Post your stereo system!

lolobugg

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

I do not but that is a good theory.

mrussel1

lolobugg said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

I do not but that is a good theory.

I don't think it's very dangerous for the amp, to be clear.  But I think you might lose some detail and ability to control the volume with the hot feed.  It would probably clip much earlier too.  I noticed on my Squeezebox DAC how loud it was when I connected it.  I can't get the dial past, probably 7 or 8 without it being very loud.  And the headphone jack, which has its own amp is ear-bleeding loud.  I think I'm going to try some -12 db to mellow it out.  

BIGDaddyWil

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

mrussel1

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

BIGDaddyWil

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

njnancy

Question!

I see a lot Audio Technica advertised and I really don't know what brands are good or not. I have a very very low budget - I just want to be able to play my records and am not, at this time, looking to build an audiophile's wonderland. 

So I have two record players that are somewhat affordable - and I'm not sure what else I would have to purchase in order to make the 'records play'.

Anyway - 

Audio-Technica AT-LP60BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black 89.00

https://smile.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60BK-Automatic-Belt-Drive-Turntable/dp/B008872SIO/ref=pd_ybh_a_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=5TXC3S61HEV936A4YFEV
or

Wrcibo Record Player, Vintage Turntable 3-Speed Belt Drive Vinyl Player LP Record Player with Built-in Stereo Speaker, Aux-in, Headphone Jack, and RCA Output, Natural Wood  69.00

https://smile.amazon.com/Wrcibo-Vintage-Turntable-3-Speed-Headphone/dp/B07F2VXLT2/ref=pd_ybh_a_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=2309V86F38EYR32X22YH

dudeman

Audio-Technica for sure if it's between those two.

Do you have a record store in your area? Many of them have used turntables that have been serviced and tested. Some will have a warranty. 

Pretty high bang for the buck going used.

Good luck!

lolobugg

dudeman said:

Audio-Technica for sure if it's between those two.

Do you have a record store in your area? Many of them have used turntables that have been serviced and tested. Some will have a warranty. 

Pretty high bang for the buck going used.

Good luck!

I recommend this method as well. you can get excellent vintage equipment for good value !

njnancy

I do have a record store in town that has been here since I was in high school. Never noticed if they sold record players but I  will check it out - thanks for the advice guys. I'll let you know how I make out. 

mrussel1

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

BIGDaddyWil

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

Great info! Thanks for the advice!!!

lolobugg

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

Nice. my main source is my vintage 80s turntable so I think I am good on that one. perhaps it would improve my SACD player.

mrussel1

lolobugg said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

Nice. my main source is my vintage 80s turntable so I think I am good on that one. perhaps it would improve my SACD player.

I have heard those are low output.  Have you noticed that it runs loud?

Regarding TTs I don't think that's an issue since presumably you're using the built in promo amp.  I was using an external and it was definitely hot. 

lolobugg

mrussel1 said:

lolobugg said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

Nice. my main source is my vintage 80s turntable so I think I am good on that one. perhaps it would improve my SACD player.

I have heard those are low output.  Have you noticed that it runs loud?

Regarding TTs I don't think that's an issue since presumably you're using the built in promo amp.  I was using an external and it was definitely hot. 

now that I think about it........ the SACD doesn't really sound "loud".   it is just slightly more responsive than the TT.

I use the analog outputs in stereo direct from the SACD/DVDA player.

but......

I am using an external tube preamp for the TT. it always me to adjust the input level to my receiver.... what do you think. would it help to have attenuators in line between these 2?

BIGDaddyWil

Does anyone have a SACD player hooked up to a vintage receiver?  Obviously, for a two channel set-up.

dudeman

BIGDaddyWil said:

Does anyone have a SACD player hooked up to a vintage receiver?  Obviously, for a two channel set-up.

Just a standard CD player for me but it's feeding a couple vintage Marantz receivers. I haven't heard any ill effects by running it into the Aux inputs.

Line level devices, such as CD/SACD players, should be ok to use this way. However, some manufacturers may be upping the analog outputs' voltage in order to be perceived as "louder, better, more efficient" than their competitors products.

I don't have proof but it wouldn't surprise me after working on a lot of the stuff.

Are you having issues with your SACD?

BIGDaddyWil

dudeman said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

Does anyone have a SACD player hooked up to a vintage receiver?  Obviously, for a two channel set-up.

Just a standard CD player for me but it's feeding a couple vintage Marantz receivers. I haven't heard any ill effects by running it into the Aux inputs.

Line level devices, such as CD/SACD players, should be ok to use this way. However, some manufacturers may be upping the analog outputs' voltage in order to be perceived as "louder, better, more efficient" than their competitors products.

I don't have proof but it wouldn't surprise me after working on a lot of the stuff.

Are you having issues with your SACD?

Actually, I misspoke.  I hooked up my old Sony blu ray player over the weekend.  Before I disconnected from my tv, I changed all of the settings to stereo or 2 channel.  It works pretty well, I have it hooked to the AUX input, on my Pioneer SX 950.  I did purchase one pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators per mrussel1 suggestion.  They should arrive in a few days.  The sound is a little hot from the Blu ray player, I have to adjust the volume down. 

mrussel1

lolobugg said:

mrussel1 said:

lolobugg said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

BIGDaddyWil said:

mrussel1 said:

Do any of you use attenuators on your RCAs to lower the signal from more modern peripherals (DACs, phono amps, cd players, etc.) into your vintage equipment.  My new worry is that the new equipment sends far more mv in power than what the 70's amps were designed to receive.  

Nope. But it might be a good idea.   I use a variac or variable transformer.  I plug my vintage receiver into the variac, the variac lets you control the voltage into the receiver.  My tech guy recommended it. I usually run my receiver at 116-118 volts.  This helps helps the receiver from running to hot, thus it will last longer.  It does not affect the sound. here it a photo of one similar to mine.....

That's a monster!  So this controls the outlet voltage into the receiver, right?  Do you have anything that controls the peripherals?  I actually wasn't worried about the 110 line, but now I am! 

I ordered some -12 db attenuators for my phono amp too.  I was using an Emotiva XPS-1 which was clean, open and beautiful.  But when I plugged it into the PIoneer, it was bright and fatiguing at moderate volumes, so I've been using the built in stage which is nice, but definitely a tad 'veiled'.  My guess is the attenuators will calm down the Emotiva.  We shall see.  

Correct!  It controls the voltage to the receiver.  It's not mandatory, it helps the electronics last longer.  I do not have anything to control the peripherals.  My whole system is Pioneer equipment from 1976-1978.  So everything plays nicely.

I got a pair of Harrison Labs -12 db attenuators in the mail yesterday.  Hooked them up to my Emotiva pre-amp and it has made a world of difference.  The brightness has receded, the listening fatigue is gone and the volume dial is less sensitive.  I can easily get it to 9 o'clock and beyond without it making my ears bleed.  Also, because it is tamer, the extension at the high and low ranges seems better as well.  If one is using a vintage amp with more modern peripherals, you should look into these.  You may not even know that your system needs to be tamed until you do it. 

Nice. my main source is my vintage 80s turntable so I think I am good on that one. perhaps it would improve my SACD player.

I have heard those are low output.  Have you noticed that it runs loud?

Regarding TTs I don't think that's an issue since presumably you're using the built in promo amp.  I was using an external and it was definitely hot. 

now that I think about it........ the SACD doesn't really sound "loud".   it is just slightly more responsive than the TT.

I use the analog outputs in stereo direct from the SACD/DVDA player.

but......

I am using an external tube preamp for the TT. it always me to adjust the input level to my receiver.... what do you think. would it help to have attenuators in line between these 2?

How old is preamp, modern or vintage?  Really the best way to tell is by looking and voltage output of the preamp and compare to the input specs of your stereo/tuner.  If they are far off, you may want the attenuators.  

Gern Blansten

Any advice for someone looking for a new home theater receiver?  I have the 5.1 setup for speakers.

Currently using a really old JVC receiver and I'm thinking it's time to upgrade.  We have an XBox One that we use for Netflix, etc.  The TV for the home theater isn't a smart TV but the xbox takes care of all that stuff anyway.

I came across a Sony and an Onkyo online and am leaning toward the Onkyo TX-NR686.  

mrussel1

Gern Blansten said:

Any advice for someone looking for a new home theater receiver?  I have the 5.1 setup for speakers.

Currently using a really old JVC receiver and I'm thinking it's time to upgrade.  We have an XBox One that we use for Netflix, etc.  The TV for the home theater isn't a smart TV but the xbox takes care of all that stuff anyway.

I came across a Sony and an Onkyo online and am leaning toward the Onkyo TX-NR686.  

I would stay away from Onkyo. Their HDMI boards have historically had issues.  I had a mid level one a few years ago and the board went bad.   So fine,  I'll use as an integrated.  Well shortly thereafter the power supply went.  Not worth fixing.  

Is there a Yamaha in your budget? Sony is good and reliable but I think not as nice sounding as Yamaha.