Sunday, June 26, 2011

Enigma speaker photos.




These are very good, with tight, deep bass, nice, non-fatiguing detail and great imaging. There seems to be an infinite number of terrific canadian 2 way 8 inch ported speakers.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Saturday Update.

I hope you're having a great weekend. I have a couple of interesting pairs of new canadian speakers, one of which I've had before, and one that I've been curious about.

I have a new pair of Paisley Model 20s, large 10 inch 2 way speakers (no, they're not upside down), that I've had before (and redid in oak veneer last time). They're as good as I remember.

Today I picked up a pair of Enigma speakers. They are large, stand mount 8 inch 2 way ported systems with superb Polydax drivers. Seeing them, I was reminded of the Canadian Rega speakers that I like so much. According to Audio Karma, I was right. The Enigma speakers are 'spinoffs' of the Regas. I have been sniffing around a pair of floor standing Enigma Minx speakers for months (I won't tell you where), and now my curiosity is satisfied. If you ever see a pair of Enigmas, grab them. Pictures coming on Sunday.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Danish Modern

I've never had Bang and Olufsen equipment here before. The company has many pieces that are part of the Museum of Modern Art Design Collection, and is one of only five companies to ever have it's own exhibition. It is so 'designed' that I imagined that audio quality wasn't the company's first priority. When new, it was so expensive that even if it sounded ok, it couldn't be competetive with less design driven brands.

I was intrigued when I had the opportunity to check out these speakers. While sceptical, I was hopeful.

I've been pleasantly surprised. These speakers sound fantastic. They are full, rich warm and detailed

The price of new Bang & Olufsen equipment is still crazy, but these vintage speakers make me really curious to hear more.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Out of cyberspace for a few days.

I'm leaving early to take care of some serious family business. I'll be back Sunday. I can't thank you enough for your support and feedback. Guy in Sweden: I've been preoccupied with the impending Stanley Cup final in my day job, and PROMISE to send the parts you need next week, when I'm back in Canada.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Thank You!

Horn Bands.

Thanks for all the comments. I love Tower of Power (I saw them open for Bob Marley at Maple Leaf Gardens in 1979) and Earth, Wind & Fire too. If you haven't seen this clip of Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire playing together, have a look.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Cross Eyed Cat.

I've been posting this band's gigs for a couple of years now, and recommend them highly.Grossman's Tavern, 'Toronto's Home Of The Blues' is a great place to see them. I'll be happy to buy you a beer when you introduce yourself to me at the show tomorrow night.

Chicago Transit Authority

Don't be insulted, Andy. I love Lighthouse too.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Q: Does seventies music sound better on seventies speakers?

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Just arrived. Just refoamed.

These were the top of the Radio Shack speaker line in 1979, $80 more per pair than the Mach One. I just finished refoaming the four ten inch woofers and cranked them up. Very nice so far. I'll do some minor refinishing and post pictures tomorrow.

Inside the Sansui AU-777.

The construction quality is fantastic. This 25 watt/channel (very conservative) amp weighs 27 pounds!

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Just Arrived. Sansui AU-777



This is one cool amp. I just brought it home (along with 2 pairs of speakers I'll tell you about tomorrow), and haven't listened yet. It's in immaculate condition, and the detailing (like the groovy black and white enameled metal case) and build quality is amazing. I can't wait to open it up and really check it out, but tonight is Hockey Night In Canada.

Saturday Update.

I hope you're having a wonderful weekend. I haven't posted a lot because the gear has been stable lately. The Pioneer SA-7500II left this week, I've been really enjoying the Harman Kardon 930 with the Mission 780 speakers (take your time, Darrell). It's pouring here, and I'm being lazy, but I should get moving. A treasure trove of new gear is waiting for me out of town.

The post flood redecoration of Seventies Stereo World Headquarters is nearing completion, with new carpet being installed Monday morning. I must finish painting this weekend, so I will. The sound in here has been a bit bright, and I'm looking forward to better sound and walking around barefoot. Those of you who've been here have seen how chaotic it's been, and I look forward to hosting in a more comfortable environment.