|
Search of All Forums Enter your search criteria. Click here for tips on using our search |
For Sale Ads |
1: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Problems of Renewing Capacitors (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-12-01, 09:55:06 (99.57.34.148)
Nichicons are really well made caps, just because the ML does not carry them does not mean much. I would be fine using them. .......
2: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: CD ripper for linux, any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-07, 04:02:15 (99.57.34.148)
many think that, but not true. meta data can be added to WAV files, and to capture the album cover, just need to save a photo of the album cover as "folder.jpg" in the same folder as the tracks. do i .......
3: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Carbonate particles (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-04, 05:10:25 (99.57.34.148)
Carbonate or Calcium Carbonate (complete name) is CaCO3. Its a very common processing used in PVC resins (including vinyl record formulas), Polyethlynes and polypropylene. Without it most materials wo .......
4: Vinyl Asylum, RE: "It never ceases to astound me that vinyl playback even works, let alone works so well" (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 06:11:36 (99.57.34.148)
here is what an uncleaned record looks like. see all the crap in the bottom of the groove? mostly calcium carbonate....... .......
5: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: CD ripper for linux, any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 06:09:04 (99.57.34.148)
why rip to FLAC, why not WAV which is compression free. .......
6: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Ares II Dac (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 06:07:03 (99.57.34.148)
yes, I bought one. Liked it so much I sold it to a friend of mine and bought the pontus, which does everything the Ares II does only more of it. One of the most analog sounding DACs I have heard. ::: .......
7: Vinyl Asylum, RE: if you were getting a Chinook in the mail soon . . . . (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 05:34:01 (99.57.34.148)
the chinook is a nice phono stage, will work well with most LOMC carts, including the A-Ts, the benz carts, and Koestu carts. Over the years have owned two of them. Also sounds very good with MM ca .......
8: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Partial Solution with LAST stylus brush (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 05:26:59 (99.57.34.148)
I would suspect its not your tracking force or set up. my guess is the repeated play dislodged a carbonate particle in the bottom of the groove and now your stylus hits the particle every time it reac .......
9: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Vinyl Vs. Digital (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 05:23:22 (99.57.34.148)
to the original poster, a blanket statement of analog vs. digital is pointless unless you put some better descriptors on it. do you mean analog LP vs. 16/44.1 (CD's bit rate) or are you talking someth .......
10: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Many thanks for that link. I wonder if Rega arms accomplish some (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 05:13:32 (99.57.34.148)
not quite accurate photo. Most of the carbonate particles have been removed. There are still a few left, you can see in the bottom of the groove, but on most records, the bottom of the groove is loade .......
11: Vintage Asylum, RE: CJ PV5 Repair/Restoration (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 04:14:06 (99.57.34.148)
+2 for sending to CJ, but will add if yours still has the electrolytic caps in the power supply, replace with new electrolytics not film caps. I have owned 3 PV-5s over the years. The most recent has .......
12: Vintage Asylum, RE: Fragile means throw with care . . . I once worked for an airline (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 03:58:42 (99.57.34.148)
That is the infamous sansui glue. It was used to hold larger components in place as the PCB went through wave solder. had nothing to do with shipping. if and when you recap the amp, you will want to .......
13: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Parasound JC-1 user experience? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-11-03, 03:49:41 (99.57.34.148)
I owned a pair of JC-1s for several years. Very reliable, very quiet, but they do put out some heat. They will drive just about any speaker I can think of. They sound as if they have unlimited power o .......
14: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: 12au7 Tubes for Eastern Electric Avant preamp. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-05-04, 11:27:43 (99.57.34.148)
+3 for the PSVANE T-IIs, one of the best I have heard. .......
15: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Looking for integrated recommendations (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-03-23, 13:20:07 (99.57.34.148)
here is one on ebay right now, can even make offer. https://www.ebay.com/itm/164134348493 .......
16: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Looking for integrated recommendations (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-03-23, 11:09:20 (99.57.34.148)
pick up a used primaluna integrated; should be in your range used. .......
17: Tape Trail, RE: Home recording (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-02-05, 09:50:09 (165.225.57.80)
really depends on what you are recording and what you are going to do with it. I have the Tascam DA3000. really nice machine for the price, but needs a better clock to really shine. I used to do a l .......
18: Tape Trail, RE: Ttuth is... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-01-28, 09:23:55 (165.225.57.80)
Holy cow Victor, I thought I had the worst case of open reel disease, but you may have outdone me.....:-) .......
19: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: PrimaLuna preamps. Use of 5R4GY valves instead of 5AR4 / GZ34. Yes or no? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-01-28, 09:22:23 (165.225.57.80)
Alessandro I have been running the Shugang 274s in mine for several years. best rectifier tube I have tried. .......
20: Tape Trail, RE: Small amount of hiss doesn't bother me (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-01-14, 09:35:22 (165.225.57.80)
would agree with the comments made by Bill and Victor. If you can swing it, half track the way to go. If not an option, and you are locked in the 707 and 909 or similar machines and formats, dolby HX .......
21: Tape Trail, RE: Speaking of 707s and old tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-01-13, 09:28:10 (165.225.57.80)
Bill is correct, not sticky shed. if you have it, the tape will bind up on the deck and bring the transport to a halt. Then you'll have a clean up mess to remove all the gunk before you can play ano .......
22: Vintage Asylum, RE: Recapping vintage audio components (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2020-01-02, 05:37:58 (99.57.34.148)
only real way is to test the caps once removed. Last year I started to recap a Sansui 317. got part way through and did not find a single lytic cap that was out of spec on ESR or capacitance, so quit .......
23: Tape Trail, RE: Prerecorded tape sales online (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-12-12, 09:33:25 (165.225.57.80)
would agree with Dave. Have been in tape since the 1980s. I have bought some lemons, but have most of the time, the seller has taken them back. if the seller bought a large collection from an estate, .......
24: Tubes Asylum, RE: Interesting (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-12-11, 09:31:26 (165.225.57.80)
had wondered the same on the 6922, but so far have not seen any. if you read the history on Shuguang and PSVANE, they did their homework on cathode and anode materials, and the effect the metallurgy .......
25: Tubes Asylum, RE: Interesting (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-12-10, 09:49:21 (165.225.57.80)
have bought from china hifi audio over a dozen times, really great business. they will ship. a few years ago they used to ship via china post, which took 8-12 weeks. they got too many complaints, so .......
26: Vintage Asylum, RE: "I had one Pioneer integrated amp that smelled like pop" (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-11-11, 09:58:13 (165.225.57.80)
I would agree with 1973shovel, and go the alcohol route. years ago, I bought a half track deck that had been used in studio where smoking was allowed. Got the thing home and it just stunk no matter wh .......
27: Vintage Asylum, RE: That is no CDP (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-11-06, 09:29:54 (165.225.57.69)
on the 11, if you add a film bypass to some of those interstage coupling caps that will help a ton with the harshness. Years ago, I got an Au-217 cheap. decided to use it for my computer speakers. Ha .......
28: Tubes Asylum, RE: hifi-amplifiers.com (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-11-05, 09:48:51 (165.225.57.69)
yes, Grant fidelity is good. Have bought from them several times. also VIVAtubes.com out on the east coast carries psvane. .......
29: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Popping/rustling noise (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-10-18, 09:47:09 (104.129.195.9)
a few years ago, when I was heavy into dyna 70s, i had similar problems. as others have noted, cracked solder joints/ weak socket pins all contribute to the problem. CE or ES electronics (can't reme .......
30: Tape Trail, RE: They just keep multipying... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-09-25, 14:57:27 (99.57.34.148)
Still the dokorders were always cool looking decks. whom ever did their design and layout was excellent. .......
31: Tape Trail, RE: New toy (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-09-24, 09:55:02 (165.225.0.113)
Nice find. I know what you mean about needing another. I have enough for 12 people. congratulations. .......
32: Vinyl Asylum, RE: There are several older posts on Vinyl Engine (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-09-24, 09:49:17 (165.225.0.113)
the 75 is a nice table when it works. another common problem is the grease used to lube the arm assy has dried out and is thick as syrup. so may need to clean that off and re-lube. dont remember whe .......
33: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Parasound JC1 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-09-20, 09:55:01 (165.225.0.113)
would agree with Dave K, the big Parasounds are classics. I lived with them for 6 years. they do run quite warm, but they have that ease to the sound like you are never going to run out of power. ::: .......
34: Tape Trail, RE: Question about playback frequency response on cassette decks (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-09-09, 09:41:38 (165.225.0.72)
before you do any adjustments, would suggest you get a calibrated freq playback tape, or make one yourself and take some measurements on db output with respect to each freq tested. Until you have tha .......
35: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom amps? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-08-28, 09:32:33 (165.225.0.72)
+2 for the parasound. The Adcom 555 is getting up there, so may not be far off from a recap. its been a long time since I have worked on a 555, but do recall, scrapping the chrome plated steel buss .......
36: Tape Trail, RE: Where did you get the Flux Mgnetic head? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-08-15, 09:49:08 (165.225.0.72)
Victor hit the nail on the head with his "preferably tube" comment. Over the years, I have hot rodded the SS electonics in quite a few studio and consumer decks. Always a notch up, always better soun .......
37: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: There are no measurements why a 45 sounds better than a 2A3... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-08-06, 09:49:28 (165.225.0.72)
I have several sets of both KT150s and KT120s. Can't really say I prefer one over the other, but after spending some time with the PSVANE gray glass KT88s, I can say both the 120s and 150s now reside .......
38: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: temperature dependent (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-08-06, 09:45:08 (165.225.0.72)
before I jumped in with a soldering iron, think I would take a sample of the caps in question and at least measure them. If I found from the sample, 100% were high ESR, then yes, replace. But if the s .......
39: Vintage Asylum, RE: For whatever it's worth (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-06-19, 10:20:10 (165.225.0.63)
Like Inmate51, I had my share of Sansui, Pioneer, Marantz and Kenwood gear back then. would agree, the Sansui stuff was all very well made. If you were to price an integrated amp of that build quality .......
40: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MTR 10 II-C Heads (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-06-03, 09:54:46 (165.225.0.63)
really depends on what you mean by good..and what you are going to playback with the deck. There were head options on the MTR-10 available from the factory. so if one were to compare the comparison .......
41: Tape Trail, RE: How to ship console r2r (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-05-28, 09:51:47 (165.225.0.63)
would suggest getting a quote from Plycon using their blanket wrap service. have shipped studio gear this way before with excellent success. https://plycongroup.com .......
42: Vintage Asylum, RE: 4mfd and 8mfd. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-05-01, 09:34:10 (165.225.0.63)
FenderLover, wow nice pics. I bought a pair of the Centurys with blue grills back in the 1970s, was always sorry I sold them. .......
43: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: How do you test caps? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-04-19, 15:14:36 (99.57.34.148)
with an ESR meter. .......
44: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: How do you test caps? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-04-19, 09:35:10 (165.225.0.63)
yep agree with Bill. why replace them unless you know they are bad. Those computer grade caps last a long time unless they have been run in a hot environment. Test the ESR, would be surprised if the .......
45: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Problem with phono input (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-02-01, 09:32:01 (165.225.0.63)
pretty common problem on the CX-1. usually caused by cracked/broken solder connections where the RCA assy is soldered to the PCB board. Do not remember if you can reach it by removing bottom cover p .......
46: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: to conrad-johnson pv8/9 connoisseurs (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2019-01-25, 09:52:17 (165.225.0.63)
yep, would agree with Mike wolfe. Over the years owned many of the CJ pre amps. Would agree, the Prem 3 and PV5 were the most musical sounding units And the PV8 and 12 will sound better if you change .......
47: Vintage Asylum, RE: That big vintage auction at bidspotter... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-12-13, 09:49:15 (165.225.0.73)
There were tons of MAC and other brands of tuners. I thought about bidding on an MR65, since I don't have one, but then already have so many other tuners..... .......
48: Vintage Asylum, RE: 2nd win (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-12-13, 09:47:47 (165.225.0.73)
that is pretty cool. can't think of anyone that still makes FM only antennas. I bid on that case of ge 6550s, but got hammered out at the end. .......
49: Vintage Asylum, RE: That big vintage auction at bidspotter... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-12-12, 09:40:35 (165.225.0.73)
yep, agree with Awe d o phile.....no super deals. much was going for ebay + pricing. was bidding on MC75s that quickly were north of 1600 and closed between 1800 and 2k each. Bid on all the MC225s, .......
50: Vintage Asylum, RE: JBL L100 ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-11-27, 09:26:28 (165.225.0.103)
would agree with fastcat. For me I lusted after the L100s when they came out in the 1970s. Saved up all my spare money and finally bought a pair. Excellent rock speaker, but as noted, not the most acc .......
51: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Marantz 2270 recap suggestions? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-11-07, 09:47:24 (165.225.0.103)
all of the smaller electrolytics. and while you are at it, its worth inspecting the pcbs for solder joint cracks, especially in any areas near heat generating sources. would not change out the stock .......
52: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Marantz 2270 recap suggestions? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-11-05, 09:34:27 (165.225.0.103)
how did you determine the power supply caps needed replacement? did they measure high ripple or high ESR? I have done a few of the 1970s marantz amps and have never found a bad power supply cap. Mar .......
53: Tubes Asylum, RE: Prima Luna (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-09-06, 09:41:58 (165.225.0.64)
whats not to like? will auto adjust bias as tubes wear. if you get the dialogue amp, has a two position swith preset for EL34 or KT88... pretty trouble free, good sounding amp... .......
54: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Any reason not to try 6384's tubes with adapters (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-09-05, 09:51:04 (165.225.0.64)
In the PL4, try a set of the psvane gray glass KT88s or EL34s. Also consider upgrading the coupling caps. Jensen coppers make a nice upgrade. J .......
55: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: You're going from one extreme to another. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-03-13, 09:51:08 (167.83.136.47)
I have tried quite a few of those Chinese amps.... some are really good. Amazing sound quality for the price paid. But on the flip side, if you buy it and have some issues, you can't expect full US t .......
56: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: this kind of Vishay (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-03-11, 07:21:00 (99.57.34.148)
abbreviation for manufacturers...... .......
57: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: this kind of Vishay (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-03-08, 09:28:39 (167.83.136.20)
......This is true hi end stuff. completely agree, but few to no mfgrs use them. J .......
58: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: this kind of Vishay (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-03-05, 09:31:26 (167.83.136.20)
agree with Ignaz6, the Vishay bulk foil are the way to go....but have voltage limitations in tube gear. have rebuilt phono stages with 100% S102 vishays; the result is spectacular. super quiet backgr .......
59: Vintage Asylum, RE: Speaker reccomendations for Dynaco ST-35 amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-02-08, 09:41:38 (167.83.136.20)
The Infinity IL-10s would be a nice match. EAsy to drive. need to add some film bypasses to the xover lytics. somewhere I have a marked up schematic if interested. And they are pretty reasonably pric .......
60: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: what would be the most sensible distillation of Hegeman's Citation I circuit sans bells and whistles ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-01-22, 10:12:02 (167.83.136.47)
With the CIT 1, one of the key ingredients is the size of the power supply. The Power Xformer is really large. for glass or sand amps, bigger is usually better for power transformers so don't skimp th .......
61: Vintage Asylum, RE: That's what is irritating (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2018-01-16, 09:43:00 (167.83.136.47)
would agree with the others, Ebay always sides with the buyer if any issues crop up, so would cancel sale. You did not mention how large the speakers were, but for future reference on big items, I ha .......
62: Vintage Asylum, RE: Sony X77ES CD player (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-11-27, 09:32:14 (167.83.136.46)
I owned 2 of them a few years ago. Both ran well, never had an issue. A very nice player, even today, but DAC chips are a bit out dated. The X77 I had in my main system I ran into an outboard DAC. .......
63: Tape Trail, RE: That's really good-sounding tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-10-31, 09:22:50 (167.83.136.47)
there is a seller on ebay who has NOS pancakes of 631 or 632 pretty reasonably priced. may want to check that out. .......
64: Tape Trail, RE: Tandberg cassettes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-10-24, 09:39:58 (167.83.136.46)
I had a pair of 440A's when new. When they worked, they were excellent, when they did not work (which was most of the time after the first 2 yrs). they were a pain, and made horrible off speed recordi .......
65: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: will one of youse claiming a destroyed value... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-10-16, 09:41:07 (167.83.136.47)
Before trying any circuit mods there are a number of things to help the 240. one of the easiest mods for the MC240 does not involve any circuit change. Swapping out the 6L6GCs for 6550s really opens .......
66: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: CJ classic 60 wiring (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-10-12, 09:35:53 (167.83.136.46)
I would pop the bottom cover off and see if the OPT wires are labeled, or the color coding is identified on the PCB. Back when I had my CJ premier, the color coding was labeled. .......
67: Vinyl Asylum, RE: $1,000 to $1,500 to spend - what to upgrade? Where to start? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-09-12, 10:35:34 (167.83.136.46)
if you are using the phono stage in the Marantz, I would replace it with at least a Schitt audio phono pre amp stage or if you can spring for a bit more, opt for a used Phonomena version 1 or 2. If y .......
68: Radio Road, RE: It looks like outdoor FM antennas are a thing of the past! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-08-24, 10:36:16 (167.83.136.46)
still available on line from solidsignal and other sites. http://www.solidsignal.com/search.asp?q=fm%20antenna .......
69: Vintage Asylum, RE: Eico HF-30 question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-05-16, 09:32:35 (167.83.136.46)
would be inclined to use 330uf @ 35VDC. may also want to replace the multisection cap. I have worked on a number of the HF30s, nice amp, and pretty straight forward, but the PS filter caps are either .......
70: Tubes Asylum, RE: OK I gotta ask. Why no more 6p3se / 6n3ce for sale other than on Ebay? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-05-12, 09:33:25 (167.83.136.46)
would agree with Triode kingdom; dont be afraid to use those Russian tube sellers on the 'bay. I have bought from them over a dozen times, with excellent results each time. Have also bought a lot of .......
71: Tubes Asylum, RE: Buy tubes from the right vendor that meets your needs because they do sound different. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-04-28, 09:43:04 (167.83.136.42)
thanks very much Mike for posting this info. I have never been able to swing some original GEC KT88s. A person would also wonder how each manufacturer's metalurgical properties of the components insi .......
72: Vintage Asylum, RE: Nice airtime (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-04-10, 10:00:35 (167.83.136.42)
yes, have to agree, nice work, and clean looking unit. Nice add with the panasonic 2.2uf bypasses. Years ago, I had at least 2 copies of every Marantz amp from that era. Sure brings back some memori .......
73: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Are Nichicon Capacitors Good (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-04-07, 09:46:36 (167.83.136.42)
yep, have been using both nichicon and panasonic for years. The 105 deg are good and so are the lower ESR types. Do not recall what brand was used in VTL, but the nichicons are likely a better quali .......
74: Tubes Asylum, RE: KT88/6550 suggestions +1 more GL (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-03-28, 10:02:26 (167.83.136.42)
NP. Just don't forget (as am sure you are aware), the coupling caps also influence the tonal qualities of a given amp. If you are using Russian K40s, the Mullard 88's might be a bit too much, so woul .......
75: Tubes Asylum, RE: KT88/6550 suggestions +1 more GL (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-03-27, 15:39:42 (99.57.34.148)
have a quartet of each. The Mullard 88's have a fuller, much warmer sounding midrange than the GLs or the Tungsols. Not too far off the original Mullards from the UK. Have the Mullard KT88s in a PL d .......
76: Tubes Asylum, RE: KT88/6550 suggestions +1 more GL (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-03-27, 09:34:53 (167.83.136.42)
The GLs are nice. But for a warmer sound, the Mullard KT88s will offer a warmer presentation that the GLs. Also the Tungsol 6550s are a nice tube. Have a set of those in a pair of MC60s. best ::: TO .......
77: Vintage Asylum, RE: found them! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-03-15, 09:56:28 (167.83.136.22)
yes, believe 8-32 is correct. I was more concerned with getting the same screw head style to match the originals. Have 4 HF-30s; 2 early and 2 later versions. Be sure to try some better coupling ca .......
78: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Name a SS Amplifier for $750 or Less That Sounds as Good as This Tube Amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-03-14, 09:45:15 (167.83.136.22)
Put some better coupling caps in the amp, and it will take another sonic jump. The stock Chinese caps work, but are not great. .......
79: Speaker Asylum, RE: Snell Type A restoration - - insulation against baffle (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-02-23, 09:52:38 (167.83.136.22)
would agree with the other comments. You may not be ale to get the insulation identical to what it was, but if you are close, should be insignificant. I owned the original As, A2 and A3is. also had a .......
80: Tubes Asylum, RE: Bias on Manley Snappers (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-02-16, 09:32:06 (167.83.136.22)
Think you mean 300mv not 300ma. 300ma would burn up the tube pretty quickly. .......
81: Vintage Asylum, RE: 3 favorite tube amps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-02-14, 09:51:53 (167.83.136.22)
Quite the list. Mine would be: 1. VAC Auricle Mk2 with all copper caps 2. MC240 with all copper caps and Mills resistors on plate and cathode positions. 3. MC225 - 4. Early version of EICO HF30s - .......
82: Speaker Asylum, RE: Crating & Shipping Speakers from Boca Raton to NYC? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-02-14, 09:34:57 (167.83.136.22)
you did not mention how large the speakers were. but if bigger than a bookshelf, you might try contacting Plycon. They offer a special service called blanket wrap. Have used them before for studio gea .......
83: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Mac tube question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-02-02, 09:31:09 (167.83.136.42)
would agree. Also sub'ing in a 12at7 for the ax will reduce overall gain a bit, and should lower neg feedback a bit at the same time. May have a larger effect doing this experiment on the first inpu .......
84: Tubes Asylum, RE: Matching tube manufacturer with the electronics? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-31, 09:56:33 (167.83.136.22)
tube rolling not quite as big as changing coupling caps, but not far behind. Also depends on the amount of total GNFB used in the amp. high feedbk designs, not as much of a difference. lower feedback .......
85: Tubes Asylum, RE: Tube rolling preamp or power amp gain tubes, which ones (or both)? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-19, 17:04:49 (99.57.34.148)
determine what resistance values are needed, order them and solder them in place. the MILLs improve focus and low level detail without adding any brightness. .......
86: Tubes Asylum, RE: Tube rolling preamp or power amp gain tubes, which ones (or both)? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-19, 09:39:51 (167.83.136.22)
samzx12, the other option you may want to try are Mills Wire wound on all the plate and cathode positions on your amp. The stock PL resistors are metal oxide, very rugged but not known for the sonic q .......
87: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Where to find large value uf film caps ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-17, 10:13:28 (167.83.136.22)
you've outdone me then.....have tried 3, but have not gone beyond that. as for film and foil larger value caps, Jupiter makes some as does SCR, but SCR larger value caps are all metalized. Also probl .......
88: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Where to find large value uf film caps ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-17, 09:39:08 (167.83.136.22)
would agree with drlowmu. Film bypasses on the cathode cap makes a huge difference. The quality of film cap also makes a difference, i.e. try to avoid metalized film and use a film and foil type. If .......
89: Tubes Asylum, RE: Tube rolling preamp or power amp gain tubes, which ones (or both)? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-17, 09:35:21 (167.83.136.22)
I would agree with Chuck Y. Have both the HP and non HP versions of this amp. Would have to say I hear a bigger change with power tubes, but again depends on which tubes power tubes. I like a warmer s .......
90: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Check with VTL if KT120 will work. Nt (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-12, 09:22:47 (167.83.136.22)
I would go with the re issue Tungsol 6550s. Very nice sounding tube and very robust. .......
91: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: PrimaLuna Classic integrated amp any good? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-09, 15:34:50 (99.57.34.148)
yes, you can replace them. Not too difficult. The stock caps in the HP are solens. Quite a few options to upgrade from those. Also across the power supply are two .47 swellong caps, replace those as w .......
92: Vintage Asylum, RE: I haven't bought amps in a while but I did get this and you will see why. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-09, 09:55:32 (167.83.136.42)
as to rockdoc Q, yes there are at least two amps with quartets of 7189, the Sherwood S-360 and the EICO HF-30. Both are rated at 30 watts per channel. There may be others but those are the I am famili .......
93: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: PrimaLuna Classic integrated amp any good? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2017-01-09, 09:38:59 (167.83.136.22)
would agree with dirtyvinyl, good value for the money, and even better with some upgrades, would plan on replacing the OEM chinese tubes with re-issue tungsols. If you want to go further upgrading th .......
94: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom 5x5 vs 5x5II vs 55xx series audio differences (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-12-23, 13:01:27 (99.57.34.148)
The 555 was nearly unlistenable, in stock form. the power supply was undersized, the grounding buss bars were chrome plated steel. I would pass on any of the earlier versions. for similar money the .......
95: Vintage Asylum, RE: Sherwood S-360 schematic (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-12-20, 15:38:39 (99.57.34.148)
Don, was wondering if you ever found the 12ax7 version of the schematic for the 360 thks John .......
96: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Ordered 3 45 RPM Records - Wallet's Smoking (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-12-01, 09:53:49 (167.83.136.22)
Those 45s are the closest a person can get to the sound of the master tape. they are not cheap, but they are good. happy listening. .......
97: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: I use those Russian PIO caps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-11-08, 09:49:38 (167.83.136.22)
two other thoughts. 1. might try lifting one end of the lytic cap, to take it out of the circuit. you will lose some output power, but you signal may sound more relaxed. 2. use a nichicon bypolar ly .......
98: Vintage Asylum, RE: How did the Mac MC60 rate in the vintage big picture (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-11-07, 09:34:11 (167.83.136.22)
years ago, I almost bought into that theory the newer gear is better, until I started buying some of the older Macs. Have a pair of 30s, pair of 60s, a 225 and a 240. would have to agree with the othe .......
99: Vintage Asylum, RE: Vintage SS Japanese receivers.... the time is past? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-10-17, 10:17:09 (167.83.136.22)
Those units will likely easily last another 50 yrs. More important question though is most who lust after them, remember these units when they were new. Today's kids have no memory of that. In 50 ye .......
100: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: tube amps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-10-07, 09:34:19 (167.83.136.22)
have the non HP version. MC275 and PL have a different sound. 275 is warmer sounding. With the stock tubes, PL can almost sound like a SS amp. would agree with other poster, tube rolling is quite key .......
101: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Time for a Re Tip of my Benz Ace (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-10-06, 09:44:38 (167.83.136.22)
maybe you should take a look at the stylus under a scope to see what its condition is first. .......
102: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Gerry Mulligan (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-10-04, 09:36:32 (167.83.136.22)
does not fall into the LP category, but the BBC Big Band CD series are really good, and sound very good for CD. .......
103: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Looking for Caps for Plinius 8150 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-27, 09:30:13 (167.83.136.22)
the Nichicon snap types are also very good caps. .......
104: Vintage Asylum, RE: Fisher SA-16 With Burned Resistors (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-23, 10:03:19 (167.83.136.42)
I'd replace the needed parts (resistors and caps) and bring it up slowly on a variac while watching the current draw. If you start drawing excessive current before you get to 60-70VAC then there is so .......
105: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Not enough power from Phono Preamp? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-23, 09:54:40 (167.83.136.22)
you are likely not getting enough power. The Senns are high impedance phones. to properly drive them, you need about 30-40 watts of power into 8 ohms, which into 220ohms will translate in a few watts .......
106: Tape Trail, RE: The perils of buying used tape on Ebay (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-23, 09:52:52 (167.83.136.22)
forgot to add, that is a cool trick with the speeds you have done. Was wondering if you have ever tried with 7 1/2 ips recorded at 30ips and played back at 15? .......
107: Tape Trail, RE: The perils of buying used tape on Ebay (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-23, 09:45:19 (167.83.136.22)
Dave, thanks for the post. I have had similar events happen to me before on ebay. But have also had the opposite, where the tape was basically brand new and unused for a cheap price. also to most sel .......
108: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Thanks. Found some of it! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-21, 09:34:17 (167.83.101.20)
most headphone amps do not have the current delivery to properly drive HD600s or any other high impedance phone for that matter. Need an amp that will do 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, to get even .......
109: Tape Trail, RE: Revox Tape Differences (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-20, 09:26:45 (167.83.101.20)
Would agree with Dave. there is no fix for sticking/shedding tape; only a temp fix to bake it, which only restarts the clock until the binder adsorbs enough moisture to start the problem all over agai .......
110: Speaker Asylum, RE: Altec Lansing Model 15 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-16, 09:17:17 (167.83.101.20)
yep, agree with Steelhead Mike, contact great plains audio and have them do the work. J .......
111: Tubes Asylum, RE: Lots of good 12AX7 (ECC83) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-09-09, 09:34:21 (167.83.101.20)
if you want more fun, pop out that sylvania 12ax7 blk plate and install a sylvania 12at7 black plate. you will lose a bit of gain, but the imaging should improve. .......
112: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Budget Phono Preamps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-30, 09:34:04 (167.83.101.20)
would also suggest to add the original Phonomena, to the poster's list. They are available on the used market for about 300-350. .......
113: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Modifying Film Cap Lead OUTS (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-29, 10:33:07 (167.83.101.20)
drlowmu is correct. The cap leads make a huge difference, would 50% of what the film and foil types do. Did this experiment several years ago with film and foil Solen caps. Was so shocked at the diffe .......
114: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Was this the one across the street from Amoeba (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-23, 09:55:19 (167.83.101.20)
would agree with all the other posters. Buying classical in LA has few options these days. Record surplus moved off of Pico and the 405 up to Santa Monica. New store location is much smaller than the .......
115: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Philips pressings classical (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-22, 09:46:28 (167.83.101.20)
would agree with all the comments from all 3 posters. Philips was quite good at getting good quality pressings, and was very good at maintaining the sonic qualities or consistency of those pressings. .......
116: Tubes Asylum, RE: Current KT88 with least bass bloat (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-22, 09:39:58 (167.83.101.20)
I would not blame your KT120s. May not help that much by swapping out for KT88s. Would suggest you determine who's (what mfgr's) coupling caps are being used. To add more of that organic type sound, .......
117: Vintage Asylum, RE: I was reading up on the Marantz 15 dual monoblocks (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-08-16, 09:36:20 (167.83.101.20)
airtime, at one time, I owned every solid state amp from Marantz in that era, including the 500, 510M, 250, 250M, 240, 32, 16, 15, 16b, etc. By far the 15, 16, and 16b were the best sounding of the .......
118: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Yep (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-07-13, 09:59:59 (167.83.101.20)
at the axpona show, I was talking to the technics rep. He mentioned the new table was released in Japan only for the first run. Technics was not sure how well it would sell, so only made 500 for the .......
119: Tubes Asylum, RE: One of the best tube deals I've ever gotten on Ebay. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-07-06, 10:04:17 (167.83.101.20)
"This shows that many of us myself included,may have valuable tubes laying around that we don't realize we have." A truer statement could not be made. Have to admit I can include myself in that group .......
120: Tubes Asylum, RE: New KT88 amp relay failure (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-07-06, 09:56:08 (167.83.101.20)
Craig, I have played around with quite a few of the chinese made amps, from music angel, bewitch Yakin, etc. I have the soldering job on most leaves a lot to be desired. I think the first thing I wo .......
121: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Will someone buy one... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-07-05, 09:33:54 (167.83.101.20)
ironic you should post this Q. I had the same Q. So I bought the ART-9, just have not mounted it up yet. .......
122: Tubes Asylum, RE: 12BZ7 Tubes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-06-22, 10:17:07 (167.83.101.20)
Eli is right; not a drop in replacement, but you may want to give it a try. the heater current draw is more than a 12AX7, but some like the sound of the tube. may want to check with the manufacturer o .......
123: Tubes Asylum, RE: Misrepresentation In eBay Auction (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-06-22, 10:14:43 (167.83.101.20)
Nice work Jim. Was surprised this sort of thing has not happened in the past. Almost anyone who is interested in a CIT II or V quickly runs across the McShane mod. Guess it is too tempting for some s .......
124: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Loading a Koestu (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-06-21, 09:43:33 (167.83.101.20)
Why not set it up so its flat first, then dial in for taste. to set the cart up flat, you'll need a volt meter and a NAB broadcast test disc. Adjust the loading on the phono pre so you are within 1db .......
125: Vinyl Asylum, RE: record shopping in Tucson AZ (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-06-16, 09:41:32 (167.83.101.20)
not sure if they are still there but, PDQ records on Dodge ave. Used to be the best store in the South Western US. PDQ records Address: 2432 N Dodge Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85716 Phone:(520) 881-2681 Hours: .......
126: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: You are right, however you can get Russian teflon for about the same price (nt) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-06-02, 09:38:13 (167.83.101.20)
for 35 bucks ea, I would be buying the Jensen Copper foil caps. much better than the Russian K40s and and almost all other audiophile coupling caps. .......
127: Tape Trail, RE: Teac 2340R help (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-05-26, 10:16:15 (167.83.101.20)
its been a while since I had one of those apart. Before replacing the meter though, I would be more inclined measure for voltage at the meter input. Its more likely an interstage coupling cap which se .......
128: Headphone Heights, RE: Pionner SX1050 Receiver as headphone amplifier for Sennheiser HD800 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-04-25, 09:44:21 (167.83.101.20)
The HD 800s are high impedance. The headphone amp in your pioneer was designed for low impedance phones. But before you rule out the pioneer, you may want to try driving hte HD800s off one of the set .......
129: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Suprisingly fantastic PAScaps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-04-08, 09:36:07 (167.83.101.20)
hate to repeat myself, but agree with Lew again. metalized caps usually leave a lot to be desired. If you can drop the coin, and your chassis temps are not too high, the newer Jupiter Copper foil cap .......
130: Vintage Asylum, RE: Kenwood KA 5700 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-04-05, 09:29:27 (167.83.101.20)
I had a 5700 back when they were new. The Kenwood amps from that era were not warm sounding. Marantz was, not kenwood. If you are looking for a less etched sound, add some film bypass caps to the main .......
131: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: dee is correct--the MultiCaps you want are the RTXs which are... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-04-01, 09:37:15 (167.83.101.20)
would agree with Lew, they take forever to break in. for a fuller sound, you may want to consider the Jupiter vintage tone caps for coupling stages. better clarity than the old PIO, but not as lean so .......
132: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Citation 5 refreshed (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-30, 09:49:39 (167.83.101.20)
Floyd, yes, agree with Triode, really nice work. one other option you can try is bumping value of the fdback resistor from 10k to 20k. Will give you a bit more imaging when listening in stereo. In yo .......
133: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Rediscovering my favorite Tube Amp - - AES/Cary SixPacs (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-29, 09:30:14 (167.83.101.20)
try the EH 6CA7 Fat bottles. Very, very musical tube for the Cary or other EL34 apps. .......
134: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Update... RE: B&K ST-140 Pair - Re-Cap or Buy New? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-28, 10:02:51 (167.83.101.20)
djk is correct. the biggest issue you will have is the main filters. The same values in new caps will be much smaller than your originals so may require a bit of work to get them mounted. all the ot .......
135: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: OPPO as network player for hi rez? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-18, 10:43:27 (167.83.101.20)
kenzo, if you want a network player, take a look at the OPPO HA-1. great sounding DAC and can be used as a pre amp as well. .......
136: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: left channel problem on my Primaluna Prologue 4 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-18, 10:36:03 (167.83.101.20)
Picture guy is correct, 400v is nothing to sneeze at. Was assuming you had a DVM and knew how to take measurements. If you are concerned about the voltage, hook the volt meter up first before switchin .......
137: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: left channel problem on my Primaluna Prologue 4 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-17, 09:31:16 (167.83.101.20)
Hawaiiguy, Could be a failed coupling caps. To check; pop the offending tube out. flip the amp over, remove bottom cover. power the amp on. measure the DC voltage on either side of the coupling cap .......
138: Tubes Asylum, RE: Current 6L6GC tubes most like GE 6L6GC out there. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-03-08, 09:43:58 (167.83.101.20)
Paul, order a set of re-issue Tung-sol 6550s for your MC240. I have two MC240s and that is the only tube I use in them now. The power transformer on the 240 is beefy enough, it does not even notice t .......
139: Tubes Asylum, RE: AES SixPacs - Replacing Jensen PIO caps? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-02-23, 09:43:11 (167.83.101.20)
spike, I think the leakage issue on the Jensen caps is more related to operating temp, and not hours. If you amp runs fairly cool, you are probably fine. If you want to be sure, take a DVM and measure .......
140: Tubes Asylum, RE: Different function of 12au7s and 2 12ax7s in amplifier. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-02-03, 09:25:56 (167.83.101.20)
TGT, usually the sound character can be set by the first tube in the circuit, but not always. also depends on how much global feedback is used. If a lot is used, you may not hear much difference betwe .......
141: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: I recommend any version of the K&K phono preamp... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-01-26, 09:36:47 (167.83.101.20)
Jim, I have quite a few number of LOMC carts, with the MC20 being one of them. I use the Phonomena phono pre which has plenty of gain for LOMCs. You can buy new or pick them up used on A'gon or other .......
142: Tape Trail, RE: Name this tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-01-11, 09:39:58 (167.83.101.20)
Just a guess would be 631. Commonly used non back coated tape by many. to take the guess factor out, why not bias it up on your decks and see where the bias settings come in. Once you know that, you .......
143: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Best inexpensive inner sleeve ?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2016-01-08, 09:45:10 (167.83.101.20)
a better Q may be what is your record collection worth? I would not skimp on inner sleeves. best .......
144: Vintage Asylum, RE: McIntosh 240 - at Fifty Years (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-12-15, 10:00:25 (167.83.101.20)
Svisner, the MC240 is a nice amp. If you want to do an interesting experiment, order a re-issue set of tung sol 6550s and insert them inplace of the 6L6GC output tubes on the 240. The power transform .......
145: Tubes Asylum, RE: NOS EL34 found 9 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-12-03, 09:37:18 (167.83.101.20)
Before I dropped a kilo buck on tubes for your amps, I would be more interested in upgrading the coupling caps in the Manley. The OE caps are OK, but there are some really good caps out there if you h .......
146: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Musical Fidelity V90-LPS powe supply (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-11-30, 09:43:47 (167.83.101.20)
lockman, try the pyramid supplies. Several amperage values available. and they are all linear (not switching supplies). http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-PS3KX-3-Amp-12-Volt-Supply/dp/B0002JTD2K/ref=sr_ .......
147: Tape Trail, RE: Recommend a tape head demagnetizer (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-11-02, 10:18:08 (167.83.101.20)
The Geneva head demag units turn up on ebay. best .......
148: Tubes Asylum, RE: EL-34 Recommendation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-10-15, 09:52:29 (167.83.101.20)
EH 6CA7 Fat bottles. very musical sounding tube in the ST70, and other amps. .......
149: Tubes Asylum, RE: Funny you mention that (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-10-01, 17:06:24 (99.57.34.148)
try EH 6CA7s fat bottles in place of the EL34s .......
150: Tubes Asylum, RE: Bias on new Yaqin MS-30L - how often to check? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-10-01, 09:49:00 (167.83.101.20)
try replacing the Chinese tubes with NOS US or new Russian tubes and the grainy sound should go away. also coupling cap upgrade on the yagin amps helps a ton. best .......
151: Vintage Asylum, RE: Anyone Own A CJ PV-8 Pre? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-31, 05:55:08 (167.83.101.20)
At one time, I had the the PV8, 12 and the PV5. Both the 8 and 12 as others noted were more neutral sounding. Of the three models, the PV5 was the only one I regretted selling. some say it was more co .......
152: Tubes Asylum, RE: HK Citation V output tubes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-29, 03:31:26 (99.57.34.148)
Thanks guys for the replies. yes, would be interesting to see what Jim thinks about that output tube combo as well. best J .......
153: Tape Trail, RE: servicing sony tc-366 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-28, 18:12:18 (99.57.34.148)
on a separate note on the TC 366, they had a common problem with premature failure of the main filter capacitors. May want to check it and replace if needed, Sorry can't remember the release method fo .......
154: Tubes Asylum, HK Citation V output tubes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-28, 18:03:56 (99.57.34.148)
The standard output tube for the Citation V is the 7581. Same family as the 6L6GC, KT66 etc. I tried a set of KT66s in my Citation V. Sounds very good, but am concerned about the higher heater current .......
155: Tubes Asylum, RE: I ordered the Latino ST-70 kit yesterday (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-14, 09:17:46 (167.83.101.20)
congrats. its a nice amp. after you get it built and up and running, you now can experiment with coupling caps. Also if you use a THD analyzer, adjust GNFK so the higher order harmonics are minimized. .......
156: Vinyl Asylum, RE: I envy your budget if $400 is just "a few dollars more" (nt) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-08-12, 09:39:14 (167.83.101.20)
audiosoul has a good point. Rising top ends are hard on the ears. but anyone who likes to swap out different LOMC carts, needs to measure the output voltage at several frequencies. Until the rising t .......
157: Vintage Asylum, RE: snell e 111 question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-21, 10:20:25 (167.83.101.20)
I would either do nothing and sell as is, or refoam the Orig driver. If you stick in a replacement driver, you will kill the value. .......
158: Tape Trail, RE: OTARI DP4050-OM (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-21, 10:14:58 (167.83.101.20)
Tesla has a good point. you can probably do what you want to do, but at what cost.....Throw enough money at it, buy heads from JRF, and sure you probably can do what you want to play back tapes, but l .......
159: Tape Trail, RE: I did mention that (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-14, 09:45:49 (167.83.101.20)
good. just keep in mind that a 250 bias setting does not mean you'll be able to bias up 900. It means you may have a chance. If there were no bias setting for 250, then it would mean you would have a .......
160: Tape Trail, RE: I did mention that (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-13, 09:52:44 (167.83.101.20)
One indicator would be the bias table that is usually in the manual for the 636. Does this table show a bias setting for Scotch 250? This was a high bias tape back in the day. If not, then you likely .......
161: Tape Trail, RE: RS-1500 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-11, 10:14:10 (167.83.101.20)
The only Q I would have is the deck in question have enough bias current for 900. DRam did not mention which deck was intended for use. Some of the older decks can not put out enough bias current for .......
162: Vinyl Asylum, RE: The Ridiculous Prices on Cartridges (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-05-06, 09:43:02 (167.83.101.20)
StevieRay, you are quite correct on your comment that a given cart costs more than it did a few years ago. Same is true with electronics, food, etc. But the higher cost is not due to mfgrs simply wa .......
163: Tape Trail, RE: Got a reel-lady tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-03-26, 10:27:18 (167.83.101.20)
yep, 15 ips is a power elixir to consume and it gets addictive. The Otari 5050 also really benefits from film bypasses on all the electrolytic coupling caps that are on the playback and record boards .......
164: Tape Trail, RE: Take a look here. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-03-26, 10:23:07 (167.83.101.20)
Its been a while since I had one of those apart. Just going from memory, I think almost all the teac decks used the same fuse bulb. Same as a tascam 32. so if you can find a tascam 32 serv. manual it .......
165: Tape Trail, RE: Revox A 77 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-28, 09:47:24 (167.83.101.20)
6bq5, There are 3 options you have. 1. the best option would likely be to plug the deck into a variac and bring it up slowly over several hours to line level. If the caps are not completely dried .......
166: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Opinions are opinions...However,... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-19, 10:02:17 (167.83.101.20)
I have to agree with Interstage. The Marantz 7 is just plain magical sounding. It may not measure the best, but for LP playback its tough to beat. and for low output MC Carts, use a Cotter step up and .......
167: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: What's this feedback? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-15, 10:02:23 (167.83.101.20)
Overall feedback is obtained through C7 and R10. Increase R10 and you will reduce the total amount of neg fdbck. best wishes .......
168: Radio Road, RE: Wire size for audio out (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-14, 10:02:12 (167.83.101.20)
On the 717 or almost any pre amp level output, the is almost no current flow, so a large gauge wire is not needed. For sound quality try using some Mogami console wire model 2977. It will be much bet .......
169: Radio Road, RE: I sent Bill an email this morning... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-14, 09:58:47 (167.83.101.20)
Todd, I have a couple of 8300s. good tuners. both are heavily upgraded. If you get into doing the mods or upgrades, the biggest sonic improvements in desending order are: 1. new filter caps and by .......
170: Propeller Head Plaza, RE: Any scope photos of different resistors... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2015-01-09, 10:02:14 (167.83.101.20)
Actually resistors do measure quite differently. Vishay has released several PDF files on this comparing the different types. carbon comps are usually noisier but do have a nice tonal quality to them. .......
171: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Its also not the complain caps... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-11-14, 10:04:31 (167.83.101.20)
if the amp uses a PCB, might also check for cracked solder joints between the pcb trace and tube socket. especially if the effect changes as the amp warms up. .......
172: Vintage Asylum, RE: Sansui AU 517 amplifier (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-10-20, 10:03:07 (167.83.101.20)
Sansui amps of that era used the famous? conducting glue to hold the parts in place during wave solder. At a minimum, you will likely have to replace all or most of the electrolytic caps, and clean of .......
173: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: 180hz hum from amplifier (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-10-07, 10:11:29 (167.83.101.20)
In the photo you've shown, the bypass caps are the smaller yellow circular caps next to the main filter caps. Under each of those square heat sinks between the two filter caps are the bridge rectifier .......
174: Vintage Asylum, RE: I use a PV2AR (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-09-29, 10:06:18 (167.83.101.20)
Over the years, I have owned the PV5, PV8, PV10 and PV12. The only one I really regret selling was the PV5. Very Musical, could listen to it all day long, even if it did not have the last word on deta .......
175: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: 180hz hum from amplifier (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-09-29, 09:53:37 (167.83.101.20)
DWPC, while that is a neat way to identify a tone, my guess would be the tone is closer to 120hz, which would indicate its coming from the rectified 60 hz AC line. On the 1500 as well as other mode .......
176: Vintage Asylum, RE: Marantz 8B replacement coupling caps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-09-19, 09:52:40 (167.83.101.20)
On the 8b, I would stick with just replacing the main power supply caps, and any other lytics. Unless tehy were over-voltaged, the original coupling caps should still be good. If you replace those int .......
177: Tubes Asylum, RE: Watch out for fakes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-09-11, 09:57:53 (167.83.101.20)
I saw the same translation. while their english could use some improvement, their little EL84 amp is quite good. For only a bit over 300 bucks, I decided to take a chance and buy one. On the bench its .......
178: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: You may be going at this all wrong. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-08-19, 10:00:15 (167.83.101.20)
akolegov, I would not attempt to do all the changes at once. You may want to start out by replacing those coupling caps, with some better versions, and maybe adding a byppass to the main filter caps .......
179: Tape Trail, RE: Tascam 44 Capstan and Pinch Roller (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-08-18, 09:59:52 (167.83.101.20)
If I remember correctly, you have the earlier version of the 44. the transport is based on the tascam 35. The reason the capstan does not spin is likely due to a lose or broken drive belt. Replace t .......
180: Tape Trail, RE: Winning bids are averaging around $400 each (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-08-11, 09:57:33 (167.83.101.20)
Dave's comments echo what many others have said. Folks have bid on these tapes, only to get outbid by someone else. It can be fustrating. Bidding on safety masters, is not a lot different than biddin .......
181: Tape Trail, RE: Good luck with that. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-08-07, 10:23:26 (167.83.101.20)
Michael22 mentions, "But I'd be really skeptical about a so-called "safety master" made on a modern tape like Emtec". All modern tape means is the tape is likely a copy of a safety master, or was ru .......
182: Tape Trail, RE: I see no reason why a safety master need be made at the same time as the original. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-08-06, 09:44:11 (167.83.101.20)
Several on this post have made some valid points. And the comment on lineage, woulde be impossible to track down or detail out, since it also applies to sometimes many in the industry. When a studio g .......
183: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Sounds like the woofer is an 8 ohm load (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-07-28, 10:38:15 (167.83.101.20)
would tend to agree with Ralph. Over the years I have owned most of their product line and model variants. Have never found the Snells to be a good match with tubes, unless you're talking 200 watt tub .......
184: Tubes Asylum, RE: Most likely, it is perfectly OK. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-07-15, 10:00:59 (167.83.101.20)
You might also try some of the re-issue KT77 tubes, which are not too expensive. .......
185: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: SS Amp aging (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-26, 10:41:44 (167.83.101.20)
Airtime, pretty much identified all the sonic differences. Keep in mind as the caps in your amp continue to dry out, you will get more and more AC ripple coming through on the rail voltages. Also the .......
186: Radio Road, RE: Don't (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-25, 10:06:15 (167.83.101.20)
Bob, don't forget every time you split the signal, youre going to add 3 db of noise. I would look for some sort of RF switch, or if you want to try an amplifier, you might want to try one of the CAV .......
187: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Aragon 2004 vs 2004 MKII Difference ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-25, 09:56:47 (167.83.101.20)
Its been a while, but I think on both the 2004 and 4004, Aragon beefed up the power supply in the Mark II versions. Do not remember the specifics, but seem to recall this was done to improve low imped .......
188: Tape Trail, RE: What the heck? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-12, 09:42:24 (167.83.101.20)
yep, I would unbolt one of the flanges, slide the tape off the hub and into the trash. Keeping the deck clean will require a lot of work, not to mention transferring the substance to your other tapes .......
189: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Marantz 2230 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-09, 09:34:03 (167.83.101.20)
yep, quite possible, especially since you did not test the phono stage. Even if you had tested it, shipping vibration and shock could still cause an issue with an older unit. For future use, if you .......
190: Propeller Head Plaza, RE: Music library backup transfer rate question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-05, 10:01:34 (167.83.101.20)
sounds like you are transferring the entire file structure. While that does need to be done once and only once, when making routine backups, its much handier if you use sync toy 2.1. This is free bac .......
191: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom 545 simple(?) repair question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-06-04, 09:52:51 (167.83.101.20)
RW, the whole thing needs to be replaced if the gold outer shell broke loose. Not a big issue. If you want the OEM look, the pair of RCAs mounted on the plastic injection molded part is available from .......
192: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Best electrolytic capacitors? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-04-29, 09:51:18 (167.83.101.20)
Yes, use film caps if you can physically fit them in. Solen makes caps in all the values you need. .......
193: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: A friend checked output of sine wave (1KHz) versus control position (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-04-21, 10:41:39 (167.83.101.20)
By Missing something, you first need to define what it is you think you may be missing? Are you referring to dynamics, resolution, imaging, etc? With your speakers, I would be more inclined to use a l .......
194: Vintage Asylum, RE: Chicago area Service for a Kenwood KR9600 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-04-18, 10:07:04 (167.83.101.20)
While you are in getting it serviced, not sure what you need, but the main caps in the power supply on the 9600 were worked pretty hard. Most of the 9600's I used to look at had leaking caps. so be su .......
195: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Turntable feet question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-03-26, 10:26:59 (167.83.101.20)
Go to your local granite countertop supplier and have him make up a piece that is the correct size for your stand. Place your Table on top of the granite after you have removed the fiberboard bottom. .......
196: Tubes Asylum, RE: Can i use a 12bh7 in place of a 6922 ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-03-11, 10:14:36 (167.83.101.20)
why not try some Russian 6N1P's or the higher gain version 6N2P? They are pin for pin compatible with the 6922's. they are great sounding tubes, will last a long time, and are available on Ebay from .......
197: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Coupling caps: how much difference do they make (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-02-28, 10:19:32 (167.83.101.20)
I think there is not a hard fast rule on this. The best approach on coupling caps would be to conclude "it depends". If your amp uses tons of global fdback, then you're likely not to hear much of a d .......
198: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Mk III PIO Cap Values question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-02-28, 10:13:10 (167.83.101.20)
yes, the comments about changing the freq within the fdbk loop are correct. If you are looking for .33uf, try the Jupiter Vintage tone caps. Their .33uf is rated at 600v and I have been able to fit t .......
199: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Solen SM (tin foil) vs some CDE caps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-02-18, 09:59:17 (167.83.101.20)
I would lean towards the CDE WMF parts, or if you can afford them the jupiter HT 1.0uf caps. They do sound good. http://jupitercondenser.com/cryo-ht-beeswax-paper-capacitors.html happy listening ::: .......
200: Radio Road, RE: FM tuner recommendations (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-02-14, 09:54:23 (167.83.101.20)
your questions are all answered on fmtunerinfo.com that site can give much more detail than whats available in a few blog posts. happy listening. .......
201: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Looking for used amp upgrade suggestions (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-28, 10:07:06 (167.83.101.20)
buy a used Parasound 2200 Mk2 (not the mk1 version). They are available on the used market for 650-750, and it will not run out of steam driving your maggies. .......
202: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Value of coupling caps in Rogue Atlas Magnum ?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-27, 10:47:01 (167.83.101.20)
Before you spend your hard earned cash, you may want to read this link. good luck. http://www.humblehomemadehifi.com/Cap.html .......
203: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Value of coupling caps in Rogue Atlas Magnum ?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-27, 10:37:08 (167.83.101.20)
it really depends on the circuit. Going from .27 to .22 may cause you to lose a few hrz in the lower frequencies, but that may be about it. Just don't put in a lower voltage rating than what is in th .......
204: Tubes Asylum, RE: DON'T Just Replace the Tubes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-27, 10:04:58 (167.83.101.20)
Yep, Lee is correct. I would replace the OEM filter cap, before spending money on new tubes. Its likely shorted, which is hard on your rectifier tube and can blow fuses. as for tubes, EL34s are the o .......
205: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Value of coupling caps in Rogue Atlas Magnum ?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-27, 10:01:17 (167.83.101.20)
The Solen caps are OK, but not great. If you want to try a better cap, there are tons out there, from the Jupiter beeswax and foil caps to cast copper foil caps. If you can't find .27uf, I would go t .......
206: Tubes Asylum, RE: Try 7308 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-20, 10:19:22 (167.83.101.20)
abs1, you may also want to search out some of the Russian equivelent tubes to the 6922. 6N1P or a higher gain 6N2P, are both good tubes. The pin out configuration is the same, so a swap should not be .......
207: Vinyl Asylum, RE: I have no doubt that people experience exactly that... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-20, 10:08:56 (167.83.101.20)
3Fates, may be right. The 15 ips copy could sound "better" than the LP. Keep in mind the word better, does not mean its extracting more information than what is on the LP, hence its "better". Better .......
208: Vinyl Asylum, RE: also "Classics for Pleasure" (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-20, 09:55:56 (167.83.101.20)
On the EMI recordings with odds for a better sound, you may want to look for the "two Christophers" on the credits on the back (usually lower right hand corner on the British releases). Christopher Pa .......
209: Vintage Asylum, RE: Nichicon caps in a Dynaco a25 speaker (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-16, 09:49:10 (167.83.101.20)
Sanman, either replace the 4.7uf bipolar cap with a film cap, or get a .33uf film cap and bypass the bipolar cap with the film. happy listening. .......
210: Tape Trail, RE: Akai frequency switch (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-14, 09:33:28 (167.83.101.20)
Running the deck at 50hz would not hurt anything. If your deck has that switch, its a universal model for both Europe and the US and CAN. In Europe, 50 hrz is the standard AC frequency. May also expla .......
211: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: tascam dsd recorder and hifi playback of results how? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-03, 10:14:06 (167.83.101.20)
As Ric noted, the Tascam 1000HD will record in both formats; PCM and DSD. Folks have to realize Tascam built this unit to a price point. Does it blow away the high dollar converters? Of course not, bu .......
212: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Help with record cleaning (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2014-01-03, 09:53:32 (167.83.101.20)
you may want to try a vacuum type cleaner with some of your "already cleaned" records and see if the problem goes away. .......
213: Radio Road, RE: I might try the bypass out... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-12-19, 09:43:54 (167.83.101.20)
YOu could add a .1uf or a .22uf to each filter cap. .......
214: Radio Road, RE: 3 x 2200 is more than I had expected 3 x 3300 will be plenty (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-12-16, 10:21:23 (167.83.101.20)
If you unplug that board, looks like there is enough room to get a .1 or .22uf film cap on the trace side of the power supp PCB brd. That would be worth your effort if you can accomplish that. ::: TOP .......
215: Cable Asylum, RE: Fingers crossed (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-12-16, 10:06:32 (167.83.101.20)
you did not mention what the rest of your cabling consisted of, but if I had 1200+ buring a hole in my pocket, I would keep the Hero ICs and spend the funds on a shunyata power cord or two. Bang for t .......
216: Tape Trail, RE: XLR microphone recommendation, please (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-11-20, 09:57:31 (167.83.101.20)
Awe is correct, pretty slim pickings for 50 bucks each, but did find this mxl mic for 50 bucks. http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/mxl-v250-condenser-microphone You will still need a stand of so .......
217: Vinyl Asylum, RE: My Nitty Gritty 1.0 "exploded" today... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-11-07, 10:49:59 (167.83.101.20)
Dick, might as well just park it at the curb. It will cost you nearly as much as a new machine to have yours rebult. Am speaking from first hand experience. They are good machines for the price, b .......
218: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Parts Connexion or Tube Store (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-11-06, 10:21:07 (167.83.101.20)
I have ordered from both sources as well as Antique Electronics supply out in Tempe, AZ. All 3 are very good. Have prompt delivery and are quite good folks to work with. .......
219: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Taming amplifier's brightness (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-11-06, 10:16:02 (167.83.101.20)
You may want to try the Juptier Vintage tone caps for coupling caps in place of the units you have. They are avaiable in the .47uf value at 600VDC. They do not have a brightness to them at all. Also, .......
220: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Try Bristol Electronics (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-10-29, 10:01:16 (167.83.101.20)
you can also try a Mallory CGS type. I would focus on getting hte diameter that is the same on the OE caps. Most likely the new caps will be much shorter for the same capacitance value, so you may hav .......
221: Tape Trail, RE: Nakamichi Orange Cap disease, question for electronics experts... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-10-14, 09:42:43 (167.83.101.20)
If memory is correct, I think the org caps are all bipolar. so if you replace them, use a bypolar cap like the Nichicon bypolar types. may want to consider adding a film bypass too, but up to you. Th .......
222: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: Massive tips hold a lot of heat (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-08-13, 09:49:25 (167.83.101.20)
Get yourself a used Hakko FM 202. Once you use one, you wont go back. Temperatures and tips are fully adustable, and heat change is rapid. As one other poster pointed out becareful of lifting traces .......
223: SET Asylum, RE: Well, I am not the best schematic reader .. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-08-05, 09:59:21 (167.83.101.20)
Tre makes a number of really valid points in his posts. In the mid and late 1970s, mfgrs went all out to reduce THD to absurd levels. They did this by dumping tons of NFB into the input signal. The o .......
224: Tape Trail, RE: Tape Decks Wired Out For Outboard Pre Amps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-08-05, 09:49:57 (167.83.101.20)
many of the studio decks have direct tape head outputs. some even have a complete plug in head assembly, so there should be enough to choose from. best John .......
225: Tape Trail, RE: It depends. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-06-17, 10:35:10 (167.83.101.20)
Why get into calling his response a "weaselly response"? I would have done the same as the poster (chucked the worn out 1/4 track head, especially if JRF said it was shot). Listening to a worn head, .......
226: Radio Road, RE: Here is one, hurry... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-06-12, 09:43:32 (167.83.101.20)
The Z tuners turn up on Ebay every so often. What out for one there and grab it. BTW, the z series sonic qualities take a major jump in improvement with small upgrades. best J .......
227: Dynaco-Doctor Forum, RE: Dynaco 416 Power Amp Hum (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-06-12, 09:40:41 (167.83.101.20)
If both speakers hum, and you've shorted the inputs the way the second poster suggested, you either have a lose ground connection, or this amp is old enough, the filter caps are beginning to dry out a .......
228: Vintage Asylum, RE: no, not worth it for an SX-680... but... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-04-03, 10:18:58 (167.83.101.20)
yep, not a tough job, but it is time consuming. and you are not going to get the build quality of the Pioneer for 400 bucks. 1. Make a list of all the lytic caps you need. 2. go to mouser or digikey .......
229: Tube DIY Asylum, RE: M Audio 192 soundcard: warning.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-04-03, 10:15:55 (167.83.101.20)
Have to agree with GCrouser; way too many variables to blame the card. I have a pair of these cards with Win& 64b OS, and have not had any problems, and the machine sees daily use. There are better .......
230: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Issue with Parasound A21 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-04-03, 10:11:06 (167.83.101.20)
The a21 is a nice amp. contact your dealer or parasound. They should be more than willing to help you out. I have always had good experiences with Parasound service. .......
231: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: I'm an Electronic Tech and have worked on high powered amps... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-02-22, 08:07:17 (99.141.212.89)
PC, that is not really a wise decision unless you want to look for an excuse to buy a new amp. No matter how careful you are, at some point you will likely short out the leads, and then you will have .......
232: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Safe Change in Power Supply Caps in Power Amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-02-08, 15:58:33 (99.141.238.209)
Cougar, if you can physically fit these caps in, these will work. http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Cornell-Dubilier/DCMC303U075BC2B/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtZ1n0r9vR22b6ocVwwnoT3EHc0gfiDDgk%3d Mouser Part # .......
233: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Safe Change in Power Supply Caps in Power Amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-02-08, 09:33:02 (167.83.101.20)
If the cap is drawing that much current, it is possible it has shorted out. If the manufacturer's part number has not been scubbed off by the amp mfgr, do some searching on that cap part number so yo .......
234: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Safe Change in Power Supply Caps in Power Amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-02-07, 10:25:56 (167.83.101.20)
Sorry, I missed your comment about the switch. why not add a thermistor to the AC line? this will limit current inrush during that first charging cycle. .......
235: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Safe Change in Power Supply Caps in Power Amp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-02-07, 10:23:15 (167.83.101.20)
You did not mention what the amp was or what the output power was, but with a 1.5kw transformer, its likely 150 to 200 watts per channel. As to your question; you will have a hard time finding exact .......
236: Vintage Asylum, RE: Some other considerations beyond the PS caps.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2013-01-04, 10:32:51 (167.83.101.20)
"I have a pair of brand new NIPPON CHEM-CON 10000Uf 100V caps left over from another project." Two key questions are: how old are these NOS caps, and what type of ripple current is requrired by the D .......
237: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: It was the phone company (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-12-05, 09:57:50 (167.83.101.20)
Thanks Ralph, yes, you are correct on the phone company. .......
238: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Thanks everyone - I now have a better focus on the situation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-12-04, 10:35:17 (167.83.101.20)
I think some may have missed your original post, which asked about balanced vs. balanced lines; not equipment. Balanced lines came out of the pro audio arena, when it was quickly found that long runs .......
239: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Threshold S-300 Power Amp Upgrade (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-11-13, 11:05:23 (167.83.101.20)
Bob, before you spend the dollars to replace the caps on your S 300, you may want to either test the caps first, or at least measure the AC ripple across each cap (in mv) to see how much ripple is co .......
240: Vintage Asylum, RE: Golden age of SS vintage (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-11-05, 10:27:55 (167.83.101.20)
yep, have to agree with Brian and Bill; back it up a bit as far as the starting point. One could argue though the range originally picked was where the competition really heated up, with receiver powe .......
241: Tape Trail, RE: Absolutely Floored So Few Have Tascam Tape Decks (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-11-05, 10:20:13 (167.83.101.20)
" I'd sure love to know more about the history of these tape decks and where they were mostly used. I am sure some were used in "homebased" recording studios." Actually, the 42 and 52 were not targe .......
242: Vintage Asylum, RE: electrolytic capacitor - refurbish instead of re-cap --- Wacky Idea??? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-09-28, 10:02:08 (167.83.101.20)
One should ask why? What is the purpose of going to all this trouble, when you can buy new caps for almost any voltage and rating? .......
243: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom GFP-565 upgrades/mods? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-08-28, 10:02:28 (167.83.101.20)
Those Adcom series of pres and power amps have tons of room to do upgrades. They are getting to the age where a complete re-cap would not hurt. The one glaring weakness on the adcom pre amps is the po .......
244: Radio Road, RE: Sansui TU-919 thin midrange? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-08-09, 10:20:33 (167.83.101.20)
yep, HoosierAudio has pretty much nailed it. If your 919 is sounding thin, its not the tuner's fault. the caps need to be upgraded. would also add some bypass caps on the main filter caps in the PS, .......
245: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: recommend caps, resistors for Marantz 8B (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-08-09, 10:15:27 (167.83.101.20)
also may want to contact antique electronic supply in Tempe Arizona. they specialize in new "old style" parts for vintage tube amps. see link below. .......
246: Vintage Asylum, RE: Rotel RCD-955AX (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-08-07, 09:50:11 (167.83.101.20)
three options. 1. buy a cheapo DAC from amazon; about 30 bucks. 2. buy a cheap DVD player 30 dollars and let her use that as a CD player 3. If you really want to fix the CD player; see if you are ge .......
247: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Anyone putting high Rez files on DVD-R in DVD-A format? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-05-18, 10:27:33 (167.83.101.20)
yep, do it all the time. Actually the best way I have found it to use Cirlinca to create the DVD-A ISO image file and write that file to a folder on your Hard drive. Once complete, you can use any opt .......
248: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Cheap and good DVD players for audio only (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-05-18, 10:08:19 (167.83.101.20)
Pioneer 653A, or Pioneer Elite 47A. Both will play DVD-A without a display hooked up. You may need to hook up a display once to make all the settings, but after that treat it just like a CD player. Th .......
249: Vintage Asylum, RE: Marantz 2230 Rebuild (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-04-23, 09:51:08 (167.83.10.20)
you have to let the caps break in first before making any sonic judgements. The brand of capacitor will likely add to the sonic signature of that amp or unit. I would leave the unit on for a couple o .......
250: Tape Trail, RE: Best sounding R2R decks, not expensive ones (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-04-10, 10:37:20 (167.83.10.20)
before posting such a comment, it may be worthwhile to explain the rationale or logic in your thinking on imposing a cap of 500-600 dollars new retail and limiting it to 7 inch machines. Offering this .......
251: Tape Trail, RE: Tascam 34 speed conversion - possible? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-04-10, 10:33:48 (167.83.10.20)
it would be cheaper to go on ebay and buy a machine that is capable of 3 3/4 ips speed than it would be to modify this one. .......
252: Radio Road, RE: KBAQ Phoenix - is noise due to IBOC from HD Radio? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-04-06, 10:14:51 (167.83.10.20)
Its been a number of years since I lived in the valley; but used to listen to both. KBAQ used to have a very low power signal. much lower than KJZZ. In the late 80s or early 90s, I believe KBAQ was ab .......
253: Vintage Asylum, RE: No-reply was misunderstood... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-23, 16:14:00 (99.142.10.67)
try these two nichicon parts from digikey digikey part nos. 493-3434-ND 0.1uf 493-3508-ND 0.47uf .......
254: Vintage Asylum, RE: Bypass caps for electrolytics (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-23, 10:23:02 (167.83.10.20)
wnd poster offered a good option. Another is the nichicon film and foil caps available from Digikey. they are about 89 cents each. If that 100uf cap you mentioned is a coupling cap, then I would use a .......
255: Tape Trail, RE: Newbie looking for a r2r tape machine. Any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-20, 16:03:22 (99.141.231.72)
quote.........."We are a lot of people that do NOT really consider Otari being among the Pro decks." Now that statement is truly funny. I have to hand it to you, put a big smile on my face. The MTR- .......
256: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Best single-point Stereo mic $1000 or under. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-20, 15:27:41 (99.141.231.72)
The studio projects LSD2, but have not used one, so can't cooment on sound. http://www.studioprojectsusa.com/lsd2.html .......
257: Tape Trail, RE: Newbie looking for a r2r tape machine. Any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-18, 11:53:16 (99.141.241.207)
not recapping results in compressed dynamics, extra noise, and reliability issues. have compared re-capped vs. no recap. not a huge sonic change.... 4 speed decks include Studer A820, Otari MTR-15, O .......
258: Tape Trail, RE: Newbie looking for a r2r tape machine. Any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-17, 11:06:34 (167.83.10.20)
Thanks WOStanton for making the re-direction. Getting back to the poster jeromelang's original post, it appears the basic questions were never answered, so one has to wonder what level of interest wa .......
259: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Another Adcom question.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-16, 10:31:22 (167.83.10.20)
The 5400 is newer than the 555. upgrade the parts in your pre amp first, followed by mods/upgrades to the 5400 .......
260: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: From a couple of sources.. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-09, 10:25:04 (167.83.10.20)
from any of the suppliers such as talema, plitron, elveco, and others that offer toriod power transformers see link for vishays www dot vishay dot com/docs/63026/7reasnet dot pdf .......
261: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: From a couple of sources.. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-06, 10:27:26 (167.83.10.20)
I have done considerable upgrades on the S300 and S500. can offer you the following: rather than worrying about the optical bias, I would invest the time and effort into adding a larger xformer (if r .......
262: Tape Trail, RE: Speed range needed according to tapes to be played back (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-02-01, 16:41:37 (99.141.214.149)
Have to side with Myles. on a properly set up machine 15 or 30 ips blows away hi rez digital, and I do a lot of high rez digital recording. Live to 2 track with no compresssion; AKG mics with Avalon .......
263: Tape Trail, RE: Newbie looking for a r2r tape machine. Any recommendations? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-01-25, 10:32:21 (167.83.10.20)
before decidng on a deck, u really need to determine what you are going to play first. pre recorded 1/4 tracks, or half tracks or master dubs? Once u have that answer, then you can begin your search .......
264: Tape Trail, RE: Teac X 2000M (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2012-01-17, 10:14:17 (167.83.10.20)
its a rare deck Teac did not make many of them. should sound fine though asuuming it does not need work .......
265: Tape Trail, RE: Revox G36 sounds better than a Technics RS-1500 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-21, 10:02:06 (167.83.10.20)
yep ,stock technics playback electronics are so-so at best, so your findings are not surprising. head technology is pretty antiquated on the Revox. The latest JRF P/B head would likely make a marked i .......
266: Tape Trail, RE: Need help with my Otari MX5050 MKIII..... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-07, 10:41:54 (167.83.10.20)
need to better dfine "cleaned IT". the whole deck or just the tape path? Many contact sprays have a lubricant in them. could have cleaned and lubed the tape path, so the capstan and pinch roller wont .......
267: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Amplifier Upgrades Big Sky or Musical concepts? (A little long) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-02, 16:55:25 (99.145.0.129)
Your welcome. contact me off line at mcgjohn@yahoo.com .......
268: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Amplifier Upgrades Big Sky or Musical concepts? (A little long) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-02, 10:20:01 (167.83.10.20)
I have worked on several adcom 555s. top three improvements are: 1. bypass caps on PS main filter caps 2. increased size transformer - replace original with oversized trans (the bigger the better; thi .......
269: Vinyl Asylum, RE: some help from you DD lovers (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-02, 10:12:20 (167.83.10.20)
what are u using for tone arm calbe on each? .......
270: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Ortofon OM5e too bright, Shure M97xE too dull (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-12-02, 10:08:57 (167.83.10.20)
did u meas the freq response? If not yr are just guessing. Fir the MC, trying loading it down a bit more. For the shure, if it sounds dead on the top end, increase your cart loading resistor. again, d .......
271: Tape Trail, RE: Anyone interested in an Ampex 300 2 track used at Capital Records? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-11-04, 11:13:54 (167.83.10.20)
Yep, Richard is correct; way too much for a machine missing parts, and that assumes heads, rollers, etc are all good, which is doubtful. .......
272: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom GFA-555 Leaky Power Caps? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-10-03, 10:34:57 (167.83.10.20)
while you have the cover off, might consider replacing those steel bus bars with brass or copper. may want to add a a few bypasss caps on the main filters. Every 555 I have worked on has benefitted fr .......
273: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Amplifiers driving low impedence question...... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-07-19, 10:13:26 (167.83.10.20)
your hypothetical question really does not provide enough info to form an adaquate conclusion. Some amps are designed to drive low impedence loads all day long. And if your speaker blows up, you were .......
274: Tape Trail, RE: Dammit!!! 3m 996 has gone STICKY!!! ):( (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-07-19, 10:08:46 (167.83.10.20)
Before condemming 996 completely, it would be worthwhile to try the baking process used 20 years ago on 456, 457, 226, etc, to see if the binder would release the moisture it pulled in during all thos .......
275: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Is Audio Research pricing themselves out of the market (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-05-05, 20:13:01 (99.141.251.112)
The less the FED would do the better. QE1 and 2 went mostly to the banking sector, very little of it trickled down to the consumer. Grains, metals, crude all shot up. Was true back in the 30s is true .......
276: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Is Audio Research pricing themselves out of the market (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-05-04, 10:26:45 (167.83.10.20)
only part of the blame goes to the audio companies. The rest goes to the FED, who is busy running the printing presses devaluing the dollars in your pocket. Look for more to come. Costs more than a US .......
277: Tape Trail, RE: Revox b77 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-05-04, 10:22:20 (167.83.10.20)
Before you jump in and start soldering and fixing, might be worthwhile to connect a scope and find the point where you lose your signal. could be an old solder joint, or a bad part. All the comments .......
278: Vinyl Asylum, RE: The latest US shaded dog that I have is LSC 2764 (Grofe World's Fair Suite) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-04-12, 16:52:06 (99.145.8.222)
That is suposed to be the last SD, don't forget there are several levels of VICS. Everyone is familiar with the Plum VICS, RCA switched to the pink label VICS, which there are several versions. I have .......
279: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Here's a clue -- (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-04-11, 10:10:15 (167.83.10.20)
The original SDs from the factory were not shrink wrapped. It would be tough to tell if its untouched. Many of the LP dealers from that time period began shrink wrapping LPs themselves. so its possibl .......
280: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: it means 47K ohms with 470 pF in parallel (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-04-04, 10:31:19 (167.83.10.20)
depends on the circuit. Most likely the 470puff is used for stripping off any RF frequencies that may be riding on the signal line. .......
281: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: New to me Adcom GFP 555 Arrived today! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-04-01, 10:52:04 (167.83.10.20)
bypassing the PS caps will open up the sound. Joe is correct, its an old DIY trick, that many manufacturer's have adopted on newer pieces of gear. You now can buy gear with PS bypass caps sraight from .......
282: Vintage Asylum, RE: Volume pot issues...is it sealed on a KA9100? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-31, 17:51:12 (99.144.242.88)
did you connect a scope to the offending channel and see if there is a signal on the input side of the volume pot? usually pots will pass something if worked back and forth a bit. If you are getting n .......
283: Vintage Asylum, RE: Congrats! I have one too. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-31, 17:49:29 (99.144.242.88)
Nice looking unit. Its likely overdue for a cap upgrade though. Not too tough to do, just a bit time consuming to go through all the boards and replace the old ones. Once done, it should last another .......
284: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: New to me Adcom GFP 555 Arrived today! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-30, 19:51:50 (99.141.235.61)
Not quite. YOu may be doing a little filtering. Bypassing the caps requires adding some film caps to the main filter caps inside the unit. best .......
285: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: New to me Adcom GFP 555 Arrived today! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-28, 10:23:15 (167.83.10.20)
The 555 benefits greatly from upgrades. The power supply is a huge improvement. Cap upgrades are a second option. .......
286: General Asylum, RE: Anything I might want to re-sell for a fair price n/t (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-16, 10:56:03 (167.83.10.20)
Tubeguy is right. Every mfg. makes a decision on costs vs. performance at some point. And then there is the required margin that must be figured into the final price. Very few use over sized power su .......
287: Tape Trail, RE: Nakamichi CR7A tranny voltage conversion question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-16, 10:44:09 (167.83.10.20)
why not buy a step down transformer once you are in the EU? will be much cheaper than trying to rewind the transformers, even if you can find someone willing to do it. .......
288: Vintage Asylum, RE: TA-E88B....advice (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-15, 10:29:28 (167.83.10.20)
I as well, have heard good things about that Sony Unit. did you give enough time to allow the new caps to break in? as long as the upgrade was being done, I would have bypassed all the lytic caps in t .......
289: Tech Square, RE: Electrical sub panel (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-15, 10:26:07 (167.83.10.20)
I guess you could do that then. The only thing I would think may be a factor would be the heavier wire required to run a sub panel over that same distance. If you had a long distance, say a few hundre .......
290: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Running solid state amp without connecting to speakers. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-11, 10:32:30 (167.83.10.20)
If you want to leave it on, just plug an 8 ohm power resistor into the speaker posts to let the amp see a load. .......
291: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Sonos Mods (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-08, 10:33:05 (167.83.10.20)
I had thought the same thing when setting up my sonos system. I have 4 zones. The ZP80 units do not have digital out, if memory serves correctly, so are limited there. For the ZP90s I used a Musical F .......
292: Tech Square, RE: Electrical sub panel (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-03-07, 10:09:29 (167.83.10.20)
I have not done it. Having said that, Not sure why anyone would want to go with the sub panel option, unless they ran out of room in their main panel. All you are going to do is add more contact point .......
293: Tape Trail, RE: Studer B62 earthing ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-02-21, 10:25:07 (167.83.10.20)
yep, Ironbutt is right. Get yourself an ESD wrist strap and ground it to the center screw on your outlet cover. Don't use just plain old copper wire, spend the money and buy the ESD strap and wire; it .......
294: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Interesting review of the Linn MaJIK DS-I (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-01-26, 10:51:40 (167.83.10.20)
msa has a valid point. even though the sonos is not high dollar, does not mean its not doing an adquate data transfer job. remember, no conversion is being done in the sonos. If you are in doubt abou .......
295: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: need help (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-01-26, 10:46:46 (167.83.10.20)
Win MP11 is fine for what you want. The main concern I would have is not software based, but more hardware based. On that HP laptop, the DAC chips are not too good. May want to use an outboard USB DA .......
296: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Me too! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-01-18, 10:21:42 (167.83.10.20)
If you like the sound of the S500 now, try it when you slip some bypass caps under each of the main filter caps. try a 3.0, .47 and a .022 trio under each of the 4 caps. Be sure to discharge the caps .......
297: Tech Square, RE: Resistor noise on AUDIO applications (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2011-01-07, 18:50:33 (99.141.233.231)
I have been using Vishay bulk foil now for over 10 years. Using any other resistor is a waste of time. The lower noise translates into blacker backgrounds, and more signal coming through in quiet pass .......
298: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Vinyl upgrade #3 .... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-11-09, 10:26:25 (167.83.10.20)
next on your plan should be to go through the phono stage of the Yamaha C-2a and upgrade the caps and resistors in that circuit. J .......
299: Vinyl Asylum, RE: One is lower output (hence, L and H). I may find literature in my files.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-11-05, 10:45:40 (167.83.10.20)
The L version is the low output version; 0.1 millivolt; m version is the medium output version; dont recall exactly, but 0.5 mv comes to mind. The low outpout version. look for peak output voltage to .......
300: Vintage Asylum, RE: Crown IC-150 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-28, 15:57:05 (99.142.13.116)
Lee, be sure to bypass teh power supply filter caps; alot of that harshness will be removed. .......
301: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: No experience - but, seeing that your amp is Levinson,... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-28, 15:55:20 (99.142.13.116)
The parasounds are easy to improve and upgrade. I have upgraded a half dozen myself. the results are always something. Want a real sleeper pre amp? buy a used zpre; sounds so-so in stock form. go thro .......
302: Digital Drive, RE: Latest Maxell CD-R Music (Taiwan) any good?. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-15, 10:24:48 (167.83.10.20)
Maxell is OK, but not great. You can order sony or TDK online from amazon. Maxell contract manufactures their optical discs; quality depends on which house they use. .......
303: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: AD/DA comparison to Apogee Rosetta 200 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-15, 10:22:24 (167.83.10.20)
DAC is a cirus logic part; do not recall number. HD can be replaced if you know how to format new drive correctly. An outboard ADC/DAC is a better way to go; as well as adding an outboard master clo .......
304: Tape Trail, RE: 2-track player recommendation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-15, 10:03:06 (167.83.10.20)
yes, if you can get them. .......
305: Tape Trail, RE: 2-track player recommendation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-11, 09:54:15 (167.83.10.20)
Coupling caps can be replaced with Nichon audio grade bipolar; with the bright metalic green sleaving on them. bypass caps can be PP or mylar, but using film and foil construction will offer better s .......
306: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Try ISO buster (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-08, 10:19:12 (167.83.10.20)
try sticking it in a PC and copying it as a data disc, not an audio disc. There are some players now that do not need the disc to be finalized to play; will play a CDR fine without the table of conten .......
307: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Older High End Preamp (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-08, 10:16:05 (167.83.10.20)
Lynxo, keep in mind that some of hte NAD gear can be on the thin sounding side; when slecting a pre, you will not want to select a thin sounding pre too. Some of the earlier PS Audio stuff comes to .......
308: Tape Trail, RE: 2-track player recommendation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-10-05, 10:47:13 (167.83.10.20)
I have to say gkargreen is correct. The tape handling on the the MTR series is night and day better than the 5050 series; and most other radio station type half track machines; both early and late mo .......
309: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Just got my new KAB SL 1200 hooked up (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-09-29, 10:22:56 (167.83.10.20)
RSF, contact your local granite counter top guy, and ask him to cut you a slab of granite to rest your new KAB on. If you want to buff the edges it will look nicer, but std. cut is fine for sound. w .......
310: Tape Trail, RE: 2-track player recommendation (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-09-29, 10:14:55 (167.83.10.20)
Before your question is answered you need to determine if you are going to buy a consumer deck or a pro level deck. For the minor cost delta, I would head for a pro unit. There were a series of Otari .......
311: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Yeah, me too. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-09-10, 10:07:04 (167.83.10.20)
your orig. post did not mention how many mv you were off on your offset. are you 500mv off or only a few? If its a few, that may be the best you can do with the pot you are using. .......
312: Vintage Asylum, RE: Bought 'em and called Millersound .... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-09-10, 10:02:03 (167.83.10.20)
Phil D is correct. The 166 was one of the flatest freq. response speakers JBL made. You can drive them with just about any amp. I would look around for Pro audio speaker reconing in your area, and the .......
313: Digital Drive, RE: Sonos ZonePlayers (ZP-90) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-29, 07:05:57 (99.141.222.217)
yes, CD players are now on the closet shelf. Feeding the digital out from a zp90 into a Musical fidelity Trivista DAC. Best Digital playback I have heard in my system, other than some high res. maste .......
314: Tape Trail, RE: Tandberg TD 20A (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-13, 12:08:51 (99.144.255.206)
As both Charles and Richard commented, lube problem can happen with all open reels, but Tandberg seems to have more than their share. Tandberg had a problem with bearing quality for a short time. fin .......
315: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Steve, this time I have to agree with Victor (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-12, 10:14:28 (167.83.10.20)
And along those lines of lower noise, moving the linear Xformer away from the low voltage signal lines, by outboarding it to a sep. case. Much of the newer gear uses switching supplies which generate .......
316: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Balanced Pre And Power Amps. Fact or Fiction? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-11, 10:08:14 (167.83.10.20)
Thanks, you are correct on inverted vs. non inverted. Balanced lines first appeared in telecom apps, but the first use in pro audio I still think was done by Ampex. .......
317: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: +1 (nt) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-10, 05:59:16 (167.83.10.20)
With Tarragon is correct. The 555 worked the caps pretty hard. It also benefits greatly from added bypasses. It can sound quite grainy in its stock form, listening fatigue will quickly set in. ::: TOP .......
318: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: old amps vs new (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-10, 05:57:31 (167.83.10.20)
The single most expensive component in most audio gear is teh power supply and transformer. In the 70s audio performance was key. Designers knew they had to put in a decent power supply to drive the w .......
319: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Balanced Pre And Power Amps. Fact or Fiction? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-10, 05:47:45 (167.83.10.20)
you really have to go back to the point in time when Balanced cables were first done, with long runs of mic cables. Unbalanced mic cables pick up too much noise, so balanced configurations were done t .......
320: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: How do I fix the album art in my collection? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-09, 09:57:34 (167.83.10.20)
I have been through this too. you did not mention which audio player you were using. For classical, album artwork many times pulls up the wrong art. ITunes stores the art work in a sep. folder. Win me .......
321: Tape Trail, RE: Revox A77 - Which Mk. for 15 ips ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-08-03, 09:51:15 (167.83.10.20)
Whilet the Pioneer and Teac x1000 are nice decks they don't play at 15 ips. Teac made an X1000M for a short time which would play at the higher speeds. Last week there was a guy selling MTR-10s for 3 .......
322: General Asylum, RE: Trivista revisted (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-29, 10:58:53 (167.83.10.20)
why not just set aside the transport and migrate towards a server based source. Feed the digital out into the Trivista. Much better sound, than sourcing from a CD/DVD transport. .......
323: Cable Asylum, RE: If you think digital ICs sound different then I need your help (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-29, 10:49:33 (167.83.10.20)
The shield connection techniques can change the sound of digital cables. when you mentioned the glass connection sounded different than SPDIF, don't forget you are running the signal through a differ .......
324: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Converting Apple Lossless to WAV?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-28, 10:33:13 (167.83.10.20)
google switch.exe. Switch is a conversion software from NCN. a trial period is free, but I think the lossless codec to WAV function does not expire. best of luck. Be sure to select the location of yo .......
325: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Unlikely both units will have exactly the same output voltage. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-21, 10:54:02 (167.83.10.20)
for the cost of an xformer, you would be better off just buying the correctly sized unit, than trying to get by with two smaller units. .......
326: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: Somewhere on the panel.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-21, 10:50:45 (167.83.10.20)
Yep, Box Rex is correct. You need to check with your elec. inspector first. some townships do not like to see them in a panel. Having said that, the half width breakers will work. You will be pulling .......
327: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: All film cap power supplies?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-21, 10:08:07 (167.83.10.20)
The use of all film caps is not new. CJ did it 12 years ago on some of their PV pre amps. do a search for richard Marsh Cap testing. 15+ years ago there was a whole series of well done cap tests, tha .......
328: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: How to test Filter caps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-21, 10:03:49 (167.83.10.20)
it depends on what brand and type your original caps are. The true computer grade caps were designed to work under constant load/unload cyles. Most amplifiers do not subject them to this. The biggest .......
329: Vinyl Asylum, RE: For $80, why not give it a try? NT (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-20, 09:56:37 (167.83.10.20)
Keep in mind, there was some serious engineering horsepower thrown at LP playback, when the LP was king, and the Japanese audio companies were making true advancements. Idependent of which table you .......
330: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Look at Icepower amps, such as PS Audio GC or Wyred4sound... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-20, 09:43:17 (167.83.10.20)
If you cant swing a pair of JC-1s then try a single HCA 3500 or HCA 2200 Mk 2. Both are very high current amps, and sound very good; just not quite as good as the JC's .......
331: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Look at Icepower amps, such as PS Audio GC or Wyred4sound... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-19, 10:26:29 (167.83.10.20)
get a pair of the parasound JC-1's. They sound very fine and drive just about anything out there. .......
332: Tech Square, RE: Are 63 V smoothing capacitors too tight for my power amp? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-15, 10:50:26 (167.83.10.20)
Meg, you did not mention which type or brand your OE caps were. If they are computer grade, I doubt they need to be replaced. And the snap mount panasonics are not equiv. You would need to move up t .......
333: Speaker Asylum, RE: B&W Matrix Series 2 - " How to reduce brightness " (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-15, 10:38:22 (167.83.10.20)
you did not mention the amp you were using. I have not heard a bright B&W. I would be more inclined to leave the spkrs alone and add some bypass caps to the power supply of your amp. The brightness .......
334: Radio Road, RE: FM signal booster that really does work? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-14, 10:04:59 (167.83.10.20)
first, get rid of your wip and buy a small yagi. R. Shack has one for 30 bucks or so. secondly, get the channel master 5555 amplifier. its designed for broadcast tv use, but will work with FM too. : .......
335: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: yeah, but: who can EVER try both and tell you? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-13, 10:53:27 (167.83.10.20)
Viktor, might be worth your time to download the specs on both caps from the mfgrs web pages, and compare them yourself. I would be sure both caps are low ESR high ripple units. Even if the ripple .......
336: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: best sounding wifi music server (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-13, 10:38:20 (167.83.10.20)
am using a sonos system feeding a musical fidelity trivista DAC. Very enjoyable. 5200 CDs stored as WAV on 4 TB of HDs. .......
337: Tape Trail, RE: Opinions on ebay auctions for 3.75 ips that don't mention speed of tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-13, 10:29:35 (167.83.10.20)
the 3 3/4 speed tapes came out later, when record companies were trying to cut costs on reel to reel tape production costs, and offer buyers more time on a limited 7 inch reel. Even on a good machine, .......
338: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Thanks (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-09, 12:25:36 (99.144.249.171)
I would use either an audiophile 192 card with SPDIF output, or if you can swing it, go to a Lynxstudio TWO card, which has every output option on it, including AES/ABU XLR. .......
339: Tape Trail, RE: S-VHS Recommendations For FM Recording (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-07-06, 10:10:56 (167.83.10.20)
I would opt for a stand alone CD recorder over any type of VCR. .......
340: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Streaming music throughout house (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-06-17, 10:19:11 (167.83.10.20)
yep, go with a sonos system. www dot sonos dot com .......
341: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Adcom-- which preamps are Nelson Pass? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-06-17, 10:03:27 (167.83.10.20)
Yes, I agree. The adcom GFP and GFA units do not use the best parts, have small power supplies and benefit greatly from any upgrades. Many of the GFA amps used a chrome plated steel grounding buss. D .......
342: Tape Trail, RE: 2 and 4 tr. play on same machine-12 db. level diff. normal? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-06-17, 09:55:46 (167.83.10.20)
I would agree. I think a better option would be to get a qtr trk head and a half track head from JRF, that have similar out put levels rather than using your old OE 1/4 trk head. Secondly the respons .......
343: Tape Trail, RE: tape squeal (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-06-02, 10:51:40 (167.83.10.20)
I think you are correct, but don't forget the 1 mil versions of Ampex as well which had SSS, 407 and 457. Ampex/Quantegy claimed they had fixed the problem, but I have a case of quantegy 456 that has .......
344: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Parasound P/LD-1100 and Rotel RB 991 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-05-24, 10:34:14 (167.83.10.20)
would prob. be better off picking up a tube amp (dyna 70 etc, and selling your Rotel). Your speakers are very eff. so the added power may not do a whole lot. .......
345: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: THRESHOLD S/300 or S/500 POWER AMPS (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-05-24, 10:31:55 (167.83.10.20)
Bob, I have owned all 3 amps from Threshold in this series, The S200, S300 and S500. The later models had the optical bias, which some prefer and others don't. My S300 had the optical bias, while the .......
346: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: best pc player (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-05-06, 10:46:20 (167.83.10.20)
fyitaf, why not use Sonos to play your tracks? I have 4.5 TB on a dedicated PC with all tracks stored as WAV files. I use the remote feature on Sonos to make selections, play tracks etc. Can be con .......
347: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: sonos Library Tracks Question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-05-03, 10:48:16 (167.83.10.20)
BAJ, Tony is correct. You want to be sure you know how your file structure will appear before you start ripping. If you are using MP11, it can be set to number the tracks in the same order, they ap .......
348: Tape Trail, RE: how best to store tapes - horizontal or vertical? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-27, 09:58:01 (167.83.10.20)
grhughes is correct. gravity has its effect, so the best storage is a periodic change from vertical to horizontal and back to vertical. There is considerable opinion though on the length of time in e .......
349: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Musical Fidelity V-DAC (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-19, 10:26:14 (167.83.10.20)
For those of you who own the MF VDAC, I have a pair of them. This weekend, I decided to slide the cover off and take a look inside. The VDAC is loaded with 0.1uf ceramic caps. All were replaced with . .......
350: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Parasound HCA-1206 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-19, 10:08:51 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Brian, yes, the 1206 is not too easy to work on. I owned one for a while. as long as you are in there, you might want to consider replacing the bypass caps with film and foil versions. Origin .......
351: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Considering a Tube Kit (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-09, 10:20:45 (167.83.10.20)
Two other options. 1. Pick up a used Musical fidelity amp or integrated amp off of audiogon, 2. If you are looking at kits, order one of the new dynaco stereo 70 or stereo 120 tube kits, they can be .......
352: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Parasound A-23 Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-02, 06:25:14 (99.145.0.142)
While the quality of the power supply caps is important, that is not what I meant. I was referring to the film bypass caps that in parallel with the main PS filter caps. .......
353: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: REVIEW: Parasound A-23 Amplifier (SS) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-04-01, 10:10:26 (167.83.10.20)
keep in mind all the amps you have listed are decent amps. The changes in sonic signature are more likely due to different values and/or construction styles of the P.S. bypass caps which are used on .......
354: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Loading Benz Micro M2 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-03-24, 09:46:00 (167.83.10.20)
you need to ask yourself what is your desired goal before your question can be answered. Do you want a flat freq. response, or do you want a slightly rising top end? This is key, since it will determi .......
355: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MX-5050 Mk III (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-03-20, 04:49:06 (99.144.180.170)
Ki, see below: ------------------------- Just to clarify your instruction in my mind; 1) the 10uF cap is connected in parallel with the .47uf cap------- YES, on the pos. leg of the RCA to pos. pin on .......
356: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Is it worth upsampling when ripping CDs (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-03-09, 09:57:13 (167.83.10.20)
What ever you do, I would tend to agree with Tony and be sure to save your CD rips in their native 16/44.1 format, preferrably as WAV, but flac if space is a concern. I have 3 TB of of ripped CD trac .......
357: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Power Cap Replacement: How big is too big? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-27, 07:32:16 (99.144.254.63)
yep, other poster is correct, I would not go bigger unless you upsize the bridge. SInce you are doing that work, why not add a few bypass film caps to the new caps you are putting in. A 0.47uf with a .......
358: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MX-5050 Mk III (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-26, 20:05:41 (99.141.230.170)
Everyone has an opinion, some are good some not so good. I would suggest you do what I and others have done over the years and decide yourself. Purchase or procure the following: 1. a new 10uf Nichic .......
359: Tech Square, RE: Old regulated power supply capacitors (replace) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-22, 10:32:07 (167.83.10.20)
nichicon low esr .......
360: Tech Square, RE: Soldering Station (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-22, 10:06:26 (167.83.10.20)
All the iron suggestions are good, but your comment about silver solder I would pass on. I used to be a big believer in silver solder. Its joint is not as solid as a eutectic solder, and while it sou .......
361: Tech Square, RE: Burning In (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-22, 09:57:28 (167.83.10.20)
solder a 10k to 15K ohm resistor across the hot and ground contacts on an RCA plug and plug into the player outputs. The resistor will give the player output stage a load to drive into. .......
362: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Best discs to burn own DVD-Audio discs? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-20, 10:31:54 (99.151.198.37)
Stick with Sony, Taiyo Yunden, or TDK blanks. A lot of info on this site http://www.digitalfaq.com/reviews/dvd-media.htm .......
363: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Test with 24/96 vs. 16/44 LITTLE TO NO DIFFERENCE. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-20, 10:26:24 (99.151.198.37)
That is correct. the jitter is pretty high, as well as the signal to noise ratio. Hard to believe its claim for 24/96, with SN ratios where they are. .......
364: Radio Road, RE: Yamaha T-80 pulling in more stations than T-85 !!?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-20, 10:12:47 (99.151.198.37)
yes, it is a lot of work. especially if you plan on doing vishays too. you have never heard an FM tuner at its max if you have not heard one gone through with vishays regardless of the make.......yama .......
365: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Klemperer / Mahler No. 4 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-19, 10:20:02 (167.83.10.20)
If you can find an earlier Blue label angel, they tend to have decent sonics. I used to know the stamper codes on angels. the pressing plant had a large influence on the sound quality. a very high per .......
366: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MX55 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-19, 10:02:13 (167.83.10.20)
The original XLR pin config. was developed by Ampex. The original pin labeling by ampex made sense; low to high; pin 1 was ground, pin 3 was hot, highest voltage above ground. Otari, Tascam, and other .......
367: Radio Road, RE: Yamaha T-80 pulling in more stations than T-85 !!?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-18, 10:35:10 (167.83.10.20)
eihter your T-85 is out of alignment or something is partially blocking the signal. I own several versions of both models, and the T-85 is by far and away the hands down winner for pulling in stations .......
368: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MX55 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-18, 10:32:11 (167.83.10.20)
A few drops is too many. The motors should be fine, the place you want to lube are the arm tensioner rotating pieces in the tape tavel pathway, including the pinch roller bearing. place a drop of oil .......
369: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Need PC Audio Set-up Suggestions (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-17, 10:27:00 (167.83.10.20)
to stay under your 200 limit, pick up an audiophile 192 card. it will sound much better than the onboard sound card. When you add the SB, take the Enet signal and let SB convert to Digital audio. Take .......
370: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Test with 24/96 vs. 16/44 LITTLE TO NO DIFFERENCE. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-17, 10:22:55 (167.83.10.20)
The poor sonics of the 0404 card are not helping you. If you can swing the $$$ go for the Lynxstudio card, if not, the audiophile 192 from M-Audio is a better sounding card for a little more $$. I ha .......
371: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MX55 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-17, 10:09:57 (167.83.10.20)
somwhunw, glad to hear you are now interested in Open reel. Keep in mind you are likely not hearing the mx55 at its best. As with many decks, they due for a cap replacement/upgrade and byapass. Almos .......
372: Vintage Asylum, RE: Does two-prong plug orientation effect speaker polarity/phase? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-03, 10:40:16 (167.83.10.20)
Which ever is the ground side potential on the plug should get plugged into the neutral side of the outlet. .......
373: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Problem with HHB 850 CD recorder (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-02-03, 10:37:55 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Richard, sounds like your unit is toast. I don't have the HHB, but do have serveral pioneer units, which the HHB is based off of. Pioneer uses their own Drive, while Tascam and others use a TDK I .......
374: Vintage Asylum, RE: Listening to Scott 222c.... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-01-14, 10:31:39 (167.83.10.20)
I have had the same thoughts over the last few years. Too many folks are on the equipment change out squirrel wheel, and miss the enjoyment of the music itself. Most of the older Scott, Fisher, and Ma .......
375: Tape Trail, RE: tape end tags? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2010-01-11, 10:06:02 (167.83.10.20)
Just an FYI, the adhesive used on the red and blue hold down tape eventually dries out; leaving the tape somewhat brittle. I have been using console tape for some time now with good results. Its meant .......
376: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Replacing an M-Audio USB Audiophile (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-12-21, 09:55:50 (167.83.10.20)
If you are trying to do 24/192, USB can be iffy. can you do PCI? the audiophile 192 card sounds pretty nice, and has both digital and analog ins and outs. .......
377: Vinyl Asylum, RE: well (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-12-16, 19:19:08 (99.151.170.232)
the denon works well, as one poster mentioned as does the Benz Micro for 199 or what ever the newer price is. .......
378: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Inexperienced with Analogue Need Advice (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-12-16, 19:15:52 (99.151.170.232)
you did not mention your cart. loading. Have you tried backing off on that? it will add more detail and air. .......
379: Vinyl Asylum, RE: controlling mains frequency (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-12-16, 19:13:24 (99.151.170.232)
Why don't you get the KAB or other strobe disc. Meas. the speed accuracy at night and during the day. Speed may not be the reason it sounds like crap; could be other things, like noise riding into you .......
380: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Recommendation on computer card for PC (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-12-10, 11:09:40 (167.83.10.20)
Dawnrazor is correct. Use WAV. You have two big HDs, so storage space is not a problem. and for 300 CDs that will easily fit on 1.5 TB. I did a similar thing you did; but ripped everything with WMA lo .......
381: Tape Trail, RE: External Dolby B Units like the TEAC AN-180??? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-11-23, 10:03:37 (167.83.10.20)
Mark, The teac dolby units sound so-so in stock form. They need a lot of work to really sing. Secondly, all of these units are old enough now, that a complete re-cap of the power supply and audio P .......
382: Vintage Asylum, RE: Pioneer SX-680 just died - Worth saving? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-10-26, 10:16:15 (167.83.10.20)
don't continue to power it up; if you have a burning smell; pop the cover off and look for the burned component. Most likely a resistor that let go, or a cap dried out. .......
383: Tape Trail, RE: How to store tapes to reduce fading over time? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-09-29, 10:02:38 (167.83.10.20)
Regardless of how you treat them, cassettes will continue to loose their data. Why not rip the tapes to 24/96 using a pro A to D converter. Store these masters on a hard drive, make play copies of yo .......
384: Tape Trail, RE: Plenty of space and spare pins! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-09-29, 09:54:54 (167.83.10.20)
I have worked on several of these. They can be made to sound quite good. When re-capping the PCBs, be sure to add a 0.1uf film cap in parallel to each of the interstage coupling caps. If you want to .......
385: Vintage Asylum, RE: vintage guy with modern problem (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-29, 10:25:03 (167.83.10.20)
You did not mention which brand of CDRs you were using but they could be contributing to the problem too. I would replace the burner and stick with Sony or TDK blanks. .......
386: Shady Lane, RE: Paypal, if you recive a payment can it go wrong? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-29, 10:22:31 (167.83.10.20)
Paypal is fine for overseas; just do not ship USPS. go to the extra expense of Fedex or UPS. Reason being, USPS can not offer del. Gar. or del. confirmation on overseas, esp. in Italy. so you ship th .......
387: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Cool! nt (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-29, 10:11:38 (167.83.10.20)
dont forget to upgrade the interconnects too between arm and pre amp input. best .......
388: Vintage Asylum, RE: Good post ! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-21, 11:03:10 (167.83.10.20)
Mike, you may want to pick up a NAB broadcast test disc. You'll likely find even though your phono pre amp is flat within .1 db, when you hook up a real cart. to it, the bottom end is 6 db down. Y .......
389: Tape Trail, RE: TASCAM questions (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-16, 10:43:05 (167.83.10.20)
Chuck, Richard is correct; those bulbs are not LED's. They are std. bulbs; but be prepared for a shocker if Teac/Tascam still has them availabe; they are not cheap. I have re-bulbed a Tascam 52, and s .......
390: Tape Trail, RE: Studer A810 worth getting? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-07-16, 10:39:32 (167.83.10.20)
The studer should have more of a refined sound. In either case you should consider re-capping both the Ampex and studio if not already done. Ampex tried to pattern the studer sound with the ATR-100 s .......
391: Tape Trail, RE: Looking for 12 inch reels (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-05-07, 10:33:38 (167.83.10.20)
The last batch I bought, I got from Tape and tape. tapeandtape dot com. john .......
392: Tape Trail, RE: Studer A812 or Otari BIII (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-04-15, 10:18:41 (167.83.10.20)
Ironbut is right; not a fair comparison. The studer would win hands down. J .......
393: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: 24/192 USB to SPDIF converter? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-04-06, 10:40:10 (167.83.10.20)
wcvb, no such luck; can not bring a 24/192 out on a usb connection, you need AES/EBU. To get that from your PC, you need a Lynxstudio TWO, which has the correct AES/EBU output, which you can then se .......
394: Radio Road, RE: Op Amp Rolling? Yamaha TX Series (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-04-06, 10:31:37 (167.83.10.20)
add some bypass caps to the power supply to warm it up a litle. .......
395: Tape Trail, RE: Tape problem (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-04-06, 10:29:23 (167.83.10.20)
If you are going to stick with the crown, don't buy the newer tape formulations that it can not handle. Stick with the older Scotch formulations which are quite stable over time; 206, 207, etc. Other .......
396: Tech Square, RE: filter caps in ps (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-30, 09:51:28 (167.83.10.20)
in your post you did not mention a specific piece of gear. so as a general rule, when manufacturers try to cut costs, the first thing that goes is the transformer. Having said that, you may get a larg .......
397: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Technics sl1210 the Grand Master (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-27, 10:21:57 (167.83.10.20)
Get the KAB arm dampener and outboard RCA jack plate installed. Your table will take another leap forward. Then head off to your local Granite countertop source and have them cut you a piece that is c .......
398: Vintage Asylum, RE: tape head cleaner (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-17, 20:05:35 (99.144.252.40)
Use 99% IPA (alcohol). you can source it from Humco, if your drug store can not get it. Rubbing alcohol will clean the tape heads, but can leave a residue behind. .......
399: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Tascam DV-RA1000HD Question (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-17, 19:52:57 (99.144.252.40)
The tascam DV-RA1000HD can be used as a CD player but not as a SACD player. This deck is mainly intended to do hi res 2 track recording, in 24/192 or raw DSD formats. It can be used for a CD player, b .......
400: Tape Trail, RE: REVOX B77 capacitors (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-09, 10:00:21 (167.83.10.20)
It depends on the Value of the original cap. 0.47 and smaller, I would suggest a film cap. Larger than that, I would use a new electrolytic with a film bypass. .......
401: Tape Trail, RE: Head Wear On Otari 5050 Deck (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2009-01-06, 10:33:03 (167.83.10.20)
I'd say the heads in the photos are not original to the deck. If you look at the wear on the tape guides, the guides show much less wear than the tape heads........wonder why??? As another poster alre .......
402: Tape Trail, RE: Master Tapes Estate Find (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-21, 19:11:18 (99.144.180.77)
I am sure the look on her face was surprise; but there were likely a ton of memories flowing for her as well. Sounds like someone forgot the tapes were even down there. There should have been an MT .......
403: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Any one burning 24/96 DVD (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-16, 10:42:21 (167.83.10.20)
Yes, I am burning DVD-Audio discs on a regular basis. I have used Disc welder Chrome or DVD-Solo 2.0. The Solo version is much simpler to use, and quite affordable. 24/96 gives an improvement over RBC .......
404: Tape Trail, RE: Some tape recording comparison with my gear (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-14, 07:03:27 (99.145.0.116)
The Pioneer 555 uses pretty old A to D and D to A chip sets. No intention to post neg. comments. Just a thought; you can pick up a Pioneer 609 pretty inexpensively now. The 609 CD recorder has a muc .......
405: Tape Trail, RE: Radio Shack Reel to Reel Tapes Timeline (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-14, 06:46:06 (99.145.0.116)
I don't remember who all their sources were, but R. Shack contacted out for tape both Cassette and open reel. I think price was their main consideration, not performance. .......
406: Tape Trail, RE: What causes tape to rub on a reel during playback? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-04, 17:27:17 (99.144.181.18)
don't forget to check the service manual for the correct reel table height. If it is off, that could be causing your problem. .......
407: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Pro CD Player as HiFi CD Transport? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-04, 17:23:06 (99.144.181.18)
A CD read write drive will have fewer errors than the standard CD drive in your Denon. .......
408: Tape Trail, RE: Pioneer 707 or wait? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-12-04, 10:08:11 (167.83.10.20)
One can not make a blanket statement that R to R is always better or LP is always better than R to R. All one can logically conclude is "it depends" on a number of things besides just playback equipme .......
409: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Hows does the Technics SL1200MK2 compare to more expensive tables? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-30, 19:08:09 (99.144.183.61)
To add to the comments about the 1200 Technics, the stock table has rock solid speed control, but lacks in the resolution department. Need Kevin's upgrades to bring the table up to the level of the hi .......
410: Vintage Asylum, RE: Marantz solid state receivers (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-28, 04:47:11 (99.142.0.157)
2230 or 2238. The FM section in the 2230 was not the best, so needs a goo strong signal. All of these are of the vintage where they are likely in need of cap replacements. While you are in there you c .......
411: Vintage Asylum, RE: Installing Equailizer to Stereo Receiver? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-28, 04:42:42 (99.142.0.157)
use the tape loop on your receiver to insert the EQ in the signal path .......
412: Tape Trail, RE: Otari 5050 Rewire (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-28, 04:36:54 (99.142.0.157)
Sure, Ampex, U.S. was the originator of the whole 3 pin XLR wiring standard. Otari and others copied Ampex to stay consistent with all pro gear. Ampex used logic; lowest to highest on the level and th .......
413: Vintage Asylum, RE: True blue Marantz? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-25, 10:25:18 (167.83.10.20)
sanman, Pretty cool! Has the Marantz blue in spades, almost better than OEM.... .......
414: Tape Trail, RE: New to tape with Otari MX 5050 b 2hd (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-25, 10:22:56 (167.83.10.20)
I'd suggest you forget about going to lower speeds than 7 1/2. below this speed audio quality falls off quickly. If you are concerned with tape useage, then swap out the record and playback heads for .......
415: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Modding Technics SL-1210M5G calling on proud owners of this TT (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-24, 11:34:17 (167.83.10.20)
order a set of the cardas headshell leads from several on line sources; they will give you another improvment in resolution. .......
416: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Isoplatmat for Technics SL-1200 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-24, 11:30:55 (167.83.10.20)
Forget playing around with the mat. If you want a real improvement, call up your local Granite Counter top Fabricator and have them cut you a piece of granite that is at least 1.5 to 2 inches thick. P .......
417: Vintage Asylum, RE: Adding digital to vintage gear (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-24, 11:28:21 (167.83.10.20)
You did not mention which pro cd player you were talking about, but some do have -10db settings for converting the xlr output to a level that is compatiable with the RCA consumer level connections. Ma .......
418: Tech Square, RE: Resistor for power transformer voltage drop (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-19, 10:25:28 (167.83.10.20)
just to add to what Cliff has already stated, don't forget you will get some voltage drop when you connect the recifier and supply caps to the transformer. Your post did not mention if you were testin .......
419: Vintage Asylum, RE: AR ES-1 Platter (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-18, 10:17:01 (167.83.10.20)
None to my knowledge. At one time Underground sound (Merrill) in Memphis, TN made a custom outer ring that was deader than the the OEM ES-1 platter. I doubt they offer it now, but you may be able to t .......
420: Tape Trail, RE: New to tape with Otari MX 5050 b 2hd (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-18, 10:14:05 (167.83.10.20)
Don't forget to get yourself a tape head demag. unit, especially if you are tweeking the bias pots to optimize for a particular type of tape. Depending on the signal source, its quite likely you coul .......
421: Tape Trail, RE: CURRENT decks - suggestion (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-11, 10:50:33 (167.83.10.20)
Larry, if you already have your LPs on the Hard disc as 24/192 files, why not just down convert the files to 16/44.1 and use your PC to burn the tracks to a CDR? If you still need a stand alone CD .......
422: Tape Trail, RE: Opinions TASCAM 22-4 or Otari MX5050 ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-11, 10:47:32 (167.83.10.20)
The tascam 22 is a nice machine, but the 7 inch reels are a real limiting factor. You also need to decide if you are going to record in 1/4 track or two track format since these decks offer different .......
423: Tape Trail, RE: Which cd recorder to get???? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-11, 10:45:11 (167.83.10.20)
Vinnie, while the other suggestions are good, to answer your question, Here are the following CD recording decks to look for: 1. Tascam CDRW2000 (not a current model but tons of features) 2. Tascam's .......
424: Vintage Asylum, RE: Refubing Marantz Consolette continues..... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-10, 11:10:34 (167.83.10.20)
AJ, great photos and great work. You have a ton of time in all the upgrades/improvements. John .......
425: Tape Trail, RE: Tale of yesterday's live recording work (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-10, 11:07:11 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Richard, that is a good one. Have not had that one happen to me yet!!! Next time tell her to photoshop out the mic stands and mics if she does not want them in the pics!!! Hope you got some nic .......
426: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: hdtracks-resampled hirez (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-07, 10:55:09 (167.83.10.20)
Yes, you are correct, one has to be careful when buying hi res tracks or hi res discs, since many do not inform the buyer what the true resolution is. I regularly record live to 2 track in hi res. d .......
427: Tape Trail, RE: Maxell cassette's Suck,TDK Rules!!!!!!!!! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-06, 10:24:30 (167.83.10.20)
making a blind statement like that without qualifying which types, length, tape formulation, age, type of deck, is waste of bandwidth.......... .......
428: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Is there a DIY method to measure RIAA accuracy? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-04, 10:34:02 (167.83.10.20)
Yes, it used to be done all the time. Look for either a NAB broadcast test disc, or find a disc that has test tones on it at various frequencies. Play the record back and record the output voltage fo .......
429: Tape Trail, RE: I have several (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-11-04, 10:30:25 (167.83.10.20)
I like the sound of Ribbons, but have never been able to find a quiet enough pre amp. They do sound wonderful on mass strings. As Richard and others have mentioned, I have gone to painstaking efforts .......
430: Vintage Asylum, RE: APT Holman Preamp parts? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-28, 10:31:08 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Richard, Can not help you on the clear lenses that cover the switches, but can offer the following if you are going through it. 1. replace the interstage coupling caps with new ones, and bypas .......
431: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Need recommendation on DAW's. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-24, 10:23:57 (167.83.10.20)
The latest MAC is a nice machine but not cheap. A key question you need to answer first is what is the resolution or bit depth you plan on recording in? If its CD quality only, then you are not going .......
432: Tape Trail, RE: STELLAVOX SP-8 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-24, 10:18:03 (167.83.10.20)
Marantz guy is correct. The short recording times allowed by the smaller reels create a problem. The other option if one has the desire to stay analog, is an MTR-20. It will provide over an hour of co .......
433: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: xlr to rca (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-23, 10:52:14 (167.83.10.20)
Dave, If you picked up an aftermarket cable, Pins 1 and 3 are likely shorted together. You may want to do the following: 1. remove the shorting jumper between 1 and 3. 2. use pin 2 for RCA ground .......
434: Tape Trail, RE: microphone advice please (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-22, 17:21:59 (99.141.249.205)
Vinnie, That is an age old question. You did not mention what your budget allows. There is quite a selection between the 100 dollar mics and a pair of Neumanns. Also don’t forget to set aside some $$ .......
435: Tweakers' Asylum, RE: New power company transformer (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-22, 10:30:20 (167.83.10.20)
could also depend on which tap they stick your house on. If you were on a bottom tap, and now got moved to tap 1 on the new transformer, you could def. hear a dif. .......
436: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: xlr to rca (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-22, 09:56:57 (167.83.10.20)
Dave, you did not mention what brand of tape deck you have. Keep in mind some manufacturers used pin 3 as the hot and not pin 2. If you are connecting pin 2 to the hot center pin on the RCA, you co .......
437: Tape Trail, RE: tube sound vs SS sound?? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-14, 06:13:17 (99.141.234.150)
The sound you describe is likely from the old interstage audio coupling caps in the TEac. Replace those and bypass them with a film cap, and the deck will sound much better without the harshness. ::: .......
438: Vintage Asylum, RE: What makes a stereo bright or edgy (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-08, 10:33:25 (167.83.10.20)
Charles, what you are likely hearing is all the elec. coupling caps and the caps in the power supply. Add a few film caps in parallel with the main PS filter caps, and I think you'll find they smooth .......
439: Tape Trail, RE: Tape deck rebuild (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-07, 10:40:51 (167.83.10.20)
Ki is correct. Stick with the Panasonic HQ or HFQ high ripple caps for replacements. You will not be able to fit in film caps to replace the electrolytics. If there are ceramic caps, you can replace t .......
440: Tape Trail, RE: Sealed 7" reels of Scotch 150 tape (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-10-07, 10:38:16 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Richard, 150 was a consumer targeted tape. Unless you have a machine that handles tape very delicately, I would not use it. as a few other posters have already mentioned, the 206 and 207 formulatio .......
441: Tape Trail, RE: buying a used reel tape deck-help! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-09-03, 10:25:55 (167.83.10.20)
Tom, As others have mentioned, most of the decks on your list are all consumer machines that are 28+ years old, and are likely to need some work, unless the former owner maintained them all along wh .......
442: Tape Trail, RE: Anyone familiar with TEAC 35/2 reel to reel? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-08-16, 06:14:34 (99.144.178.129)
Rick, the Teac/Tascam 35-2 is a reliable machine. One nice feature is user adjustable bias and EQ settings on the front panel of the electronics. These were made in the late 70s to early 80s. If its .......
443: Tape Trail, RE: what kind of tape do YOU use with a ReVox A77? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-08-16, 06:09:15 (99.144.178.129)
Its been a while, but I think the A77 was set up for Scotch 206. Not sure if the bias ossilator has enough current to use the 499, or EMTEC 900. Would be a safer bet to stick with the EMTEC 911 which .......
444: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Opinions on Pioneer Elite DV-09 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-07-23, 10:32:50 (167.83.10.20)
If you are interested in Pioneer elite gear, go for the 79avi model. It will play all the audio formats, SACD, DVD-A and RDCD. John .......
445: Tape Trail, RE: Otari specifications by model number (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-07-16, 12:46:24 (167.83.10.20)
TGR, don't pass up the whole MTR series. They are the cream of the crop of Otari's and go for not much on the used market. .......
446: Vintage Asylum, RE: 78RPM dedicated turntable (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-05-20, 18:52:30 (99.141.219.46)
Buy a KAB technics and get the 78RPM option, you'll be able to dial the speed right in. .......
447: Vintage Asylum, RE: Reminds me of... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-05-06, 14:34:06 (167.83.10.20)
Yep, E-Stat is right. putting too big a transformer and added PS caps really makes a huge improvement. Does not matter if it is a Japanese piece or some megabuck hi end pre amp from the U.S. or Europe .......
448: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Amazing-sounding Brahms Chamber music, on early Columbia of all Lp's. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-05-02, 10:31:05 (167.83.10.20)
you are correct. some of the columbia recordings can sound quite good. best john .......
449: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: LP to DVD Audio format (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-19, 08:19:59 (99.151.161.26)
Alex is right; the magic starts as 24/176; anything lower is just playing around. As for burning software, discwelder is nice if you are using steel or chrome, but the bronze package is inferior to D .......
450: Vintage Asylum, RE: What am I doing wrong? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-19, 08:16:15 (99.151.161.26)
Mike, in addition to what all others have said, get a NAB broadcast disc, or a disc with the RIAA feq. built in, and make sure you are flat on your playback response. John .......
451: Vintage Asylum, RE: Marantz 1200 revisited (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-19, 08:13:52 (99.151.161.26)
Charles, nice job!! As doodlebug suggests, add some bypass caps; in your photo you posted, make sure the main filters are discharged, loosen the screws and slip a bypass or double bypass under the scr .......
452: Vintage Asylum, RE: What are some of the Great integrated amps of the 70s & 80s (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-19, 08:06:51 (99.151.161.26)
Charles the 1200 is well built but has a ton of coupling caps in the pre amp stage. If you bypass those with some film caps, will def. improve. As others have mentioned, some of the Kenwood KA series, .......
453: Vinyl Asylum, RE: WOW, what a great classical box set , Haydn Symphonies 20 - 35 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-18, 10:34:28 (167.83.10.20)
Like Dave, I bought the whole set too. Quite a nice set of recordings. j .......
454: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Heifetz/Rosza Violin Concerto, LSC 2767: was a Shaded Dog ever available? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-18, 10:31:00 (167.83.10.20)
That LP number is too late for US Indy or US Camden shaded dog pressing. It is possible Canada pressed a few Shaded dogs. If the recording was from the 50s then its quite likely not a dyna grundge re .......
455: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Technics 1210 and VPI Scout.... interesting difference (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-18, 10:27:48 (167.83.10.20)
Supercool, Get the arm dampener tough from Kevin, add some cardas headshell leads to the technics headshell, go to a granite counter top guy and have him cut your a 1 1/2 inch thick piece of grani .......
456: Tape Trail, RE: Correct pinout for Otari XLR/RCA Adaptor? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-12, 06:50:21 (99.145.7.232)
Doug, I think you may be reading the pin out incorrectly. Pin 3 is the center pin (identified as hot in your schematic), pin 1 (ground) and Pin 2 are on the perimeter, or flank either side of pin 3 .......
457: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Technics SL1200MKII questions (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-04, 14:18:19 (167.83.10.20)
Texanater summed it up well. The KAB upgrades really bring the Technics to a level that competes or better the multi kilo buck belt drive units. As far as speed stability, put on a solo piano recordin .......
458: Tech Square, RE: Polypropylene or polyester (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-04-01, 17:45:24 (99.141.254.212)
Ned, I used to be a polyprop fan only. As a single cap, they do sound better (unless you go to teflon). Problem is when you use a bunch of them, they sure lean the sound out. as one poster suggests, u .......
459: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: LP to DVD Audio format (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-27, 12:13:36 (167.83.10.20)
You may want to consider one of hte apogee A to D converters. You can pick these up used now for around 1K, sometimes less. The Mini-me has a USB out put for connection to your PC. john .......
460: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Shure V15 vs The Voice vs top end grado's (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-27, 12:05:22 (167.83.10.20)
The shure is likely to sound a bill flat compared to other carts. To give the shure a fair shot, one needs to back off on the loading, and test the freq. response using a broadcast test disc. I have t .......
461: Tape Trail, RE: Looking for Labels for the reel box edges (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-26, 18:13:18 (99.151.163.169)
Just get some white console tape; available at almost any pro audio dealer; you can cut it to fit and right directly on it. The peel and stick labels are a bit too wide for a 1/4 inch tape box anyway. .......
462: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: What about blu ray for audio playback? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-23, 07:31:39 (99.144.180.210)
I do not know of any hi resolution audio only formats that blu ray supports, so can not offer any suggestions on that. .......
463: Tape Trail, RE: New Otari deck! Too excited NOT to post..... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-23, 07:24:52 (99.144.180.210)
Joel, cool, glad you are enjoying them. There are quite a few upgrades you can do to the stock playback and record electronics too, so be sure to get a manual if you don't already have one. John .......
464: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: CD Player Upgrade (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-22, 10:18:58 (99.141.235.141)
All the hi end video guys are switching to Blu ray players, so some nice DVD players are now available pretty cheaply,that will do DVD - A and SACD. Watch for the higher end Pioneer Elite DV 79avi or .......
465: Tape Trail, RE: Difference between Otari MTR-10 and MTR-12? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-22, 10:16:56 (99.141.235.141)
Only one difference between the MTR-10 and MTR-12. Same performance, features etc., but the MTR-10 takes up to 10 1/2 inch reels, while the MTR-12 will take the NAB 12 inch reels, so will offer a long .......
466: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MTR-12 or a MTR-12 II (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-22, 10:13:24 (99.141.235.141)
Doug, one more thing, if he does not have the 1/4 head stack and guides, the 1/4 head stacks do come up on ebay, but the 1/4 inch guides are much tougher to find unless you find a dead machine someone .......
467: Tape Trail, RE: Location analog recording (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-21, 10:36:26 (167.83.10.20)
Hi Rich, hope you are doing well. I am doing live to 2 track acoustical recordings; chamber work, orchestral sessions and a few vocal. Most are 24/176 digital but I still sometimes take along a hot .......
468: Tape Trail, RE: Otari MTR-12 or a MTR-12 II (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-21, 10:29:44 (167.83.10.20)
Doug, the image you put up shows half inch guides and tape path, with 4 track heads. The MTR-12 was available in several configs. you may want to check with the seller and see if he has the 1/4" gu .......
469: Tech Square, RE: Wierd Problem with Black CD-R (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-21, 10:20:39 (167.83.10.20)
Bioman, Your problems may not have anything to do with the CDRs being black. Memorex have some of hte highest error rates on CDR blanks. May want to try a different disc mfgr too. Johnss ::: TOP .......
470: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Newbie to P Audio, can't seem to rip dvd's, dvd-a (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-14, 18:54:47 (99.142.5.140)
All you'll be able to do is copy the ISO image. due to the formatting, you won't be able to create hi res WAV tracks from the DVD Audio disc. Check out DVD decrypter for pulling the ISO image off the .......
471: Tape Trail, RE: April Stereophile: Fremer states, "Open reel analog tape........ (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-14, 18:51:58 (99.142.5.140)
Yes, that is true. As good as hi res digital is, 15 or 30 ips analog tape is still better. I do live to 2 track recordings in digital and sometimes analog. The digital equipment is easier to move arou .......
472: Vintage Asylum, RE: Buddy Holly's Ampex Recorder (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-13, 19:20:02 (99.151.161.211)
looks like a 600 series ampex. J .......
473: Tape Trail, RE: Anyone here able to explain the various Otari decks? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-13, 19:06:25 (99.151.161.211)
The 5050's are nice decks. The MTR-10 is a mastering recorder and does a better job of tape handling. Have never seen one spill tape. the MTR series also has most of the adjustments easily accessible .......
474: Tape Trail, RE: Tape Project Tapes (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-03-13, 18:58:57 (99.151.161.211)
Astrotoy, Yes you are correct. modd'ing the dolby unit is key to good sounding B-C tapes. They take on a whole new dimension when played back through modified electronics and modified dolby syst .......
475: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Anybody here have experience with an atomic master clock . . (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-26, 17:30:12 (99.144.182.41)
yes, check out the Big Ben from apogee digital. I was not a believer until I tried it. John .......
476: Amp/Preamp Asylum, RE: Ways to warm up and smooth the sound of my Audio Research SP9 ? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-24, 05:57:36 (99.141.225.15)
On the solid state side of the power supply, add some 0.1uf film caps which should help. Other option if you want tubes is to seek out a CJ PV-5. They have a very warm sound and have very low listeni .......
477: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Best VPI scoutmaster upgrade? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-22, 10:29:00 (167.83.10.20)
Get a piece of Granite and place it under your sand box. check with local counter top mfgrs. Now that Granite is the rage, they have scraps they will clean up and put an edge on for a reasonable price .......
478: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Technics SL-1200/1210 - Which model to buy? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-22, 10:25:51 (167.83.10.20)
Cactus Cowboy has a good point. The model is not as key as getting the Cardas wire upgrade in the arm. Also be sure to get the KAB dampening trough, its def. worthwhile. Give Kevin a call at KAB. He .......
479: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Tascam CD-601mkII (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-19, 11:13:52 (167.83.10.20)
the original poster mentioned he was using an outboard Wadia D to A, and the Tascam as a transport. Since the Wadia is not an inexpenive item, he may want to opt for the added resolution the Big Ben w .......
480: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Tascam CD-601mkII (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-18, 10:35:09 (167.83.10.20)
Tascam is quite good about standing behind their equipment, so if the drive did go; even a few years from now, a replacement drive should not be a big deal. Sounds like you have some expensive gear, .......
481: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Heck... if the porn industry is already burning to blank Blu-ray discs... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-18, 10:28:08 (167.83.10.20)
Neil has a point. On the pro side, authoring a DVD-A is a natural extension of all the newer, inexpensive pro gear coming out that will lay down digital tracks at 24 /96. 24/96 is quickly becoming the .......
482: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Explanation of DVD-A (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 10:55:31 (99.144.244.140)
not in a high res format. I create 16 / 44.1 session masters that are used for CD duplication. They are good sounding CDs, but there is no interest in releasing a high res version; have already tried .......
483: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: classical versus jazz SACD's (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 10:52:59 (99.144.244.140)
Thanks for the input. Was not my intention to start a flame, just stating my personal experience I have had with all the hi res formats on the front end, not on the back end (comsumer end) which is a .......
484: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: classical versus jazz SACD's (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 09:20:00 (99.144.244.140)
It also depends on how well the transfer was made and care was used in duplicating the discs. 24/176 or 24/192 makes a significant improvement over SACD, or 24/96 DVD-A, but unfortunately, no one is .......
485: Hi-Rez Highway, RE: SACD player recommendations (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 09:16:51 (99.144.244.140)
don't forget to check out Audiogon for a used Denon or Pioneer all format player, they are available now in the price range you quoted. John .......
486: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Do you find thrift stores depressing? (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 09:06:10 (99.144.244.140)
I have pretty much given up on thrift stores; have not found anything there in years. I now focus on the large record shows, or some of the larger stores when traveling. For those interested in Classi .......
487: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Explanation of DVD-A (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 08:57:35 (99.144.244.140)
Your question is a fair one. The problem is both formats really have the technical capacity to be much better than Red book CD at 16/44.1, but many are not. If you compare the CD versions with many SA .......
488: Tape Trail, RE: Reel 2 Reel Advice needed..... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-10, 08:44:20 (99.144.244.140)
on the XLR issue, you'll still have to swap wires with pin 2 and pin 3 even when going to an RCA. you will want to go hot to hot, not cold to hot, which will invert the phase. If you are worried abou .......
489: Tape Trail, RE: Tandberg 310 info, quality etc. (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-09, 08:28:52 (99.144.176.199)
of the tandberg line, the one to get is the 330. Stay away from any of the 400 series, and 440a, nothing but issues. when they work, they do sound good, but that is only when they work, which is a lo .......
490: Tape Trail, RE: Thanks Dave (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-09, 08:25:22 (99.144.176.199)
Way back when in the days of the early Ampex tube machines, some egineer used logic to make the pin asignments for the XLR. Highest potential would be pin 3 (hot or positive signal) with lowest potent .......
491: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Good Cheap Cart: AT440ML (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:21:00 (167.83.10.20)
If you want to hear more, replace the phono leads with some decent aftermarket cable or even Microphone cable. On many of these tables that was one of the areas that fell to cost cutting. John ::: TO .......
492: Vinyl Asylum, RE: Rega vs stock arm for a Technics SL-1200mk2 with denon dl-103 (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:15:37 (167.83.10.20)
If you are looking for magic, as several others mentioned, get the technics arm re-wired with cardas, get the KAB dampener trough, and use your extra money on a Benz Glider or Ace. The Cardas/Technics .......
493: Tape Trail, RE: 8 track reel to reel (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:10:23 (167.83.10.20)
There were several stand alone 8 tracks. - Tascam 48 - Tascam 58 - Otari MX-70 - Otari 5050 - 8 John .......
494: Tape Trail, RE: Dolby and Reel to Reel (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:06:35 (167.83.10.20)
Yep, Ironbut is pretty much right on. the stock dolby units strip the life out of the music if used as is. I have an upgraded outboard dolby unit. all new caps with film bypasses, vishay resistors, e .......
495: Tape Trail, RE: HELP!!!!! Teac X-10R HELP!!!!!! (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:03:39 (167.83.10.20)
Teac parts will likely still have it. TEAC America, Inc. 7733 Telegraph Rd. Montebello, CA. 90640 USA Phone: (323) 726-0303 Fax: (323) 727-7656 .......
496: Tape Trail, RE: Reel 2 Reel Advice needed..... (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 10:01:16 (167.83.10.20)
Joel, stick with the Otari 5050, or if you can find one an MTR-10. They can be had for around 500 on ebay. As Kevin mentioned the Tanbergs sound nice. I used to own two of them. They are not the mos .......
497: DVD-Audiobahn, RE: Here's my standard reply (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-08, 09:53:16 (167.83.10.20)
Yep, Ted is right on. Similar happened to me until I started editing 24/96 session masters, and recently 24/176 session masters; absolutely night and day better than 16/ 44.1 or 16/ 48. If its not ea .......
498: Pro Audio Asylum, RE: Professional audio interface at home (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-07, 17:21:53 (99.144.181.101)
Jason, you don't say which tascam cd recorder you are using, some are balanced out and some are single ended. If you are getting hum, make sure all the components are plugged into the same circuit in .......
499: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Hi-Rez Recording Software-Utility (for copying SACDs) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-07, 09:55:02 (167.83.10.20)
I'd go higher than the 24/96, if you have HD room. The files are considerably larger but you won't loose anything. I am using Audition which has user selectable settings for the A to D conversion on .......
500: Computer Audio Asylum, RE: Hi-Rez Recording Software-Utility (for copying SACDs) (0.00)
Posted by mcgjohn@yahoo.com on 2008-02-06, 07:53:29 (167.83.10.20)
DBB, covered most of the software to do what you want to do. for a sound card, take a look at the audiophile 192 from M-Audio. You can select the resolution rates to do what you want to do. Make su .......
Found total of 500 records, Query: , Author: mcgjohn@yahoo.com in All Forums, Time: 1 sec.