October 14, 2001
Subject: Looking for Musical Fidelity
Where can one buy Musical Fidelity products now that Audio
Advisor no longer carries them? I've e-mailed the company's US distributor (in Canada)
twice with no response, and Musical Fidelity doesn't even have a contact e-mail address on
its website. A Google search for "Musical Fidelity dealer" turned up nothing.
What gives?
Michael
Hi Michael:
Just the usual shakedown of switching from one
distributor to another, I suspect. I'm sure its all sorted out by now. Try contacting
Kevro International, Inc. by telephone (1-905-428-2800) and I'm sure they'll set you up
with a local dealer.
October 13, 2001
Subject: Internet DAD discussions
After following the postings in Audio Asylum for some time,
I ordered the EVS Millennium II DAC. My current CD player is the A3CD I auditioned (and
bought) after your review. It was definitely more musical than the Sony DVD-330 and
original MSB Link DAC that I employed previously. I had 30 days to decide, but after about
a week it was obvious that my system (Spectral 12, McCormack DNA1 Rev.A, Cabasse Farella
400) produced much more deep bass, while cymbals acquired more air and sounded closer to
the real thing. I do not think that it comes close to a super system that I auditioned at
a dealer that consisted of a Linn CD12 plus the full dCS treatment, but the difference in
price is 35 to 2. However, even more intriguing is the little ART DIO DAC with which I am
playing currently. It costs $120 (lists at $250) and IMHO improves on the Musical
Fidelity. I have not had time to tweak it yet, but I would like your opinion if you have
listened to any of the above.
Pefstratiou
Hi Pefstratiou:
I'm not too clear on what your question is, but
here goes. I have auditioned the Linn CD12 and it remains the single-best CD player I've
heard to date -- and that's without the benefit of any dCS upsampling.
But I do have the ART DIO, which I bought for my
home studio along with their microphone preamp and it's a pretty amazing little DAC, which
does, in fact, make the output of my Musical Fidelity A3CD sound better. For the money,
what's not to like?
October 12, 2001
Subject: Looking for an opinion
I've read some of your reviews at SoundStage!. I looked for a
review of the speakers I'm interested in, but there isn't one. I'm on a budget here, so
Thiel CS7.2 speakers are out of the question. That's not to say I wouldn't love having
them. They're just too expensive.
I'm looking for speakers in the price range of $500-$1000.
I found the Paradigm Legends, which seem to fit that bill. There's even a dealer nearby.
I've been looking for reviews of them on the Internet, but there don't seem to be many
other than consumer reviews. There wasn't one at SoundStage! that I could find.
Of course, they are lower-end speakers than most of what you review there. Still, if it
wouldn't be too much trouble, I'd like your opinion of them. Also, if you could recommend
some other speakers in the same price range that have equal to if not better sound
quality, that'd be great. Great bass is a must for me. I'll be using these for both home
theater and music.
Thank you for any information that you can provide. It's
highly appreciated.
Jonathan
Hi Jonathan:
These days you can buy a lot of loudspeaker for
$500-$600. One company that consistently offers well-designed and -constructed speakers is
Paradigm. So, while I haven't heard the Legends, I'm sure they offer good value and good
sound. You should also try to listen to a pair of the $400 Axiom Audio Millennia M22Ti SE
loudspeakers, which John Potis reviewed so positively on SoundStage!, or the Polk
RT35i or Triangle Acoustic Titus loudspeakers. I'd also try to hear some of B&W's
offerings in your price range since they have been producing some awfully good stuff
lately. Happy hunting.
October 9, 2001
Subject: Musical Fidelity DVD-1
First, let me tell you how much I enjoy your website. I
have visited for about a year, particularly enjoying your equipment reviews.
I know you're a fan of Musical Fidelity products, and so I
turn to you with a few questions about the MF DVD-1. Have you had a chance to hear it with
CDs in your reference system? If so, how do you think it compares to the highly regarded
A3CD? If you haven't heard it, do you know of anyone else who has reviewed it?
I ask these questions as the proud owner of the MF DVD-1
who has never had a chance to audition the A3CD. It sounds wonderful to me in my system,
consisting of the Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE preamp, NAD S-200 amp and MartinLogan Ascents.
I primarily use it as my CD source, so I can't really comment on its DVD-Video abilities.
I bought it from Audio Advisor as a demo unit, with a price in the same league as the
A3CD, based on their recommendation that it had a number of sonic upgrades to the A3CD.
But I find it strange that there are no references to it on the MF website and that there
are no reviews in the audio/video publications or websites I read.
Thanks for your help!
Rick Lewis
Hi Rick:
Boy, I'm stumped! I don't know the unit and haven't
even seen a reference to it before now. I called Wayne Schuurman at Audio Advisor and he
let me in on the secret. MF did indeed produce a DVD player (but you knew that), but like
a lot of British HT products, its feature set was a little off from what the US market
wanted. Specifically, it lacked progressive scan -- and that was the kiss of death for a
$2000 DVD player.
However, Wayne felt it was an extraordinary audio
component, with a superior digital processor to the A3CD. In fact, everyone at AA liked
the unit -- so much so that they demoed with it at the Home Entertainment Expo 2001 to
rave reviews.
Sounds to me like you bought a winner at the right
price.
October 9, 2001
Subject: Amplifier matching with Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk II
speakers
I have read your review on the Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk II
speakers and share another reader's enthusiasm on them. You mentioned that the speakers
must be matched with at least a 50W good-current amplifier. I am wondering whether any of
the following, which are within my budget, would do:
- Arcam A85 (85W x 2)
- Roksan Caspian Mk II (70W x 2)
- Plinius 8100 (100W x 2)
- Primare A20 (70W x 2)
- Creek 5350 SE (85W x 2)
- Audio Analogue Puccini SE (60W x 2)
If none of them is suitable, do you have any suggestions
for amp below $1200 USD?
Your reply is greatly appreciated.
Jeremy
Hi Jeremy:
They all seem well suited for the Contour 1.3 and
all have been well reviewed. Let me know when you reach a conclusion and tell me which you
chose and why -- I think you're in for a hard (but fun) time deciding which way to
go.
October 8, 2001
Subject: Preamp recommendations
I've followed your writing for some time now and just
wanted to say thanks! I'm in need of a preamp and read your review of the Musical Fidelity
A3CR. I presently have a Klyne SK-6 with phono stage (tonally nice, but somewhat dry and
not much for soundstaging, which is a priority) driving a Pass Labs Aleph 5 into
Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rod speakers. Sources are a VPI HW-19 Jr. turntable with a Morch
UP-4 unipivot 'arm holding a Lyra Clavis cartridge. Digital source is a Micromega Stage 5
CD player. I've always liked tubes, but I can't really afford a quality tubed preamp.
Also, I'm getting conflicting information about the quality of the phono section in the
A3CR. I know it's hard to generalize, but what are your thoughts on replacing the Klyne
with the A3CR? Also, do you have any other recommendations in this price range?
Best regards,
Ron Franks
Hi Ron:
I think the MF is a heckuva preamp for the money,
but the Klyne's phono stage is a classic and, even today, a hard one to beat. If that's
what you're used to, I can't imagine the A3CR's phono stage satisfying you. I'd suggest
you search for a used Conrad-Johnson MV-10 preamp and keep your SK-6 for a phono section
(Run the TT into its phono stage and use the SK-6's tape outs into any of the MV-10's
line-level inputs.)
October 8, 2001
Subject: Can anyone upgrade speakers?
I am in no way mechanically or electronically inclined, but
I am looking into upgrading some very crappy speakers I recently purchased. Is it even
worth upgrading really poor speakers? Is it something that someone with no technical
knowledge can accomplish? And if so, where do I get started? Can you recommend any basic
info/sites available on the Internet for beginners?
Thanks,
Travis Wheatley
Hi Travis:
Frankly, the cost of good speakers is so low these
days that it doesn't really pay to attempt to improve a bad pair -- especially if DIY
isn't your thing. After all, for $189 you can buy a pair of Paradigm Atoms or for $275 you
can get a pair of Axiom Audio Millennia 3Tis -- both speakers are simply outrageously good
for the money.
October 7, 2001
Subject: Which amp?
I'm from the UK and moved to the US two years ago. Back in
Blighty I owned a run-of-the-mill, middle-of-the-road Technics setup: all totally useless
here, so I got rid of it before I left the UK. But even then I knew that the setup I'd got
was getting in the way of the music and my ears.
Now I'm building up a new system based around a ProJect 1.2
turntable (with an Oyster MM cartridge), and Paradigm Mini Monitor V.2s. I'm not
interested in flashing lights and whizz-bang toys; I just want something that sounds good.
Based on the reviews I've read of the two amps outlined below, I think I'm heading in the
right direction, but your words of wisdom would be helpful.
So, I'm still amp-less, but very much in love with the
Creek 4330R Mk2 integrated amplifier. What I'd like advice on is which one would be a
better match for the turntable and speakers I've already assembled: the Creek outlined
above or the AMC 1100 and 2100 preamp/power-amp setup? And if I go for the Creek, does the
4330R Mk2 have an optional, factory-fitted MM phono stage, or do I need to buy an
additional phono preamp, such as the Creek OBH-8 MM or the Sumiko Phono Box?
As far as I can work out, the 1100/2100 has a switchable
phono stage, but as it's difficult to find a supplier locally where I can listen to either
setup I'd appreciate any advice you could offer. My musical tastes vary from rock 'n' roll
to classical, via jazz, and everything in between (except hip-hop).
Thank you.
Gary Bloomer
PS: Great website.
Hi Gary:
I've had good reports about the AMC components, but
I haven't had a chance to spend any time with them. The Creek, on the other hand, is one
of my long-time favorites. The phono stage is a modular one (two, actually) that can be
easily installed. The basic MM model is $60 and the upgraded version (superior parts
quality) is $95. Either way, it's worth checking out. The Creek is one of those rare
products that I can listen to for as long as my sitzplatz will hold out.
October 6, 2001
Subject: You told me to write back
I have spent the last three months auditioning many fine
components, never together, but I think I listened to each enough for them to leave me
with a mental impression of each. First, I heard the Magnum Dynalab MD-208 receiver. This
was very sexy and sleek, but a little slow, and a little mellow for my taste. I just don't
think I could live with perpetual fall colors in my living room, or was it a sunset? The
red glow, but alas we trekked on.
Next my girlfriend and I, thinking power is the way to go,
borrowed a Bryston 4BST and the BP-20 preamp. The very nice salesman at Audio Advice let
me bring home some Transparent Super interconnects and biwire cable. Very detailed and
transparent. Most excellent with rock, pop, and jazz. Did the Radiohead Hello Computer
album track number 6 honor. Natalie Merchant sounded mighty fine indeed (I sound like the
Brits I talk to on the phone all the time). But strings sounded a little thin and
metallic. However, I have newfound respect for the emotional depth of Frank Sinatra. The
Bryston stuff made my B&W 805s boogie.
The cable made the second most dramatic difference. My
standard Monster interconnects and Transparent MusicWave cable sounded like major dodo
when I switched things around.
With the very expensive Transparent cable, there was an
effortlessness I have never experienced. Highs sounded smooth and clear. The string thing
really bothered me but was almost made up with the clear, dynamic, high-impact sound of
the Bryston. The sound was just not "smooth" enough, I guess is the word.
I also heard the Adcom 750 pre with a Rotel 130W amp. I was
not impressed.
I do have a question. Are there any preamps and amps out
there that do good things to both rock/jazz, and classical/acoustic music? I also think
the power thing is overrated. I could do with a lot less if it made up in other areas. Any
suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Also, the only cables this shop carries is Transparent
(well AudioQuest, but they have no loaner stock and the salesman said that they sounded
veiled). Are there any more worth looking at?
I keep wondering how the Magnum would sound with good
cables. I only heard it with what I had.
Best wishes, man.
Keith Chahoc
Hi Keith :
If you liked the Bryston (mostly), then you might
try Plinius and Classé. Also check out Conrad-Johnson's solid-state gear, such as the
PR-18LS and the MF-2250.
Let me know how things go on your search.
October 6, 2001
Subject: Integrated amps
You're an incredibly handsome devil. A real manly man, as
my wife would say.
Can you please list your ten favorite integrated amplifiers
under $2000? Don't worry about us -- tell us what you like. Thanks.
All the best to you!
Terence
Hi Terrance:
Thanks for the kind words, but gravity has got the
best of me, I fear.
As for my favorite integrateds, I couldn't quite
hit ten, but here are seven in no particular order:
- Bryston B-60
- Classé CAP-101
- Arcam A-85
- Creek 5350SE
- Audio Analog Puccini
- Linn Classik (technically a receiver with a CD
included, but good!)
- Plinius 8100
October 6, 2001
Subject: Super Amp
I enjoyed your article on the AE25 Super Amp. I bought one
in October 2000 after talking to Dennis Had on the telephone at AES. This was before the
availability of the two upgrades, but he convinced me to upgrade to oil caps and Svetlana
KT88s while it was being assembled. It not only sounds beautiful but "looks pretty
cool" as well.
I want to purchase a pair of 300B SET mono amps for use
upstairs but cannot afford Carys while I have a kid in college. I have seen advertisements
for Welborne Labs Laurel II units and Antique Sound Labs Dove units. Do you have any
experience with either of these brands? Being new to the tube world (previous system was
McIntosh), I could use your opinion.
Thanks,
Sam
Hi Sam:
I'd go for one of the AE kits before buying an
expensive 300B amp elsewhere. I'm building the AE preamp right now, and the kits are
well-thought-out and fun to build -- even if you're all-thumbs, like me. Watch for an
upcoming review.
October 5, 2001
Subject: Digital cables
I know this is a tricky one, but what digital cable would
you recommend to between an Ayre D-1 and a Boulder D/A? I've tried 1/2 dozen cables with
no real winner so far. I've tried the Harmonic Magic One (overlarge instruments), Tara One
ISM (too bright in high end), Kimber Orchid (too forward), Siltech Golden Ridge G5 (no
transients, slows down music), Transparent Reference (most balanced overall but have the
funny feeling that the hardware can deliver more). This one is frustrating since the
system seems more sensitive with a digital cable than analog!
Regards,
John
Hi John:
It is frustrating isn't? If only it all made
sense....
Ayre uses Cardas, so I'd suggest you give that a
try.
October 5, 2001
Subject: Musical Fidelity power amplifier
I enjoyed reading your review on the Musical Fidelity A3CR
preamplifier. In fact, I always enjoy your reviews and I am very comfortable with your
views.
I would like to buy a MF A3CR preamplifier together with
the power amp. Unfortunately, I have not any rave review on the power amp. Please advise.
Currently I am using an old, but still good-sounding Chord
SPM 800 power amp. Do you think that the MF preamplifier will match with my Chord power
amp? Or shall I purchase both the MF A3CR pre/power combination?
I would appreciate your wise suggestion. I am open to any
other suggestion you may like to recommend a good pre/power combination.
I live in Malaysia.
Thank you.
Basheer Ahmed
Hi Basheer:
I wrote a complete review of the A3CR power amp,
which can be found here.
I liked it a lot.
October 2, 2001
Subject: Ayre V-1x amplifier
I have the Ayre V-1x driving Avalon Eidolon speakers. This
amp seems too in control for me, as most solid-state pieces do. Is there any tube unit out
there that can handle Eidolons?
I have owned ARC VT100s and 200s, but the Avalons simply
exhaust them in the bass, producing bloated, slow, shitty sound. Is there any amp out
there that is not necessarily accurate but rather makes beautiful music?
Thanks again,
Chris
Hi Chris:
I'm interested in whether or not your Ayre has the
latest mod to the power supply. If not, you need to hear the latest version before
you get rid of yours! If the second digit of the serial number is M (the first digit will
be 2), you have the latest version. Anything before 2L is definitely several versions back
and sounds nowhere as amazing as the current generation.
If that still doesn't float your boat, check out
Conrad-Johnson's Premier 16LS or -- if you have the bread -- the ART.
October 1, 2001
Subject: HDCD vs. SACD
I just purchased a Classé CAP-1.5 CD player as a mate to
my CAP-151 amplifier. This is an upgrade to my Marantz SE-67. My question is: What's going
to happen to HDCD in light of these new formats? My interest right now is two channel
only. Also any comments on my choice of gear.
Thanks,
Marc
Hi Marc:
Nice electronics, but what speakers are you
listening to? As to HDCD, I've never been able to figure out what the future holds for it.
I like the process, myself -- and love the filter when used on non-HDCD encoded Red Book
discs. But it seemed that, as good as HDCD is, it was a cure that was introduced too late
-- people's attention had already moved on from Red Book digital to high-rez formats, such
as DVD-A and DSD.
I've always been happy when I had HDCD-capable
players, but some of my very favorites (the Linn Sondek CD12, for example) didn't have it
and I never felt they were compromised by its omission. I see it as a nice extra check on
the "good" side of the ledger when I total up a player's good and bad points,
but its never been my sole criterion for CD player selection. But all other things being
equal, it's a nice feature to have.
And, like you, I think there's a lot of life in
two-channel music yet.
September 30, 2001
Subject: Musical Fidelity A3CR preamp
I am an audiophile, and I am about to purchase an A3CR
preamplifier, in large part because of your review. You seem to have an immense knowledge
about this preamp, and I was wondering if you would be so kind as to help me with a few
concerns.
- I am upgrading my entire system, and I'm not sure if the
A3CR can compete on the same level as my other components. For the speakers I am looking
at the Merlin VSM-SE, Dynaudio Confidence 3s, or Sonus Faber Guaneris. For CD player the
Accuphase DP-65V or Sony SCD-ES777. For the amplifier perhaps the A3CR to start
with, but eventually something in the $4-$5k range. I was looking for a good value/deal on
the preamp, and the A3CR seems to be a good choice. But at the same time I don't want
something that will hamper my system. Would you recommend the A3CR for a system of this
caliber?
- Do you really think the A3CR beats the Adcom 750? In your
opinion, do you think that Stereophile was wrong in rating the Adcom Class A and
the MF Class B?
Thank you so much for your help.
Sincerely,
David Leaf
Hi David:
You're obviously trying to put together a
superior-sounding system. Would the MF components fit in? I think so. Would they live up
to the other components you've mentioned? That depends.
I've certainly heard products in the price range of
the Sonus Faber and Accuphase that are more colored and less detailed than the Musical
Fidelity choked-regulation components. Other components in that range can sound audibly
superior to the MF -- I'm a huge fan of the Ayre and Krell CAST components, for example,
which cost more and audibly outperform the MF separates. But they cost so much more!
This is where taste comes in. I don't just mean
which sounds better, which is a whole can of worms in itself; I mean the much slipperier
area where performance and price intersect. I love the MF gear because it offers so much
performance for a relatively modest price. I know audiophiles (not all of them wealthy)
who never give price a thought -- sheer performance is their sole criterion. And, of
course, I know audiophiles who think it is unconscionable to spend more than, say, $1000
on any component and would even deny that you can buy better performance by spending more.
The only way anyone can ever be happy as an
audiophile is by knowing which type of audiophile they are and accepting it.
As for whether or not the A3CR is better than the
Adcom, that's a close call, as I described in my review. I'd be happiest in the long run
with the MF, which does have a slight sonic signature compared to the Adcom, but I
wouldn't be unhappy with the Adcom. However, if you don't want any sweetening at all,
you'll prefer the Adcom, which also offers passive operation -- a nice option.
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