CHANGSTAR: Audiophile Headphone Reviews and Early 90s Style BBS
Lobby => The Meeting Place => Topic started by: Joh on December 21, 2014, 10:16:35 PM
Title: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Joh on December 21, 2014, 10:16:35 PM
SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014 (http://www.changstar.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=2008.0;attach=8285;image) Please proceed with impressions.
Highlights: Vintage DAC comparo (Spectral SDR-2000, Sonic Frontiers, SFD-1mk2, PS Audio UltraLink II) Schiit Yggy vs. Theta Gen Va (on speakers) A shitload of cheap headphones (comprehensive review and measurements forthcoming) Three vinyl rigs and a few phono-pres Audio Zenith headphones (generally favorable) Schiit stuff (don't know if we can talk about the interesting stuff)
Podcast: https://www.sendspace.com/file/5a9bi8
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: LFF on December 22, 2014, 12:30:28 AM
Want to especially thank Marv for hosting us at his house and feeding us some amazing cow. :)p1
Also, thanks to all of you who showed up and joined in the great conversation and gear sharing.
Some damn good dead cow...as served by our host. :)p5
Overall highlights...
Schiit Yggy - amazing sounding DAC. Super spacious and clean. Geek Pulse couldn't even hold a candle next to it.
Theta Gen V DAC - second only to the Yggy.
Anax's modded HD800 - Might have to pick one up and have it modded by Anax. Damn fine sounding headphone.
Conversations! - Yup. It's a blast talking with you guys. It's nice to hear opinions with solid/rationale thought behind them.
Surprises....
I heard all of the new offerings there and the one that surprised me most was the LCD-3F. Very good sounding headphone with good bass impact and nice mellow sound. Still not as good as Marv's legendary 48HR LCD-headphone.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: MuppetFace on December 22, 2014, 12:53:00 AM
Nice SME tonearm on that turntable. Is that a modified plinth on a broadcast deck? Those old direct and idler drive decks still toast most modern sources if they're put into a proper plinth.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: OJneg on December 22, 2014, 12:59:40 AM
FIRST OFFICIAL CHANGCAST EVAR!
Put on your headphones. LFF recorded this with his dummy head.
https://soundcloud.com/onegahban/changcastno1
Enjoy my sniffing. Blame Marv's cats.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: LFF on December 22, 2014, 01:04:10 AM
Nice SME tonearm on that turntable. Is that a modified plinth on a broadcast deck? Those old direct and idler drive decks still toast most modern sources if they're put into a proper plinth.
It looks like a custom plinth to me MF. The table is indeed an old direct drive broadcast table - the Technics SP-02 MKII.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: LFF on December 22, 2014, 01:23:01 AM
Forgot to mention the Magni 2 and Modi 2.
Those were amazeballs! :-00
If people have a budget, these things are killer! I think for most people, especially those on a budget, (insert fav headphone here) + Magni 2 + Modi 2 = End game. SERIOUSLY GOOD SOUND! :-00
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: fishski13 on December 22, 2014, 03:19:59 AM
i've shot a CZ 75 a few times. love the looks and firing sound.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: struggles on December 22, 2014, 03:31:30 AM
Thank you very much Marv for hosting the event, I had a great time meeting everyone and listening to all of the great gear. I learned a lot and am really looking forward to the release of the Schiit Yggy.
The plinth for the sp-10 mkii is a Porter panzerholz with a 312s
Thanks again to all, looking forward to future events, happy holidays!
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Anaxilus on December 22, 2014, 03:34:21 AM
Just so people don't get the wrong idea, I don't utilize the 9mm cartridge. ;)
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 22, 2014, 03:38:42 AM
If people have a budget, these things are killer! I think for most people, especially those on a budget, (insert fav headphone here) + Magni 2 + Modi 2 = End game. SERIOUSLY GOOD SOUND! :-00
The Magni 2 Uber and Modi 2 Uber combination is actually warm sounding. A departure from the original Magni and Modi. Original Modi could be a little lean depending upon USB. Original Magni had a bit of splashy treble.On the relative scale of lean to warm: Magni < Magni 2 < Magni 2 Uber. I figured I should say this since I've seen people on HF ask.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Anaxilus on December 22, 2014, 03:45:27 AM
The Magni 2 Uber and Modi 2 Uber combination is actually warm sounding. A departure from the original Magni and Modi. I figured I should say this since I've seen people on HF ask.
Sounded pretty much as neutral as the other prototype rig next to it from Jason's macbook using my HD800s to me.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: LFF on December 22, 2014, 03:55:21 AM
If people have a budget, these things are killer! I think for most people, especially those on a budget, (insert fav headphone here) + Magni 2 + Modi 2 = End game. SERIOUSLY GOOD SOUND! :-00
Are you referring to the uber versions? or standard magni2 modi2? Also is the modi 2 uber a good step up sonically from the standard 2 or version 1? Sorry but Mr Cheapus Sexus has to know these things hehehe
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 22, 2014, 05:46:02 AM
Are you referring to the uber versions? or standard magni2 modi2? Also is the modi 2 uber a good step up sonically from the standard 2 or version 1? Sorry but Mr Cheapus Sexus has to know these things hehehe
I wasn't a big fan of the Magni 1 mainly because of what I termed a "spashy" treble, some graininess, and overall lean signature. In comparison to the Magni 1, the O2 was slightly flatter and more veiled, overall more warm, but also had a strident quality.
Magni 2 standard corrects these issues with Magni 1. Also Magni 2 seems to take it up a notch in terms of being more clean and black sounding compared to the Magni 1. Using Magni 2 standard, Paradox + SFD-1 DAC sounded warm and smooth as it should. Magni 2 Uber goes a bit more "natural" in the treble department than Magni 2 standard. Which way to go depends on your preferences, DACs, sources, headphones, etc. The Uber of course offers pre-outs.
Now the Magni 2 standard I have here has a huge power brick, bigger than Magni 1 power brick. I am not 100% sure if this bigger power brick is standard with Magni 2 standard.
The special Lyr 2 below was in another class.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 22, 2014, 06:09:57 AM
The Manley Chinook was very nice as a phono-pre. Dynamic and neutral. Might have to put that on my list if I decide to go vinyl, which I really don't, because that opens up another whole can of worms.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Anaxilus on December 22, 2014, 07:29:06 AM
Ah, so you are referring more to the Uber Magni treble being softer as 'warm' rather than fuller bass and soupier.
So are we allowed to publish pics of the new Linear Power Supply for the Fulla? Burns is gonna love it to go with his Macbook and iPad.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 22, 2014, 07:34:43 AM
little bit of both. less lean, fuller in mid/high bass. smoother treble.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: ohhgourami on December 22, 2014, 08:36:07 AM
fuck yes vinyl was good! guitar never sounded so real! sucked my right into the music.
but the can of worms it opens up. no I can't go there....
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: donunus on December 22, 2014, 09:39:22 AM
Okay... Time to buy a magni2 or Uber version then...
Next what about the new Modi2? Same sound as the original except for the higher res capability and more inputs on uber version?
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: shipsupt on December 22, 2014, 03:49:59 PM
The podcast was a riot, great stuff guys! :boom:
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Claritas on December 22, 2014, 05:08:11 PM
Sounds like y'all had a blast. :boom:
Glad the "Yoga-Yogi-Yoda-whatever clones" (XPT100) faired well in the comparo. That peak--not sure it's a peak or if it's just not shelved enough in that region--is why I put felt in front of the driver. Problem solved for routine listening.
So how does Magni 2 uber compare with Asgard 2?
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Azteca X on December 22, 2014, 05:25:37 PM
New Schiit - alright!
Podcast - awesome to hear natural conversation and put voices with names.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: MuppetFace on December 22, 2014, 05:49:08 PM
The Manley Chinook was very nice as a phono-pre. Dynamic and neutral. Might have to put that on my list if I decide to go vinyl, which I really don't, because that opens up another whole can of worms.
The Chinook is one of my favorite phono-pres at its price point.
I actually prefer thinking about vinyl playback systems because the physics involved are so much more tangible for me versus DACs and file formats. I can understand why turntable X sounds better than turntable Y in most cases. They operate on such a macro / Newtonian scale, actually somewhat clumsy all things considered, but the margin for error in reading those grooves is still extremely small. It's like trying to sew while wearing boxing gloves.
Eventually I'd like to do most of my listening on vinyl, but digital will always have a place for me. If anything for the convenience alone.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Clemmaster on December 22, 2014, 06:34:48 PM
Awesome that binaural/daft-punk podcast! I'm glad I left just before, my french accent would have stood out too much :)p8
Just going back to the Yggy quickly: while it is more resolving than the PS-Audio, I also thought it was smoother / less shouty. This is not an attribute I can notice on the UltraLink II when I don't have other references to A/B with, but with the Yggy around, I can notice an improvement all around. Pretty darn good for a modern DAC that retails for less than the PS-Audio in its time. That's PROGRESS, for what it seems to be the first time in decades... Good job Schiit, again!
I would get the Spectral for HD-800, Yggy for HE-6 (especially my "warm" version).
LCD-3F was poo to me. Suffocating sound and rough/grainy treble with not much air. Pretty much what I felt with the LCD-X. The OPPO was good. Very linear, not too mushy but still a warm headphone. Not the greatest soundstage, but still relaxing and enjoyable.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 22, 2014, 07:20:44 PM
They don't make Spectral SDR-2000 anymore, so you need to get the TOTALDAC. You know you need to get TOTALDAC and support France!
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Clemmaster on December 23, 2014, 03:44:58 AM
I'd rather keep both my kidneys and buy American on this one ^^
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Anaxilus on December 23, 2014, 04:00:56 AM
I'd rather keep both my kidneys and buy American on this one ^^
Mais bien sur. Vive Les Etats-Unis!
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: n3rdling on December 23, 2014, 05:12:38 AM
Spectral, nice. Who's is that?
OJ you were a good host on the mic.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Marvey on December 23, 2014, 05:16:36 AM
Belongs to Greed. Hey Greed, can I post your comments you sent to me on it? FWIW, he I heard that preferred the Spectral to his MSB Analog :-)
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: Greed on December 23, 2014, 06:12:48 AM
Wish I could have stayed longer.. had to head back though for a dinner date. No matter, had fun while I was there. Always a pleasure catching up and seeing the crew. Was really impressed with the Ygg, mostly with just how clean it sounded.
@Marv - Sure, go ahead.. and yes I feel the Spectral is better in almost every way versus the MSB. No bragging rights though or fancy case work. Also the need for a good converter is also something to consider.
Title: Re: SoCal Mini-Meet Impressions December 20, 2014
Post by: OJneg on December 23, 2014, 07:25:36 AM
Awesome that binaural/daft-punk podcast! I'm glad I left just before, my french accent would have stood out too much :)p8
Just going back to the Yggy quickly: while it is more resolving than the PS-Audio, I also thought it was smoother / less shouty. This is not an attribute I can notice on the UltraLink II when I don't have other references to A/B with, but with the Yggy around, I can notice an improvement all around. Pretty darn good for a modern DAC that retails for less than the PS-Audio in its time. That's PROGRESS, for what it seems to be the first time in decades... Good job Schiit, again!
I would get the Spectral for HD-800, Yggy for HE-6 (especially my "warm" version).
LCD-3F was poo to me. Suffocating sound and rough/grainy treble with not much air. Pretty much what I felt with the LCD-X. The OPPO was good. Very linear, not too mushy but still a warm headphone. Not the greatest soundstage, but still relaxing and enjoyable.
When you refer to "Oppo" do you mean a stock Oppo or the Audio Zenith (or whatever) "PM-X".
Title: Comparison Notes on Spectral SDR-2000, MSB Analog, Theta Gen V
Post by: Marvey on January 07, 2015, 05:31:59 PM
PM from Greed on Spectral SDR-2000 DAC. I figured I'd copy it here since we've all had a chance to hear these DACs:
Anyways, I've been listening pretty regularly but maybe not as analytical as I'd like to compare or conclude anything solid. I'm really waiting for my Theta to be repaired but it is slow going. It seems like there are more and more things that are complicating the repair. Hopefully by Xmas I'll have the Theta up and running again for comparison.
What I can say is that the Spectral is just as solid, if not more so than the Theta. Build construction is tank-like and I'm actually quite fond of the old retro lighting and styling. In person it is much less fugly and the old styling is subtle which is nice. I also like how this unit is dual chassis with the PSU being external. Not only are sonics improved with this design but it also keeps the heat away because like the Theta, this thing gets pretty damn hot.
In regards to sound, so far I'm liking it quite a bit. Smooth, coherent and liquid sounding. I've noticed that it doesn't have that same slam or "toe-tapping" quality the Theta has, but instead is more understated in terms of presentation. It sort of gets out of your way and just lets the music flow rather than engages you like the Theta. It isn't as fast or dynamic but is more tonally sound in my opinion. It isn't "edgy" like the Theta in that it doesn't give you a smack in the head if you aren't ready. The Theta can be extremely enjoyable but also seems overly aggressive with slower or acoustic tracks like Jazz, Classical, or even some mellow electronic. I enjoy the Theta much more with my speakers and rock. The Spectral seems to be better for headphones. It is also more intimate sounding (don't think closed in, but instead small jazz lounge instead of amphitheater; 3-4 row with the Theta).
That's it so far but at the moment the Spectral is a pleasant surprise. Next meet I catch I'll have to bring it to let everyone hear.
Btw.. using an OR5 with OTL and SPDIF Regs into a JCAT."
To add to that, I see the Spectral as a slightly more resolving and maybe better textured MSB Analog. It has that same ease of presentation, liquidity, and realness of instrumental timbre that sets it apart from most DACs I've heard specifically sabre and most sigma-delta. It also seems to be less grey sounding. The MSB was kind of rosey, murky sounding giving it instant appeal but over time being less and less enjoyable. I'm nitpicking really, because I don't think the MSB is a bad DAC... actually it is one of the most enjoyable DACs I've heard. Incredible resolution, wide and deep soundstage, and such a natural sounding tone and timbre.
Soundstage wise, the Spectral is decently wide but not as 3D or holographic as the Theta. Still it has very good staging with good sense of air and most importantly good depth because I love me some center image. Imaging is precise with a good focus.
Spectral's prime qualities are natural tone/timbre and amazing detail without being in your face like the Bricasti. It doesn't throw things at you but lays them out for you. I can pick up every nuance but in a liquid way. There is a realness without any hash or grain.. really just smooth like a cloud.
I'm still getting acquainted with it so I'll have more later but there you go.