I really need to hear one properly, I’ve had a couple of Elys 2s, they were exactly as you describe, and I let both go with minimal use on them.The configuration of the cartridge is different from typical MM carts and it does sound different. The cheaper carts also have a bold, solid sound but they don't sound balanced. They are short on detail and low-level information. Like a picture in poster paints with no subtle shades. You get the big picture but not much else.
The Exact fixes all that. While it doesn't have a user replaceable stylus Rega address that by offering a generous exchange. You give them your worn out cart, they give you a new one at a reduced price. It actually works out cheaper than buying a new stylus for a lot of the carts in this bracket.
I really need to hear one properly, I’ve had a couple of Elys 2s, they were exactly as you describe, and I let both go with minimal use on them.
My Naim dealer sells 10 Rel subs for 1 of any other brands he has in stock, that tells me a lot.In 40 years, to be brutally honest, I have rarely been surprised. Certainly, "upgrades" to amps (and CD players) have often left me with buyer's remorse.
But amazingly, in the last few years, I have been wowed by two purchases which have transformed my enjoyment.
First, I got the Sweet Vinyl Sugarcube "pop and click remover". It's absolutely miraculous. It removes almost all noise and has, to my ears, absolutely no other effect on the sound quality at all. Simply sensational.
The other is the addition of a REL T9i subwoofer. When I got my Harbeth M30.1 speakers (to replace MA GX100 speakers), I was a tad underwhelmed. They didn't go as deep as I imagined and didn't fill my even modest room.
I had always assumed subs were for nightclubbers and action movie fans but I took a punt on a REL refurb for £500. I figured I had nothing to lose and actually thought I would sell it on. I couldn't have been more wrong. I could not live without it now. It completely disappears into the room, but provides enormous presence, weight and depth to the music, seemingly right through the range. I don't know how, but it does.
Nice company to deal with as well. As I was writing my post, I thought I recalled buying directly from REL, but I actually bought it as a B grade from a retailer. The retailer was not good to deal with. The grille was knackered when I received it. I emailed REL about sourcing a replacement and they promptly sent me a new grille.My Naim dealer sells 10 Rel subs for 1 of any other brands he has in stock, that tells me a lot.
My Naim dealer sells 10 Rel subs for 1 of any other brands he has in stock, that tells me a lot.
They also sell a ton of B&W speakers where they make a lot of profit they told me but the B&W subs sound like sh** when compared to any Rel sub.There is a good profit margin on Rel?
They also sell a ton of B&W speakers where they make a lot of profit..
Moving from Naim SU, having had lots of Naim over the years, to a Luxman 505 Mk II counts as one of the best things I’ve ever done. I can’t think of a single thing I miss about Naim after more than 30 years (barring 5 years living in Cape Town) of ownership. For me the Luxman just makes it all sound right, rich and rewarding without sacrificing pace or excitement. And it’s got VU meters
The Allo DigiOne with Shanti is amazing. The quality that thing provides astonishes and for me is right up there in NDX2 territory. Using this Pi based streamer means I can choose my software and update it whenever I want to. This is a big thing for me. Currently using and loving Roon but one day I might need to change … or simply want to. I feel this is an awesome value for money, futureproofed purchase for anyone that doesn’t mind a little bit of setup effort.
Finally, I’ve owned a few pairs of speakers over the years that have delighted in their own ways:- Celestion Ditton 442 (from the days of ‘they’ve got a lovely tone’), Kans, JBLs and currently the wonderful ProAc D20R. But, the Neat Iota’s I owned were stunning. I replaced Kans with them and felt it was the biggest single upgrade ever! They played beautifully on end of 42/110. Moved to SU and still worked brilliantly. If you have a smallish room, or as in my case, have to use them firing across the short side, these are such bloody amazing fun. Probably not the last word in forensic accuracy but the offer bags of detail that sucks you in and such musicality that ‘just one more’ is everpresent. Highly recommended !
The straight Iota.Hi, which iteration of the Iota was it please, I didn’t realise but there’s the straight Iota, then the Alpha, then the Explorer.
http://neatacoustics.com/iota-overview/
Thanks, Phil.