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Letters -- February 2005


Grigio Titanio

February 23, 2005

To Jeff Fritz,

Your initial "TWBAS" article mentions the "Alexandria X-2s in Grigio Titanio finish." I do not see this finish option on the Wilson Audio website. I am looking at either Sophias or WATT/Puppy 7s and would like this finish. Was this a custom finish for your pair only?

Erim

Wilson Audio has recently updated its color offerings. However, the latest additions don't seem to be on their website. Grigio Titanio is an optional finish and requires a slight upcharge, but it is readily available on all the Wilson Audio speakers (I have Sophias and a WATCH Dog II both in this finish, as well). My grilles are in slate gray, by the way, but I understand that Le Mans Blue is great with this color, too....Jeff Fritz


Preamp/power amp combo

February 11, 2005

To Jeff Fritz,

I am an enthusiastic reader of your "TWBAS" column. I am on the verge of buying a "TWBAS" combo. I have a Simaudio Moon Eclipse II CD player, Sonus Faber Amati Homage speakers, and a Conrad-Johnson PV14L preamp and MV60 power amp. For the moment I am looking to change the C-J combo for one of those below. Can I have your comments on them?

Gryphon Sonata Allegro/Gryphon Antileon Signature
Halcro dm8/Halcro dm38
VTL TL-7.5/ VTL S400 Reference

I would like to try the Boulder combo as well, but unfortunately there is no dealer in Turkey, where I live. Also, have you tried any of these mixed combos?

VTL TL-7.5/Gryphon Antileon Signature
Halcro dm8/Gryphon Antileon Signature
VTL TL-7.5/Halcro dm38

Emre Ucoz

You've presented a number of options, each of which will have a unique sonic signature in your room and with your speakers and front-end. I have not heard the VTL equipment outside of show environments, but you can look for a review of the TL-7.5 on SoundStage! soon by my colleague Marc Mickelson. Of all the combinations you suggest I'd be most curious to hear the VTL preamp with the Gryphon power amp in your system. The bass control of the Gryphon is staggering, and I think it would serve the Amatis well. I've heard that the VTL preamp is neutral and fast, which seems like it would mate well with the warmer-sounding Gryphon amp and Sonus Faber speakers. All of this is speculation, or course. How these components will sound in your application is anyone's guess. You're looking at top-tier gear, none of which I'd hesitate to own or recommend given the right context. It is a shame you don't have a Boulder dealer close by, but another variable might make for even more consternation. Good luck, and please let me know what you choose....Jeff Fritz


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