so far my listening has been with front end number two. That consists of using a Mapleshade modified Promitheous transformer passive preamp and Sony DVD player as transport.
Moved over to Plinius as transport and the Loesch & Weisner preamp. Cabling in main system is all TWL from IC's to speaker cable. The digital cable a Staightwire was used in both configurations. The BSG QOL allows me to use multiple preamps and sources as it has four inputs.
Now my little Chickadees we have something to chat about. With the active preamp the game changed. More open, deeper bass, deeper 3D soundstage, No sibilance on vocals [ I love that part ] just better all around.
The tube when used is a bit mellower in presentaion than SS. I perferred the tube with the passive and SS with the tubed preamp. Now though with all components on for 24 hours it is a tough call. Just different. tried rolling the tube to a RCA 12AU7 Cleartop. Oh my ! Different again with more dynamics. So we have options to match any system.
It is getting better everyday. I have yet to meet any digital component that took less than 500 hours to sound it's best. This is no different.
The digital cable and the transport are huge here. Actually with any DAC used. going to try, JPS, Belkin, copper and silver,what no TWL digital cable no there isn't one yet.
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Most will probably use the USB input so we need to get a cracking on that. Maybe we can get a Mac from one of our computer guys in the area ????
So far still impressed.
charles