System: TT: Linn LP12/Ekos2/Lingo2/Troika/Naim Prefix CDP: Naim CDX Pre: Naim NAC82+PSUs Power: Naim NAP135s Speakers: Linn Isobariks
The SB2, although pretty good out of the box, is no match for either of my other sources. This is hardly surprising given the relative prices (LP12 ~£7K, CDX ~£2.5K, SB2 ~£200)! By comparison, the SB2 is bass light, lacking in dynamics and slightly harsh and fatiguing at the top end. Changing the supplied PSU for a linear regulated PSU improved the harshness and made it generally easier to listen to - worth doing. I've since made a number of changes to the SB2's PSUs and oscillator, and I've replaced most of the other analogue components with carefully selected premium variants. The result is astounding: the modified SB2 is the best digital source I've ever had in my system - certainly better than the CDX. I'm in the process or reboxing both SB2 and it's separate (larger) PSU, and once that's done I'll post some pictures. If anyone wants a listen I'd be happy to try and oblige (I'm near Bristol, UK). I've also now sold the NAP135s and built some 'chipamp' based power amps which make a surprisingly good job of driving the Isobariks! There are some pictures of the amps available on our website if anyone is interested. -- Patrick Dixon www.at-view.co.uk _______________________________________________ audiophiles mailing list [email protected] http://lists.slimdevices.com/lists/listinfo/audiophiles
