... Did you have any attenuation between TP and Power amp?. If you went through a pre-amp you should have been OK unless you had the volume up very high. If you are running into a poweramp with no attenuation, that is a non-supported setup as a bug in the volume control software could cause your entire speakers (and possibly amps) to blow at any time. Tante Cor;498004 Wrote: Hi all, I had the transporter connected to a Mark Levinson 336 power amp directly via balanced outputs ( so no attenuation), with no pre-amp in between. Before the transporter I used a wadia 850 with digital volume control, that's why I have no pre-map. This experience forces me to get one I'm a tad unsure about the above. If an unattenuated Transporter is hooked directly to the amp and the amp's volume is set such that the loudest volume on the TP is within comfort range isn't that the same as attenuating the TP? This is how I had mine for the longest time. The volume on my amp (no remote control, old tubes) was set to about 60% which was comfortable since the unattenuated TP and my phono were at approximately the same volume. This allowed me to utilize the TP as a pre for both the digital stream as well as the CD-T. Granted a preamp would allow me to level the line ins and outs but I prefer a short and unimpeded signal path. (Since moving my TP into a system with no phono ( remote volume on the amp) I have attenuated it and locked the digital outputs to 100%.) -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72639 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Low budget audiophile surprise (Asus O-Play + Dacmagic)
I agree that the SServer + MySqueeze system is a good UI. Actually the best I have used. I like the options it has and it is very intuitive. I've yet to find another that allows me to control and configure all of my SDs in one place and remote in and fix or set up new stations for my Mom who is 5 hours away. Plus the iPeng iPhone/iTouch app allows for a lot of freedom. As far as differentiating between 24/98 and 24/48, well I guess my system isn't good enough to really tell the difference. Perhaps it's because I'm using ALAC predominately. ALAC lacks the /48 /96 differentiation on my Mac and I can only tell if I'm getting one or the other if I use an external DAC. I haven't figured that out yet if it's available in the SServer, so I just trust I'm getting the true /96 rip to my Transporter. Regardless, it's the best sound in the price range *_in certain settings, systems, and ears_*. There is a boat load of difference between the Linn Majik DS and the TP, but one needs to decide if the extra few grande is worth it. I can give more feedback once I re-compare my SB3/CI Audio DAC and TP *_without_* sync enabled but that'll be after the holidays. Regardless, Happy Holidays and enjoy the music. I will. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72766 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Low budget audiophile surprise (Asus O-Play + Dacmagic)
Very true. I was a bit myopic in my replay, but I wasn't considering your 24/48 vs 24/96 point. Sorry. I can't really speak to that other than my own experience comparing a SB3/CI Audio DAC vs Transporter. I discovered this week that my comparison method was faulty: I had both units set to sync in the SServer and as a result the server was outputting the greatest resolution file they could both decode - 24/48. I'd like to compare again when I get the chance to go north to the cabin, but as of my last listening I much preferred the SB/DAC over the TP. I have a transcoding post here, in which the consensus is that the default settings are optimized: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 And the streaming sync post here: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?p=495595#post495595 Perhaps one can provide you with the info to help, but to state the overly obvious: you ear is your best guide. If the Asus sounds better to you I can't debate, only be glad that you found the best fit for your system/room/ear. I'd certainly give the Asus another look if I had the chance and wan't please with my current set up (which does not include any Squeezebox in my current home system). -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72766 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Low budget audiophile surprise (Asus O-Play + Dacmagic)
I also tried the Asus O!Play, but didn't experience the same result you had. Thru my CI Audio DAC the SB3 had a grand soundstage and much better resolution. Could just be my own ears and room synergy, but the ASUS sounded like an MP3 player vs a full fledge Digital Stream Audio device. That said, I love the video quality and ability to attach a low power HD with no extra juice, or just plain the ability to directly attach any USB or eSATA drive is a huge plus. If I had to choose one for my living room I'd lean toward the O!Play, but not for any quality listening room. What I'd REALLY like to see is the ability to put SqueezeServer on it so I could put it in my living room, load up my music files, and stream to the SB3 TP in other rooms. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72766 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] It's Now Official: Computer Based Audio Goes High End
I couldn't locate it on the Transparent Audio site, but with reported prices beginning at $90 this absolutely HAS to be an audiophile USB cable. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72768 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] audiotests in menu of transporter
Tante Cor;496114 Wrote: Hi Neil, ... The problem is I blew up the midrange units of my speakers when I tried it... So we shouldn't play with this, eh? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72639 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
Phil Leigh;496436 Wrote: Bandwidth limiting is not the issue here (other than if you do enable it on one player in a synch group, MP3 streams are sent to ALL SYNCHED players!). The issue here is that for synched players, the server is only sending ONE stream and that stream WILL be at the lowest common denominator rate that the synched players can handle. Un-synched players are unaffected. I just proved this by sending 24/96 streams to Radio and Touch un-synched. The radio plays 24/48 via a SOX downsampled stream, whereas the Touch gets a 24/96 stream - the display on my TACT shows me this. However, if I then synch them, both Radio AND Touch get 24/48 via SOX. This is because there is only ONE stream for synched players. Excellent, thanks Phil. That is just the info I was looking for. Do you know of a way to check this without the TACT's DA display? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
cunobelinus;496450 Wrote: Only you can answer that, of course, but I hope this may help: Squeezeboxes don't allow FF and RW in ALAC. ..My suggestion would be that for SB on a Mac you actually go the other way, and change from ALAC and WAV to AIFF. But chacun à son goût, as they say in Hampstead. On 16 Dec 2009, at 22:15, kphinney wrote: SIDE QUESTION - Should I change WAV and AIFF to ALAC? Right, thanks. I meant to pose the question as a discussion about system resources and the associated ideal transcoding but thanks for the refresher on which lossless format allows what. Thanks. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
JJZolx;496612 Wrote: I'd have to say that the defaults are ideal. You really have to understand what's going on under the hood to change them. So much is dependent on a combination of the OS of the system running the server, the players being streamed to at any given moment, syncing, file bitrates and resampling, that there can't be any blanket recommendation other than leave it the alone. :) The settings page also isn't structured ideally, as there's a lot of logic built into the server itself that isn't represented. Logic that takes into account all of the simultaneous factors listed above. I fully agree. That's why I came here to ask before mucking about and really messing something up. I remember when I set it up originally for the SB2, then SB3, what seems like 5 years ago and it was a bit of a headache. (I think that's how I came across these forums.) Now that I swapped the SB3/DAC out for a TP I wanted to see if the settings I changed held through the years and should be changed/changed back. Thanks all. Unless someone see's something that'd be a sound boon for the TP, I think everything is answered. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
Hi All, I've not had my mitts in the S.Server settings in quite some time. Now that I've moved my TP to the cabin I'd like to hear your opinion on where the best resolution will come from in tweeking my Settings - Advanced - File Types. I'm running a MacPro with plenty of CPU in reserve. My library is 80% ALAC and 20% other - WAV, MP3 and AIFF. (SIDE QUESTION - Should I change WAV and AIFF to ALAC?) Follows are my current settings - this was used by strictly an SB3 until this weekend when it was replaced by a Transporter. Anything I should do to optimize? Bonus question -- What would be your thoughts on why? Super Many Thanks +---+ |Filename: Screen shot 2009-12-16 at 5.13.14 PM.jpg | |Download: http://forums.slimdevices.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8868| +---+ -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
Snarlydwarf, Great to hear from you after all these years. Your post brings up a question. Specifically: snarlydwarf;496321 Wrote: By default: lossless files will be sent with the best lossless method the device knows how to handle... ...On things like the SB1 that doesn't do FLAC, things get sent as WAV instead of FLAC, unless it's mp3, which the SB1 can do natively This brings me to an unanswered question I have in the Server forum: Does my S. Server know or have the juice, or bandwidth... actually how about DOES the S. Server stream the best format to all attached devices or just the one that fits all of them? Will a sync'd SB3 and TP receive the same file or, let's assume they are in FLAC, will they both receive a down-sampled version? Best, K -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
Ah! This may go quite a long way to explain my lack of difference between my TP and my SB3 + DAC. Or if anything the SB3/DAC had a better stage and resolution. I had them sync'd and plugged into Transport and AUX on my amp and clicked between the two. Unfortunately, I'm now back at home and can't give it another go until the weekend when I go back tot he cabin. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Best settings for transcoding?
Robin Bowes;496362 Wrote: Yes, that would explain why they are the same, esp. if the SB3 is wireless and you have bandwidth limiting enabled! To the best of my knowledge, when two or more players are synced they will all play the same stream which will be in the highest quality format supported on all synced machines. R. Bandwidth limiting enabled? Who mentioned that and where did you find that setting? It's not the case -- there is ample bandwidth to stream multiple more amounts of SB3's on one 802.11g network. Can you explain where your knowledge of the stream sync comes from? Particularly where in the SB Server you personally noticed this or in what documentation you found this? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72703 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter loses sync with AES/EBU..
michael123;494758 Wrote: That's strange because AES/EBU is supposed to be more stable to noise.. S/PDIF is indeed sounds good, yet I would like to know what went wrong and if somebody else experienced similar behavior. Could it be the bug in firmware? Where did you find that AES/EBU is more stable than SPDIF? They are the same standard used in two different ways. Are you talking XLR specific? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72497 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mid-fi question regarding ABX TP to SB3 + DAC
Phil Leigh;495429 Wrote: Only for 24/48 material, which needs to be downsampled by SOX on the server for the SB3, but can be played natively on the TP. For 24/48 the processing should be identical. I assume you are running a recent server version? This all changed in 7.2.x Prior to that, SOX was not used. If you are just using 24/48 it shouldn't matter what server version you are using. Thanks Phil, Is the server smart enough and strong enough to stream SOX downsampled to the SB3 whilst simultaneously streaming the full file to the TP? Can I check this output in 7.4.1? K -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72542 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
It's nice to know I got something right for a change. Glad to hear it working for you. Sometimes simple is best. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mid-fi question regarding ABX TP to SB3 + DAC
SuperQ;495042 Wrote: Personally I find very few noticeable differences between DACs. Mostly I feel like (of course can't prove, I don't have the time or scope equipment) the differences come from the opamp section after the DAC itself. What I would love to hear from you is some Audio Diff Maker samples from the TP and your Linn. I'm a Mac only house, but if anyone knows an OSX compatible program that performs as AudioDiff Maker I'd be pleased to present the differences. Themis;495062 Wrote: ... Second comes the room acoustics and (to a certain extend) the rest of the system: amplification and speakers. ... Third comes the listening position : always keep the -exact- listening position (as closely as 1 inch) when comparing : room acoustics on certain frequencies may vary up to 9dB two inches away. You can do nothing about it. ;) But as Themis points out, I may perhaps be highlighting differences in my room treatment quality/size/etc. as well as a particular synergy between component. That said, I don't want to start any more expensive is more hifi debate. I don't believe that to be true. In fact, some of the more expensive components are here in my cabin system, such as cabling, because they sound better here than they do at home. Yet, the most identifiable and interesting subjective value I noticed is the soundstage: The SB3 DAC combo gives me a greater comfort zone than the TP. With the TP I (as Themis again points out), feel it necessary to be in the perfect spot - easy enough - I've followed the Golden Triangle setup and have the sweet-spot aligned with my head in my favorite chair. But the SB3 DAC seems to flow out side of that zone more than the TP, giving me room to move yet still hear/see the stage. I may be in a rare (or little spoke about) situation where my SB3 and DAC sound better to me than my TP does. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72542 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mid-fi question regarding ABX TP to SB3 + DAC
Themis;495313 Wrote: Well, you're in a sound as a whole mood. To me, this is the best mood to be in if one wants to enjoy music. Some may call it low-fi, but who cares ? I don't. ;) Look, keep your SB+dac and never mind the specs. :) Thanks, I just may. I sold one SB3 and have had a few offers on the DAC via Audiogon. When I get more listening time I may run the TP thru the DAC and see if that brings my stage back. This way I get the dual display, which I've come to love over the years, and hopefully the whole sound as you call it, without having to buy back another SB3. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72542 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mid-fi question regarding ABX TP to SB3 + DAC
Is comparing these the way I did fair? OR Does the SB Server sense the capabilities of the attached device and cycle up the CPU or down covert accordingly? In other words, does the file processing change if I'm running a SB3 only vs. a TP only vs. both? Or are the files always down converted for the SB3 and always passed to the TP native (or a mix)? I'm sure I used to know how to check this, but I really haven't messed with the SBServer other than occasional upgrades in years. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72542 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Mid-fi question regarding ABX TP to SB3 + DAC
Hi All, I have two systems. One in my house and another in my cabin. In my home system I could tell the difference between my TP and a demo Linn Majik DS. I'll leave out my own preferences, don my flame resistant cloak and say I went with the Majik for home use. My thought was to move my TP to the cabin to replace my SB3 and CI Audio DAC, yet after two days of side by side I really can't identify any differences. There is a sizable price difference between the home and cabin systems -- BUT not a personally perceived sound difference. The cabin has a Jolida tube amp, Omega 6 Grande Fostex speakers, and about $3k in ICs and speaker cables (in addition to the other gear that's not relevant like the TT, phono pre, and CD-T). I thought that moving the TP up here would bump up the resolution and sound stage like it did when I replaced my SB3 and CI Audio DAC with the TP last year in the home system. (The SB3 and DAC moved to the cabin.) It didn't. In fact, I can't hear a darn bit of difference. I can ID a huge difference when using the SB3 without the DAC. Am I missing a bit of synergy or is this $5k system not resolving enough to hear the subtle changes between the SB3/DAC vs. TP? Here's the cabin system: All ALAC streamed from a MacPro Jolida 102B Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 plus VAC-1 power supply Zu Mission RCA from DAC/TP to amp Zu Firemine from CD-T to DAC/TP Richard Gray 400 Power Conditioner Rotel CD-T Should I be reconsidering my DAC listing on Audiogon for a loss? I already sold one SB3. My question to you is:: At what point did you experience a system shift great enough to differentiate between the SB3 and a TP, and then, what jump had to occur for you to notice a difference between a good DAC and the TP? Can a $1200 SB3 + DAC = a $2000 TP in an otherwise $5k system. Obviously, a SB3 playing mp3s into a clock radio will sound just as good as a TP. When did you hear the shift? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72542 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] What outboard DAC do you use with Squeezebox?
I second the CI Audio gear. I use the VDA2 DAC with VAC1 outboard linear power supply. The pair cost under $800. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=72018 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] SPDIF is evil
ar-t;490860 Wrote: Why are you people discussing a non-Slim Devices product on their forum? If you want to know how it works, you could just ask. But this is not the time or place to do so. If you want to talk about SPDIF BW and return loss requirements, then I am probably the guy to ask. But no one did. I don't get it. Pat Where is _your_ forum located? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=71464 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] SPDIF is evil
ar-t;490862 Wrote: No, it was originally designed to be used as a test port during manufacture. The marketing guys are the ones who probably had the idea to make it a consumer interface. (That is why it stinks as an interface: it wasn't really intended to be one.) Pat ar-t;490860 Wrote: Why are you people discussing a non-Slim Devices product on their forum? If you want to know how it works, you could just ask. But this is not the time or place to do so. If you want to talk about SPDIF BW and return loss requirements, then I am probably the guy to ask. But no one did. I don't get it. Pat Perhaps you should add this information to _your_ forum and correct the wiki located at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S/PDIF And the Hardware Book here: http://www.hardwarebook.info/S/PDIF TC Electronics and Tanoy here: http://tcsupport.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/tcsupport.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=1305p_created=1067521162p_topview=1 And even PS Audio here: http://www.psaudio.com/ps/wiki/SPDIF/ BTW, if we can't discuss here, where exactly is your forum? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=71464 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] SPDIF is evil
An article I found: http://www.nanophon.com/audio/towards.pdf -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=71464 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
tomjtx;486086 Wrote: The recording engineers aren't necessarily the one's that came up with that silly PRAT terminology. Besides, they are engineers, not musicians. I have been a[ yadda yadda yadda...] As a trained musician I find myself feeling embarased for the Linn engineers when they display there utter lack of musical knowledge. Yet you still insist that I can't make a valid judgment without an SPL? I prefer to go with what my ears want, not engineers from Linn or MD PhD BA and Total BS forum trolls. Tom for President!!! He's magic and knows all!!! -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
JezA;486200 Wrote: tomjtx .. I can't find any reference to or use of the PRAT - pace, rhythm and timing - phrase on the Linn website or in any of their marketing material. I think this was a phrase that some hifi journalists invented some years ago, and is more commonly associated with NAIM equipment. Yeah, he actually means Linn's Tune Dem. Can't blame him for lack of research - too busy prattling himself. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
Phil Leigh;485685 Wrote: I think you may have accidentally logged-on to the wrong forum. Given that Linn has been going since 1972, I know which way I'd bet my money. The Linn Klimax DS is the best DS I've heard yet by a country mile IMO. It's just very, very expensive... Apparently you are right. Maybe we should have an insult forum also. Thanks for the input Phil. I'm going to see if I can arrange an in-home for the Klimax and Akurate DSs. In the show room I agree the Klimax DS is superior, but I'm not sure if my system has a weak link that would prevent me from hearing the difference for the extra money. As of last night I can safely say the Majik and TP + Berkeley DAC are close enough to warrant another listen, but price-wise the DAC alone cost twice that of the Majik and three times that of the TP. If I could sell my Berkeley TP I could afford the Klimax but that would leave my CD Transport with out a DAC. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
audiomuze;485344 Wrote: Careful CliveB, apparently disagreeing with kphinney constitutes an OT post. Stay on topic and there wouldn't be any issue. I think it's more likely that CliveB, who was correcting the nomenclature I used to described my observations, was actually trying to get to the route of the issue and that is much appreciated. Unlike CliveB, your post, Audiomuze, began with off-topic hypotheticals insinuating that the listening environment would be a likely cause of _everyone's_ issue with the TP not stacking up to the Linn gear, then went on to insult by saying we were chasing rainbows. cliveb;484916 Wrote: Be careful using words like corrected. You're implying that there's something wrong with the analogue signal from the TP If by corrected you mean that you prefer the sound, that's fine, but I think you should find another, more subjective, term. I agree and stand corrected; perhaps it would be better to describe the TP sound thru the tube system as a more warm, less analytical, analogue sound which I prefer with my listening style. Yet, this sound is really only produced with the TP when it is used with both an external DAC and the tube system. This is the route of my questions regarding the Majik or Akurate: Has anyone who tried the Linn gear feel it is of a higher caliber? By this I mean which gear do you feel has both a preferred listen-ability and a feel of longevity. To bring it fully around to my original question: My Rotel and Linn gear from the 70's are still supported by the manufacturer and still sound great. In You Opinion will the TP sound and support live a full 40 years into the future? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
empty99;484465 Wrote: Here's hoping that the healthy open-source forums like ours to come up with solutions for the TP when Logitech no longer support it. I am still holding out for a $900 unit (to replace my SB3+MFA3.24DAC) ;^) It would be nice to compile a list of other streaming transports that accept the Squeezebox Server as a source. I've tried a few other units, but none have as elegant and easy to use interface. audiomuze;484450 Wrote: With all due respect, unless your listening environment is optimally configured, you're chasing a rainbow. Even if it's properly configured, with the exception of voicing I doubt the majority of us could hear the differences between high end DACs being argued about. The Transporter is very, very good and very, very neutral. Preferring a particular voicing does not make one DAC better than another. At the end of the day, all things considered, the DAC that's going to make you happiest is the one whose voicing you prefer. My advice to anyone looking for a high-end DAC is to audition the thing in your own listening environment (good or bad) and choose that which, for whatever reason, sounds better to you. With all do respect to you, Adiomuze, your post is OT and contains nothing new. There is no _best_, Your biggest system improvement is optimizing your room, Audition equipment and decide for yourself. The only thing I take issue with is your inference that the TP is 'very, very' anything. It may be for you. Personally, (in my opinion only) I think the TP is very, very light. I also think it is the least expensive piece of my gear except for a few of my cables and while it does sound good to me, it is the weakest link in my system. That brings us back to the point of this topic: TP alternatives including the Majik DS. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
audiomuze;484677 Wrote: So price = performance in the audiophile world :D. Keep chasing that rainbow, clearly it gives you something to do :) Are you purposely acting ignorant and non-helpful or should I read deeper into your messages to find the hidden on-topic points? I never said price = performance, but it just so happens that FLAC, WAV, and ALAC rips sound less pleasing, less full, and a mere shadow of a sound stage when played thru my $1600 TP as compared to my CD Transport and DAC that pair up well for a hefty price. The sound is markedly improved when the TP goes thru the DAC. Why is that concept so hard for you to grasp? As far as the unless your listening environment is optimally configured, you're chasing a rainbow. First, you may have a rainbow fetish that I can't comment on. Second, you are inferring that my listening environment is not optimum. Thanks. True - it may no be optimum for my TP, but I'm not going to entertain changing the configuration to fit the TP alone when acoustic grade materials assembled to Cardas and local studio contractor rules/suggestions were followed resulting in a beautiful, useful, and dramatic presence listening room. Please - try to keep the post's on topic. I'll skip commenting from here on out, for the sake of the people subscribed to this topic. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
loserica;484801 Wrote: How does the TP compare as a transport to your CD transport ? Are you using it via coax or aes/ebu ? Thanks The TP without DAC offers a much reduced soundstage and an analytical sound that is mostly corrected with a tube amp and tube pre. The TP with DAC is amazingly better and opens right up. The CD transport with DAC is equal to the TP + DAC. Comparisons are done using coax (Pure Note Alluvion silver S/PDIF Digital Cable) to connect to the DAC. Zu Viral and Zu Wylde's are used when analog out. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
empty99;483409 Wrote: I liked my Harmony remote w/ its smart downloadable programing tricks for all my gears but disliked the buttons size and arrangement on it. Totally agree. Although I liked my rechargeable $300 Harmony much more than the AAA sucking flimsy $99 one they sent me as a replacement. My point being, will they replace a broken TP with a NPR-in-the-kitchen worthy Squeeze Radio? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
dennis55;483447 Wrote: almost two years on, i still enjoy my Transporter whatever border you chose.;) dennis Good to hear - I enjoy mine very much also, but the price of a TP + a worthy DAC can get you in to a few other higher end streaming transports, no? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
JezA;483039 Wrote: Logitech are now claiming that the Touch has audiophile acoustics. Draw your own conclusions! http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/speakers_audio/wireless_music_systems/cl=gb,en Well, it is better than an unmodified SB3, but both require an outboard DAC for anything more than casual listening. In fact, the TP is borderline audiophile quality. I think I will have to choose my next product from the growing line available from an audio-gear manufacturer. Can't fault the logic behind eliminating the TP from the Logitech line thought. The whole Jack of all trades, master of none thing. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Will a transporter sound as good as the Linn Majik DS
Does anyone have more recent experience with the TP vs. Majik DS? It's upgrade time and I'm not thrilled with the likely prospect of the Transporter being discontinued (or supported by a co. known for their Mice and Webcams). I don't want to be left in the cold if/when it's time for support, but still don't want to spend more on the Majik for lower audio quality. Some of my Linn and Rotel gear are from the 70's, and at least with Rotel I can still drive the unit to North Reading, MA, and have it serviced. (Usually for a few bucks or even free - they're happy to see a near-40 year old product still in use). Logitech? Well, I dropped $300 on a remote than never failed to fail and it was replaced with a newer upgrade for free -- yet cost $200 less. It was the best they said they could do. Now if my $2000 TP were to break would they replace it with the latest generation Squeeebox Radio? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=60169 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
FARQ;481437 Wrote: hmmm thought that would be the case 1 side of the room is 3 double glazed sliding glass doors, the rear of the room already has 2 large canvas pieces on the wall, and the other side is open plan to the end of the kitchen so not really much that can be done might perhaps look at just upgrading the Rotel then if I'm still not happy with the sound :) thanks for the advice! Actually, that's not all that bad and quite common. First, your open kitchen is fine. Nothing you can do about that and I'm sure it has enough odd angles in it to keep the waves from focusing on one particular area in your A/V room. Second: The rear wall. As long as your speakers are out from the wall you are fine. And you can always add acoustic foam _under_ the paintings. Refer to the Cardas website for optimum placement away from the rear wall. Third: The glass wall may be the easiest one yet to affect a real positive improvement. There are a few companies that make 'acoustic' or noise-blocking curtains. Typically for city environments where your want to eliminate street noise from entering. I bought some when living in Boston and when we moved to the ocean I found that they make for great interior absorption also. I like looking out when listening to music, but the sound is much more refined when I close the curtains. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
FARQ;481382 Wrote: there is nothing I can do with the layout of the room, the position of the speakers, or re-arranging the position of the TP in my stack, unfortunately... ... so my only option is to keep the TP where it is, on top of the rotel and under the beyonwiz... Swiching up from the Denon to the Rotel may make a difference, but only in certain formats. If you're focusing on the TP sound, then I'd hazard to say the difference would be slight. If you're going for home-theater, then I'd put my chips on the Rotel over the Denon. But again, my primary concern would be moving the TP and Beyonwiz. The cost of both adding to over $3k, it'd be sad to loose or shorten their life because of the heat off of the amp. How about a DIY fix using a laptop cooler or even computer tower fans? But -- I may be off base. Perhaps the TP will survive the heat, or at least protect the DVD unit. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] AIR Studios?
AIR Studios -- Are they the ones who made Sexy Boy in 9 different remixes, all of which kinda sucked (IMHO)? Honestly, I can't even get their website to work on a new Mac. I wouldn't put too much stock in their certification. Never seen it on anything I've worked with. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70911 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
FARQ;481400 Wrote: are there any sort of room treatments one could make, without changing the look of my lounge room though?... it's very clean minimal with a few bits of art around the place, which is the way I like it Art is a very good start. You may not see benefits in room treatments if you have enough stuff absorbing and deflecting sound. There are a few DIY room treatments you can make custom for your space. I don't have any of the websites with the exact specs in front of me right now, but it's basically JoAnne Fabrics speaker covering (in all colors and patterns) over egg-crate and foam filled 1x3's. Think picture frames with a felt-like covering. That is the type that absorb. You can also reflect, like in the case of sharp concave corners where standing waves reside or those that, like on your rear wall, could cause constructive interference waves which blast subtle sounds into your listening area after they should have died out. I'm regurgitating what I've read and I have only practical knowledge from building my own listening room from the bottom up. Literally. I started with a basement. Concrete walls and floor. Built in flooring and covered with rigs and carpets. Improvement. Sheetrock - improvement. Used plywood to cover 90º wall to wall angles from _| to _/ - improvement. Then I played with DIY room treatments but perhaps the power tools already killed my hearing cause I still can't tell much of a difference. However, I can tell the difference when I moved in a bookcase and a shelf for my LP's. So maybe I just didn't make very good treatments. Sometimes it seems that a well placed folded cozy blanket can take a bit of the high end edge off. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
Thanks All. I'll look into it and try to decide. Any other input is greatly appreciated. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
riffer;480882 Wrote: I bought a 25' one from Blue Jeans Cables, and I am happy with it: http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/digital-audio/index.htm Funny, I was just reading their website and realizing that [like everything else] each manufacturer claims their way is best. i.e.: Blue Jeans claim that a single synthetic fiber is better than bundled glass. Impact Acoustics says it's the other way around and that synthetic will degrade with time, yet, Kimber Kable's prefer synthetic over glass because it doesn't produce micro-fractures from slight bending over time. Yet again, Audioholics (http://www.audioholics.com/education/cables/toslink-interconnect-history-basics) claim Quality TOSLINK assemblies should be made from multiple fibers of a very small diameter. While I was hoping to hit on an online vendor and give them my CC, I don't think there is a consummate way to choose the best cable without hearing it myself. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
pfarrell;480896 Wrote: kphinney wrote: While I was hoping to hit on an online vendor and give them my CC, I don't think there is a consummate way to choose the best cable without hearing it myself. There is no best cable. There is no best microphone. there is no best speaker. . -- Pat Farrell http://www.pfarrell.com/ Gee Pat, your cynicism is beginning to show thru in your posts. When anyone asks for an opinion on the -best- can we stipulate for all future discussions that best is acceptable as a short form of the subjective opinion inquiring to -that which you feel is superior in your system with your speakers, in your room, listening to your favorite music, at your preferred volume, while on your continent and with your choice of beverage, regardless of hair color, age, race, creed or Coriolis effect-? ;-) -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
pfarrell;480921 Wrote: kphinney wrote: pfarrell;480896 Wrote: There is no best cable. There is no best microphone. there is no best speaker. . Gee Pat, your cynicism is beginning to show thru in your posts. When anyone asks for an opinion on the -best- can we stipulate for all future discussions that best is acceptable as a short form of the subjective opinion inquiring to no, its a stupid question. Its a freeking cable. Spend $20 on it and be happy. ... Just because every forum, on every topic, in the whole Internet gets what is the best FOO question all the damn time, doesn't mean its worth wasting electrons answering it. -- Pat Farrell http://www.pfarrell.com/ You couldn't just say I like [insert the cable you prefer here]. Instead you had to go thru all of that and top it off by calling my question stupid and replies being a waste? Do me a favor then and stop wasting time on my requests for assistance. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
In attempt to bring the topic back around to relevant information, let's revisit the OP and the query I had: In your own opinion, if you had to use a optical TOSLINK, which cable works best (for anyone but Pat)? Regardless of online documentation from waring vendors, in your experience, does glass vs. synthetic and single strand vs. bundled smaller strands provide better signal and life expectancy? In your system do you find that spring-loaded or form fitting connecters are BEST or more convenient? Personally, I [i] do have a $20 Optical TOSLINK that required a lot of force to inset - more than I'd like to provide - and does sound different than my Zu Digital Coax. I'm able to hook both to the SB3 and DAC and select between the two, and I prefer to lessen that difference by improving the optical signal/connection/etc. Thanks again and ALL personal experience is welcome. For those concerned about the amount of electrons used in response to this query, I will refund them -- I've got Roll-Over Electrons! -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
Nice, a bit under $5 with greater than 95% 5-star rating for over 200 users. I'll definitely pick up one of those. Even if it ends up taking a backseat, you can't go wrong for the price. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
DCtoDaylight;480952 Wrote: ... the next time I need an optical cable, I think I go with the Blue Jeans one ( www.bluejeanscable.com ) as I respect their direct no-nonsense approach. ... As always, YMMV! Cheers, Dave Dave, your sentiments echo my thoughts; I've never had a bad Blue Jeans cable. I may have had others that sounded better for me, but Blue Jeans are at the very least a base line and in most cases better than average. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
Until recently I've used my Rotel transport direct via analog out, but lately have been more impressed with my CI Audio DAC. The DAC allows one optical-in and one coax-in. My older transport has only coax-out, so naturally I'm going to be using my SB3's optical out. I have a few optical toslink cables, both old and generic. Sine I'm not familiar with quality issues in the optics I'd like your opinion; where should I look for a good (or best?) cable? I'd like to move beyond the bits is bits argument so to be more specific: - Which optical toslink provides the best physical connection (spring loaded, etc?) - Glass or synthetic? - Least loss from internal refraction and reflection? - Cost vs. perceived value? - Your favorite? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter wish list...
pfarrell;479697 Wrote: Phil Leigh wrote: The entire thread is useless as there will never be a Transporter II. Never say never. But that said, I agree, that a TP 2 is unlikely anytime soon. I don't see a market for cheaper Audiophile items, and I expect it will be a decade before there is a technological reason to invent a new one. Plus, there is a non-zero chance that MP3 files are all that will be available for mass market music. I rarely touch my TP, like once a year or so. Adding a Touch screen has zero appeal to me. I see more demand for vinyl than for quality digital music players. I don't get it, as I was happy to leave vinyl behind, but there are fanboys out there. -- Pat Farrell http://www.pfarrell.com/ All - my original query for TP improvements can be just as well applied to new gear in development or in the dreams of other companies. [I'm a biologist, not an audio prospector for any company -- I've now stock in anything other than my own enjoyments.] Someday I will upgrade. I'm not delusional; I don't think my TP will last as long as, say my father's Rotel system from the 70's. So I'd like to get a feel for what you think is missing. What you would look for in the next TP, or if necessary, the next Oppo, Linn, Apple, Sonos, etc. was my point. It's been mentioned in other posts: Logitech isn't really known for it's high-end audio gear and may DC the TP. That'd be very unwelcome. Squeezebox made a few ground breaking improvements in MY audio world. The SB2 and SB3, the TP, and the most impressive bit of social technology conceivable: YOU and this forum. This is the first place I turn when I have an audio question and it's the only audio forum I sign on to to try to help and offer my opinion. So keep making TP Logitech. I'm in the market for another. If you don't, then I hope(as I'm sure the rest of the audiophiles do) that we can still meet here after someone reads our wants and takes over where you left off -- if you leave off. Oh, and Pat I got a lot of use out of my vinyl this weekend. A bunch of friends came over and we all went through the shelves of it remembering the fun times we had playing with it in years past. Every now and again someone would find something we absolutely had to hear... and we played it via the rip on the TP. In the future I will spent more $ on a new TP2 or the like, yet I will not upgrade my Rega phono system-- I actually look forward to selling it off before I blip a needle, scratch a record, loose yet another dust brush or have to buy more dam cleaning fluid. I'm going to stick with the natural progression + More's Law. I'm putting my chips on FLAC and ALAC, not vinyl. (Think of it - space travel in zero-G. How would the stylus work?? The future may show the limited few of us with vinyl as long bearded Earth-Is-Flat types.) Afraid to say but, my vinyl collection is an acoustical wave diffusion and absorption shelf with nostalgic under-beat connotations. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=69447 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Optical TOSlink opinion - which to buy??
agillis;480518 Wrote: I have been using a Changzhou Yafei cable. $6.99 but it's very well made. s/pdif is all digital so as long as the connection is good you will get good sound. You don't really need to be to picky. What about long term transmission? Don't non-glass cables degrade over time? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70806 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
Themis;480064 Wrote: I agree, too. ;) (although for the room, you don't need to do much, just reasonably fill it with everyday mess^^) I'm partial to stacks of books and bookshelves. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Free 16-bit FLAC ALAC from BW
I'm not sure how I came to be on their emailing list - I traded in my BW's years ago. But it appears they have a Society of Sound section which allow you to download tracks and full sets of music on the free. http://www.bowers-wilkins.co.uk/display.aspx?infid=3550terid=4210 -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70589 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter wish list...
Anyone notice that somehow this TP Wish List because a parallel to the Phase post I started a few days back? Weird. Can we keep this TP features and move the phase to the other post? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=69447 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Phase?
pfarrell;478515 Wrote: kphinney wrote: Okay, so in this case 'out of phase' is the same as 'polarity reversed'. The common case of a speaker wire being reverses is out of phase relative to the other speaker. I don't know what the official definition of polarity reversed is, but if you reversed both speakers, they would be in phase but not in purist audiophile true phase I don't believe that audiophile true phase is meaningful, as right after the kick drum head comes towards you, it goes away from you. -- Pat Farrell http://www.pfarrell.com/ On a personal trial a moment ago I reversed the wiring on one of my speakers. (Two channel system, tubes driving single Fostex full range.) An Unbelievable Difference. At first I thought I found musical nirvana, but about 10 seconds into listening, it was quickly replaced with nauseating oddities. Really, it was that quick and noticeable. A once beautiful 'Just Roll Tape' track at first sounded like my two speakers turned into many, then I realized that Stills was not in the center of the stage, but floating back and forth and his lone guitar was both in my head and somewhere in a different room. Thanks to lessons from Dad, I've always been careful to hook up the speaker polarity correctly, sometimes tracing a side-by-side strand of wire from amp to speaker if it wasn't labeled legibly. Now I'm certain I could tell if one speaker was inverted in a two channel set up. I played with only two other tracks (a Pink Floyd and a Yo-Yo Ma); both were interesting, but not what stereo music should sound like. Perhaps this is what some manufacturers of bookshelf systems do to induce concert hall mode? The music was everywhere, but not locked down and sensible. 5% Hmmm, 95% Ouch. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70323 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Phase?
I'm glad I asked. I think. In a 2 channel scenario is it possible to be out of phase? At it's simplest lets assume no sub and one full range driver per speaker. Can R and L be out of phase or is that just a polarity reversal? And would it even be noticeable? -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70323 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Phase?
Okay, so in this case 'out of phase' is the same as 'polarity reversed'. Which, obviously on my DAC with only a single 0º or 180º selector, it wouldn't sound different if I toggled. Thanks again All. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70323 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Transporter wish list...
I've compiled a list and moved it to the OP. Keep them coming. Cheers! -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=69447 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
FARQ - You've got the gear to do a number of tests to determine your own best path. First, I'd have to disagree (if not take offense) at earwaxers chide about the Rotel. IMHO. I've had an RA-1210 since the 70's and it still produces warm clean tones. Though I don't use it, it still has a place in my heart and basement along with the over powered 6-way speakers it used to drive. Second, it almost sounds like you are going for raw power over musical nuance and aesthetics over simplicity. In all likelihood that $20 SONY DiskMan stuck in your closet may sound identical to your Beosound if they are both put through the same DAC (provided the Diskman has a digital/optical out). Humor me and try this: Go analog from your TP to your Rotel and from the Rotel ONLY to the 703's. Set the 703's up as directed here: http://www.cardas.com/content.php?area=insightscontent_id=26pagestring=Room+Setup Remove the TP from the top of your Rotel!! and listen. I understand that you probably want to have all of the speakers and gear and probably use it as a home theater, but this will give you an idea of what a simple and clean path can really do. Then tweak accordingly from there. I only mention this because I think once you hear what you've been missing you'll be shocked. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] New transport user queries
I was told once on this forum, maybe 3 years ago and it has held true for me: The biggest improvement you can make is to improve your listening room. -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70132 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
[SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Phase?
This isn't TP or SB specific but I thought I'd give it a shot here since I can't find any real good info on it: My DAC has the ability to invert Phase from 0º to 180º. I can't tell the difference. Should I be able to? How can I tell if I'm in need of Phase Inversion? Can I buy a Dilithium Crystal Phase Inversion field to prevent catastrophic mixing of phase and anti-phase? I'm guessing that I need to switch it when I listen to Canadian artists. Or is it for Indie music or that from south of the equator? -- kphinney *-Hopefully a new trend:*- I'm not endorsing or advertising any of my gear, nor flaunting it as an Audiophile setup. I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that. kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70323 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] Phase?
konut;477133 Wrote: No. Governments go to great lengths to keep this away from the general public. Besides, the Dilithium Crystal Phase Inversion field CAUSES catastrophic mixing of phase and anti-phase, and why would you want to do that? This dimension is so much fun! Actually, the Dilithium Crystal should allow for non-catastrophic mixing of phase/anti-phase. To quote -The Mineralogy of Star Trek- by Jeffrey de Fourestier, et. al. (Ottawa, Ontario) ...when dilithium is subjected to a high frequency electromagnetic field, it becomes porous to antimatter, and that it is the only substance known to possess this quality. Since passing through its crystal structure slows down or moderates the flow of the antimatter, dilithium can be used to moderate the reactions in the matter-antimatter reactors. I think I may have found a DIY starter here: http://cgi.ebay.com/STAR-TREK-DILITHIUM-CRYSTAL-PROP-USED-ON-STAR-TREK_W0QQitemZ230391281900QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0#ht_1632wt_754 -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=70323 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
Re: [SlimDevices: Audiophiles] SB3+DAC: Optical or coaxial best?
Hawkmoon;470929 Wrote: Any agreed verdict on whether the coaxial or optical digital out from the SB3 sounds better? I have both options when using my DAC but wondered which might be best so I can save my money and only buy one kind of cable? I went back and forth a few times with no discernable difference, then I realized my old Rotel CD sounded much worse than either. The Rotel only had a coax-out and my DAC had both coax and optical in, so now my SB3 is optical into the Dac and the Rotel is coax into the Dac. Keep your options open: a good cable is at the lower end of the price scale of upgrades. If you can get your hands on a good Coax and a good Optical then you can cover all bases. ((I'd really like to see (hear) the difference between a good coax cheep optical or vice versa. Maybe even 'broken-in' vs. 'non-broken-in interconnects too'.)) -- kphinney -I like it, you may not. I understand and respect that.- kphinney's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=10409 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=69641 ___ audiophiles mailing list audiophiles@lists.slimdevices.com http://lists.slimdevices.com/mailman/listinfo/audiophiles
