Audio Asylum - Inmate Systems

adhoc's "velvet glove, iron fist" System
IP Address: 203.161.92.198	Last Update: July 22, 2007 at 02:41:40
Amplifier:	Eddie Current HD-25 - running Sylvania 6SN7GT "BadBoys" & 1950 vintage RCA 6AS7G
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	DIY SUTs with 2x Lundahl transformers.
Speakers:	AKG k501, Grado RS-1 Mulling over some Harbeth Compact-7s... Decisions, decisions...
Sources:
CD Player/DAC:	Heavily modified [DIY] CD4398-based DAC running streamed FLACs via coax, from a HDD-based setup. A TDA1541A-based DAC is under construction now.
Turntable/Phono Stage:	TT #1: Garrard 401 > Hadcock 242 Silver > MusicMaker mkIII TT #2: Linn LP12 > Infinity Black Widow (damped version) > AT-33PTG Hagerman Cornet2 - RCA Command 5814A or CBS/Raytheon 5814, Sovtek 12AX7LPS, RCA 5Y3G.
Other Accessories/Room/Misc.:
Speaker Cables/Interconnects:	Grovers!
Music Preferences and Comments:
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	At least 85% classical - particular favourites include Bach (Bach!), Beethoven, Mozart, Mahler and Schumann. I have recently discovered a passion for Brahms after being initially completely put off by Hahn's recording of the Violin Concerto. Favourite performers include - Vladimir Horowitz, Nathan Milstein, Clara Haskil and 2 (sadly) forgotten artists - Henryk Szeryng & Hermann Krebbers. Despite my reservations about her Brahms, I recommend freely to anyone who care to listen to keep an eye out for Hilary Hahn (that Stravinsky recording!) after a live experience with her brought the house down. The (3rd and final) encore was (what else) Bach's Chaccone from Solo Partita #2 - amazing playing from one so young.
System Goals/Comments:	To both convincingly portray large scale orchestral works with the magnitude and depth required, yet be able to convey the subtle emotion and intimacy of a solo instrumental piece. So far, solo/chamber pieces are the strength of my system.
System Strengths:	Breadth (immense!) of the soundstage. Clarity (never sharp, never sibilant!) & separation. A completely non-fatiguing (velvet glove) with an "unassuming" sound with no single area that "shouts out"... ...yet if the situation calls for it an extremely powerful driving bass (401 - the iron fist) can be called into play.
System Weaknesses:	Not the last word in bass definition; could use a tad more deep bass. Certain recordings can present with slightly recessed lower-mids. Would not mind a little more spatial information.
Video/HT System: None