A long-standing client of ours recently upgraded his audio equipment support. The components consist of a Metronome CD transport and DAC with separate power supply, an Audio Research pre-amplifier connected to two Pass Labs pure Class A mono amplifiers. The loudspeakers are Martin Logan hybrid models. The previous supports were Mana custom stands.
The new HRS SXR frames with M3X2 isolation bases were selected to reduce the noise floor and to maximise the performance of these very high-level audio components.
The SXR frame is a 2 levels high and two levels wide modular arrangement. This design is less imposing on the room aesthetics than a 4 or 5 level tall equipment support. The large Pass Labs mono amplifiers are supported by SXR amplifier frames with M3X2 isolation bases fitted with the new G7 footers designed specifically for such heavy amplifiers.
The client chose silver SXR frames with black M3X2 bases which is an unusual combination. Given the finish and the style of the components in this system, this combination works exceedingly well and gives an elegant and sophisticated look to the entire system.
HRS Nimbus Assemblies are employed under every component and the appropriate DPX Damping Plate on top of each chassis completes the chassis noise reduction system and complements the isolation provided by the M3X2 base.
All the signal cables and power cords are from GutWire Cables and are of commensurate quality for the components in the system. Two GutWire Ground Cables are used: a Consummate Ground into the Audio Research pre-amplifier and a Ultimate Ground into the Metronome DAC. The benefit of using a second ground cable into the DAC was very audible in terms of further noise reduction and increased holography.
Room tuning from Acustica Applicata consists of DAADs for corner treatments, several Volcanos either side of the speakers and a Halifax between and behind the speakers. (The Volcanos and Halifax were installed after the HRS frames and bases and are not show in these photos). The control excess bass energy and enhance sound stage depth.
Client comments shortly after full installation:
“All is sounding very good. More detail seems to be coming through now it has been plugged in for a week. The nice thing is it’s not overly “hifi” in-your-face detail, but low-level details that make listening more enjoyable and relaxing and adds to the stage and space around instruments.
Most notably I think is the quiet background and the difference between soft and loud is stunning. There is almost that hush you get in a good live performance. That brings things alive. Something not many systems, or performers for that matter, can do I suspect. It’s the little subtleties that make it more engaging and realistic. I have just played a disc I know well, and it is a particularly good recording and I have never heard it sound this good.”
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