Quote:
Originally Posted by d11d
Hey Folks - pretty new to AA and my first post in the Shindo forum.
I started my journey looking to build a hifi system to get back into listening to vinyl. I have always loved the sound and feel of vinyl and knew from the beginning I wanted to build a system with a TT as the source and build around tubes and the warmth they bring.
My first real stop was falling back in love with Mc gear. My dad had some growing up and a mix of nostalgia, aesthetics, and reputation/quality had me look at the MC275s. From there I looked at the matching to a Mc pre and started looking at the C2300 and then the C2500. I got side tracked with watts and started to think around a mono block setup as to increase output. I even danced with the idea of mixing in SS amps to my tube pre.
A key side trip was hearing the living voice speakers that I loved. Truth be told, maybe it was the day, how I was feeling, the room,...who knows. But I could not shake how they sounded...so musical and pure yet in a size and budget that was attainable for me. They were paired with custom equipment from England, so that option was quickly ruled out since I could not demo anything.
After corresponding with the LV mfg. they encouraged me to order a demo set of the speakers to try with locally available equipment.
Next I visited dealers in los angeles, chicago, SF, and NYC. I travel quite a bit for work so on down times I try to listen and hear stuff. Mostly it was an opportunity to learn, see stuff in person, and hear stuff.
My next step was falling into the black hole of seeking and trying to learn about every component and option. I can share I got hung up on tons of specs, reviews, and details that I have no way of knowing if they in the end matter. I learned that it was really hard to buy this stuff through internet research alone. At some point too much information is as bad as not enough information.
Another key lesson I learned along the way (in asking questions on the AA forums) was that price is important, but so is a dealer and the skills they bring to the table. Newbies need a sherpa!
So...looking for a dealer who could introduce me to a system and not just components - I stumbled into the world of Shindo.
After just one listening experience of 2 hours, that felt like it went by in two minutes....
I'm thinking of jumping into the following.
Shindo Masetto (pre)
Shindo Montille CV391 (amp)
Well Tempered Versalex (tt)
EMT moving coil cartridge
Auditorium 23 cables
I will pair all of this with Living Voice IBX-RWs
While all opinion will be competing with my audio sherpa (the Shindo dealer/guru in my area), I would none the less, love some viewpoints.
To me the journey has been a fun part, and I assume it will be an adventure that will last well past my initial purchase.
You all seem so much farther along... I look forward to any and all insights.
Thank you.
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I bought a used Monbrison and Cortese from Matt at Pitch Perfect (he was in SF then) about ten years ago. They were driving Auris II speakers with PHY-HP drivers. Stunning combo.
Matt said you need at least one Shindo IC between the map and pre.
I sold the Cortese and Monbrison and went with a EL84 Montille and Aurieges. Not a great match for the Auris speakers.
IMHO, the Cortese is a world class amplifier and mated well with PHY drivers. The most powerful sounding ten watts you could imagine.
So, I'd consider the Aurieges with phono and step up tranny with the Cortese or other amp above the Montille.
For compatible speakers, check out Toninian Labs. Your speaker choice is critical with Shindo, discuss this with a dealer or two. Be sure you will enjoy the pairing B4 you buy.
Enjoy your journey.
