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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

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