The Noble Sound

[Kcin]

I can't use " Nat__l" sound that is already taken and has become controversial . LOL.

I had occasion to test some tubes in my Marantz model 2 mono blocks and threw the system together with a quick sub for the main everyday units that comprise the 3 box Io and custom Direct drive amp for the Beveridge's.

Honestly, I know the ESL are bandwidth limited and play a small window - however, what have we gained in 6o years? The Marantz consolettes and Model 2 amps with Quads have a midrange purity and totally engaging presentation you can listen to for hours. Used with tape , this is a killer combo.

For fun I threw the Wyetech Topaz on which, remarkably, drives the ESL to quite a mesmerizing purity. All components have been upgraded to be reliable and stable .. the ESLs are really remarkable when properly rebuilt. I could sell it all and just keep these pieces. They're a riot.

 

[dan31]

This reminds me of where I am with using headphones. The Seenheiser HD600 and HD650 might be older designs but they got it right the first time. Pushing the limits in drivers does not usually give a good result.