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1: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Enormous Harmonic Distortion with Magnepan (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2023-10-11, 09:49:54 (147.92.90.38)
I have owned the .5 and 1.5 Magnepans and never experienced what you described. The 1.5 just by their increased size over the .5 has more bass but I always had a Velodyne HGS-12 Series II connected an .......
2: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: ML had a great run due to Tweeter Hifi before they went out of business (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2023-06-14, 13:41:50 (147.92.90.38)
That is true. Martin Logans are found at my local Best Buy here in the San Jose area. .......
3: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Recommendations for high power power amps? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2022-07-09, 20:56:04 (147.92.90.38)
Having heard and owned both, you will never get the Magnepans as loud as the Klipsch. But the IIIas will need at least 150+ watts to make them sing. I used both Class AB and Class D amps and both can .......
4: Speaker Asylum, RE: Sub SVS selection: help me decide? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2021-06-11, 12:17:49 (147.92.90.100)
I own an SVS SB2000Pro in my home theater/2 channel room. It can keep up with my Velodyne HGS-12. My home theater room is slightly larger 14x20 with vaulted ceiling going from 8'-16' high. Has no prob .......
5: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Rotel RB-1562 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2021-06-03, 20:43:20 (147.92.90.100)
I owned the Rotel RB-1565, the five channel version of this. I agree it was fine for home theater but sounded flat and two-dimensional with music. I ended up powering the front two channels with a Mar .......
6: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: In memory of Al Sekela (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2021-05-21, 10:47:35 (147.92.90.100)
Definitely agree. I miss Al and all the useful information he provided to this forum. .......
7: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: BGT battery drain (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2021-03-25, 10:20:35 (147.92.90.90)
I check mine with a voltmeter to determine if the battery still has a charge. I am using the 6V lantern battery version. The batteries still have a 6V charge even after over 5 years of use. ::: TOPIC: .......
8: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Yes, it does. The link works just fine for me. Thank you. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2021-03-15, 22:54:21 (147.92.90.225)
Yes, time is flying by. My father passed away coming five years ago. I miss Stu as well. Really nice person and always was very helpful. .......
9: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Class D (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2020-03-28, 18:53:23 (147.92.90.167)
Happy with my Class D Audio amp used to biamp my KEF XQ5s. I have a Nuforce multichannel amp running the other channels in my home theater. My wife and I enjoy the sound these amps produce. Especially .......
10: General Asylum, RE: My first CDP was a Yamaha CD-X1 ... sounded pretty terrible (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2019-10-08, 14:56:40 (147.92.90.135)
My first player was a Magnavox FD2040 back in 1985. Went through a number of players until my current Marantz DV9600. And even my Marantz is getting old. .......
11: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Class D sds-470 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2019-06-22, 17:09:09 (147.92.90.135)
I agree with you that this is one great sounding amp. Have mine about a year as well. Using it to run a pair of KEF XQ5s in biamp mode. .......
12: Vintage Asylum, RE: Vintage Eye Candy (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2019-04-02, 19:21:39 (147.92.90.135)
I will have to check that place out next time I am in Sacramento visiting family. .......
13: Video Asylum, RE: Biggest Improvement in HT Sound: Going to Separates (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2019-03-26, 22:30:32 (147.92.90.135)
I would also agree. Once I replaced my top-of-line Pioneer Elite HT receiver with separates, I never looked back. Separates is the only way to go in HT for clear speech, a powerful presentation with d .......
14: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Class D vs Class AB - Looking for best used budget amplifier for Magnepan MG12 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2019-01-15, 09:36:55 (147.92.90.135)
I have owned several Magnepans over the years, 0.5, 1.5 and IIIas, I used a Parasound HCA-1205A with each of them and each sounded very good. I eventually used a modified Carver M-1.0t amp which gave .......
15: Speaker Asylum, RE: Klipcsh Heresy II Hot Rodded! Teaser! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-10-12, 20:08:23 (147.92.90.135)
I used to owned a set of Heresy IIs and they never looked that good! Great job on the modifications! .......
16: Speaker Asylum, RE: My choice, SEALED? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-06-13, 21:27:45 (147.92.90.135)
I am very happy with my stereo set of Velodyne HGS subs. .......
17: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Nice sounding amp... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-06-08, 11:04:24 (207.114.205.170)
If it hasn't been shipped out already, I am across the bay in Fremont, and could pick up this weekend. PM me. .......
18: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Best Class D I heard was NuForce.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-06-07, 16:39:59 (207.114.205.170)
I recently acquired a Nuforce MCA30 as a warranty exchange for their MCA20 that was giving me trouble with a large pop sound infrequently upon shut down. The MCA30 doesn't exhibit this problem and is .......
19: Shady Lane, RE: I also had very good experience with TMR (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-06-01, 14:58:59 (207.114.205.170)
Same here. TMR was easy to work with and have great used products that I have purchased. Looking at the BBB site, seems the issue with the customer and TMR has been resolved. .......
20: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Do you already have non powered sub or subs (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-25, 10:00:04 (207.114.205.170)
A powered sub is the only way to go. Better integration with your mains. Years ago I used a passive sub with a stereo amp (Yamaha) and it didn't integrate well with my mains. At the time were Klipsch .......
21: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: How reliable are these amps (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-21, 16:03:10 (207.114.205.170)
I am definitely not returning the SDS470. It is a really good sounding amp and built very well. Comparing it to my Nuforce MCA20 and now Nuforce MCA30, the SDS470 still wins by a large margin by my ea .......
22: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: How reliable are these amps (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-18, 16:23:51 (207.114.205.170)
I just received an email from Tom Ross, owner of Class D Audio. He said the warranty is three years parts and labor. But he said because of the way he does things, he will repair any amp for original .......
23: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-15, 21:29:22 (147.92.90.135)
Just checked voltage output on my Marantz AV7702 using XLRs. It is 2.4 volts. More than enough as you stated for 2.0 volts for the amp. The Marantz also has a variable output control that I can use if .......
24: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-15, 12:28:08 (207.114.205.170)
I use the balanced outputs on my preamp. More than enough power output. Much more than my Nuforce which uses unbalanced at produces 150 watts/channel. The difference in levels between the two is 11 dB .......
25: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-14, 13:42:13 (207.114.205.170)
I am using a Marantz AV7702 preamp that was used for my review. Works great with the Class D Audio amp. .......
26: Video Asylum, RE: go to pbs.org to stream (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-11, 14:07:49 (207.114.205.170)
Also as a resident in Northern California and specifically in the SF Bay Area, I used to have Xfinity (Comcast) and used their DVR. I didn't like their DVR because the fan almost never turns off and i .......
27: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-05-04, 22:01:47 (147.92.90.135)
Glad to hear that I am not the only one that experienced that this amp is spouse friendly. Was listening to iHeart radio earlier and still am blown away of the sound this amp can produce. And listeni .......
28: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-28, 22:10:28 (147.92.90.135)
Dman, Can you believe I now have to compete with my spouse for amp time! She likes the SDS-470 so much that she is playing her music almost as much as I am. Good thing we enjoy similar music. She is n .......
29: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-26, 16:07:35 (207.114.205.170)
Just received a message from Tom stating that my amp does not have this cap mod. I am still very satisfied with the amp as it is. This is definitely one of the best sounding amps I have ever heard reg .......
30: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-26, 12:02:20 (207.114.205.170)
Mick, Yes, I saw that capacitor mode and need to ask Tom at Class D Audio if he may have done this already. Bobwire on the other forum suggested to Tom that he should do this to all of the SDS-470 amp .......
31: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-26, 11:59:26 (207.114.205.170)
For the four channel version, it is around $1000 shipped. Got it on sale during their promo. $700 is for the two channel version of the same amp. Couldn't edit the price that was defaulted in the revi .......
32: Amp/Preamp Asylum, REVIEW: Class D Audio SDS-470C Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-25, 20:25:35 (147.92.90.135)
Model: SDS-470C Category: Amplifier (SS) Suggested Retail Price: $695 Description: Stereo Power Amplifier Manufacturer URL: Class D Audio Review by slbenz on April 25, 2018 at 20:25:35 .......
33: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: How many of you have bypassed your fuses? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-25, 12:10:23 (207.114.205.170)
Removed mine on my two pairs of IIIas. Never any issues. .......
34: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Mye Sound Stands (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-24, 13:37:18 (207.114.205.170)
Makes a big difference in sound coherence, especially with bass. Very easy to install or remove. But you will never want to remove them! I have two sets of IIIas, and did an impromptu comparison. The .......
35: Shady Lane, RE: hifiheaven- a scam site? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-18, 20:35:11 (147.92.90.135)
Purchased from them a couple of times in the past four years. No issues whatsoever. Even called them and their staff is very friendly and informative. Recently purchased a Nuforce multichannel amp fro .......
36: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: New power cord for my Amp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-13, 20:34:17 (147.92.90.135)
Have had the same experience replacing the stock power cord with a nice aftermarket in the various power amps I have used over the years. .......
37: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: He was a true gem w/ vast knowledge he was generous with... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2018-04-09, 11:19:35 (207.114.205.170)
He was such a good guy. Can't believe two years already has passed. .......
38: Inmate Central, RE: Is Anyone Here Into Cycling(I know "Sordidman" is)? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2017-06-21, 22:26:27 (67.169.9.202)
Just picked up a Specialized Diverge Elite DSW for Father's Day. Really like it. Much more comfortable than my Trek USPS road bike. And still almost as fast as my Trek on the flats. Hill climbing the .......
39: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Curl presentation... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-05-06, 07:32:05 (50.185.229.109)
That YouTube video takes me back those 33 years ago when I was a recent college grad just starting med school and meeting Richard for the first time at Pacific Stereo. I told him then that his Parasou .......
40: Speaker Asylum, RE: The War In Entry Level Speakers (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-04-22, 23:38:13 (50.185.229.109)
My son has a pair of JBL Loft 40s and they sound really good for a $38/pair speakers. Lacking in the bass as expected for bookshelf speakers of this size. But paired with a Velodyne sub, these JBLs so .......
41: Vintage Asylum, RE: Want to bridge one of the following amps..which to choose? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-03-29, 13:45:36 (50.185.229.109)
I would probably go with the NAD. I have had friends with problems with Hafler and I myself had problems with Parasound. But I probably was one of the few with a Parasound issue. Haven't heard of an N .......
42: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Time sensitive - Would 1.6 be too big for my room ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-02-13, 19:40:17 (98.207.109.176)
You will have no problems and in fact, 3 series won't be a problem either, if you decide to upgrade from the 1.6. .......
43: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Wich AMP for driving Polk's RTiA9 speakers? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-02-03, 21:32:10 (98.207.109.176)
You may want to also ask your question on the Polk Audio forum. Many of the Polk users there use Parasound amps and some even use Emotiva. I have been using a Wyred4Sound amp with my Polks but recentl .......
44: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Magnepan web site (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2016-01-29, 13:57:12 (98.207.109.176)
Also, check out the office phone number to callL 1-800-000-0000. That sure a lot of zeros. Probably would be the same for your bank account if you order through this fake site. .......
45: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Unclestu's Health: SAD UPDATE (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-12-13, 17:39:52 (98.207.109.176)
It is a sad day in the audio community. RIP Uncle Stu. You will always be remembered. .......
46: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Unclestu's Health (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-11-09, 11:35:18 (67.169.9.151)
I would like to second that. I have learned and implemented a number of his solutions to obtain better sound out of my system. Stu, hope you get better. .......
47: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Experiences with Parasound & Magnepan? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-11-02, 18:17:38 (67.169.9.151)
Maybe not exactly the same but here is my experience using a Parasound HCA-1205A vs. an Emotiva XPA-5, both 5 channel amps. The Parasound is slightly warmer and has a deeper sound stage than the Emoti .......
48: Speaker Asylum, RE: Difference Between B&W CDM1SE and Matrix 805? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-09-29, 21:29:20 (67.169.9.151)
I used to own the B&W CDM7SE, your tower versions and compared it to my neighbors B&W Matrix 804. It was no comparison. The Matrix 804 sounded much more open and live. So much so, that my CDM7SEs soun .......
49: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Noise/crackling in my 3.6R bass panel (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-08-27, 20:16:39 (67.169.9.151)
I have a set of actively biamped Magnepan IIIas and had a similar issue you described. I was using an ART active crossover but with power amps that only can use unbalanced connections. I then had to u .......
50: Shady Lane, RE: Advice Please (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2015-08-27, 19:52:18 (67.169.9.151)
Having owned several different preamps, I have never come across one that lets you do both the balanced and unbalanced at the same time. And unless you are a dealer that offers a 30-day money back gua .......
51: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Yes, Bi-Amp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-12-15, 22:22:10 (67.169.9.151)
I would concur. Active bi-amp is the way to go with a set of IIIas. That is what I have. .......
52: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: How many posters here love Magnepan, but ONLY buy used! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-08-14, 20:34:32 (67.164.25.13)
I would beg to differ. Even purchasing used Magnepans, over time, will need a rebuild which Magnepan does for virtually all their speakers. Even if you didn't send them in for Magnepan to rebuild them .......
53: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Magnepan MG3 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-04-18, 14:07:59 (75.54.224.198)
Both prices seem high to me. I purchased my rebuilt IIIas in 2007 as well but for $700 plus shipping. I purchased another set of IIIas that weren't rebuilt for $600 which I picked up locally and had t .......
54: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: IIIa vs 3.6r (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-03-20, 21:46:38 (75.54.224.198)
Having heard both, the 3.6 is not much of a jump better than the IIIa in stock form. I have two sets of IIIas in a home theater configuration and the fronts have a set of Mye Stands. With the Mye Stan .......
55: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: It must mean something that in the ads for the 1.7 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-01-12, 16:09:06 (75.54.224.198)
I used to own an Emotiva XPA-5 which replaced a Parasound HCA-1205A. Had a deeper and wider sound stage than the Parasound. But I replaced the Emotiva with two Carver M-1.0ts that received the MKII up .......
56: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Yes, with a 1.7. It sounded FINE.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-01-08, 11:01:54 (75.54.224.198)
I would agree. Finding the right amps for the Magnepan IIIas can make a world of difference. Used to use a Parasound amp, then an Emotiva, and now a set of Carver M-1.0t MKII Opt2 amps with an active .......
57: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Anyone know what (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2014-01-02, 22:21:11 (64.134.221.152)
Davey, You are absolutely correct that those are Radio Shack Linaeum tweeters. Those are Magnepan speakers from Stereo Unlimited in Clayton, CA. They used to be in Walnut Creek. Here is their current .......
58: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Rebuilt SMGa - $375: Good Deal? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-12-27, 18:11:58 (75.54.224.198)
For that kind of money, you could find a used set of MMGs instead. Won't have the rolled off highs like the SMGas and will be much newer. .......
59: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Tubes on Maggie Ribbons? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-12-08, 15:52:06 (75.54.224.198)
I am running an active biamp IIIa system using a Yaqin tube buffer connected right after my preamp. I am using two Carver M-1.0ts to power my IIIas. I really like how the tube buffer adds warmth to th .......
60: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Any Magnepan lovers in the Sacramento / Foothill region (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-12-03, 19:24:11 (75.54.224.198)
My room is 15' x 30' with a 10' ceiling. My wife wasn't too happy when I purchased the first pair of IIIas but gave in when I purchased the second pair for the rear surrounds. Total seamless integrati .......
61: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Any Magnepan lovers in the Sacramento / Foothill region (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-12-01, 22:19:24 (75.54.224.198)
Your not the only one in Northern California. I am located in Silicon Valley. I have a Magnepan IIIa 5.1 system which includes IIIas as rear surrounds. I just recently actively biamped my IIIa fronts .......
62: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Hardly.......... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-11-29, 22:28:44 (75.54.224.198)
Me too. I have tried the Black Discus on my power amp's caps and transformer and couldn't hear any difference. This is one product that didn't seem to work for me either in my Carver M-1.0t, Magnepan .......
63: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: One more Black Discus experience (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-11-28, 07:05:13 (75.54.224.198)
I have solid state gear but use a Yaqin tube buffer in the chain. Will have to try the Black Discus over the tube and also remove the covers to my Carver power amps to see if using them over the trans .......
64: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: one idea... and an easy one... well two... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-11-27, 07:03:01 (75.54.224.198)
Same here. Couldn't tell any difference until I tried them on my power amps and had the same shut down sound reaction. Compared them to some inexpensive magnets I have and they had similar effects on .......
65: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: So you're *not* taking the "heavy lifting" off Maggies shoulders? nt (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-10-27, 06:49:57 (75.54.224.198)
I'm pretty happy using one Velodyne HGS-12 with my IIIas whether in two-channel or five-channel mode. And I have two sets of IIIas for the fronts and rear channels of a 5.1 system. .......
66: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Magnepan purchase (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-10-14, 18:47:04 (75.54.224.198)
Having owned a set of 1.5s and heard a set of MMGs, go with the 1.5s. You will be very happy. .......
67: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: So what Magnepan's do you own? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-07-16, 21:19:22 (75.54.224.198)
I have two pairs of IIIas and one pair of MMGWs. .......
68: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: anyone using Emotiva XPR-2 on MG20s or higher? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-04-29, 19:27:42 (75.54.224.198)
I used an XPA-5 in a bi-amped mode with my Magnepan IIIas without any issues. Eventually sold the XPA-5 and I am now using a pair of Carver M-1.0t amps for my IIIas. Even sweeter sounding and more pow .......
69: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Mye Sound Stands in TAS March 2013 Issue (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2013-02-19, 20:52:30 (75.54.226.78)
Congratulations as well Grant. Still enjoying your Mye Stands after all these years on my Magnepan IIIas. .......
70: Vintage Asylum, RE: Craigslist !!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-10-30, 22:56:13 (75.54.226.78)
Just picked up for free a Kenwood KT-5300 tuner and Yamaha A-520 integrated amp via Craigslist. Almost forgot how good that Yamaha sounded. It was one of the first integrated amps that I started with .......
71: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: "Instead of a sub, you may get by with an EQ?" ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-09-18, 20:27:53 (75.54.226.78)
I would agree but I am happy with a cutoff at 80Hz. .......
72: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Can someone test one of my Magnepan MG12 speakers? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-09-06, 20:16:37 (75.54.226.78)
I am located in Fremont, CA but have family in Sacramento and in Elk Grove. Shoot me a PM and I would be happy to check when I am in your area. As the others have said, use your multimeter to determin .......
73: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: A repeating crackle or his like is the data stream not flowing properly (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-06-10, 21:36:11 (75.54.226.78)
I would agree it sounds like a data stream issue and possibly could be your HDMI connector. I listen to SACDs and DVD-As without any issues with my Magnepans. I have my Marantz DV-9600 connected via F .......
74: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Is this receiver sufficient for my Maggies? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-06-08, 21:06:03 (75.54.226.78)
I would agree with others are saying, the specs support it. My concern with a Yamaha receiver is that they tend to sound on the bright side. That assessment of mine is based on owning several Yamaha r .......
75: Speaker Asylum, RE: Well, given I have been running Maggies for over 20 years :-)) ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-05-30, 19:25:08 (75.54.226.78)
I am right there with you using my Magnepan IIIas but with a Velodyne HGS-12 Series II sub. .......
76: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Mapleshade madness?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-05-02, 20:58:23 (75.54.226.78)
I can second that! .......
77: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Long time Maggie afficionado thinking about 3.6 upgrade (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-04-13, 09:11:19 (74.212.249.18)
Currently own IIIas and thought of going to 3.6s. Had a chance to hear the 3.6s and didn't hear much difference to justify the cost. Very happy with my IIIas with Mye Stands and minor modifications. H .......
78: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Sound coming from outside of the soundstage (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-03-21, 22:29:09 (75.54.226.78)
Norman, I would agree. My Carver C-1 preamp does this every time with great effect for me with my IIIas powered by a set of M-1.0t power amps. .......
79: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: How to solve the bass issue? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-03-13, 10:11:41 (75.54.226.78)
I have been happy using Mye Stands and my Velodyne HGS-12 with my Magnepan IIIa. .......
80: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: HOLD YOUR HORSES, You ain't getting rid of us that easy folks! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-26, 16:41:11 (75.54.226.78)
JBen, Unfortunately, it looks like both Wazoo and Medium Jim have deleted their accounts. .......
81: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Emotive - yeah or nah (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-18, 10:17:25 (75.54.226.78)
I ran an Emotiva XPA-5 with my Pioneer Elite AVR in my Magnepan IIIa 5.1 system without any issues. Definitely an excellent product for home theater applications. Sounds better than my old Parasound H .......
82: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Active Crossover Question for Maggie IIIas (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-16, 19:21:38 (75.54.226.78)
At this rate, I may just stay with my bridged amps each powering one speaker. .......
83: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Similar Setup (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-12, 11:31:38 (75.54.226.78)
Dave my Pioneer Elite in biamp mode has the capability to adjust the eq. I agree the Pioneer is probably being tricked by the nature of how Magnepans are designed. .......
84: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Gains (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-11, 10:05:01 (75.54.226.78)
After doing a bit more reading, I may go the MiniDSP route. Looks like it will do the correct crossover slopes, etc. I am just not sure how much of a benefit I will realize vs. when I tried using the .......
85: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Active Crossover Question for Maggie IIIas (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-10, 14:44:19 (75.54.226.78)
Everyone, Thanks for your thoughts and feedback. I am already pretty happy with the way my system sounds with a Carver amp powering each Maggie. I just wasn't sure if I could use any old crossover. I .......
86: Planar Speaker Asylum, Active Crossover Question for Maggie IIIas (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-02-09, 23:11:21 (75.54.226.78)
I am currently running a pair of Magnepan IIIas with a pair of Carver M 1.0-t amps in bridged mode for 1000 Watts to each speaker. Do you think if I purchased an ART 311 active crossover to biamp the .......
87: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Missed my point (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-01-12, 20:11:31 (75.54.226.78)
I just recently sold my Emotiva XPA-5 which was powering a pair of Magnepan IIIas and picked up two Carver M-1.0ts to power the Maggies. For the price, Emotiva amps really can't be beat but the Carver .......
88: General Asylum, RE: To Sell or Not To Sell (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-01-02, 20:06:44 (75.54.226.78)
I ended up selling my records and CDs after I transferred them all to digital. Now I have space that I can use. .......
89: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Mye Stands Price vs.Improvement Ratio (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2012-01-02, 12:17:47 (75.54.226.78)
I would also agree. The Mye Stands greatly improve the performance of my Magnepan IIIas. There is a noticeable difference in sound and even efficiency when compared to the other pair of IIIas that are .......
90: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Emotiva Mono-blocks on the way... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-12-20, 20:35:06 (75.54.226.78)
I would agree that Emotiva is a great value. I own a XPA-5 as well that replaced a Parasound multi-channel amp but I recently purchased a Carver M-1.0t which sounds even better than my XPA-5. I am tor .......
91: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Question about Maggie clipping (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-12-18, 20:58:09 (75.54.226.78)
I have a Magnepan IIIa 5.1 system also using an Emotiva XPA-5 to drive them controlled by a Pioneer AV receiver. I have turned the volume on my Pioneer to 100% just to see if I can hear any distortion .......
92: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Had a new Planar experience yesterday. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-10-17, 13:49:54 (75.54.225.172)
Thought you may be interested in reading this review of the speakers you picked up. .......
93: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MMG vs 1.5 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-10-12, 13:24:57 (75.54.225.172)
From what I can remember when I owned a set of 1.5s and comparing it to a set of MMGs, other than the bass, the 1.5s had a larger soundstage height and presented better imaging and depth. Because of t .......
94: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG-IIIa in the house (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-09-13, 22:14:03 (75.54.225.172)
The most difficult part is taking off all the staples at the bottom of the speaker. Once those dozens of staples are removed, restapling doesn't take much effort. You'll need a screwdriver to pry the .......
95: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG-IIIa in the house (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-09-13, 15:44:42 (75.54.225.172)
There are other "sock" color options. I have my IIIas with the factory black socks and another with custom made socks. The IIIas definitely will react to using room acoustic materials. It will be a bi .......
96: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Shipping IIIa's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-09-11, 21:15:31 (75.54.225.172)
I would agree with the other posters. I would use the Magnepan boxes which cost me a couple of years ago around $50 dollars for the boxes. I had my IIIas shipped over a 1000 miles away using BAX Globa .......
97: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Upgrade to MG-1.6/QR, MG-2.7/QR, MG-IIIA, or other? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-29, 15:33:08 (75.54.225.172)
I started with Magnepan 0.5s then moved up to Magnepan 1.5s and now currently have two sets of Magnepan IIIas in my 5.1 system. As the other poster said, expect to do a rebuild. I had one set rebuilt .......
98: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Your opinion please! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-26, 07:35:09 (75.54.225.172)
I would agree as well. I am using a Velodyne HGS-12 Series II which is a servo sub with my Magnepan IIIas and the combo has the finesse for classical and jazz. But the force my son wants with The Blac .......
99: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Nad 955 or Emotivia xp 5 ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-16, 22:41:47 (75.54.225.172)
Haven't tried the NAD but I am using an Emotiva XPA-5 which I feel sounded better than my Parasound HCA-1205A 5-channel amp in my Magnepan IIIa home theater. .......
100: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Full endorsement for Unclestu's "cap enhancement" of battery tweak. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-16, 20:31:09 (75.54.225.172)
Having fun just like you. Tweaking at a minimal cost is fun! I hope you are enjoying your system like me. Take care! .......
101: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Full endorsement for Unclestu's "cap enhancement" of battery tweak. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-16, 14:05:09 (75.54.225.172)
The longer lead is the positive lead and the shorter lead is the negative lead. Check the body of the capacitor to see where the negative symbol is located relative to the two leads. It should match t .......
102: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Looking for used 3.6's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-15, 20:36:24 (75.54.225.172)
I was fortunate to purchase my current IIIas from a dealer who used BAX Global. I didn't have any issues with the speakers. Luckily, they were restored by Magnepan so they were just like new. ::: TOP .......
103: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Best tweak I ever tried (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-13, 17:24:12 (75.54.225.172)
I basically went to my local Fry's Electronics and purchased 1000uF electrolytic caps at around $2.25 each. I went with the electrolytic caps that had a lead at each end so that I knew the leads would .......
104: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Best tweak I ever tried (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-08-09, 20:57:19 (75.54.225.172)
I agree. Works really well. I am using the 6V lantern batteries. One each for my speakers and one for my preamp. Adding the capacitors really bring out more detail and an overall presence and depth to .......
105: Speaker Asylum, RE: Does any one know any thing about Magneplanar SME speakers? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-05-13, 20:31:16 (75.54.225.172)
Having owned Heresy IIs and now Magnepan IIIas, they are completely different speakers. For rock/pop, stay with the Heresys. For jazz, classical, vocals, go with the Magnepans. If you don't have a ver .......
106: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Introduction to Magnepan? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-05-11, 15:19:42 (75.54.225.172)
Having gone the route of purchasing 0.5s, 1.5s, hearing 1.6s, and 3.6s, I am now using IIIas for my home theater, front and surrounds. If the IIIas are in good condition, I wouldn't hesitate purchasin .......
107: General Asylum, RE: off topic: digital piano (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-04-11, 16:43:43 (75.54.225.172)
I can tell you my wife's Roland digital piano with weighted keys works very well. It is over twenty years old when we purchased it brand new back in the late 80's. Works great, even today. Now my two .......
108: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: maggie 1.6 amp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-03-14, 21:39:18 (75.54.225.172)
Would agree with the other poster, get rid of that Monster Cable and go with solid core copper wire. I use Southwire 14AWG that you can find at Home Depot or Lowes. Only about $9.00 for a 50 foot roll .......
109: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Go with a servo sub such as the Rythmik... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-03-09, 07:16:19 (75.54.225.172)
I would also agree with CB, a servo sub is the way to go. I use a Velodyne HGS-12 Series II with my IIIas. Adding the sub gives me more bass but at the same time adds clarity to the mids and highs. Ov .......
110: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Buying Maggies (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-03-06, 07:49:27 (75.54.225.172)
If my experience going from the 1.5s to the IIIas is any indication, then I would say yes. I use a tube buffer to help tame the true ribbon and don't use the supplied resistor that came with my IIIas. .......
111: General Asylum, He will be greatly missed. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-03-05, 21:37:33 (75.54.225.172)
Carolyn, I am sorry to hear about your loss and like others, was in shock. Al will be greatly missed by all of us on the Asylum. He was a wealth of information for us Magnepan users and he has helped .......
112: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Question for Uncle Stu (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-02-28, 16:47:03 (75.54.225.172)
Uncle Stu, Thanks for the response. I purchased the recommended 6V lantern batteries and installed one on my AVR and connected the others to the speaker. Took the DIY ground loop wire that I had on ea .......
113: Tweakers' Asylum, Question for Uncle Stu (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-02-28, 09:12:48 (75.54.225.172)
I am currently using DIY ground wire loop on each speaker. Would replacing it with the 6V battery be a good idea? Or would it be better to attach the batteries still on the negative speaker terminal o .......
114: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Replace the stock "jumper"? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-02-28, 07:15:59 (75.54.225.172)
Like another poster said, seems to take the edge off the highs in a good way. I am using Southwire solid core 14AWG copper wire found at your local hardware store in rolls of 50' for about $9.00. ::: .......
115: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: How to get maximum slam from Maggies? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-01-14, 15:52:04 (75.54.225.172)
Definitely like others have said, would recommend a more powerful amp to start. In my Magnepan IIIa home theater system, I went from a Parasound HCA-1205A which is rated at 200w/channel into 4ohms to .......
116: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 0.5 QR specs, plans and or any info needed please. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-01-04, 20:34:03 (75.54.225.172)
Perry2010, You can imagine my surprise as well when I tried that Southwire. I have several audiophile friends who switched as well and pocketed the money as you say. I used to own 1.5s as well whic .......
117: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 0.5 QR specs, plans and or any info needed please. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-01-03, 21:58:33 (75.54.225.172)
Perry2010, The bike stands I used are the Gravity Bike Stands that can be found at Target for $50 each. They have adjustable height arms with U-shaped swivels that normally cradle a bike frame but in .......
118: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 0.5 QR specs, plans and or any info needed please. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2011-01-03, 15:56:01 (75.54.225.172)
Perry2010, Thanks for sharing. Had a feeling you would have the same reaction. Not sure what a typical 2-channel audiophile system would cost. But doing a quick Google search, About.com said their .......
119: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: The Hallograph Soundfield Optimizer (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-12-31, 17:18:14 (75.54.225.172)
My local dealer and I tried it in my home theater and we couldn't hear any difference whether my system was in 2-channel or multi-channel mode. Needless to say, my local dealer wasn't too happy with t .......
120: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 0.5 QR specs, plans and or any info needed please. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-12-26, 11:28:15 (75.54.225.172)
Perry, I own a Pioneer VSX-74TXVi AVR that does the same as your Pioneer. I have done exactly what your are thinking, using the biamp feature of the Pioneer. Like Neolith said, you are the best judge .......
121: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 0.5 QR specs, plans and or any info needed please. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-12-25, 13:33:10 (75.54.225.172)
Perry, Having owned a set of .5s for a couple of years, I believe they spec the same as the .6s. I agree with you, they sound better than a set of MMGs. They are more in-line with the MG12s. I ended u .......
122: General Asylum, RE: best shipper (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-12-10, 16:20:42 (75.54.225.172)
As a small business owner that does a lot of shipping, I never had a problem with FedEx. They are less expensive and faster than UPS for me. .......
123: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: horizontal bi-amping? of 1.7's with a 5 channel amp. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-12-09, 12:37:04 (75.54.225.172)
I have an Emotiva XPA-5 which I use to actively biamp my Magnepan IIIas. Even the people at Emotiva at the time suggested I go with the XPA-5 over their XPA-2 since I wanted to biamp the speakers. Lik .......
124: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Looking for Five-Channel Power Amp ($1K or Less) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-09-09, 08:42:18 (75.54.225.172)
I currently use an XPA-5 that replaced a Parasound HCA-1205A that I used for more than nine years. I have been quite pleased with the Emotiva. More authority in the low/mid bass, but neutral to slight .......
125: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Moving soon - how to handle packing the Maggies (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-09-02, 07:28:10 (75.54.225.172)
When it came time for me to ship my IIIas, I contacted Magnepan for the shipping boxes. Cost was around $50 and actually were 3.6 boxes but fit perfectly. .......
126: Planar Speaker Asylum, Would also agree... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-06-22, 08:15:39 (75.54.225.172)
because I had a set of Magnepan 0.5s then went to a set of 1.5s which certainly was an upgrade but not as large as when I went to a set of IIIas with the true ribbon. I would also second going with th .......
127: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: IF I do not play my 3.6s over 85dB at seated position. will I benefit much from Mye stands? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-06-08, 21:49:41 (75.54.225.172)
I have two sets of Magnepan IIIas, one with and one without the Mye Stands. And like you, I don't listen to my 2-channel music very loud. The Mye Stands like the other poster said helps bring out low .......
128: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Margaret has retired (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-06-02, 21:22:58 (75.54.225.172)
I wish her the best. She was very helpful to me when I was doing my rebuild of my IIIas. Margaret, if you are reading this, have a great retirement and have fun doing all the things you have wanted to .......
129: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 3.3's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-05-21, 07:53:12 (75.54.225.172)
I would also agree with Grant, a sub is in your picture. My room is about the same size but on a concrete slab with ceiling height from 8'-16' cathedral ceiling. I use a single Velodyne sub with great .......
130: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Anyone Else Rock Their Maggie's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-04-19, 10:49:00 (75.54.225.172)
Personally, I've been listening to AC/DC's Back in Black album and several of my "old school" digitally recorded LPs in loseless but my children use my Magnepan system to listen to the Black Eyed Peas .......
131: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Same exact issue..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-04-14, 12:51:25 (75.54.225.172)
Thanks for the link. I guess the screw terminals I am using from Radio Shack fall under the low alloy steel category which is good. Only a 0.10V difference than the aluminum wire supplied by Magnepan. .......
132: Planar Speaker Asylum, Same exact issue..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-04-13, 07:44:49 (75.54.225.172)
you had when I rewired my IIIas as well. Tried several times using the same high wattage solder gun and the included kit and when I fired up the speakers, the wire would lose contact. Decided to use a .......
133: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Parasound, Emotiva or Outlaw? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-04-03, 23:24:44 (75.54.225.172)
Mike, also agree with you on the increased sound stage. And this coming from a Parasound HCA-1205. I use an Emotiva XPA-5 with my all Magnepan IIIa home theater. The Emotiva has a wider and deeper sou .......
134: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Mylar (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-23, 10:12:46 (75.54.225.172)
Take a look at the last page of the IIIa brochure. You should be able to find the answer. .......
135: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: EMOTIVA SS Muscle Amps (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-18, 14:03:20 (75.54.225.172)
I am currently using a Pioneer VSX-74TXVi AVR as my prepro. Have you tried manually adjusting the highs via the Manual MCACC? Mine are down 3dBs at 16KHz with my Magnepan IIIas. .......
136: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Really inefficient Speakers (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-17, 08:02:29 (75.54.225.172)
That is even less efficient than the Eminent Technology LFT-IVs that I used to own, the owner's manual rated them somewhere between 80-83dB/watt. My ETs needed to be driven with lots of power. More th .......
137: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: uh.... Magnepans (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-10, 18:30:46 (75.54.225.172)
For me, I use tube buffer between my AVR and the Emotiva amp and tube roll to my liking rather than use the supplied resistor. .......
138: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: I don't see how you guys....... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-10, 10:56:00 (75.54.225.172)
At least for me, the XPA-5 I have is neutral sounding, similar to my Parasound. I don't think there is a confusion on brightness with a component vs. transparency but as we all know that Magnepans are .......
139: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: initial impressions: Emotiva XPA-2 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-10, 09:14:12 (75.54.225.172)
I would agree it could be due to a more transparent presentation. My XPA-5 replaced my Parasound HCA-1205A which I owned for many years. My first initial impressions of the XPA-5 was an increased clar .......
140: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: EMOTIVA SS Muscle Amps (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-07, 21:24:35 (75.54.225.172)
Currently using an XPA-5 that replaced my Parasound HCA-1205A that I had for almost ten years! The XPA-5 has just more of everything over the Parasound which was good to begin with. Certainly the XPA- .......
141: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Concrete Slab Floor and Sound (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-03-01, 21:47:12 (75.54.225.172)
Like the original poster, I have a concrete slab with carpeting. I currenty use Mye Stands with my Magnepan IIIas which greatly helped. But when I decided to upgrade my speaker cables to Mapleshade, I .......
142: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: These Tubes Have Seen only 120 Hours of Play Time ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-16, 10:04:16 (75.54.225.172)
Shouldn't be that short a life. But you never know. Depends on the manufacturer and how well they built the tubes. You could have received a bad one. The ones I have are rated for 5000-10,000 hours an .......
143: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Yes, it's a tube pre-amp ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-16, 08:51:21 (75.54.225.172)
I agree with the others, sounds like a tube needs replacing. Happened to me and I run Magnepan IIIas. As a matter of fact, I have the same problem right now and need to replace another tube. Too much .......
144: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggie Owners - Are you an 'innie" or an "outie" with your tweeties (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-14, 18:29:25 (75.54.225.172)
Exactly the same here. .......
145: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Help with picking model (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-13, 23:32:22 (75.54.225.172)
Like you, I live in the East Bay and have seen the same ad you mentioned but to correct you, the seller is selling Magnepan 0.5s and not 1.5s. I have owned both of these speakers and really enjoyed th .......
146: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: What he said. Get your money back. /nt\ (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-13, 19:09:27 (75.54.225.172)
Did you purchase from this ad? If you did, you should get your money back since the seller advertised that they were in very good condition. Also residing in the Bay Area there was a recent ad for Mag .......
147: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Magnepan 1.5's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-06, 07:35:22 (75.54.225.172)
For $250, I would pick them up quick. If they are in excellent condition, you should be able to sell them for more if you change your mind. I remember having my 1.5s and like another poster said, to u .......
148: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 14 gauge solid (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-03, 21:29:39 (75.54.225.172)
The solid 14AWG wire that I used came from Lowe's and it sounded better to me than the Synergistic Research cable that I used. Not to mention the MIT or Cobalt Cable that I had lying around. Like you, .......
149: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Improving MG-IIIAs (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2010-02-02, 20:01:24 (75.54.225.172)
Having two sets of Magnepan IIIas in a home theater system, here are some of the things I have done to improve their sound. First, I went with Mye Stands to stiffen the speakers which improved their o .......
150: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Post pics of it (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-12-16, 07:47:55 (75.54.225.172)
Having rewired two sets of Magnepan IIIa myself, the easiest way to determine if memory serves me is if the wires need replacing use a meter and check to see if both terminals measure the same resista .......
151: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 3.6's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-12-10, 22:56:31 (75.54.225.172)
I used to run 200 watts at 4 ohms with my Parasound HCA-1205A but now that I am using a Emotiva XPA-5 with my Magnepan IIIa speakers, it is nice having the additional power at 300 watts at 4ohms with .......
152: Planar Speaker Asylum, Ditto twice... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-12-10, 20:38:40 (75.54.225.172)
because it made a great improvement to my Magnepan IIIa. Just wish I had the room for my other set of Magnepan IIIa that I use for my rear surrounds in my 5.1 home theater. .......
153: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG IIIA'S (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-11-30, 11:09:36 (75.54.225.172)
I own two sets of IIIas in a home theater configuration and have my fronts biamped with an Emotiva XPA-5 power amp which replaced a Parasound HCA-1205A power amp. If you are only into 2-channel and do .......
154: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 1.5 maggie upgrade ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-11-18, 22:43:49 (75.54.225.172)
Having owned a set of 1.5s, I think your amp is sufficient to power them. I used a Parasound that was rated at 140 watts at 8 ohms and it was more than enough for me. That said, I replaced the 1.5s wi .......
155: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Amazing! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-11-09, 13:32:55 (75.54.225.172)
I'm not that far from Danville, I reside in the Fremont area of the SF East Bay. Have a biamped front mains Magnepan IIIa and stock rear surrounds Magnepan IIIa for my home theater. Recently went with .......
156: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Mye Stands for 1.6 Magnepans? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-10-16, 20:54:09 (75.54.225.172)
Same here. Love them for my IIIas as well. Better sound and more coherent. Highly recommended. .......
157: Planar Speaker Asylum, Martin Logan Scenarios (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-10-07, 13:41:14 (75.54.225.172)
nt .......
158: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 1.6s to 3a, no brainer? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-10-03, 06:12:46 (75.54.225.172)
I would agree that the IIIa would be an upgrade to the 1.6. I went from the 1.5 to the current IIIas I have and the true ribbon tweeter and larger bass panels sure sound nice. Mine were purchased thre .......
159: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Yeah - Firewire (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-09-30, 08:02:25 (75.54.225.172)
Same here with Firewire. I have my Marantz DV-9600 connected this way and it sounds excellent with any disc it plays plus the convenience of using only one wire and taking advantage of the Marantz's a .......
160: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: SMG3A'S (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-09-04, 16:18:43 (75.54.225.172)
Currently own two pairs of IIIas in a home theater system. Bought the two pairs for about $700 a pair two and half years ago. One was fully rebuilt while the other was not. Original price when the III .......
161: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggie home theater recommendations (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-06-14, 19:37:38 (75.54.225.172)
You just missed the sale on this one. .......
162: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggie home theater recommendations (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-06-14, 10:06:00 (75.54.225.172)
I think this article from SoundStage! can help you with your question. .......
163: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Same problem (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-06-12, 21:51:13 (75.54.225.172)
I have two sets of IIIas for front and rear surrounds in my home theater. I also use a Velodyne sub to handle the lows found in movie soundtracks. What you are experiencing is due to the Magnepans at .......
164: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Centers other than CC3 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-05-27, 14:29:39 (75.54.225.172)
I use a Eminent Technology LFT-XII center channel which blends well when I had a set of Magnepan 1.5s as my front mains. Now I use it with my Magnepan IIIas and it still blends well. The ET I use is t .......
165: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Soon to be Maggie Owner! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-05-26, 07:40:19 (75.54.225.172)
I totally agree with what Andy said in order for you to really enjoy your IIIas. I have two pairs myself that I use in my home theater system. After Andy's recommendations, you will probably want to g .......
166: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 1.6QR or MMG's in Large Setting (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-05-11, 18:59:46 (75.54.225.172)
Setting your speakers to LARGE will not hurt your Magnepans. I wouldn't set the subwoofer cutoff at all and trick your speakers into thinking that a subwoofer is there. It will make your Magnepans pro .......
167: Digital Drive, I would agree.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-05-07, 07:47:50 (75.54.225.172)
that going with a computer gives a greater impact than going with a DAC + Oppo 970 combination. I used to have an Oppo 970 and tried several DACs from DIYEDEN, California Labs, Benchmark, MSB and Chan .......
168: General Asylum, RE: FedEX, UPS or USPS.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-04-16, 15:31:16 (75.54.225.172)
Having mine own business for the last seven years, for small items, I would use USPS. They would be the least expensive and luckily for me only one time did I have a problem shipping overseas but USPS .......
169: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: The Quietest 1TB or Larger External Hard Drive (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-04-09, 16:36:17 (75.54.225.172)
DSG, I use a SimpleTech Simple Drive 1TB which is quieter than the fan off my Sony VAIO laptop that I use to access my digital files. Slbenz .......
170: Planar Speaker Asylum, Second That As Well (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-04-08, 13:39:11 (75.54.225.172)
I tried speaker cables from Audioquest, LAT International, Cobalt Cables, MIT, Cardas, Synergistic Research of varying price points even to standard 12AWG copper wires from Home Depot and ended up sat .......
171: Digital Drive, RE: Oppo 970 Question... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-25, 13:40:51 (75.54.225.172)
If I remember correctly when I had my Oppo DV970, it was a twenty step digital volume control. .......
172: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: parasound hca 3500 as a bass amp on maggie 3.6? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-25, 06:59:12 (75.54.225.172)
GSB, I use a Parasound HCA-1205A 5-channel amp with my Magnepan IIIa in biamp mode and never had a problem with it. My 1205 is rated at 140 watts in 8 ohms and 200 watts in 4 ohms. I think you will be .......
173: Tweakers' Asylum, Almost forgot... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-16, 16:19:19 (75.54.225.172)
that I also tried it with my 42" Philips LCD flat panel and saw deeper and richer colors with increased clarity to the picture. Again, thanks for the cheap, yet effective tweak. .......
174: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Excellent and Cheap Tweak (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-16, 15:33:09 (75.54.225.172)
Just came back from Lowe's and purchased the copper unions found on this thread. I have to say that I experienced the same thing as everyone has described. Better imaging, more balanced sound and a mu .......
175: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Tube preamp + D-Class power amp + Maggies? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-06, 21:07:31 (75.54.225.172)
You may also want to think about using a tube buffer between your preamp and power amp. I use a Yaqin tube buffer bought from Pacific Valve and Electric Company and have been very satisfied with its p .......
176: Hi-Rez Highway, Looks Like I Am In the Minority... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-03, 20:23:06 (75.54.225.172)
I like listening to my multi-channel SACDS and DVD-As in multi-channel over 2 channel. Maybe having matching Magnepan IIIa front mains and rear surrounds help. .......
177: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggies and Home Theater (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-02, 19:20:46 (75.54.225.172)
Nikos, My IIIas are about 33 inches away from the back walls as a reference for you. Slbenz .......
178: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggies and Home Theater (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-01, 21:05:41 (75.54.225.172)
Nikos, Sorry for any confusion I may have caused. I still think going with a planar center channel will be better than any box speaker. This is my experience trying out Mirage, Cambridge Soundworks, C .......
179: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggies and Home Theater (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-03-01, 14:15:28 (75.54.225.172)
Nikos, Having owned Martin Logan, Eminent Technology and finally with a Magnepan home theater system, I stayed with my ET LFT-XII all planar center channel speaker. After listening to the offerings of .......
180: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Sunfire vs Parasound multi -ch amps (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-02-26, 08:26:16 (75.54.225.172)
Jim, I currently own a 5-channel Parasound amp that powers my Magnepan IIIa home theater system. It just happens my brother-in-law who lives one block away owns a comparable Sunfire 5-channel amp for .......
181: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggies and High Rez Audio (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-02-07, 23:40:45 (75.54.225.172)
AJZepp, The reason why I decided to go with the ET at least to my ears sounded more coherent to my IIIa speakers. I also auditioned the Magnepan and Martin Logan centers and decided to go with the ET. .......
182: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggies and High Rez Audio (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-02-07, 21:45:31 (75.54.225.172)
AJZepp, I agree with you on your assessment using Magnepans for a home theater system. I use Magnepan IIIa speakers for front and surrounds and use an Eminent Technology LFT-12 center channel with a V .......
183: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Has anyone used Home Theatre Audyssey or MCACC room correction software on their maggies ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-17, 17:31:32 (75.54.225.172)
Carl, I definitely know the difference when there is a big screen TV between the front speakers. I recently sold my big screen DLP rear projector and got instead a front projector. Now my IIIas in the .......
184: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Has anyone used Home Theatre Audyssey or MCACC room correction software on their maggies ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-17, 09:05:50 (75.54.225.172)
Carl, I am currently using a Pioneer VSX-74TXVi home theater receiver as a preamp connected to a Parasound HCA-1205A 5-channel amp to two pairs of Magnepan IIIas in my home theater. Having used in the .......
185: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MMG-W's for main system? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-12, 09:06:35 (75.54.225.172)
Bought my father-in-law a set of MMG-Ws for his birthday several years ago and he still enjoys them to this day. They are crossed over to a Velodyne sub, I think the same one you have, and sounds very .......
186: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: How did you pack your 1.6s when you sent them to be gunned? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-11, 18:55:17 (75.54.225.172)
Here's a link to the instructions I posted to the MUG forum packing the 1.5s and 1.6s speakers. .......
187: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: First Impressions: 3.6/r (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-09, 12:52:12 (75.54.225.172)
Glad to see that you got your new 3.6s up and running. If I remember correctly when I spoke to Grant about the two Mye Stand versions, sonically they were the same. It is more the cosmetic difference. .......
188: Digital Drive, RE: DAC for Denon 5910 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2009-01-02, 01:54:35 (75.54.225.172)
Though rare, a used Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 DAC would sound better than the Denon. It uses Burr-Brown PCM 1794 DACs. A new CIA DAC sells for $599. .......
189: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Pulling the Trigger Tomorrow...Help With Final Decision Needed (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-12-30, 13:50:14 (75.54.225.172)
Congrats on your decsion going with the 3.6s. You will really like the true ribbon tweeter. If I had a choice going with the MMG-W or MC1 for rears, I would go with the MC1s. Clearer highs and doesn't .......
190: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Pulling the Trigger Tomorrow...Help With Final Decision Needed (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-12-28, 22:30:20 (75.54.225.172)
Unlike what others may say, I think your Butler amp has more than enough power to run a pair of 3.6s. I use a Parasound HCA-1205A amp for two pairs of IIIas in my home theater without a problem. It is .......
191: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggie Series 3 owners rejoice! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-12-22, 10:23:43 (75.54.225.172)
This is great news. I remember a year ago talking to Peter where he wasn't interested at the time to modify my IIIas at the time. Can't wait to see what he has in store for us IIIa owners. Not sure if .......
192: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Been Lucky Find What I Want. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-11-14, 10:37:09 (75.54.225.172)
Sean, Have an older 1988 Mercedes 560SL in pearl black so it is a V8, made in the "old tradition" and not with all the electronic bells and whistles that the newer Benzes have. Also, in regards to the .......
193: Planar Speaker Asylum, Been Lucky Find What I Want. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-11-12, 17:07:05 (75.54.225.172)
Sean, I have purchased Magnepan 0.5s, 1.5s, and my current pair of IIIas, all from sellers that had to ship to me. I was fortunate that all of them arrived without any damage and were working properly .......
194: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Funny i just posted that 2 clicks below- Sort of (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-18, 21:47:44 (75.54.225.172)
You definitely got that right! .......
195: Planar Speaker Asylum, AV Revolution Forum Ratings of Speakers (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-16, 20:44:38 (75.54.225.172)
Hi All, Thought you would be interested in this comparison that AV Revolution did on comparing speakers. Check out how well the Magnepan line did in blind testing. Just thought I would share. ::: TOPI .......
196: General Asylum, RE: Decent Car Sounds (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-15, 20:54:09 (75.54.225.172)
In both my Mercedes convertible and Saturn SL2 commuter, I used MB Quart speakers which was a big upgrade over the stock speakers. If you can install a sub, even better. To reduce the ambient noise, I .......
197: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maggie home theater and music setup (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-09, 21:09:48 (75.54.225.172)
I am running Magnepan IIIa front and rears in my home theater. Using a Velodyne HGS-12 sub that blends extremely well for my taste. To reduce the TV compromise, I placed my Magnepans slightly over one .......
198: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG-.5 QR (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-03, 17:39:20 (75.54.225.172)
For my IIIas, I purchased the Mye Stands and it made a world of difference. Well worth the cost. If the Mye Stands did for my IIIas and it will do for your 0.5s, you will be quite happy. .......
199: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG-.5 QR (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-10-01, 21:15:25 (75.54.225.172)
Used to own a pair of all black MG 0.5s. Mids and highs were very clear but bass needed some help. Used a Velodyne HGS-12 which blended well with the 0.5s. They do sound better than the MMGs that I he .......
200: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Life span of MG111a tweeters? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-09-24, 11:33:33 (75.54.225.172)
I have two sets of Magnepan IIIas and both are using their original ribbon tweeters. One set was manufactured in 1986, while the other set was manufactured in 1987. Both sets have had their midrange/b .......
201: Tweakers' Asylum, Didn't Work for Me (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-08-05, 16:03:19 (24.6.23.7)
I had my local dealer set up the Sugar Cubes in my all Magnepan IIIa home theater system and both the dealer and I agreed we didn't hear much of a difference. Not sure if the problem was that my local .......
202: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: A trip back in time with Magnepan (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-07-08, 12:01:00 (24.6.23.7)
Karen is great. Like you I own IIIas but two sets that I bought from previous owners. I called Karen about purchasing a set of Magnepan emblems and a set of tweeter attenuators that neither set had fr .......
203: Planar Speaker Asylum, Agree on Mapleshade Audio (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-06-27, 07:20:53 (24.6.23.7)
I have several Mapleshade Records CDs and each one sounds "live". Also, the SACDs by Ray Kimber using the IsoMike method sounds great as well. Diana Krall's, "The Girl in the Other Room" album on SACD .......
204: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Wow! What do ya mean by "really old Maggies"! ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-21, 21:05:44 (24.6.23.7)
Have two pairs of IIIas, one built in 1987 and the other built in 1986 and both are going strong. .......
205: General Asylum, RE: Got Heparin? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-17, 06:57:38 (24.6.23.7)
Abe, Definitely agree with you on this. I work in the medical industry and designed ways to detect counterfeit medications in the supply chain. China has one of the highest counterfeit drug rates in t .......
206: Tweakers' Asylum, 0 for 2 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-15, 15:16:35 (24.6.23.7)
Saltyflies, I have to agree with you on this one. Had my local dealer install the Hallographs in my room and couldn't detect any difference in or out of the room. You can bet my local dealer was tryin .......
207: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Uh, I guess my "shipping ripoff" remark angered him. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-15, 13:05:32 (24.6.23.7)
Looks like the seller posted pics of the actual speakers. Not sure why he still has the stock Magnepan MMMG picture still on. .......
208: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: I e-mailed the seller asking about the pic and why the ripoff in shipping. /nt\ (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-14, 16:38:05 (24.6.23.7)
I also e-mailed the seller and told him if you wants someone to bid on his 1.4s, he needs to get his ad corrected since he is using the old MMG pictures. He e-mailed back later and said "thanks" but I .......
209: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: pretty slow around here; planar folks must be listening to tunes! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-05-04, 22:36:08 (24.6.23.7)
Green Lantern, You are correct with me but I was trying to chase down an annoying hum in my system. Was able to eliminate it when I removed my ground plug out of my PS Audio power cord that was connec .......
210: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 1.6 QR_How to repack? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-21, 09:21:02 (24.6.23.7)
Here a link to the pdf file I submitted to the MUG Forum on how to pack 1.5 or 1.6 Magnepan speakers. The instructions came from the Magnepan factory. Slbenz .......
211: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Went to MGIII-A from 1.6 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-19, 07:29:48 (24.6.23.7)
No question, biamp is the way to go. Just recently did that to my IIIas and there is more of everything, especially bass. Went from a set of 1.5s to the IIIas and never looked back. Having a set of My .......
212: DVD-Audiobahn, Same here, no problem on.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-18, 15:48:37 (24.6.23.7)
three players as well. A Pioneer 563A, an Oppo DV970HD and my current Marantz DV-9600. .......
213: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: A Maggie newbie with some basic questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-18, 13:54:16 (24.6.23.7)
Al, You are just like me. I have four IIIas but being used in a home theater system. You need one external crossover box per speaker in order to run them properly with your amp. Another alternative is .......
214: General Asylum, RE: Has lightning ever fried your system because you (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-09, 22:38:12 (24.6.23.7)
My APL Hi-Fi modded Pioneer 563A DVD player was plugged into a Monster Power Conditioner which failed to protect the player during a lighting strike. Even the alarm didn't go off. But at least to Mons .......
215: Cable Asylum, RE: Go Synergistic Alpha Active or AQ CV4.2 DBS? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-04, 13:21:22 (24.6.23.7)
Kenster, Thanks for the link, I will do that. Slbenz .......
216: Cable Asylum, RE: Go Synergistic Alpha Active or AQ CV4.2 DBS? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-03, 21:02:32 (24.6.23.7)
Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately, I would not be able to do a comparison without purchasing both which I do not want to do. Interesting analogy from SR. Slbenz .......
217: Cable Asylum, Go Synergistic Alpha Active or AQ CV4.2 DBS? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-04-03, 08:48:10 (24.6.23.7)
Debating which way to go. Currently running Synergistic Research Alpha speaker cable in my home theater system which uses Magnepan IIIas for the fronts and rears. Wondering if I go active with the SR .......
218: General Asylum, Al, tried the ERS Cloth and..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-21, 18:33:08 (24.6.23.7)
you were right, it didn't work at all. I think I will have to look into the magnetic shielding you recommend. Short of physically moving the TV away from the components or replacing the TV, looks like .......
219: General Asylum, RE: ERS cloth probably won't help. You need magnetic shielding. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-14, 21:10:09 (24.6.23.7)
Al, I will keep your suggestion in mind if the ERS Cloth doesn't work. Will know next Friday when the cloth arrives. At least using my Panamax and having the coax cable for my aerial antenna routed th .......
220: General Asylum, RE: Hum in System, Need Help! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-14, 15:35:07 (24.6.23.7)
Andrew, I wish it was that easy. I do not have cable TV hooked up to the TV but instead a standard aerial antenna in my attic. I have tried unhooking the aerial cable leading to the TV and it didn't d .......
221: General Asylum, RE: Hum in System, Need Help! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-14, 09:40:05 (24.6.23.7)
Just tried your various suggestions. None of them worked. Changing out interconnects, running the TV to another circuit, I still get hum through the speakers. Interconnect swapping did nothing but run .......
222: General Asylum, RE: Hum in System, Need Help! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-14, 06:58:28 (24.6.23.7)
Yes, my Panamax has isolated outputs. Unfortunately, I cannot connect the TV to another circuit. I'll have to check the interconnects like you said even though they are the same ones used before the s .......
223: General Asylum, Hum in System, Need Help! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-03-13, 22:27:10 (24.6.23.7)
Hello Everyone, Recently sold an Outlaw 990 preamp and replaced it with a Pioneer Elite VSX-74TXVi receiver. Noticed that once I used the Pioneer, I detect a faint hum coming from all five speakers in .......
224: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: If it makes a difference... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-29, 08:03:53 (24.6.23.7)
Kas, If your goal is better SACD performance, you won't be able to get it with a DAC connected to one of your transports. I used to own an Oppo 970 connected to a Channel Islands VDA-2 and the CIA cou .......
225: Hi-Rez Highway, Third That..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-15, 20:48:30 (24.6.23.7)
nt .......
226: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Some 0.5QR questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-14, 18:38:18 (24.6.23.7)
Hi, As a former owner of a set of 0.5s, when I replaced the socks from Magnepan, the cost was $30 about 1.5 years ago. Magnepan provides a set of instructions on how to remove and mount the socks onto .......
227: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Shakti Hallographs (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-07, 22:13:54 (24.6.23.7)
Sordidman, I had a chance to have a local dealer install a set into my room and the experience for me and even the dealer was less than stellar. Very little addition in focus and soundstage change in .......
228: Planar Speaker Asylum, Agree with you... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-07, 20:08:41 (24.6.23.7)
on your assessment with the two speakers. Currently own the IIIa, two sets in fact for a home theater and used to own the 1.5. The 1.5s though good, the IIIa with the same equipment was better in reso .......
229: Planar Speaker Asylum, Great Job!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-02-01, 18:28:27 (24.6.23.7)
Thanks for the pictorial. I will refer to it when it's time for me to replace the bass wires. I have already done the midrange wires on my IIIas. Thanks for sharing! Slbenz .......
230: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: I need help pricing Eminent Technology LFT-VI's and IV's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-31, 20:54:07 (24.6.23.7)
Ron, I can only help you with the ET IVs which I used to have. Bought them used for $400 three years ago then sold them last year for the same price. Slbenz .......
231: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MGIIIA Rewire complete. How long before I should start the break in ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-29, 08:45:19 (24.6.23.7)
I would have to agree with Peter Gunn. When I did my repair work on my IIIa more than a year ago, I just waited until everything was dry and not tacky before using the speakers again. Slbenz ::: TOPI .......
232: Digital Drive, RE: Just generally, what does an upgraded power supply do to a DAC's treble? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-28, 20:23:47 (24.6.23.7)
Audiohound, My experience with the CIA VDA-2 and purchasing the VAC-1, the overall presentation is more balanced. There is more bass with warmer mids while the treble is still extended but without har .......
233: Hi-Rez Highway, Mods to Marantz via APL Hi-Fi or EVS (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-21, 07:37:23 (24.6.23.7)
Quint, Having owned an APL Hi-Fi modded Pioneer 563a player I know the difference it can make. I'll bet your modded Oppo could give my Marantz a run for its money. I posted an e-mail to Alex Pechev on .......
234: Digital Drive, RE: Is the Channel Islands VDA2 a good budget DAC for rock? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-20, 14:28:01 (24.6.23.7)
When I compared the CIA VDA-2 to the Benchmark DAC-1, I noticed the CIA having better extension in the extremes. Ended up purchasing the CIA with the matching VAC-1 power supply. Upgraded the power co .......
235: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Same here! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-19, 20:05:25 (24.6.23.7)
Quint, I'm using a Marantz DV-9600 that replaced an Oppo DV-970HD. The Marantz was a big upgrade from the Oppo in video and especially audio. Slbenz .......
236: Hi-Rez Highway, Another Alternative, Herbie's The Black Hole (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-17, 07:12:34 (24.6.23.7)
Been using Herbie's The Black Hole for months without a problem. Inexpensive to buy and I definitely hear a positive difference whether using a CD, DVD-V, DVD-A and SACD discs. Herbie's pricing is low .......
237: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Anyone seen these MMG stands? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-08, 21:46:26 (24.6.23.7)
When I used to own a pair of Magnepan 0.5s, I used an indoor bike stand that leans against the wall to prop up the speakers. Needed the height due to furniture issues. Had them in this configuration w .......
238: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: “... that comes at a cost ... they will be universal to all larger maggies” (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-05, 21:07:48 (24.6.23.7)
Mart, I thought HiOnFi was a dealer. Last I checked the web site address associated with the moniker, it was with a dealer called Audio Tweakers in Florida who posted a response to my post becoming pa .......
239: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: MG20.1 Mye Stands: Initial Impressions (long) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2008-01-01, 08:01:31 (24.6.23.7)
Also congratulations on the purchase. I purchased the Mye Stands about a month ago for my Magnepan IIIa mains in my home theater. I also own a set of Magnepan IIIa for the rear channels and you can cl .......
240: General Asylum, RE: NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS; post 'em now while your in a fit state. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-31, 18:46:30 (24.6.23.7)
Here are my New Year's resolutions: 1. Get my new company Nexus Bridge, a high school educational web portal off the ground and profitable. 2. Modify my new Marantz DV-9600 universal player. 3. Re .......
241: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: I have had good luck with physical placement and power conditioning. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-22, 23:44:16 (24.6.23.7)
Yup. Have the single tube version of the Yaqin from Pacific Valve. Liked it so much I picked up a second one to handle all the 5.1 channels in my home theater. I currently use the green label JAN Phil .......
242: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: I own one, some comments, like yes you *can* tube roll... (I recommend it) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-22, 07:18:32 (24.6.23.7)
Yashu, Thanks for sharing! Great information on the alternative tubes with Grant's tube buffer. I have spoken to Grant before and when he was doing research, came upon my Epinions review on the Yaqin .......
243: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: I first heard a demo of them several CESs ago. Everyone in the demo. heard their benefits. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-19, 08:57:22 (24.6.23.7)
Quint, I agree with you. Tried them and didn't hear any benefit and they are very expensive to treat a whole room. Even the dealer who did the at-home demonstration with my system couldn't understand .......
244: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Repaired MG-IIIa, thanks to the MUG documents (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-18, 16:48:42 (24.6.23.7)
Congratulations on the rebuild! Did my rebuild on my IIIas over a year ago for the midrange wires that corroded. While I had the socks off, reglued the bass wires so that I didn't have to worry about .......
245: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Upgrade for Parasound AVC-1800? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-14, 22:04:13 (24.6.23.7)
Murf, I went from using a Parasound AVC-1800 like yours and upgraded to the Outlaw Audio Model 990 HT processor. The Outlaw uses 24 bit 192KHz DACs for all channels while the Parasound uses 24 bit and .......
246: Vinyl Asylum, RE: best used vinyl in san francisco or bay area? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-14, 21:39:06 (24.6.23.7)
Try one of the Rasputin stores. They carry quite a few used records there but you will have to hunt through their selection, they're not categorized. The one near my home says they carry over 300,000 .......
247: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Just changed my Maggie order from MG1.6 to MG12 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-13, 14:58:07 (24.6.23.7)
To comment about the MC1s I think the poster should be fine with the MC1s. Having heard them and the MMGWs, the MC1 is by far a better balanced and sounding speaker than the MMGW. My local Magnepan de .......
248: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Maybe borrow a 3 series pair.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-13, 14:50:16 (24.6.23.7)
Grant, Sometimes my wife wishes I went back to my 1.5s now that I have the Magnepan IIIa, especially running two sets for home theater. By the way, my wife really enjoys the sound from the IIIas since .......
249: Digital Drive, RE: Oppo 971 as a transport (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-11, 09:25:45 (24.6.23.7)
Vulcanman, Both the 971, 970 and for that matter the 981 all use the same DAC the CS4360. They are all implemented slightly differently with the edge towards the 970 for audio. I used to own an Oppo 9 .......
250: Speaker Asylum, RE: Need replacement plate amp, Velodyne HGS 12 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-09, 19:14:44 (24.6.23.7)
When my amp went out in my Velodyne HGS-12, I contacted Velodyne who installed a new amp for $200. This was several years ago. I would contact them to see if they carry the replacement. Watching them .......
251: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Great mod/tweak! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-05, 07:57:51 (24.6.23.7)
Jon, You have me curious on your suggestions. My speakers rest on carpet over cement. Slbenz .......
252: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Great mod/tweak! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-04, 22:46:34 (24.6.23.7)
I definitely kept the wooden boxes as well. They make sure the stands arrive undamaged in any way. Luckily for me, I have two sets of Magnepan IIIas that I use for my home theater and can easily compa .......
253: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Congrats on an excellent purchase... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-12-04, 19:37:50 (24.6.23.7)
Joe, Thanks for the suggestion. I'll have to check out that tweak. Slbenz .......
254: Planar Speaker Asylum, Became a Member of the Mye Stand Club (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-30, 22:27:10 (24.6.23.7)
Hello Everyone, Received my new Mye Stands for my Magnepan IIIa speakers yesterday. Not sure if I will be sharing that has not been said. The stands made a very noticeable improvement in imaging, deta .......
255: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Marantz DV 7001 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-29, 07:39:00 (24.6.23.7)
Xico, I have not heard the 7001 nor the 8001 but judging by the DACs used, the 7001 should sound as good if not better than the 8001 due to the latest Cirrus Logic 4398 DAC that it uses. This is the l .......
256: Digital Drive, RE: Oppo DV-980H or DV-981HD for 2 channel music? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-14, 21:19:52 (24.6.23.7)
Phil, As the other posters have said, the 980 will sound better than the 981. I used to own a 970, my brother-in-law owns the 980 and a neighbor owns the 981. The 980 has a slight edge over the 970 wh .......
257: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: SSP with 5 Ch Stereo mode (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-14, 07:11:45 (24.6.23.7)
Dave, Another SSP to consider is the Outlaw Audio Model 990. Similar to the Integra, is a Sherwood Newcastle minus the amp. The Outlaw has both 5/7 channel stereo that you are looking for at a very re .......
258: Water Cooler, RE: comforting week in my life with my cancer news....... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-12, 20:43:00 (24.6.23.7)
Bob, Hang in there. My son is also a cancer (brain) survivor and was only six years old last year to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment. No six year old should go through that. Glad to say h .......
259: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: CD/SACD player under 3.5k? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-11, 19:35:31 (24.6.23.7)
Quint, I am very happy with my recent purchase of a Marantz DV-9600. Sound is very good with CDs and superb with SACDs and DVD-As. If you have a Magnolia nearby, I scored a demo for $689.99 when this .......
260: Planar Speaker Asylum, You must be playing your speakers.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-11, 19:27:55 (24.6.23.7)
quite loud in order for them to bottom out and hear the mylar slap. I own two sets of IIIas using a Parasound 5-channel amp rated at 140 watts at 8 ohms and 200 watts at 4 ohms without any mylar slap .......
261: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Help for a New Amp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-11-11, 19:18:43 (24.6.23.7)
Used to own a pair of Magnepan 1.5s driven by a Parasound amp. Sold the 1.5s and upgraded to Magnepan IIIa still being driven by the same Parasound amp. If you are looking for used, I would also sugge .......
262: General Asylum, If only more people thought like you...... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-30, 14:11:06 (24.6.23.7)
on Audiogon, then there would be no issue with using PayPal. It is part of doing business with PayPal. I have sold many items and never requested the 3% PayPal fee from the buyer. Accepting PayPal giv .......
263: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Still waiting... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-17, 13:50:00 (24.6.23.7)
Steve, Just like you, I am still using the first one you sold to me and have put it through thousands of plays between CDs and DVDs that I have. Yes, the adhesive is gone but as you suggested using wa .......
264: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: Thanks, slbenz! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-11, 07:12:39 (24.6.23.7)
Beluga, If I remember correctly, Magnepan suggests using simple Scotch tape to repair minor tears in the mylar but if the Super 77 can do the same, I would go that route. The miloxane on my IIIas have .......
265: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: 3M 77 vs super 77 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-10, 15:56:35 (24.6.23.7)
Beluga, Based on what I was able to find on the 3M site, your 77 glue is at least 3-4 years old and was primarily sold in the UK. The newer Super 77 glue was reformulated to pass clean air standards h .......
266: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Parasound HCA-1205 output Relay Problem (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-08, 10:26:13 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Colin, Have the same Parasound amp you have and called Parasound technical support about your problem since I live near Parasound. Tom at Parasound told me that you already called and he suggested .......
267: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Universal Players (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-10-01, 22:03:58 (24.6.23.7)
Dorsea, I would go with the one tube Yaqin over the two tube Yaqin. The one tube Yaqin gives you many tubes to choose from (6DJ8, 6922, 6N11, 6N1) while the two tube Yaqin only gives you the option to .......
268: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Universal Players (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-28, 14:54:36 (24.6.23.7)
Dorsea, Considering that you said that there are issues with the sound using your Dish Network, I would go with the tube buffer. By installing it between your preamp and amp, all sounds will benefit v .......
269: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Universal Players (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-28, 11:04:30 (24.6.23.7)
Dorsea, I ended up purchasing the Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 DAC with upgraded VAC-1 power supply. Compared them against several DACs including MSB and Benchmark. The CIA combo helps to address the w .......
270: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Universal Players (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-27, 19:34:15 (24.6.23.7)
Hi, Currently own Magnepan IIIa, Parasound HCA-1205A, Outlaw Model 990 (previously Parasound AVC-1800 preamp) and Oppo 970 DVD player. So my system is similar to yours. I would go with Herbie's Audio .......
271: Hi-Rez Highway, Wasn't Questioning Anyone's Stupidity... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-19, 14:17:51 (24.6.23.7)
just trying to rule out some of the more simple things that even experts forget from time to time. Since you are an industry professional, your calibration of your system must be already correct. Have .......
272: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Bass for Sa-cd playback (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-19, 11:27:18 (24.6.23.7)
Since you have maxxed out the bass levels on your player and receiver, have you looked at your subwoofer? Maybe set too low? Or have you looked at your receiver and made sure to set it to recognize a .......
273: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: My First Pair of Magnepan Speakers - LOVE THEM! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-09-03, 21:59:08 (24.6.23.7)
Congratulations on your purchase. I think you will be very pleased. I am with mine. I have two sets of Magnepan IIIa, one set for fronts and another set for rear surrounds in my 5.1 system. I have bee .......
274: Digital Drive, Agree with you on this one... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-31, 22:10:21 (24.6.23.7)
because after taking a look at my Oppo DV970HD owner's manual, no where does it state that it has an upsample feature. Those frequencies when set on RAW are available when the recorded material is at .......
275: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Anyone know how to reach Bruce Moore? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-29, 20:56:27 (24.6.23.7)
I would try to contact Bob Bergner at RB Audio with the phone number found on the web site. Bob could probably have Bruce contact you to answer your questions. .......
276: Speaker Asylum, RE: UPDATE! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-27, 08:10:41 (24.6.23.7)
Duke, The Audio Gods must be watching over you. When I saw your original post, I felt really bad for you and thought this shouldn't happen to a good person like you. Glad to hear that you are able to .......
277: Speaker Asylum, RE: Stolen SoundLabs - keep an eye out, just in case (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-26, 07:25:31 (24.6.23.7)
Duke, Sorry to hear what happened to you. Hope you can recover the speakers. I'll be watching for you here in the San Francisco Bay Area, my friend. Ben .......
278: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: maggie 3.6 and vandersteen vcc center channel (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-23, 21:26:42 (24.6.23.7)
At least I know that my Velodyne HGS-12 the previous version to the DD-12 blends extremely well with my Magnepan IIIa. Recently had a THX certified engineer use his spectrum analyzer and my Velodyne w .......
279: General Asylum, RE: Audiogon censorship (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-22, 08:51:59 (24.6.23.7)
Your comments seem reasonable to me and didn't violate any rules. Don't feel too bad, I have had my Audiogon ID for over two years and they have yet to let me post my first post. I have tried many tim .......
280: General Asylum, RE: Klipsch KG2 Woofer (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-15, 23:43:10 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Mark, I used to own a pair of these speakers years ago. According to the Klipsch site, the KG2 was a 4 ohm speaker that handled from 65 watts to a peak of 325 watts. Sensitivity was 90.5 dB/watt. I .......
281: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: I better post my Calypso on Audiogon ASAP!!!!(nt) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-10, 22:32:13 (24.6.23.7)
Tom, Nice pictures of your system. Wasn't trying to bash the Calypso, just sharing my listening experience vs. the Bruce Moore components and the whole issue of Stereophile Class A classification. ::: .......
282: Amp/Preamp Asylum, Stereophile Class A Part 2-Bruce Moore vs. Aesthetix (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-09, 17:02:09 (24.6.23.7)
Hello Everyone, Following up on a post I did from last month discussing the relevance of Stereophile's Class A ratings on products and specifically with me listening to the Aesthetix Calypso to the .......
283: Shady Lane, RE: Help me determine if this guy is for real. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-08, 16:47:42 (24.6.23.7)
Sounds like a scam for sure. First, I wouldn't have put anything up for auction if I were on vacation in Europe. Second, you won't have any protection from PayPal I think if you send monies outside of .......
284: Planar Speaker Asylum, Reported to eBay (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-06, 21:54:16 (24.6.23.7)
Peter, Thanks for the heads up. I reported the two auctions to eBay and hopefully they will sort things out. Looks like your becoming a popular person, like it or not. .......
285: Cable Asylum, Second the Signal Cables (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-03, 10:51:11 (24.6.23.7)
I use several of Frank's power cords which include my 5 channel amp, home theater processor and DVD player. All have seen a noticeable improvement in sound and video with his power cords which by the .......
286: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Agree with you.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-08-01, 11:34:54 (24.6.23.7)
Awe-d-o-file, I have not heard Steve's other mats he has offered. But during my conversations with Steve about the Black Hole and my subsequent review about it on Epinions, at least on the phone, I wa .......
287: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Anyone know what the substance is that TRL puts on chips?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-31, 21:09:09 (24.6.23.7)
I think it is melted wax. .......
288: Tweakers' Asylum, Agree with you.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-30, 22:47:43 (24.6.23.7)
Herbie's Tube Dampers work great. As well as his Tenderfoot, and especially his CD vibration mat, The Black Hole. .......
289: Vinyl Asylum, It Is Definitely Compatible (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-26, 15:57:45 (24.6.23.7)
I currently own a Pro-Ject 1.2 and not too long ago purchased the Speed Box MkII for it. Made a positive difference to the sound and is much more convenient to use the turntable. $120 well spent. Slbe .......
290: Planar Speaker Asylum, RE: I woulda sworn..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-26, 10:06:55 (24.6.23.7)
Grant, I'm pretty sure you are right. My IIIas use metal screws at the bottom to hold the stands into place. If they are wood screws, a trick that I used for my Eminent Technolgy LFT-IVs that I onced .......
291: General Asylum, RE: Fedex ground vs. air? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-17, 08:28:03 (24.6.23.7)
David, There probably will be responses both positive and negative for any carrier you use but I use FedEx exclusively for my business and never had a problem using their Ground Services the last six .......
292: Cable Asylum, RE: Will a Signal Cables Magic PC do anything better than (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-14, 22:06:36 (24.6.23.7)
You should call Frank at Signal Cable. He has lots of experience comparing his PCs to PS Audio. I have done a comparison of his Magic Power and Digital Reference PCs to PS Audio Punch, Plus and Prelud .......
293: Tubes Asylum, RE: Does your JD-9 have the metal shields over the two 12AX7s? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-12, 22:40:41 (24.6.23.7)
Henry, Yes, my Jolida JD9 have the metal tube holders with the springs to hold and cover the stock tubes. I took these off and tried the Herbie Tube Dampers and found more detail and tighter bass with .......
294: Tubes Asylum, Sure Did! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-12, 19:30:52 (24.6.23.7)
Henry, I found a local dealer that was able to sell me the Groove Tubes you suggested. He even cryoed them for me. They really sound much better than the tubes that came with the Jolida. Thanks. Slbe .......
295: Tubes Asylum, Helped My Jolida JD9... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-12, 16:39:29 (24.6.23.7)
that you recommended that I purchase. Wasn't sure if Herbie's Tube Dampers would work but once I tried them, just like you, I heard more into the record. Also have them on my Musical Fidelity X10v3 tu .......
296: General Asylum, RE: What is your home's source of loudest ambient noise? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-10, 21:14:52 (24.6.23.7)
My two boys ages 7 and 9 years by far!! .......
297: Hi-Rez Highway, Just Received My Disc Today... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-07-09, 19:26:30 (24.6.23.7)
and Ray, it sounds great whether in 2 channel or surround. I happen to prefer surround. As a former clarinet player during my high school days, the recordings that are on this disc quickly took me bac .......
298: Digital Drive, RE: Vibe control at transport, not to be confused with jitter. nt (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-29, 10:12:13 (205.172.16.246)
Bartc, Agree with you on your assessment. It addresses an issue in the player's transport with vibration vs. jitter. I curently use Herbie's The Black Hole with my Oppo DV-970HD connected to a Channel .......
299: Critic's Corner, RE: About Time Seeing a Truthful Review.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-28, 02:02:30 (205.172.16.246)
PM'd you the information you seek. Slbenz .......
300: Critic's Corner, All of the Above and Then Some... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-27, 22:01:38 (205.172.16.246)
which includes if the cabinetry looked cheaply executed. The speakers I reviewed cost a couple of thousand dollars but the cabinetry was stained inconsistently and I wasn't the only one who commmented .......
301: Critic's Corner, About Time Seeing a Truthful Review.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-27, 12:04:47 (205.172.16.246)
from a reviewer and not being biased by advertising funds. I realize that these reviewers are pressured by advertisting dollars to write a positive review to keep the advertiser and the reviewer's com .......
302: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Knock, knock, knock...housekeeping...please read. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-27, 11:50:51 (205.172.16.246)
Chris, Keep up the great work! I know how difficult it can be. My friend who founded Consumerreview.com which also has Audioreview.com, he told me of the various troll/unregistered/spammer stories he .......
303: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Way OT: Who's buying an iPhone? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-27, 11:28:15 (205.172.16.246)
Definitely won't be buying one anytime soon. Currently use a Treo 650 and am very happy with it. Seeing the early reviews of the iPhone, several reviewers mentioned how slow it responds and some of th .......
304: Cable Asylum, RE: Bang for the buck pc? Powerlink Plus, Venom? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-27, 11:20:20 (205.172.16.246)
Another company I would like to recommend is Signal Cable. Frank is easy to contact and great to work with. I have several of his Digital Reference power cords and have enjoyed them greatly. Slbenz :: .......
305: General Asylum, Have to Third That!!!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-25, 21:00:47 (24.6.23.7)
Going from box speakers (B&W) to Magnepan IIIa front and rear for my 5.1 channel home theater was the biggest improvement but a close second was replacing my tubes in the tube buffers I use. ::: TOPI .......
306: Speaker Asylum, Info On Your Receiver and Speakers (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-24, 20:32:26 (24.6.23.7)
Hi, Found a couple of links that could help you on your information inquiry to both products. Seems that your receiver should have no problem driving either the JBLs or Advent speakers you are looking .......
307: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: Multi-channel tips? Is it worth it? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-24, 14:00:17 (24.6.23.7)
Snaggs, 1. Instead of upgrading your player, you should try Herbie's Audio Lab, The Black Hole, a vibration CD mat that really works. I tried it in my Oppo 970 and neighbor's Ayre universal player and .......
308: Amp/Preamp Asylum, The Nomad Is a New Product (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-20, 16:35:38 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Travis, Had a chance to speak with R.B. Audio and they confirmed that it is a new product that is not on their web site as of yet. I guess more information will be coming on this component I recent .......
309: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Couldn't find a "Nomad" at R. B. Audio (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-19, 15:29:28 (24.6.23.7)
Travis, All I know is when I asked for the name of the Bruce Moore component, I was told it was called the Nomad. Unfortunately, we did not test the Calypso both ways, only in balanced, I believe. Sl .......
310: Amp/Preamp Asylum, Calypso vs. Nomad, Stereophile Class A Ramblings (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-19, 14:08:38 (24.6.23.7)
Having looked at the recent thread in the Speaker Asylum about Stereophile Class ratings and their value made me reflect upon a shootout I attended at my neighbor's house recently. We were able to com .......
311: Vinyl Asylum, Thoughtful Recommendation (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-15, 19:22:13 (24.6.23.7)
George, Thanks for the recommendation. Those other carts seem nice but are much more expensive than my turntable. I ended up rechecking my tonearm and found that the anti-skate was on the wrong setti .......
312: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Sorry for the delay (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-13, 20:26:36 (24.6.23.7)
Had a chance to audition my local dealer's Music Hall MMF-5 in my system. I was not impressed. The sound was thin, screechy and sibilant. My Pro-Ject 1.2 sounded much fuller, warm and without the hars .......
313: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Upgrade Cart or Table? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-12, 13:09:38 (24.6.23.7)
Artemus, What about the Music Hall MMF-5? I have a friend who is willing to sell his to me and it seems there are several demo units available on the Net as well for under $500 with cartridge. How ab .......
314: Vinyl Asylum, Upgrade Cart or Table? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-11, 20:59:57 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Everyone, Looking for comments on which would be the best way to go. should I upgrade my cartridge or go with a used turntable? Currently, I have a Pro-Ject 1.2 turntable using a Sumiko Pearl cartr .......
315: Tubes Asylum, Thanks Everyone for the Great Suggestions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-06, 06:44:07 (24.6.23.7)
I had a chance to speak with my local tube dealer about the various tubes everyone here suggested. My dealer agreed each one has their merits and are system dependent. I ended up ordering the Groove T .......
316: Tubes Asylum, Thanks Jim and Henry... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-05, 09:13:08 (24.6.23.7)
for the great information. The place I planned to order the GTs is local and they test each tube for quality. So I think I can rest assure that if I order the Groove Tube 12AX7, a pair of them should .......
317: Tubes Asylum, RE: I've tried 4 tubes in my JD-9, the stock Shuguang, GT (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-05, 08:00:32 (24.6.23.7)
Henry, I knew I could count on you to provide useful, detailed feedback on which tubes to use. If you saw the other posters comments, he had problems with the GTs. I am assuming you did not. Also, tha .......
318: Tubes Asylum, RE: Groove Tube or EH 12AX7 Tube for a Jolida JD9?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-05, 07:54:50 (24.6.23.7)
Jim, Thanks for the feedback. What problems did you experience with the GTs? This is the first I have heard of this. Slbenz .......
319: Tubes Asylum, Groove Tube or EH 12AX7 Tube for a Jolida JD9?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-04, 21:13:20 (24.6.23.7)
Just recently acquired a Jolida JD9 and I am thinking of replacing the stock 12AX7 tubes with either the Groove Tube or EH in regular or gold pin version. Looking to squeeze out more performance out o .......
320: General Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Herbie's Audio Lab 3.2mm grungebuster gasket material Accessory (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-06-01, 20:19:39 (24.6.23.7)
I am a bit confused. Looked on the Herbie's Audio Lab site and didn't find anything that is listed in your title. Are you talking about the Grungebuster Damping Sheet, Extra Thick? It would help in yo .......
321: Digital Drive, Call RAM!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-26, 21:30:16 (24.6.23.7)
They're the ones that did the work and should be able to help you correct it, I hope. .......
322: Hi-Rez Highway, 5.1 Channel (nt) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-23, 08:36:31 (24.6.23.7)
.. .......
323: Digital Drive, Yep, forgot about the third option.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-21, 10:29:21 (24.6.23.7)
an IEC adapter for the Oppo AC cord. Definitely adds bass weight and reduces digital harshness and opens the soundstage. Thanks for the reminder. Slbenz .......
324: Digital Drive, RE: Sincerest Thanks for your response...... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-21, 08:09:56 (24.6.23.7)
Thanks for the response. I am approaching a year of constant use with my Oppo 970 and have mine connected to a Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 ext. DAC and matching VAC-1 power supply. In conjuntion with .......
325: Digital Drive, RE: OPPO 970 and USB connections? ? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-20, 18:11:04 (24.6.23.7)
Barney, When I posted the same questions to Oppo their response was that the USB port only can support flash drives up to 4GB in size. No external hard drives, not enough power from the port to fully .......
326: Vinyl Asylum, Re: Also Looking to Upgrade My Phono Preamp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-18, 19:34:18 (24.6.23.7)
Audiophile36, Just received my Pro-Ject Speedbox Mk 2 today and have to agree with your assessments. Made my Pro-Ject 1.2 turntable sound much better. I have a Jolida JD-9A on order and can't wait to .......
327: Vinyl Asylum, Where did you purchase the Jolida? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-17, 16:02:16 (24.6.23.7)
Looking to purchase one as well. Where did you buy one new for $339? Thanks. Slbenz .......
328: Vinyl Asylum, Re: Go for the JD-9A. You won't regret it. /nt\ (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-17, 16:00:28 (24.6.23.7)
Henry, Thanks. I knew you would know which would be better. Slbenz .......
329: Vinyl Asylum, Henry, need to ask you another question.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-17, 09:57:17 (24.6.23.7)
this time about your Jolida. First thanks for the feedback on my Parasound PPH-100 in a previous post. Now I am looking at the Jolida JD-9A as a possible choice for upgrade vs. the Cambridge Audio 640 .......
330: Vinyl Asylum, Also Looking to Upgrade My Phono Preamp (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-16, 21:31:55 (24.6.23.7)
Thanks for letting me know approximately how much an improvement it was via a percentage. I am also looking to upgrade my current phono preamp which is a Parasound PPH-100 to one of three choices, Cam .......
331: Vinyl Asylum, Re: The best $120 I've spent on analogue (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-16, 15:13:30 (24.6.23.7)
I have one on the way as well for my Pro-ject 1.2 turntable. Glad to hear that you had a positive experience using the Speedbox Mk 2. I hope to have mine later this week and hear the difference. Also .......
332: Vinyl Asylum, Re: IMHO, yes. An upgrade to either would be worthwhile. /nt\ (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-14, 13:21:31 (24.6.23.7)
Henry, Thanks for the response. Now do you think purchasing the CIA VPP-1 ($349) with it's price difference is justified over the Cambridge Audio 640P ($169)? Seems like your thoughts that either woul .......
333: Vinyl Asylum, Time for an Upgrade After Reading This Review? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-14, 11:06:20 (24.6.23.7)
After reading this review, it made me think if it is time for me to change out my Parasound PPH-100 that is connected to my Pro-Ject 1.2 turntable with Sumiko Pearl cartridge with the Cambridge Audio .......
334: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: Oppo 970 Connectivity Question (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-12, 22:48:31 (24.6.23.7)
Hello, Unfortunately I think your friend is out of luck. Without the 5.1 analog input on his MacIntosh, he will not be able to obtain SACD playback. SACD playback on the Oppos are either via the 5.1 a .......
335: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: MGIIIA vs MMG (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-10, 07:02:52 (24.6.23.7)
Currently own two sets of Magnepan IIIa in my home theater upgraded from 1.5 and 0.5 Magnepans. Regluing the IIIa speaker is very easy like the others have said. One IIIa speaker I owned had to have t .......
336: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: DVD Video player with volume control (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-09, 15:02:14 (24.6.23.7)
Richard, I own an Oppo DV970HD and the volume control is more than sufficient as a stand alone player if you want to connect directly to a power amp. .......
337: General Asylum, Upgrade Question- DVD player or Preamp? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-05, 15:54:17 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Everyone, I guess here's another upgrade question to the board. Thinking of either upgrading my Oppo Digital DV970HD for a Marantz DV-7600 or upgrading my Parasound AVC-1800 home theater preamp pro .......
338: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Thanks for the support. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-04, 13:38:18 (24.6.23.7)
Actually, I should thank my wife for the support she gave me when I started to haul in two pairs of Magnepan IIIas for the front and rear channels. Like you, I used to own an all Klipsch home theater .......
339: Planar Speaker Asylum, I have a similar view with multi-channel..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-03, 20:35:03 (24.6.23.7)
I like listening more to multi-channel whether if it is SACD, DVD-A and especially with DVD-Video. Like you, I understand the two-channel purists but to each his/her own wants and needs. That is why I .......
340: General Asylum, Same here... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-05-03, 19:36:53 (24.6.23.7)
FedEx has been very good to me and my company these past seven years that I have used them. FedEx also gives me better rates and delivery times than UPS. Now UPS on the other hand..... Slbenz ::: TOPI .......
341: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: vs. Squeezebox (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-28, 21:28:29 (24.6.23.7)
SoftwireEngineer, I have my stuff also plugged into a balanced power conditioner. You still may want to try Herbie's new vibration damping CD mat. People in AA seem to like it more than the old Herbie .......
342: Hi-Rez Highway, Same Experience (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-28, 06:50:48 (24.6.23.7)
SoftwireEngineer, I did the same things you mentioned and noticed the same positive changes as well. You should also look into Herbie's Audio Lab's "The Black Hole". A vibration damping mat for your C .......
343: Digital Drive, Re: Opinions on Adcom External DAC vs DAC in Parasound Processor (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-23, 18:45:50 (24.6.23.7)
Bullet, Here are some links to help you get started: http://www.pacificvalve.us/DIYEDENGallery.html http://www.scott-nixon.com/dac.htm .......
344: Speaker Asylum, Re: Magnepan MG-II No top end! Where's the sizzle? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-23, 15:49:31 (24.6.23.7)
If you go to the MUG forum, you will find that the specs for your speakers are 50-16,000Hz and it is a 2-way, full range speaker. It does not have the quasi-ribbon or true-ribbon tweeter that the newe .......
345: Digital Drive, Re: Opinions on Adcom External DAC vs DAC in Parasound Processor (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-23, 11:19:42 (24.6.23.7)
Bullet, the Adcom has a 20 bit DAC while your Parasound uses a 24 bit DAC. I use a Channel Islands VDA-2 for both my Sony and Oppo digital sources to make them sound better. You probably should look i .......
346: Speaker Asylum, Re: CSW Model Six driver integration (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-19, 18:23:57 (24.6.23.7)
I owned a set for several years that sounded good enough for me to replace a set of Klipsch Heresy IIs that I owned for five years. The drivers blended very well together if I recall and scored well o .......
347: Speaker Asylum, Stereophile Review Comparing Epos and B&W (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-04-17, 22:17:14 (24.6.23.7)
Thought you would be interested in this article from Stereophile where they did a review of the B&W DM603 s3 and discussed a comparison vs. the Epos M5. As you probably know, B&W speakers are used mor .......
348: Digital Drive, Re: DIYEDEN Great March2 vs Lite DAC60? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-28, 09:27:43 (24.6.23.7)
Had a chance to try the DIYEDEN Great March Modified by Pacific Valve which added to the sound of my Sony megachanger but did nothing for my Oppo 970 DVD player. In order to hear a noticeable differen .......
349: Digital Drive, Re: Other Options (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-28, 05:58:33 (24.6.23.7)
Mike, You are right about the light build quality but luckily, I haven't had any problems since I bought mine last August. Another suggestion you might want to do is change out the stock power cord wi .......
350: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Best DAC for use with MG12's? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-27, 18:05:54 (24.6.23.7)
Having compared several DACs including the DIYEDEN Great March, Benchmark DAC1 and the Channel Islands Audio VDA-2. I went with the CIA because it sounded best with my Magnepan IIIas. According to the .......
351: Digital Drive, Re: Other Options (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-27, 05:28:18 (24.6.23.7)
Mike, After having spoken with the people at Oppo, the 981 is geared for better video over the 970 since it uses the same design as their 971 which rated a 98 as is the highest scoring player for vide .......
352: Digital Drive, Re: Other Options (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-26, 15:12:02 (24.6.23.7)
Mike, Definitely the Oppo has a great picture. Secrets of Home Theater and Hi-Fi did an evaluation on the 970 and gave it an 86. My previous DVD player, a modded Pioneer 563a scored a 61. These scores .......
353: Digital Drive, Other Options (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-25, 07:45:50 (24.6.23.7)
As sunseeker said, that is one option you can do with your Panasonic. I do that with my Oppo 970 connected to a Channel Islands Audio DAC. As long as you don't run hi-rez recordings through the DAC, s .......
354: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: Can the display be turned off? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-23, 23:46:01 (24.6.23.7)
The 970 doesn't have a function to dim or eliminate the display. .......
355: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: How to do it without TV connection? (nt) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-23, 10:06:46 (24.6.23.7)
Unfortunately, you can't. The front display on the Oppo does not show the menu screens that are shown on a monitor or TV screen. You will find that some people purchase a small TV just so that they ca .......
356: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: Oppo 970 and hybrid disc? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-23, 07:04:19 (24.6.23.7)
Yes, the Oppo sent from the factory is defaulted to play SACD multi-channel but you can easily change the set up to have the SACD play the 2-channel SACD/CD tracks on the disc for your comparison. Thi .......
357: Digital Drive, Re: C I Audio VDA 2 DAC Processors (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-22, 21:32:54 (24.6.23.7)
Adam, The free upgrade is definitely worth it. Made my VDA-2 sound even better with greater clarity and presence. .......
358: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Home Theater, planars in front, conventionals for surrounds (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-11, 21:25:18 (24.6.23.7)
Currently running IIIa fronts and rears with an Eminent Technology LFT-12 center channel. Used to run Celestion Little Ones, B&W DM302s, then Martin Logan Scenarios for the rears until settling on ano .......
359: Planar Speaker Asylum, Agreed!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-10, 13:28:00 (24.6.23.7)
Karen had one of her technicians contact me to walk me through the process. It was quite easy and the fabric cost is quite inexpensive. Slbenz .......
360: Digital Drive, Re: CDP/DVD w/ Volume Control (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-06, 10:07:45 (24.6.23.7)
Joseph, I only have experience with the Oppo Digital DV-970HD but I believe the 971 and 981 that they sell, all have a built-in volume control like my 970. Here is a link to my review of the Oppo 970 .......
361: Digital Drive, How About Another Option...... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-02-02, 07:40:15 (24.6.23.7)
using one of the available tube buffers like the Musical Fidelity X-10v3 or the Yaqin tube buffer? I have both in my home theater and both can transform my Oppo Digital DV-970HD and Sony CDP-CDX240 20 .......
362: Digital Drive, Wow! My Review now in Chile. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-25, 16:22:23 (24.6.23.7)
Jose, Didn't realize my Epinions review would end up on a Chilean Forum! The wonder and power of the Internet! I'm glad to see that your friend is quite pleased with the Channel Islands Audio products .......
363: Digital Drive, Re: Hi-Bit DIRECT OUT feature? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-25, 13:54:04 (24.6.23.7)
K, Here is a link from the Yamaha owner's manual archives that should explain to you the feature you have a question on. Take a look on page eight of the owner's manual. Slbenz .......
364: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: Where does OPPO claim the 970's audio is better than the 981's? (nt) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-25, 12:58:01 (24.6.23.7)
Hello, Here is a quote I found on the AVS Forum that was an e-mail received by their Customer Support Department: "Two things. First, i heard back from Oppo with answers to questions about the 970 and .......
365: Digital Drive, Owner of the CI VDA-2 and VAC-1 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-25, 06:52:35 (24.6.23.7)
Jose, I have been quite pleased with my CI VDA-2 and VAC-1 combination that is connected to both my Oppo Digital DV-970HD DVD player and my Sony 200 disc megachanger. I wrote a review of this combo at .......
366: Tubes Asylum, Thanks! (nt) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-24, 07:12:45 (24.6.23.7)
* .......
367: Tubes Asylum, Re: Calling geraldm121-Got the Yaqin Tube Buffer! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-23, 20:48:39 (24.6.23.7)
Jerry, Thanks for the reply. I will take your advise and try the 6DJ8 tube in place of the 6N1 tube that was supplied. Yes, I do have a 117 volt unit with the IEC connector. I have tried the unit with .......
368: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Will placement issues prevent my first Maggie?! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-23, 09:29:20 (24.6.23.7)
Here is a link that may answer your question about comparing the 1.6 to the MC1: http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/MUG/messages/93196.html. Have you checked Stereo Unlimited's modified MC1 with the su .......
369: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Will placement issues prevent my first Maggie?! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-22, 08:22:24 (24.6.23.7)
How did you like the Stereo Unlimited set up with the Magnepans facing each other? When I went there to hear this set up, it did sound good but at the expense of spatial imaging for me. I have a dedic .......
370: Tubes Asylum, Calling geraldm121-Got the Yaqin Tube Buffer! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-19, 21:12:25 (24.6.23.7)
Hi Jerry, Just received the Yaqin Tube Buffer from Pacific Valve and Electric Company. The Yaqin I thought came with the 6DJ8 tube actually came with the 6N1 tube instead. The Yaqin can also take the .......
371: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: OK - I've joined the Oppo club (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-12, 07:58:37 (24.6.23.7)
Christine, I think you will be very impressed with the picture quality of the Oppo 970. I know I was coming from an old modified Pioneer 563a connected to my Mitsubishi 52" DLP HDTV. In terms of audio .......
372: Tubes Asylum, Re: Anyone with Experience Using Yaqin Tube Buffer Stage? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-10, 14:41:14 (24.6.23.7)
Jerry, I definitely will let you know once the Yaqin with the one 6DJ8 tube arrives. Looks like it will be a while. Received an e-mail from Pacific Valve stating that the unit will ship in the next 4- .......
373: Tubes Asylum, Re: Anyone with Experience Using Yaqin Tube Buffer Stage? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-09, 21:54:28 (24.6.23.7)
Jerry, Thanks for all the great feedback. I was able to contact Pacific Valve & Electric Company and they felt their Yaqin with the one 6DJ8 tube sounded more musical and refined than my MF x-10v3! So .......
374: Tubes Asylum, Anyone with Experience Using Yaqin Tube Buffer Stage? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-08, 18:47:47 (24.6.23.7)
Hi, Wondering if anyone is using a Yaqin tube buffer stage which is similar to the Musical Fidelity tube buffer offering. Currently received a MF tube buffer for Christmas and really like the sound tr .......
375: Digital Drive, Re: Benchmark DAC1 and Oppo (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-03, 13:06:44 (24.6.23.7)
Joe, Sorry for the confusion. My Oppo is currently used as a transport. What I was trying to say was that having a high quality DAC like the Benchmark or CIA connected to the Oppo, there was a noticab .......
376: Digital Drive, Re: Benchmark DAC1 and Oppo (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-02, 20:14:23 (24.6.23.7)
I use an Oppo Digital DV970HD connected to a Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 DAC with the Channel Islands Audio VAC-1 power supply. Tried the Benchmark DAC-1 and liked the Channel Islands combo better. No .......
377: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Help taming 3.6 glare, please (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-01, 23:46:09 (24.6.23.7)
As an owner of IIIas, I had a similar issue until I faced the speakers straight out into the room rather than toe them into the listener's sitting position as suggested by Magnepan. Also, you may want .......
378: Hi-Rez Highway, Also 100% Surround (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2007-01-01, 23:36:55 (24.6.23.7)
Tried it both ways and always prefer the 5.1 mode on SACD. Many of the SACDs as well as DVD-As were recorded with surround in mind. Among my audio friends in my area, I seem to be in the minority who .......
379: Digital Drive, Re: Oppo cd (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-12-22, 13:34:17 (24.6.23.7)
Like everyone has said about the Oppo 970 is that it is a bit thin on bass and detail for me in my Parasound, Magnepan IIIa home theater set up. I changed out the stock power cord with an aftermarket .......
380: Digital Drive, Re: And I'll third the Channel Island VDA 2 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-10-03, 19:38:24 (24.6.23.7)
How big a difference did that Revelation Audio Labs Parable Cryo-Silver Reference power cord was over the stock Channel Islands Audio power cord? I would assume a difference, but was it worth the $99 .......
381: Planar Speaker Asylum, Experience with the older versions... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-09-28, 21:35:16 (24.6.37.130)
...of the MG12s and 1.6s, I had the Magnepan 0.5s and 1.5s. Now I have the Magnepan IIIas, front and rear of a home theater system. The IIIas sound much more life-like and open vs. the 0.5s or the 1.5 .......
382: Digital Drive, Second the Channel Island VDA 2 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-09-28, 18:13:36 (24.6.37.130)
I purchased the Channel Islands Audio VDA-2 and then also purchased the VAC-1, the upgrade power supply. This combination in conjunction with your favorite power cord, I'm using a PS Audio Power Punch .......
383: Digital Drive, Re: DIYEDEN Great March base vs Modified? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-09-25, 18:31:12 (24.6.37.130)
I ordered a DIYEDEN Great March modified by Pacific Valve earlier this summer and tried it during their trial period. It helped to reduce the "digititis" out of my Sony megachanger but didn't do a thi .......
384: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: Question for Oppo 970 users (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-09-05, 08:46:02 (24.6.37.130)
Matthew, The only problem I would foresee is with DVD-A discs without the use of a screen. It would be difficult at best to try to navigate to the 2-channel hi-rez portion without it. You can program .......
385: Planar Speaker Asylum, Agree as Well (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-09-03, 22:09:15 (24.6.37.130)
You'll get more of everything with the 1.5s over the MMGs. .......
386: Digital Drive, Re: Problem with MSB Link DAC III Not Turning On (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-19, 07:20:33 (24.6.37.130)
KP, Thanks for sharing your experiences on this DAC and others. Leaving them all on I can see would present no problems. Yes, I can get a lock onto the signal once I turn off the DAC and turn it back .......
387: Digital Drive, Re: Problem with MSB Link DAC III Not Turning On (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-18, 19:58:13 (24.6.37.130)
KP, I have all the components going through the Panamax which turns them all off. I only turn on the Oppo and Sony individually. I normally do not have both on at the same time. When I called MSB, the .......
388: Digital Drive, Problem with MSB Link DAC III Not Turning On (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-18, 19:12:06 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, Recently purchased a MSB Link DAC III with upsampler option. My problem is that every now and then the unit does not seem to recognize a signal input. I have an Oppo Digital DV970HD co .......
389: Digital Drive, Re: Monolithic Sound HC-2b vs. MSB P1000 Questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-17, 17:51:07 (24.6.37.130)
Does the P1000 only improve the bass or did you notice an overall improvement? What bigger improvements did you hear over the Monolithic? Slbenz .......
390: Digital Drive, Re: I can vouch for the DAC-60. I've had one for a few months now. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-16, 19:16:26 (24.6.37.130)
I'm just curious, are you using the Oppo DV970HD? I currently am running one with a MSB Link DAC III with upsampler and noticed when compared to my Sony 200 disc megachanger, the Oppo seems to smear t .......
391: Digital Drive, Monolithic Sound HC-2b vs. MSB P1000 Questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-15, 17:48:06 (24.6.37.130)
Hi All, Recently purchased a MSB Link DAC III with the upsampler option. Wanted to get your take on using one of these power supplies. Has anyone compared the two and what were the results? I found on .......
392: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: 20.1's fire sale (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-11, 18:49:05 (24.6.37.130)
No scam. Just making sure to report him to the authorities since I am one of them. .......
393: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: 20.1's fire sale (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-11, 14:37:35 (24.6.37.130)
I left him a call and haven't heard for him either. I suspect that he may be the same guy trying to pull an A/V scam out of the Santa Clara area. We shall see once he gives one of us a call. Slbenz : .......
394: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Magnepan MG II questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-11, 14:36:07 (24.6.37.130)
Dawnrazor, I was thinking of the thin 31 gauge aluminum wire that was used for my midrange panels. Wasn't sure how the II's tweeters are wired. After seeing a tweeter repair kit posted, I assumed that .......
395: General Asylum, Re: Selling Items (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-10, 19:42:57 (24.6.37.130)
I have done it once and the item advertised was not up to the description. Slbenz .......
396: General Asylum, Re: Never had a prob with their air service.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-10, 19:41:36 (24.6.37.130)
Marc, I have used both UPS and FedEx and my preference is with FedEx Ground or Air. Not because of any issues with damage but FedEx is able to ship to my customers one day faster than UPS and for 25% .......
397: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Magnepan MG II questions (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-10, 19:36:57 (24.6.37.130)
That's the same price plus shipping I was charged for the midrange repair kit for my IIIas. Just make sure you have a high wattage soldering gun, 100W plus and use a lot of solder flux on the aluminum .......
398: Digital Drive, Re: Inexpensive Chinese DACs any good?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-05, 21:49:09 (24.6.37.130)
Bluemeteor@att.net, I am not arguing with you about the modded Lite DACs you own but for my ears, the modded Great March didn't do anything for my Oppo Digital DVD player. After hearing it vs. my Sony .......
399: Digital Drive, Re: Inexpensive Chinese DACs any good?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-05, 14:45:47 (24.6.37.130)
Frank, I don't think you will find a better DAC in the $250 price range than the MSB. If a modified DIYEDEN couldn't beat the stock MSB Link DAC III in my system, I can't imagine the others by Lite Au .......
400: Digital Drive, Re: Inexpensive Chinese DACs any good?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-04, 19:30:14 (24.6.37.130)
Frank, Yes, I was able to hear a noticeable difference using the MSB Link DAC III. My system consists of a Parasound AVC-1800 pre amp, Parasound HCA-1205 power amp, Magnepan IIIa mains and rears, Velo .......
401: Digital Drive, Re: Inexpensive Chinese DACs any good?? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-08-04, 17:52:13 (24.6.37.130)
Frank, I ordered the Great March modified from the same place recently. Speaking with the owner directly, he suggested the modded Great March over the other DACs based on the price I was willing to sp .......
402: Digital Drive, Re: Burning In Components (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-30, 07:29:17 (24.6.37.130)
Jandg, I just received the DIYEDEN Great March DAC modified by Pacific Valve and Electric company. I am currently burning in the unit using either a Sony 200 disc CD megachanger or an Oppo Digital 970 .......
403: Digital Drive, Re: People are saying some nice things about this budget player... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-15, 05:44:22 (24.6.37.130)
Jack, I have to agree with you on that one. Owned my Oppo DV970HD for three weeks now and the video using the included HDMI cable is great. Much clearer than my modded Pioneer 563A. Ended up selling t .......
404: DVD-Audiobahn, Re: OPPO ! 970HD sounds great... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-06, 22:10:29 (24.6.37.130)
Have one as well and for the price, it can't be beat. CD sound is comparable to dedicated CD players in the same price range. When I compared DVD-A and SACD performance to my modded universal player, .......
405: General Asylum, Similar Situation..... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-06, 08:13:55 (24.6.37.130)
...but I have instead a 52" DLP in a large custom oak cabinet between my speakers. I have found that using room treatments helped quite a bit with imaging and detail. A friend of mine let me use his S .......
406: Planar Speaker Asylum, Neolith, Clamping It Down Worked (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-02, 19:05:04 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Looks like clamping the wires down using a screw terminal seems to of did the trick. Been playing the speaker at high volumes for the last several hours without a problem. Made sure to silico .......
407: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Oops, that was your post. I was thinking about.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-02, 08:12:11 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Thanks for the advice but I have called Magnepan about my soldering problem several times to no avail. I may have to try finding a crimping/clamping solution in lieu of soldering the aluminum .......
408: Planar Speaker Asylum, Problems Still with the Aluminum Wiring of the IIIas (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-07-01, 20:57:19 (24.6.37.130)
Hello All, After doing the midrange repair myself on my IIIas, I still have the problem of the 31 gauge aluminum wire that Magnepan supplied to stick to the solder. After about a few days worth of use .......
409: Planar Speaker Asylum, Thanks for the Tip.. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-18, 18:17:20 (24.6.37.130)
Al. That sounds like a good plan for me to do. So I need to solder these caps in parallel to the speaker cables that I use? I really like these IIIas that I bought now that I have surrounding me in my .......
410: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Supertweeter Source Question (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-18, 07:18:44 (24.6.37.130)
Andy, Thanks for the suggestion on rebuilding the IIIa with better components. I thought about going that route until I had a chance to hear what a supertweeter can do with a pair of 3.6s at Stereo U .......
411: Planar Speaker Asylum, Supertweeter Source Question (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-17, 20:20:20 (24.6.37.130)
Hello, Anyone know of an inexpensive source for supertweeter add-ons for Magnepans? Heard the Linaeum supertweeter at Stereo Unlimited in Walnut Creek but at $900 to do my IIIas is way too expensive e .......
412: Planar Speaker Asylum, Over 40 as well and.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-14, 13:21:10 (24.6.37.130)
I can still hear a difference when the Supertweeter used at Stereo Unlimited in Walnut Creek on a set of Magnepan 3.6s is turned on. I didn't expect to hear a difference but there was. The supertweete .......
413: Planar Speaker Asylum, Already Done and Covered (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-13, 20:20:09 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Definitely did that to ensure 100% coverage. That aluminum wire sure was difficult to solder. Had to reclean and resolder at least seven times before it took. When I powered the speaker for t .......
414: Planar Speaker Asylum, Kendo You Were Right.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-12, 21:40:46 (24.6.37.130)
I resoldered the joints and used more flux as you suggested and was able to have the midrange panel work under load without a problem. Thanks for the suggestion. Now I don't have to call Magnepan tomo .......
415: Planar Speaker Asylum, Rebuild Rant (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-12, 18:09:30 (24.6.37.130)
As some of you may know, I recently purchased a pair of Magnepan IIIas where one of the midrange panels was out. Ended up purchasing the midrange repair kit from Magnepan. Did everything that was inst .......
416: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Refurb MGs (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-08, 09:30:02 (24.6.37.130)
Ryan, I just got off the phone with Karen at Magnepan who is walking me through my rebuild of a midrange panel on my IIIas. Calling them is probably the best way to determine how much it will cost. To .......
417: Planar Speaker Asylum, Anyone Else Try Shakti Stones and Room Treatments? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-07, 22:40:26 (24.6.37.130)
Hello All, Disclaimer: I am not associated with this stereo dealer in any financial way nor am I a rep or manufacturer of these products I am about to mention. Had my friend, who is a stereo dealer, c .......
418: General Asylum, Have You and Joe M Covered.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-06, 05:52:51 (24.6.37.130)
because I volunteer my time as a Bike Patrol officer for my local State Park using my mountain bike. I also have a high-end road bike that I use during the week. For Joe M, I used to do shoot weddings .......
419: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Can Magnepan Glue (Milloxane) Peel off? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-06-01, 18:35:20 (24.6.37.130)
I am currently in the process of rebuilding a midrange panel for one of my Magnepan IIIas that I recently purchased. I have taken off the sock and looked at the wires and glue. These speakers are twen .......
420: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: FWIW, as much as I'm in favor of uniform voicing ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-31, 19:42:04 (24.6.37.130)
Mart, After my rear channel IIIa rebuild, I am planning to order the Mye stands for the IIIa front mains. Eventually if WAF, budget and space permits, I will do the rears as well. Slbenz .......
421: Planar Speaker Asylum, Kendo, thanks for the link... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-31, 17:10:22 (24.6.37.130)
it will probably prove to be very helpful once the midrange repair kit arrives in the mail next week. Already bought the acetone and 3M adhesive already to prepare for the "surgery" on the IIIas. Wish .......
422: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Neolith, Had My Call With Steve Winey... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-31, 11:07:45 (24.6.37.130)
and luckily Magnepan sells a midrange repair kit for $50.00 that can repair two speakers. Steve says that this DIY kit is pretty easy to do. It greatly reduces the cost of repair and risk of shipping .......
423: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Rear speaker for Maggie HT question (possible poll) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-31, 08:00:47 (24.6.37.130)
For a while, I was using an Eminent Technology LFT-IV for rear surrounds supporting my Magnepan 0.5s then later 1.5s as my mains. Recently upgraded to a full set of IIIas for mains and rears. The 1.5s .......
424: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Neolith, Just Checked Continuity.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-30, 17:27:49 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Had a chance to remove all the staples at the bottom of the panel and it looks like the wires are corroded as Wendell said. Didn't have a chance to remove the tweeter so that I can fully remo .......
425: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Neolith, Just Checked Continuity.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-30, 11:07:45 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Thanks for the suggestions but unfortunately, I do not see any breaks in the back panel. Just called Magnepan and Wendell thinks the midrange panel could be corroded since there is no continu .......
426: Planar Speaker Asylum, Neolith, Just Checked Continuity.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-30, 09:02:09 (24.6.37.130)
...and it seems you are right. No continuity seen when I checked at the mid/tweeter inputs. I guess I have to take the sock off to see where the break is. Do you know when I take the sock off, do I ne .......
427: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Magnepan IIIa Sound Calibration Question and Issue (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-30, 07:36:30 (24.6.37.130)
Neolith, Thanks. I will check using my ohm meter later today. Slbenz .......
428: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Midrange panel or fuse problem? nt (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-30, 06:51:23 (24.6.37.130)
Mrr, I have already replaced all the fuses on this speaker. I suspect maybe one of the panels or the components to the internal crossover may need replacing. Slbenz .......
429: Planar Speaker Asylum, Magnepan IIIa Sound Calibration Question and Issue (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-29, 21:15:08 (24.6.37.130)
Hello All, As some of you know that I recently acquired a pair of IIIas for my rear channels of my home theater. As I was doing the final adjustments, I noticed that one of the speakers is down about .......
430: Planar Speaker Asylum, Another Planar Upgrade for the Home Theater (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-28, 23:00:08 (24.6.37.130)
Hello All, Just put in the finishing touches on a newly acquired pair of Magnepan IIIa for the rear channels. Now I have IIIas in all four corners of my 5.1 home theater. Had a pair of Magnepan 1.5s d .......
431: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: HT with maggies - two rows of seating? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-20, 12:40:00 (24.6.37.130)
James, As a former B&W and Martin Logan home theater system owner and now current Magnepan home theater owner, let me share my experiences and try to answer your questions. First, I use Magnepan IIIas .......
432: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Hi Rod ... I think you're kidding yourself, somewhat ... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-19, 08:02:59 (24.6.37.130)
Andy, I would have to agree with you with the sub. I use only one sub but for me, it is more than enough for my home theater set up with the IIIas as mains. Soon, I will be replacing my 1.5 rears with .......
433: DVD-Audiobahn, Re: I think it depends on the music. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-18, 14:27:50 (24.6.37.130)
I definitely agree with you. I enjoy the multi-channel effects provided the recording is done properly. I have several SACDs and DVD-Audios that I really like then I have a couple of DTS CDs that I wi .......
434: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: My system (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-15, 19:01:01 (24.6.37.130)
Hi Fin1bxn, Looks like those IIIas are in an optimum position for you to enjoy with your TV. More open and closer together than mine. I have a custom oak cabinet that separates my IIIas by eight feet, .......
435: Speaker Asylum, Re: Bananas or Spades, what do you prefer and why? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-13, 18:28:11 (24.6.37.130)
I think it really depends on your binding posts. Some of the newer receivers and amps have five-way binding posts that are very close to each other. In this case, banana plugs would be better so that .......
436: Shady Lane, Watch Out For Glitsaman Trying to Sell Maggie IIIa! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-09, 23:02:23 (24.6.37.130)
Originally saw his post back in early March wanting to sell his Magnepan IIIa for $600. Contacted him and he sent me video and pics of the speakers. Agreed to pay for them but he would rather send the .......
437: General Asylum, Just used eBay.... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-09, 06:46:18 (24.6.37.130)
and sold my Magnepan 0.5 speakers there. Didn't even think to use Audiogon because the selling/buying experience is so different than eBay. They seem to be very selective as to whom can post. Even tho .......
438: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: He with the most toys wins... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-05-03, 21:38:45 (24.6.37.130)
Started with a pair of JVC speakers with 12" woofers then: AR3s Klipsch KG2 Klipsch Heresy II Cambridge Soundworks Model Six Cambridge Soundworks Ensemble Three B&W 305, CC3, 302 B&W 603 to replace th .......
439: Planar Speaker Asylum, Thanks Everyone For The Suggestions! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-21, 14:42:56 (24.6.37.130)
Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Looks like I will have to do some minor surgery to the socks and go to my local hardware store. In the meantime, just enjoying all the sound coming from my IIIa's. .......
440: Planar Speaker Asylum, IIIa's Have Arrived, Question on Screw Hole Repair (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-21, 07:48:53 (24.6.37.130)
Hi, Just received my pair of IIIa's and the only thing I found was that one screw hole for one of the legs to attach to is stripped. Any recommendations on how best to repair this? Other than that, th .......
441: Planar Speaker Asylum, Sorry! My Mistake (NT) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-20, 17:34:20 (24.6.37.130)
nt .......
442: Planar Speaker Asylum, Fin1bxn at msn dot com I Just Received My IIIa's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-20, 15:45:27 (24.6.37.130)
Fin1bxn@msn.com, My used pair of IIIa's just arrived and I was able to connect them to my home theater. Lukily, I didn't have any issues with playing the speakers. The only problem I saw was with one .......
443: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: MG IIIa THERE HERE!!!!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-17, 20:28:26 (24.6.37.130)
Congratulations as well. I have a pair on the way as well and should arrive this week. Can't wait to see how different they will sound vs. my Magnepan 1.5s. Keep us posted of your experience with the .......
444: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Saia Trucking (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-12, 22:28:36 (24.6.37.130)
Mike, Thanks for the info. Unfortunately Saia doesn't cover where the seller is located. Maybe the seller is willing to drive to the nearest Saia location but it is several hours away from him. Will c .......
445: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Who Did You Use For Shipping? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-12, 22:26:26 (24.6.37.130)
Thanks for the reassurance with UPS. That is probably who I will use. I noticed another person suggested Saia but unfortunately they do not have coverage where the speakers are coming from. Thanks aga .......
446: Planar Speaker Asylum, Who Did You Use For Shipping? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-04-12, 16:05:31 (24.6.37.130)
Hi, Looks like I'll be purchasing a pair of IIIas shortly and wanted to know which shipping company you used. I have called several trucking companies and found quotes that almost equal the price I pa .......
447: Planar Speaker Asylum, I'm in the SF Bay Area and Would be Interested in Purchasing (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-31, 17:45:14 (24.6.37.130)
Hi, I am looking to purchase a pair of Magnepan IIIa and may be able to relieve you of the shipping issue. I am located in Fremont. E-mail me and let's talk. Ben .......
448: Planar Speaker Asylum, Looks Like Two More From the Same Person (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-21, 07:37:27 (24.6.37.130)
Just checked eBay again and now that same person is advertising the same pair of Magnepan 3.5 speakers twice in two different ads under two different names. But the commonality again is e-mailing him .......
449: Planar Speaker Asylum, Thanks for the Heads Up on This Scam (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-20, 15:51:01 (24.6.37.130)
Thanks again for alerting all of us on this scam. When is this person(s) going to learn and stop wasting everyone's time? All it takes is one individual like this person to screw up eBay and the origi .......
450: Hi-Rez Highway, Have to Agree with 711Smilin (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-19, 21:44:30 (24.6.37.130)
711Smilin makes key points that I agree with. Especially with the issue on standing room only. Based on feedback from my friends who demoed "that" room, it was empty most of the time because the sound .......
451: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: WARNING: URGH! The scammer on eBay now "selling" Maggies (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-15, 13:42:13 (24.6.37.130)
Thanks for the heads up on this guy/gal. Saw the ad as well and couldn't believe the price. We all should send this person a virus to their e-mail address. .......
452: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: ML Senarios? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-15, 06:36:36 (24.6.37.130)
Scott, I used to own a pair of ML Scenarios and checking the Orion Blue Book, the price ranges from $1000-$1100 so $700 is a good deal. Make sure that the owner has the original AC cords and screw on .......
453: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Scam Alert!!!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-13, 11:10:53 (24.6.37.130)
Mike, Thanks for the alert. I am starting to see more and more of these type of listings happening on eBay. You should contact the original lister of the 3.6 to let him/her know that someone else has .......
454: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: I was under the impression classifieds were against the rules... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-05, 19:51:13 (24.6.37.130)
Glitsman, Thanks for the clarification. That's what I thought since there wasn't a recent ad there since 6/29/05. By the way, take a look at the time stamp when I inquiried about your speakers. I came .......
455: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: I was under the impression classifieds were against the rules... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-05, 11:30:39 (24.6.37.130)
Solutions Etcetera, I think the problem is that the last Buy/Sell entry was dated 6/29/05 and if I remember correctly, there has been problems in the past for others to post their ads there. I agree w .......
456: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: MAGGIE IIIa, FOR SALE (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-05, 09:27:53 (24.6.37.130)
Glitsaman, Could you e-mail me some pictures of your speakers at my moniker? May be interested in upgrading. Thanks. Ben .......
457: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Speaking of .... there are some IVA's on Audiogon if anyone is interested. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-04, 10:41:46 (24.6.37.130)
Grant, I just checked the Orion Blue Book value for these speakers and even at the best rating which would include a 30-day warranty, they are only worth $1410 not the $2500 the owner is asking. But t .......
458: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Upgrade choices for Magnepan (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-03-01, 14:14:00 (24.6.37.130)
Like most everyone else has said, I would go with the IIIAs. I own a pair of 1.5s but would love to upgrade to the true ribbon Magnepans for the greater sense of realism. By the way, I purchased my 1. .......
459: General Asylum, Agreed! Let Me Third This!! (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-02-27, 19:33:55 (24.6.37.130)
Agreed, Dave and Liz have a passion for fine sound while providing excellent service and information. Love the way they have done their tweaks for the Magnepan speaker line. I hope to have them do the .......
460: Planar Speaker Asylum, Agree With Your Observations on the 1.5s (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-02-23, 21:20:30 (24.6.37.130)
Cuehead774, I agree with you. I have a pair of 1.5s that I really like listening to. Couldn't justify the price difference going with the 1.6s. I picked mine up for $500 last year in very good conditi .......
461: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: .5 QR Information Wanted (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-02-19, 08:37:49 (24.6.37.130)
Mark, I too have a pair of 0.5s currently being used as rear surrounds in my home theater. They were my mains until I picked up a pair of 1.5s. As Gentlegiantfan said, he submitted the schematics to M .......
462: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: I only have one system and my Audio-Video system is 2 channel, I prefer it that way. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-02-14, 20:22:38 (24.6.37.130)
Teresa, Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It goes to show each one of us have individual tastes and preferences. For me, I am the opposite of you, I like having the rear channel effects. That is why I .......
463: Video Asylum, Re: I found the same thing... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-02-02, 18:13:49 (24.6.37.130)
Thanks for confirming my experience that the preamp vs. the set up disc difference is real. I was definitely surprised to see such a hugh difference. Thanks again for sharing your experience as well. .......
464: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: There's an intersting thread over at the 'Gon about this. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-29, 21:33:15 (24.6.37.130)
Felix, Didn't realize that you haven't received a direct e-mail from Alex. But judging from the coorespondence on this and the Audiogon forum, it seems there was communication going on, however in thi .......
465: Hi-Rez Highway, Re: There's an intersting thread over at the 'Gon about this. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-28, 18:55:23 (24.6.37.130)
LKdog, I agree with you. The Audiogon posting in my opinion has gone far enough. Felix and Alex seems to be communicating while others have decided to post their opinions about Alex and others. The or .......
466: Video Asylum, Test Tone Differences, Preamp vs. Set Up Disc Experience (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-28, 18:19:38 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, Just wanted to share my experience using the DTS set-up disc in my home theater. For the last several years I have calibrated my system using the built-in test tones in my Parasound AV .......
467: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Looking for someone in SF Bay Area to upgrade my 1.6qr's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-20, 21:21:54 (24.6.37.130)
Mike, Ouch!! Didn't know that is how much they charge to do the supertweeter mod to a pair of 1.6s. I thought they still did the crossover, wire and bypass upgrades but it sounds that they don't anymo .......
468: General Asylum, Re: Well.... I'm enjoying my (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-20, 10:12:32 (24.6.37.130)
Sordidman, You should give the Nuforce a listen. I think you would be very impressed. I know I was. Still can't believe how small and cool those amps were running. Is your APL Hi-Fi unit the one with .......
469: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Looking for someone in SF Bay Area to upgrade my 1.6qr's (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-20, 06:57:31 (24.6.37.130)
Mike, You may want to check out Stereo Unlimited in Walnut Creek. They can do a number of various mods to your 1.6s, especially their supertweeter mod that I think you would be quite impressed with. : .......
470: General Asylum, Listening to Nuforce, APL Hi-Fi and Bruce Moore??? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-19, 13:50:01 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, Just recently went to a San Francisco Bay Area AV dealer who was promoting their new line of products. Initially went there to listen to the Nuforce amps but to my surprise, included i .......
471: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: maggie QR 1.5 (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-18, 19:59:56 (24.6.37.130)
According to the Orion Blue Book, best condition-$700, better condition-$620, and good condition-$540. I currently own the 1.5s and paid $500 for better condition ones earlier late summer. As the othe .......
472: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: A question, please... (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-03, 14:27:15 (24.6.37.130)
Al, The 3.6s that I had a chance to listen to according to Liz had the internal wiring and solder changed to their specs, the fuse was bypassed but still in place, a separate crossover installed for t .......
473: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Great report. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2006-01-01, 18:02:46 (24.6.37.130)
Powermatic, Thanks for the comments. Hope the information helps others as well. Yes, Dave and Liz swear by the tweeter mod. They feel it helps just about every speaker they sell. Slbenz .......
474: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Tweeters mounted on top of 1.6, 3.6, 20.1 & others (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-31, 16:16:09 (24.6.37.130)
Powermatic, I just returned from Stereo Unlimited after an extensive listening session with and without the tweeter mod on a pair of 3.6s connected to Jolida monoblocks. Keeping an open mind about thi .......
475: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Tweeters mounted on top of 1.6, 3.6, 20.1 & others (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-30, 20:17:26 (24.6.37.130)
PlanarFan, Received an e-mail from the owner who said that the price can range from $700-$1500 depending on the height of the speaker. Seems a bit too steep for me at this time especially when my Magn .......
476: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Which maggie (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-30, 07:38:01 (24.6.37.130)
Bob, I would second the vote to try the MMGs and if you like them, you can upgrade with full credit towards the larger 12s. Funny you mention the IIc's, I recently spoke with Magnepan about the IIc's. .......
477: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Tweeters mounted on top of 1.6, 3.6, 20.1 & others (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-29, 20:40:49 (24.6.37.130)
Do you know how much they are charging to do this mod? I remember seeing this at the same store a couple of years ago when I was there. .......
478: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: s, check my dipole woofer for my ETXII. (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-20, 17:33:05 (24.6.37.130)
Jeffrey, Whoa!! What can I say?? Very creative in order to gain the lower octave. I have my ET crossed over at 80Hz into my Velodyne HGS-12. Seems to work for me but yours definitely is at a whole new .......
479: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Eminent Technology ET-8 high frequency level? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-20, 13:02:46 (24.6.37.130)
Mr. bill2, No, I sold them several months ago to obtain a pair of Magnepan 1.5s. Yes, voice on the IVs were better than my Martin Logan Scenarios that I used to have. Soon I will be going to look at a .......
480: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Eminent Technology ET-8 high frequency level? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-19, 20:59:58 (24.6.37.130)
When I spoke to Bruce Thigpen about my Eminent Technology LFT-IVs, he suggested for me to use the high setting. This was his preference for the IVs. After listening with my ears, I concurred. Using th .......
481: General Asylum, Re: Monster Power customer service (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-16, 17:19:04 (24.6.37.130)
Same here with my Monster HTS 1000. Had a DVD player connected to it when a lighting strike took it out when connected to the HTS 1000. Called Monster who issued me an RA number and within days I rece .......
482: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Which Magnepan Speaker Is This? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-08, 21:29:54 (24.6.37.130)
GELewis, You won't believe this but when I searched on eBay, I think I found out what speakers they are. Also, take a look at the picture, looks exactly the same. I wonder if I should question the sel .......
483: Planar Speaker Asylum, Which Magnepan Speaker Is This? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-08, 17:23:37 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, Trying to help my brother-in-law find a pair of used Magnepans in our area. Saw this ad on Craigslist advertised as a pair of IIcs but from the picture and description, the speaker loo .......
484: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Best Amplifier for M1.5s (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-12-06, 08:12:10 (24.6.37.130)
I am running my 1.5s and 0.5s in a home theater/music setup with a Parasound AVC-1800 preamp and Parasound 1205A power amp. I am very satisfied with the sound this combination produces. You can find t .......
485: Cable Asylum, Re: Poiema !!! - any experiences or comments? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-10-10, 21:56:48 (24.6.37.130)
Mr Bill, There is a thread going on at the APL Hifi site talking about the Poiema cables. Hope this link helps. Slbenz .......
486: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Fuse bypass question (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-07-30, 18:39:34 (24.6.37.130)
Tim, I used a stripped 12 AWG copper wire folded upon itself to fill the fuse gap. I guess if I wanted to be more elaborate, I could have soldered the whole wire into one solid piece but wanted to try .......
487: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Another Fuse Bypass Convert's Experience (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-07-30, 18:35:37 (24.6.37.130)
Yes, I noticed the same thing. The speakers now are much easier to listen to for extended periods of time. Much less harsh or digital sounding if you ask me which all adds up to a great thing for the .......
488: Planar Speaker Asylum, Another Fuse Bypass Convert's Experience (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-07-30, 07:45:38 (24.6.37.130)
Hello All, After seeing all the recent discussions on the fuse bypass, I thought I would give it a try. Bypassed all the fuses in my home theater which includes the 1.5s for mains and 0.5s for rears. .......
489: Speaker Asylum, Re: MG1.5QR Help (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-06-07, 08:18:26 (24.6.37.130)
Chris, Congratulations on the acquisition. Earlier this year I acquired the same speaker. You may want to contact Magnepan directly to obtain a copy of the original manual. That is what I did and they .......
490: Hi-Rez Highway, Shootout Results of APL Hi-Fi vs. TRL Players (Long) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-06-06, 18:01:58 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, Just wanted to post my experiences this past weekend comparing my APL Hi-Fi modded Pioneer 563a player vs. my friend's TRL modded Sony SCD-CE595. I also had on hand my Sony CDP-CX240 m .......
491: Planar Speaker Asylum, Those Are the Ones (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-05-18, 06:34:30 (24.6.37.130)
Green Lantern, Those are it!! Thanks. Slbenz .......
492: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: perhaps NeoPlanar? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-05-17, 21:19:18 (24.6.37.130)
Mart, They look similar to the Neoplanar but what I remember that they are all black and use a similar stand as the Neoplanar without the adjustable spikes. Hope that helps. .......
493: Planar Speaker Asylum, Can't Remember the Name of a Certain Planar Manufacturer (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-05-17, 18:00:41 (24.6.37.130)
Hello Everyone, I was wondering if someone can help me. It wasn't too long ago that there was a planar speaker manufacturer that had a sale on their speakers for half off. Priced around $200 I think d .......
494: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: How about the Scenario? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-03-21, 15:01:09 (24.6.37.130)
Having owned the Scenarios as rear surrounds and my in-laws currently using MMG-Ws, you are better off with the Scenarios. The MMG-Ws as someone else said are fine for Home Theater but for critical li .......
495: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Sub with Maggies (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-02-28, 16:41:27 (24.6.37.130)
I use a Velodyne HGS-12 with my 1.5s and 0.5s for surround music and home theater. It smoothly integrates well with the speakers. I think any of the servo Velodynes or the Martin Logan subs should do .......
496: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Consensus on Bi-Wiring (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-02-08, 18:09:40 (24.6.37.130)
I have experienced the same thing. I tried a set of MIT Terminator 4 biwire speaker cables vs. a single run of Cobalt Cables and liked the sound out of the Cobalts on my 1.5s and 0.5s. When I owned a .......
497: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Is there a website for selling high end gear? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-02-07, 19:28:49 (24.6.37.130)
Stuart, You might want to try www.craigslist.org. That is where I sold my Eminent Technology LFT-IVs in one day! It is a free listing, so you have nothing to lose. But AudioGon definitely caters to th .......
498: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: And even then it's not that simple ... (just throwing wrenches in the works!) (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-02-04, 15:10:24 (24.6.37.130)
I tend to agree. Depends how well the recording was made which could be a hit or miss. Putting myself on the spot and comparing exact recordings on the various media, I still like the warm sound of th .......
499: Planar Speaker Asylum, Re: Surround and center speakers (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-02-04, 09:54:45 (24.6.37.130)
Hifi_Jim, Have you thought of using the Eminent Technology LFT-XII center speaker? It is one of the smallest relatively full-range planar center speakers out there. I use one with my Magnepan 1.5 main .......
500: Planar Speaker Asylum, Have You Contacted This Place? (0.00)
Posted by slbenz on 2005-01-21, 04:13:26 (24.6.37.130)
Unfortunately, I can't answer your question about the Innersound but I did find a place that listed a set of Magnepan 2.6s for sale. Not sure if they still have them but you can contact them. Good luc .......
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