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Hi-Fi Budget stereophile setup V1.0, Lets share...setups & discussions

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TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 02:11 AM, updated 14y ago

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Dear forumers,

Since I have accidentally shared my budget stereophile setup in Edifier Signature Series thread, I think it is more appropriate to put it here.

This thread is intended to share on how we can setup stereophile system without putting a big whole in the wallet using the least amount of $$$. smile.gif The specs below (without power conditioner, Media Source and DACs) cost about RM1k.

Let's start by sharing your specs... smile.gif

- Integrated amplifier: Cambridge Audio Azur 340A SE (2nd hand but still very new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- Bookshelf speakers: PSB Alpha B1 Monitor (2nd hand but still very new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- Speaker cables: Acoustic Research HT Pro Series 16-Gauge (Oxygen-free copper) with banana plugs (brand new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- Interconnects: Cable Talk & QED Qunex 2 Stereo Phono to Phono Interconnects
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- Subwoofer: Mordaunt-Short Carnival 9 subwoofer
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- DACs: Cambridge Audio DacMagic™ (loan unit, still testing before next purchase)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


- Power Conditioners: Bought a 3-gang unit @ Ace Hardware for RM40 with Toroidal Coil (minimize noise)

*** Total amount spent now = RM 1970.00 (Amp+Speakers+Interconnects+Speaker Cables+Banana Plugs). There will be more updates soon... ***

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Dec 30 2010, 10:39 PM
jazzy939
post Nov 15 2010, 07:57 AM

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I think this thread would be similar to this, right?

http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/412500


TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 09:36 AM

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QUOTE(jazzy939 @ Nov 15 2010, 07:57 AM)
I think this thread would be similar to this, right?

http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/412500
*
Luckily the thread you mentioned is only for pictures while this thread is on how you setup your budget stereophile. What do you think? hmm.gif
power911
post Nov 15 2010, 10:55 AM

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http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...post&p=32336890

-NAD302 amp
-Sony SS-D201 speakers
-some average OFC Speaker Cables (which I believe is good)
-some average OFC Interconnects (which is from the same brand that I believe is good)
-PSP or Hippo Gumstick
-Power conditioner? Why should I have them when it already have enough juice to power them up without buzzing or drying out
night
post Nov 15 2010, 11:49 AM

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Thanks bro for the kickstart bro. Looking forward to an even more interesting discussion here.
BCurve
post Nov 15 2010, 12:16 PM

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Computer DVD player = CD player with digital output via USB
Foobar2000 = State of the Art music management system
USB-DAC = Boa
Bose MediaMate = HiFi Speakers, no subwoofer required
Sennheiser HD600 = Good headphones
Yuin Pk2 = Good headphones
Interconnects = all stock cables, less than $1 per 30cm
Line Conditioner = Belkin Surge Protector


I could have taken a photo of these, a picture speaks a thousand words, but that would be one word too many .... laugh.gif

This post has been edited by BCurve: Nov 15 2010, 12:24 PM
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 12:44 PM

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QUOTE(power911 @ Nov 15 2010, 10:55 AM)
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopi...post&p=32336890

-NAD302 amp
-Sony SS-D201 speakers
-some average OFC Speaker Cables (which I believe is good)
-some average OFC Interconnects (which is from the same brand that I believe is good)
-PSP or Hippo Gumstick
-Power conditioner? Why should I have them when it already have enough juice to power them up without buzzing or drying out
*
Nice... maybe I should not buy power conditioner too... tongue.gif
power911
post Nov 15 2010, 01:13 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 15 2010, 12:44 PM)
Nice... maybe I should not buy power conditioner too... tongue.gif
*
that depends on your housing area.
my house power is very good and stable so I don't need them smile.gif
but who knows maybe you need them
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 01:25 PM

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QUOTE(power911 @ Nov 15 2010, 01:13 PM)
that depends on your housing area.
my house power is very good and stable so I don't need them smile.gif
but who knows maybe you need them
*
Not sure about my new place. Shifting in end of this week. Only then, I will know. wink.gif
nicvoo
post Nov 15 2010, 04:50 PM

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well since the thread is named budget dont u think u should at least mention how big is your pocket hole burnt?
E1 - AKG
post Nov 15 2010, 06:37 PM

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QUOTE(nicvoo @ Nov 15 2010, 04:50 PM)
well since the thread is named budget dont u think u should at least mention how big is your pocket hole burnt?
*
rclxms.gif firstly, should define d 'budget' amt. rm4k can b a small amt 4 a big pkt yet a big hole 2 a small pkt. yes, should mentioned $ involved ur setup.

jazzy939
post Nov 15 2010, 07:00 PM

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Correct! After a few years of collection and upgrades.. will cost 'an arm and a leg' tongue.gif
power911
post Nov 15 2010, 07:11 PM

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hmm... if gotta tell budget...

most of my setups are inherited from my dad, so it's extremely free.
plus my dad bought them off second hand so yea.

cables and interconnect costed me RM20
psp costs RM800
gumstick costs RM319 at jaben but I got them bundled so it's ridiculously cheap
probably RM920++ total

This post has been edited by power911: Nov 15 2010, 07:11 PM
jazzy939
post Nov 15 2010, 07:20 PM

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I think let's put the budget quantum as optional lah.. surely we can have a fair idea how much things would costs nowadays.. right?
power911
post Nov 15 2010, 07:40 PM

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QUOTE(jazzy939 @ Nov 15 2010, 07:20 PM)
I think let's put the budget quantum as optional lah.. surely we can have a fair idea how much things would costs nowadays.. right?
*
should say... put them if you could remember the price
if you don't then leave it smile.gif
don't be lazy tongue.gif
BCurve
post Nov 15 2010, 07:57 PM

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budget airline, can be a fraction of premium airlines, sometimes fly free and pay only fuel charges, hence the following;

Speakers $300, fraction of Harbeth Super 5
Amplifier $300, fraction of LFD Integrated Zero
Cables $1 per 30cm
CD player, no money to buy, fed via computer first


jazzy939
post Nov 15 2010, 08:13 PM

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Agreed! In audio its not the destination, but the journey that counts! With low cost airlines, the journey is NOT the same lah compared to full fare, full service airlines, right? wink.gif
ssyycc
post Nov 15 2010, 08:58 PM

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How about the cheapest for a hifi setup. i would say pcm2704 dac, ta2024 t-amp, best diy speaker within rm400. rm100 for the rest.
Rm800 shud kaotim.
jazzy939
post Nov 15 2010, 09:00 PM

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Yes, that I would be agreeable. A T-Amp based system. thumbup.gif
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 10:17 PM

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Agree on all the above. I think I should define it as "cheapest setup possible" ?

The reason why I created this section is because I wanna share with others about how I setup my very first beginner setup using minimal amount of $$$.

From there, we can share with others with tight budget but has the desire to own quality audiophile set.


Added on November 15, 2010, 10:21 pm
QUOTE(night @ Nov 15 2010, 11:49 AM)
Thanks bro for the kickstart bro. Looking forward to an even more interesting discussion here.
*
Thanks to you too for having the interest to know more. Sharing is caring... laugh.gif

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 15 2010, 10:21 PM
BCurve
post Nov 15 2010, 10:22 PM

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QUOTE(jazzy939 @ Nov 15 2010, 08:13 PM)
Agreed! In audio its not the destination, but the journey that counts! With low cost airlines, the journey is NOT the same lah compared to full fare, full service airlines, right? wink.gif
*
with low cost airlines traveling on say between KL and London, you pay for your own makan and video, imagine all you can eat with the savings of say 1000+ bucks, and the leftover is more than enough to buy a dvd player and 10 movies to watch till you fall sick, and a small budget hifi system with some sansa clip pluses .... laugh.gif

and if you fly the same route on budget biz class, you might even get the Harbeth Super 5 for free .... laugh.gif
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 15 2010, 10:22 PM

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QUOTE(BCurve @ Nov 15 2010, 12:16 PM)
Computer DVD player = CD player with digital output via USB
Foobar2000 = State of the Art music management system
USB-DAC = Boa
Bose MediaMate = HiFi Speakers, no subwoofer required
Sennheiser HD600 = Good headphones
Yuin Pk2 = Good headphones
Interconnects = all stock cables, less than $1 per 30cm
Line Conditioner = Belkin Surge Protector
I could have taken a photo of these, a picture speaks a thousand words, but that would be one word too many ....  laugh.gif
*
Bro BCurve, please feel free to show us pics too. A pic will tell us more on your listing, brows.gif
BCurve
post Nov 15 2010, 10:42 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 15 2010, 10:22 PM)
Bro BCurve, please feel free to show us pics too. A pic will tell us more on your listing,  brows.gif
*
but there are photos of what I mentioned in this forum already, if you still haven't seen them all here already, I can try dig them all up and paste them all into a single picture, might look funny though, don't say I didn't warn you .... shocking.gif



after some cutting and pasting, here it is.

This post has been edited by BCurve: Nov 15 2010, 11:14 PM


Attached thumbnail(s)
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TSRayKazansky
post Nov 16 2010, 11:21 AM

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QUOTE(BCurve @ Nov 15 2010, 10:42 PM)
but there are photos of what I mentioned in this forum already, if you still haven't seen them all here already, I can try dig them all up and paste them all into a single picture, might look funny though, don't say I didn't warn you ....  shocking.gif
after some cutting and pasting, here it is.
*
Nice... with Bose lagi! Is that DAC for headphone?


Added on November 16, 2010, 11:25 am
QUOTE(E1 - AKG @ Nov 15 2010, 06:37 PM)
rclxms.gif  firstly, should define d 'budget' amt.  rm4k can b a small amt 4 a big pkt yet a big hole 2 a small pkt.  yes, should mentioned $ involved ur setup.
*
If 4k = small, mine is super small budget liow. Less than RM2.5k. blush.gif

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 16 2010, 11:25 AM
ora-ito
post Nov 16 2010, 11:31 AM

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Probably i've never shared how my setup looks like, so here it goes...

Attached Image

Source: Marantz CD6003
Pre-amp: YaQin MS12-B
Tubes on MS-12B: 2x 12AX7 Mullard (on pre-out stage), 2x 12AX7 JJ Gold Pin (phono stage)
Power Amp: Quad 306
Speakers: Unity Audio 2.5 way floorstanders

Cables
Pre-amp to CDP: Audioquest King Cobra
Pre-amp to Power amp: Ixos 101 with WBT termination
Power amp to speakers: GOERTZ M1 Audiophile
CDP power cable: (DIY) Belden 19364 + MK Red Plug + Schurter IEC
Pre-amp power cable: (DIY) Belden 19364 + MK Red Plug + Schurter IEC
Power amp power cable: (DIY) Belden 83803 + MK Red plug + Schurter IEC

Estimated damage: ~ Rm9k this excludes the journey or audiophile road trip to this setup
BCurve
post Nov 16 2010, 11:51 AM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 16 2010, 11:21 AM)
Nice... with Bose lagi! Is that DAC for headphone?
computer audio output to DAC via USB, output from DAC goes into Bose speakers mostly and once in a blue moon to headphones.

This post has been edited by BCurve: Nov 16 2010, 12:41 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 16 2010, 12:10 PM

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If everything is either inherited, second hand, diy. Then actually it's quite easy to get good sound. Anyone tried that before?? Go to get those old old amp, vintage speaker...and even turntable.

This post has been edited by ssyycc: Nov 16 2010, 12:16 PM
jazzy939
post Nov 16 2010, 03:21 PM

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I am having vintage system! All bought in the 80's & 90's, none are 2000+ models wink.gif

This post has been edited by jazzy939: Nov 16 2010, 07:12 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 16 2010, 04:03 PM

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QUOTE(jazzy939 @ Nov 16 2010, 03:21 PM)
I am having vintage system! All bought in the 80's & 90's, non are 2000+ models wink.gif
*
Hehe , indirectly it expose your age. But what do you generally about vintage system vs modern one , ok we talk about budget system here?

TSRayKazansky
post Nov 16 2010, 04:14 PM

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QUOTE(ora-ito @ Nov 16 2010, 11:31 AM)
Probably i've never shared how my setup looks like, so here it goes...

Attached Image

Source: Marantz CD6003
Pre-amp: YaQin MS12-B
Tubes on MS-12B: 2x 12AX7 Mullard (on pre-out stage), 2x 12AX7 JJ Gold Pin (phono stage)
Power Amp: Quad 306
Speakers: Unity Audio 2.5 way floorstanders

Cables
Pre-amp to CDP: Audioquest King Cobra
Pre-amp to Power amp: Ixos 101 with WBT termination
Power amp to speakers: GOERTZ M1 Audiophile
CDP power cable: (DIY) Belden 19364 + MK Red Plug + Schurter IEC
Pre-amp power cable: (DIY) Belden 19364 + MK Red Plug + Schurter IEC
Power amp power cable: (DIY) Belden 83803 + MK Red plug + Schurter IEC

Estimated damage: ~ Rm9k this excludes the journey or audiophile road trip to this setup
*
Boss, this is not budget system liow. rclxub.gif

My pocket super shallow cannot follow u, hahaha... thanks for sharing this setup thumbup.gif

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 16 2010, 04:20 PM
BCurve
post Nov 16 2010, 06:57 PM

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here, more old stuff that nobody wants .... laugh.gif

This post has been edited by BCurve: Nov 16 2010, 06:59 PM


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jazzy939
post Nov 16 2010, 07:11 PM

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BCurve,
I want!! I want! laugh.gif
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post Nov 16 2010, 07:15 PM

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QUOTE(BCurve @ Nov 16 2010, 06:57 PM)
here, more old stuff that nobody wants ....  laugh.gif
*
i definitely want that turntable and old speakers..lol
jazzy939
post Nov 16 2010, 07:38 PM

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I take the 'Dragon' and the super duper NS1000. TQ wink.gif
BCurve
post Nov 16 2010, 07:46 PM

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QUOTE(jazzy939 @ Nov 16 2010, 07:38 PM)
I take the 'Dragon' and the super duper NS1000. TQ wink.gif
*
oh, the photo is still too big ah .... laugh.gif

TSRayKazansky
post Nov 21 2010, 01:16 AM

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After days of setting up the new place... finally I can enjoy a little bit with my cheapo stuffs...

My colleague passed me his Velodyne Impact Mini to test and I like it. The knob for adjusting frequency can be seen clearly and the small size woofer is powerful! drool.gif

What kind of woofer do you guys using/recommend? I prefer something not too punchy... and natural

Looks like the "Belkin Gold Series 7" surge protector comes with Toroidal Noise Filter. Is it as good as those found in Tacima or Furutech?

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 21 2010, 01:22 AM
hushymushy
post Nov 21 2010, 10:25 AM

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Belkin surge protection is not a power conditioner.
thats number one....
second.....its just a power extension with some surge features......

dont mix it up with power conditioning

simplicity to hifi is wat ur pocket can afford and wat is best within ur budget

having said that.....basics have to be taken into consideration

size of the room, actual listening space, type of music and so on
there is no one complete for all budget system

to make things more basic

you definitely need a source....
can be either CDP or any multimedia player or even internet radio
always remember about source.....garbage in means garbage out

second....u need an amplifier and a pair of speakers
and i meant the right amplification specs to the right sound speakers
also do note about types of speaker limitations

bookshelves generally will cut off the low frequencies faster and more than often at 50Hz and above
floorstanders typically cut off a highpass at 30Hz and above

so the questions about sub.....u may need one...but its more a compensation from 20hz to ur speaker highpass points...
and it takes alot of time to tune the speed, phase and synchronization

its all about tonal balance first.....
transparency and whatever other technical terms u hear.....let me just say this...until u get ur tonal balance....forget about the rest first

budget allocation
your amp cost is equal to ur cdp and is equal to ur speakers
meaning generally, to have a good guideline to look at easier compatibility, for example:

CDP: RM1000
Amp:RM1000
Speakers: RM1000

Cables: 10% to 15% of RM3000
Stands

power filter is not a immediate requirement
get the right basic setup and it goes a long way
with right proper basics in place, it will make an expesive poorly setup system very very shy

Why spend on cables??? bcoz your system is as good as its weakest link
i'm not asking you to spend alot on cables, but there will be certain spending to make sure you dont have the cables as the weakest link.

i hope all this helps....

it is imparitive that budget beginners understand what is all this before making hasty wasteful buys that end up with out the results


TSRayKazansky
post Nov 22 2010, 01:06 AM

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Thanks ...hushymushy many good tips there smile.gif . Does that mean, if i get power-cond (in future) like Tacima CS929, will it helps on surge protection as well? I am a bit confused.

Just to share further on my testing. Tested last few days using normal 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male jack type of cable and my speakers sounded as if someone covered it with cloth! I then use back my colleague's J2J QED cable and got back the clarity and live-kind of quality. I think my system is abit sensitive sweat.gif (sorry, beginner's remarks)

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 22 2010, 01:09 AM
hushymushy
post Nov 22 2010, 08:26 PM

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power filters, conditioners and etc may or can destroy the dynamics of ur tonality
proceed with caution...

as to cables....its a yes and no thing about branded cables
its just the material of the cable and how good is the termination

i myself am not using any ultra expensive cables....
its not even 10% of my system...
like i said..its all about tonal matching....


Added on November 22, 2010, 8:36 pm
QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 22 2010, 01:06 AM)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

Thanks ...hushymushy many good tips there smile.gif . Does that mean, if i get power-cond (in future) like Tacima CS929, will it helps on surge protection as well? I am a bit confused.

Just to share further on my testing. Tested last few days using normal 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male jack type of cable and my speakers sounded as if someone covered it with cloth! I then use back my colleague's J2J QED cable and got back the clarity and live-kind of quality. I think my system is abit sensitive  sweat.gif (sorry, beginner's remarks)
*
first of all....have u seen how bad is your home power?
second......putting a power filter may incur more harm....bcoz it filters.....so means there will be certain power limitations
third....few types out there.....passive and active.....
if u ask me......unless u find that your music background is not black enough and has distortion noise, I wont put in a power filter

instead...i will focus from the in-coming power
meaning from the fuse box onwards...

wat i did was from the fuse box....i put in a good fuse box, copper connectors
good fuses, screened power cables from the fuse point to my hifi power termination, good termination points like furutech
change the hifi fuses to cryo fuses
power cables to the hifi system

there is no point just doing it at the last mile as the filter has alot of work to do and it may generate more noise.....

This post has been edited by hushymushy: Nov 22 2010, 08:36 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 22 2010, 10:27 PM

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hushymushy, very very good opinion you have there, never thinking filter might harm my system. BUt for sure after changing those fuse and termination, it might not be a budget system anymore.
hushymushy
post Nov 22 2010, 10:44 PM

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well.......cyro fuses is the last mile...and so is the power cords
thats y from the house main fuse box to the hifi point would be a great bargain

good quality screened power cables are not that expensive....
and u find that later down ur upgrading process, u dont hv to redo ur power cables from the mains....


power911
post Nov 22 2010, 11:11 PM

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@hushymushy

wow! the fuse thing actually worked XD
less buzzing now thumbup.gif
ys2719
post Nov 23 2010, 11:20 AM

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- Integrated amplifier: Cambridge Audio Azur 340A SE (2nd hand but still very new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


Hey dude, mind to share how much n wher do u get tis amp? i plan to bring in tis amp wif Cambridge S30. =)
hushymushy
post Nov 23 2010, 11:52 AM

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QUOTE(power911 @ Nov 22 2010, 11:11 PM)
@hushymushy

wow! the fuse thing actually worked XD
less buzzing now thumbup.gif
*
which fuse did you replace?
actually there's alot of things where u can do to rectify the noise problem....
like dedicated fuse at the fuse box for ur hifi....
all these are not expensive solutions
power911
post Nov 23 2010, 12:22 PM

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QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 23 2010, 11:52 AM)
which fuse did you replace?
actually there's alot of things where u can do to rectify the noise problem....
like dedicated fuse at the fuse box for ur hifi....
all these are not expensive solutions
*
I dunno lol. I just replaced with something a little more expensive and things get real quiet now XD
probably the previous fuse is dying tongue.gif

oh... I replaced the ones in the fuse box at the home power

This post has been edited by power911: Nov 23 2010, 12:23 PM
boomber
post Nov 23 2010, 12:24 PM

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QUOTE(ys2719 @ Nov 23 2010, 11:20 AM)
- Integrated amplifier: Cambridge Audio Azur 340A SE (2nd hand but still very new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


Hey dude, mind to share how much n wher do u get tis amp? i plan to bring in tis amp wif Cambridge S30. =)
*
How much is that? If I not mistaken the market price is around RM1K for a new unit, you can check with CMY since they are the distributor. The thing is I audited this before and found that the sound lack of body and kinda bright, need to pair with a proper speaker.

My advise is, if you plan to get 2nd hand stuff, why don't you try to get 1 step high for better flexibility? 340 kinda lack of power to drive full size bookshelf for detail presentation.
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 23 2010, 01:56 PM

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QUOTE(ys2719 @ Nov 23 2010, 11:20 AM)
- Integrated amplifier: Cambridge Audio Azur 340A SE (2nd hand but still very new)
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


Hey dude, mind to share how much n wher do u get tis amp? i plan to bring in tis amp wif Cambridge S30. =)
*
I got it from my boss, after he upgraded to Naim. RM 5xx.00. It works well with the PSB speakers (I prefer warm type of speakers)


Added on November 23, 2010, 2:01 pm
QUOTE(boomber @ Nov 23 2010, 12:24 PM)
How much is that? If I not mistaken the market price is around RM1K for a new unit, you can check with CMY since they are the distributor. The thing is I audited this before and found that the sound lack of body and kinda bright, need to pair with a proper speaker.

My advise is, if you plan to get 2nd hand stuff, why don't you try to get 1 step high for better flexibility? 340 kinda lack of power to drive full size bookshelf for detail presentation.
*
Well, actually I just wanted to get Edifier set. But since my boss wanna sell to me, I just sapu from him cheap cheap as it is very new.

340's power is just right for me as I do not like to listen to music too loud. Still,... i find it powerful for me. sweat.gif

I am now hooking the set to Velodyne Impact Mini (boss let me use temporarily) - not bad but still i need to place the sub at proper place.
» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «


This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 23 2010, 02:02 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 23 2010, 02:16 PM

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QUOTE(boomber @ Nov 23 2010, 12:24 PM)
How much is that? If I not mistaken the market price is around RM1K for a new unit, you can check with CMY since they are the distributor. The thing is I audited this before and found that the sound lack of body and kinda bright, need to pair with a proper speaker.

My advise is, if you plan to get 2nd hand stuff, why don't you try to get 1 step high for better flexibility? 340 kinda lack of power to drive full size bookshelf for detail presentation.
*
That's was on my buying list when I started my budget system. But dodge it and end up with 315Bee NAD integrated. NAD almost same power rating with the CA 340 but NAD has the dynamic power up to 100w. Nad is warm and has solid, well defined bass.

I have auditioned CA higher range amp , for sure they sound nice but NAD overall build quality is better. Of course different paring with speaker will have different result.

This post has been edited by ssyycc: Nov 23 2010, 02:22 PM
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 23 2010, 05:24 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 23 2010, 02:16 PM)
That's was on my buying list when I started my budget system. But dodge it and end up with 315Bee NAD integrated. NAD almost same power rating with the CA 340 but NAD has the dynamic power up to 100w. Nad is warm and has solid, well defined bass.

I have auditioned CA higher range amp , for sure they sound nice but NAD overall build quality is better. Of course different paring with speaker will have different result.
*
Looks like Nad is good buy too... brows.gif
power911
post Nov 23 2010, 07:06 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 23 2010, 02:16 PM)
That's was on my buying list when I started my budget system. But dodge it and end up with 315Bee NAD integrated. NAD almost same power rating with the CA 340 but NAD has the dynamic power up to 100w. Nad is warm and has solid, well defined bass.

I have auditioned CA higher range amp , for sure they sound nice but NAD overall build quality is better. Of course different paring with speaker will have different result.
*
pair with wrong speakers and you'll get ridiculously sharp piercing trebles that could bleed your ears
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post Nov 23 2010, 07:54 PM

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ray,

i would not put the speakers on the TV cabinet
i would go for a proper stand
secondly, the speakers are too close to the wall....thats y ur bass is lacking
power911
post Nov 23 2010, 08:18 PM

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QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 23 2010, 07:54 PM)
ray,

i would not put the speakers on the TV cabinet
i would go for a proper stand
secondly, the speakers are too close to the wall....thats y ur bass is lacking
*
agree...

proper stands must be solidly built or the results will be crappy and worthless (might as well put it back on the table XD)
proper stands give an advantage to widen your soundstage by placing the speakers further apart icon_rolleyes.gif
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 23 2010, 10:44 PM

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I totally agree to both of you as I am still searching for a pair of stands. blush.gif
hushymushy
post Nov 24 2010, 11:14 AM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 23 2010, 10:44 PM)
I totally agree to both of you as I am still searching for a pair of stands. blush.gif
*
recommend u to go amcorp mall, level 1
there's a shop called ATS Racks
they sell all sorts of racks

good place to hunt for speaker stands
ssyycc
post Nov 24 2010, 02:21 PM

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QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 24 2010, 11:14 AM)
recommend u to go amcorp mall, level 1
there's a shop called ATS Racks
they sell all sorts of racks

good place to hunt for speaker stands
*
I have search thru the mall for stand. Just warn you that good stand is not cheap. You get what you pay for.
hushymushy
post Nov 24 2010, 03:20 PM

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it will cause few hundred bucks...tats for sure
original sonus faber stands goes at few k
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 24 2010, 05:07 PM

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Looks like again I need to find a good second-hand item now - stand.
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post Nov 24 2010, 05:46 PM

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QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 24 2010, 03:20 PM)
it will cause few hundred bucks...tats for sure
original sonus faber stands goes at few k
*
and you will definitely need a lounge chair to listen to these expensive stands, like this Eames, about usd5000 only ....


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TSRayKazansky
post Nov 24 2010, 06:46 PM

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QUOTE(BCurve @ Nov 24 2010, 05:46 PM)
and you will definitely need a lounge chair to listen to these expensive stands, like this Eames, about usd5000 only ....
drool.gif

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 24 2010, 06:48 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 30 2010, 11:29 AM

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Ah suddenly remember I read something like hanging a carpet on the wall for sound treatment. It's consider a budget set up gua. hehe, for sure your wife or gf will against this.
power911
post Nov 30 2010, 11:43 AM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 30 2010, 11:29 AM)
Ah suddenly remember I read something like hanging a carpet on the wall for sound treatment. It's consider a budget set up gua. hehe, for sure your wife or gf will against this.
*
if carpet doesn't work for your family, get curtains. it work pretty well too (of course, get the thick ones. not the cheapo thin ones)

This post has been edited by power911: Nov 30 2010, 11:44 AM
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 30 2010, 02:09 PM

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How about this? We can paint it with colours. Seen some bar/pub setups with this thing on the ceilings. tongue.gif

For carpet, wife will skin me alive for sure... icon_question.gif
user posted image

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 30 2010, 02:10 PM
ssyycc
post Nov 30 2010, 02:29 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 30 2010, 02:09 PM)
How about this? We can paint it with colours. Seen some bar/pub setups with this thing on the ceilings. tongue.gif

For carpet, wife will skin me alive for sure...  icon_question.gif
user posted image
*
Those eggs tray like, is so cheap can collect from pasar. RM10 can fill your living room liao. But really doesnt look nice even in colour. Then our house like chicken farm liao.
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post Nov 30 2010, 03:45 PM

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becareful about putting this items for room acoustics treatment
the right place and right material will give u a very good performance
but on the hand....wrong placement can kill your sound wave....
and some can do cancellation...
so proceed with caution....
i have yet to perform this.....
but it is definitely my last step in some of these acoustic treatment
i have some but very very basic stuffs like curtains on glass panels....
some absorbtion pads behind...but thats about it
havent reach the level to tell the room acoustics is totally out...little bit maybe
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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 30 2010, 02:29 PM)
Those eggs tray like, is so cheap can collect from pasar. RM10 can fill your living room liao. But really doesnt look nice even in colour. Then our house like chicken farm liao.
*
LOL rclxms.gif
TSRayKazansky
post Nov 30 2010, 08:40 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 30 2010, 02:29 PM)
Those eggs tray like, is so cheap can collect from pasar. RM10 can fill your living room liao. But really doesnt look nice even in colour. Then our house like chicken farm liao.
*
"Budget chicken farm" some more... (dun forget the word "budget") laugh.gif


Added on November 30, 2010, 8:43 pm
QUOTE(hushymushy @ Nov 30 2010, 03:45 PM)
becareful about putting this items for room acoustics treatment
the right place and right material will give u a very good performance
but on the hand....wrong placement can kill your sound wave....
and some can do cancellation...
so proceed with caution....
i have yet to perform this.....
but it is definitely my last step in some of these acoustic treatment
i have some but very very basic stuffs like curtains on glass panels....
some absorbtion pads behind...but thats about it
havent reach the level to tell the room acoustics is totally out...little bit maybe
*
If putting statement like zis... sure your setup vely the cun 1 (cant wait to see the items). Any pic? brows.gif

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Nov 30 2010, 08:43 PM
E1 - AKG
post Nov 30 2010, 08:47 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Nov 30 2010, 08:40 PM)
"Budget chicken farm" some more... (dun forget the word "budget")  laugh.gif


Added on November 30, 2010, 8:43 pm
If putting statement like zis... sure your setup vely the cun 1 (cant wait to see the items). Any pic? brows.gif
*
b real careful wif egg trays & even d so call acoustic sponge / foam, unless fire rated these stuff once lighted it'll keep burning till its done, including ur hse! u can always take a small piece of d so call acoustic foam & jz light it & u'll noe wat i mean nod.gif

user posted image
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post Dec 1 2010, 01:57 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Nov 30 2010, 11:29 AM)
Ah suddenly remember I read something like hanging a carpet on the wall for sound treatment. It's consider a budget set up gua. hehe, for sure your wife or gf will against this.
*
for a start, these carpets better be more than 100 years old, otherwise the other option is to lined all the walls, ceiling and flooring in the listening area with doormats, and you need at least 3 layers because 4 would be one too many ....

ssyycc
post Dec 1 2010, 02:21 PM

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QUOTE(BCurve @ Dec 1 2010, 01:57 PM)
for a start, these carpets better be more than 100 years old, otherwise the other option is to lined all the walls, ceiling and flooring in the listening area with doormats, and you need at least 3 layers because 4 would be one too many ....
*
Where to find 100 years old carpets... emm i like the idea with doormats but what is the material preferred?
power911
post Dec 1 2010, 02:30 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Dec 1 2010, 02:21 PM)
Where to find 100 years old carpets... emm i like the idea with doormats but what is the material preferred?
*
i found some 80 year old bankrupt price stocks XD
looks fugly to me
BCurve
post Dec 1 2010, 02:55 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Dec 1 2010, 02:21 PM)
Where to find 100 years old carpets... emm i like the idea with doormats but what is the material preferred?
*
just go to a shop that sells carpets, tell them you are interested in a few Persians, like 20 pieces ....
rxy
post Dec 17 2010, 02:34 PM

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This thread has been inactive for quite some time..
Ray,what you did to ur setup recently?
TSRayKazansky
post Dec 17 2010, 03:14 PM

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QUOTE(rxy @ Dec 17 2010, 02:34 PM)
This thread has been inactive for quite some time..
Ray,what you did to ur setup recently?
*
Oh yeah, been busy with new place still smile.gif

Just to update further on some tests done with the assistance of my boss. He supplies the items for testing.

I've tested the following items and do notice my remarks in bracket.

Tested with:
- Creative Zen MP3 player (MP3 sounds bad, but WAV is good... all through the MP3 jack on the AMP with QED J2J cable)
- Older Sony Discman (sound is not bad, acceptable, with QED J2J cable)
- Older Samsung DVD player with HDMI ( unbearable quality sad.gif with my cable talk RCA )
- Shangling dedicated CD player with BurrBrown DAC (sounds solid and fuller, with cable talk RCA)
- CA DacMagic (yesterday) with Popcorn hour A200 (digital music - sounds far more perfect than the Shangling dedicated CD player... can u believe that???)

Those are the tests conducted with my humble cheapo setup, and due to this, I am cancelling my purchase of CD/BD player because I can play lossless format like WAV, FLAC,.... better than CD player.

All tests conducted with a simple Denon Master Audiophile CD (a.k.a Audiophile Voices).

What really impresses me was that the DacMagic enabled me to hear the sound that cannot be produced by other items and yet, the songs are ripped to WAV and not from CD!

Can Wolfson DAC be so good? hmm.gif

Looks like I need to buy over the DacMagic from my colleague sweat.gif
ssyycc
post Dec 17 2010, 03:18 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Dec 17 2010, 03:14 PM)
Oh yeah, been busy with new place still smile.gif

Just to update further on some tests done with the assistance of my boss. He supplies the items for testing.

I've tested the following items and do notice my remarks in bracket.

Tested with:
- Creative Zen MP3 player (MP3 sounds bad, but WAV is good... all through the MP3 jack on the AMP with QED J2J cable)
- Older Sony Discman (sound is not bad, acceptable, with QED J2J cable)
- Older Samsung DVD player with HDMI ( unbearable quality sad.gif with my cable talk RCA )
- Shangling dedicated CD player with BurrBrown DAC (sounds solid and fuller, with cable talk RCA)
- CA DacMagic (yesterday) with Popcorn hour A200 (digital music - sounds far more perfect than the Shangling dedicated CD player... can u believe that???)

Those are the tests conducted with my humble cheapo setup, and due to this, I am cancelling my purchase of CD/BD player because I can play lossless format like WAV, FLAC,.... better than CD player.

All tests conducted with a simple Denon Master Audiophile CD (a.k.a Audiophile Voices).

What really impresses me was that the DacMagic enabled me to hear the sound that cannot be produced by other items and yet, the songs are ripped to WAV and not from CD!

Can Wolfson DAC be so good?  hmm.gif

Looks like I need to buy over the DacMagic from my colleague sweat.gif
*
Have you tried other DAC compare to this CA Dac Magic?? You did some great testing there. Thanks for sharing.

TSRayKazansky
post Dec 17 2010, 03:34 PM

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QUOTE(ssyycc @ Dec 17 2010, 03:18 PM)
Have you tried other DAC compare to this CA Dac Magic?? You did some great testing there. Thanks for sharing.
*
You are welcome...I would love to try out TubeMagic D1 DAC by Mav Audio... but none of my friends have it. TubeMagic D1 DAC could be my next purchase.

Oh yea, I forgot to mention that my colleague's Velodyne Impact Mini is sitting in my apartment. Love to have sub as well.

This post has been edited by RayKazansky: Dec 17 2010, 03:36 PM
rxy
post Dec 17 2010, 03:50 PM

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QUOTE(RayKazansky @ Dec 17 2010, 03:34 PM)
You are welcome...I would love to try out TubeMagic D1 DAC by Mav Audio... but none of my friends have it.  TubeMagic D1 DAC could be my next purchase.

Oh yea, I forgot to mention that my colleague's Velodyne Impact Mini is sitting in my apartment. Love to have sub as well.
*
Where is ur location?
I know one fren has it..
TSRayKazansky
post Dec 17 2010, 04:40 PM

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My location is SS2. That guy is willing to let me test?
rxy
post Dec 17 2010, 06:52 PM

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PJ SS2?
Or Subang SS2?
Haha..I guess should not be a big deal..
Talk in PM?
TSRayKazansky
post Dec 17 2010, 11:32 PM

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QUOTE(rxy @ Dec 17 2010, 06:52 PM)
PJ SS2?
Or Subang SS2?
Haha..I guess should not be a big deal..
Talk in PM?
*
PJ, SS2... sure, feel free to PM smile.gif
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post Dec 30 2010, 01:50 PM

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My setup:
Nubert nuBox 380. Great bookshelf speakers, very analytic and linear sound. Were meant to be used with a ABL which further flattens the frequency response and extends it down to 41 Hz at -3dB (without it's 58-20000 Hz +- 3 dB). I've simulated the device on my computer which is also the source. Don't have a subwoofer cause really for music it's not really needed, and it would have to go way below 40 Hz to make sense. Bought them as "second choice" -> cheaper (still new though). They measure the speakers again before selling them to make sure they sound exactly as they should. The quality standard at Nubert is so high that I really couldn't find any visual damage to the speakers though. Regular price is 180 € each (RM 730), paid 160 € (RM 650).

NAD Model 140 (one of the earliest NADs, where they were still called New Acoustic Dimension and had that on the faceplate. Mine was built 1974). Paid 60 €, so about RM 250. Nice warm sound, good bass (a small Yamaha AV receiver with my speakers sounds a bit thin) powerful enough for my speakers. Only problem is that there is noise in the background.

Source is a HTPC with an Audiotrak Prodigy 7.1.
TSRayKazansky
post Dec 31 2010, 02:28 AM

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QUOTE(kadajawi @ Dec 30 2010, 01:50 PM)
My setup:
Nubert nuBox 380. Great bookshelf speakers, very analytic and linear sound. Were meant to be used with a ABL which further flattens the frequency response and extends it down to 41 Hz at -3dB (without it's 58-20000 Hz +- 3 dB). I've simulated the device on my computer which is also the source. Don't have a subwoofer cause really for music it's not really needed, and it would have to go way below 40 Hz to make sense. Bought them as "second choice" -> cheaper (still new though). They measure the speakers again before selling them to make sure they sound exactly as they should. The quality standard at Nubert is so high that I really couldn't find any visual damage to the speakers though. Regular price is 180 € each (RM 730), paid 160 € (RM 650).

NAD Model 140 (one of the earliest NADs, where they were still called New Acoustic Dimension and had that on the faceplate. Mine was built 1974). Paid 60 €, so about RM 250. Nice warm sound, good bass (a small Yamaha AV receiver with my speakers sounds a bit thin) powerful enough for my speakers. Only problem is that there is noise in the background.

Source is a HTPC with an Audiotrak Prodigy 7.1.
*
First time hearing the speaker brand. Looks like you are one of the sifoos here, bro! notworthy.gif Any pic?

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