"I could provide a long list of similarly priced speakers that I consider inferior to the RBS-1, including some popular models like the B&W 705 or Totem Model 1 Signature"

"Three people compared the Grant Fidelity RBS-1 to the Usher Be-718 in my system, and two of the three preferred the Grant Fidelity RBS-1!"

Lorin J. Elias - StereoMojo

http://www.stereomojo.com/Grant%20Fideli...akersReview.htm

For me with my $350-ish system (midfi denon cd player, ittusb, crap reciever, polk speakers), I have always tried to find the point at which it is best to switch from one format to another. I have found that balance, but it is not a happy one. It seems to me that with my no-fi turntable, most complex rock loses much of its detail, while the pristine details of quiet piano, jazz, etc. are better. The Denon handles more complex sounds much better, so it is better suited for louder, more intense music. Fine.

Ok, one of the tubes (EL34) on my Primaluna Prologue 1 appears to have burnt itself out. However, the amp still seems to play fine. My question - is it ok to continue using the amp while I seek a replacement tube? Sorry, brand new to tubes so haven't got a clue.

Hello!

Am I missing something? In his review he notes the Preamp is the least expensive in the Mac line, that his Neighbor's home has a value of $900K and that the CJ preamp he compared it to has a value of between $2500 AND $3500 depending on a phono amp but nowhere does he say what the item he is reviewing costs...

It might be there in all those words but darned if I can find it???

Thanks to Wes for the informative review of the Sennheiser HD800. Now if only I could afford them!

But the real interesting tidbit was Wes' tantalizing statement that the Boulder 865 integrated amp has a "super headphone driver stage." Wes, can you say any more about that? There's nothing out there that even mentions that the 865 has a headphone output (none of the reviews, not the Boulder website). And the photos leave me guessing where the jack is located (below the display?).

http://www.stereophile.com/news/computer_playback_symposium_coming_up/

I am looking for a good budget ($400 max) power conditioner/surge protector for my HT system (basic 5.1 with 50" screen and 100 wpc av receiver, 3 outlets required), which provides protection but does the least damage from the tonal balance and restricted dynamics point of view. Any suggestions?

Any opinions on the Zero Surge products? (see www.zerosurge.com)

Thanks!