I think my system is more or less finished for the time being.
The turntable/arm/cart are more or less my dream combination - Thorens TD 124/SME M2-9R/Ortofon SPU Wood A - although I’d still like to try an EMT pick-up head one day.
The Icon Audio phono stage has surprised me as it wasn’t really intended to be permanent, but it’s combination of features - all valve, mono and ground lift switches - and appealing sound quality have made a very convincing case for keeping it long term.
The vintage Quad II monos were something I’d wanted to own for many years. I had a disaster 2 years ago with the current production Quad II Classic monos, involving loud bangs, buzzing and damaged new amps. These 1960s examples though, have been trouble-free and sound wonderful with my Klipsch Cornwalls. Love ‘em to bits.
The latest piece to be finalised is the line stage. It’s a Croft 25RLS. This single-box preamp was built by Glenn to use the transformers of a standard 25R but contains the audio circuitry and upgraded components from his flagship RSLS line stage. It’s dual mono, low gain and has really improved the system taking the place of a Tisbury passive. The bass tone and overall musical expressiveness have really been lifted with the Croft.
I was considering going 100% vinyl but I’ve decided to retain a digital source for convenience and music discovery. I’ve had a Roon Nucleus for a few years and just bought the Metrum Baby Ambre network bridge streamer which outputs files via optical or coaxial. I’m using my old Arcam airDAC currently but can’t decide how far to go in replacing it. It’s always done a good job when needed but I’d like to get something a bit newer. The vinyl sound of this system is fantastic but the digital side - whilst good - just doesn’t get me excited. So there’s something to work on there…
Stunning TT.
