I didn't realize how minimal the contact was with Monoprice XLR to RCA cable. I used a 1/2 in. drill bit to enlarge and now have full insertion into the plug. There's an actual click when RCA is completely seated. Thanks for the tip, WilCox.

I really enjoyed this on a -25C day. You really had to pay attention to the dialogue to follow the all star cast. Surely, it will win a goodly number of the nine Oscar nominations.

Check out Audioengine D1. It does what you're looking for at $169.

I just picked up the XDA-1 at $199 and find it an outstanding performer at this price. The audio quality is way above its price producing a very convincing soundstage for jazz and classical music. I do find the top end not quite as open or airy as I'd like but on the other hand the bass is...

Audioengine D1 fits the bill very nicely for me. USB powered with a second optical input as well. The mini headphone jack on it will easily handle D2000 and 940. It's a nice step up from the Squeezebox Touch DAC.

My Lyr is glowing a bit brighter knowing that the Bitfrost (#1177) should be here next Thursday.

I simply take a black 8 in. zip tie fold it in half to form a V and electrical tape it at the yoke of the cable. The tension keeps left and right leads spread out like a stethescope- no twisting.

I also put the opamps in backwards and cooked the same two resistors- unit went dead. Mine were too burnt to ID  so I contacted Tam Audio to find the values (47Ω 1/2 watt) and replaced. 

I went to Electronics Expo, frequently the source for Amazon for mine.  Their pricing fluctuates quite often, so it's like the market, grab it at the price you like.

There are very few electronics service shops left with today's disposable units, but you might consider a reputable car audio installer. They are always soldering and know their way around PCBs. A simple job that might cost only a few dollars or just lunch for the tech. Bring him the torx...

 "To me they seem basically the same, except for the color scheme (i find the k702 of a more enjoyable color), and the fact that the k702 has a detachable cable, and i read that they have the same drivers."   That sums it up. Save the 116 euros for a headphone amplifier later. I have the 702...

Quote from Jason in Six Moons review: On 6N1Ps: "No problem with using the Valhalla's 6N1Ps.The transformer will easily supply the heater current. The amp will just run a bit warmer.

I was in Hong Kong in October and spent a day in the Mong Kok shops and prices were considerably higher than here. Still worthwhile to see the variety and exotica but only as exploratory. I was thinking of picking up a headphone amp but forgot that their models are 220 volts. By the way, the...

Quote: Done-ordered!! Preamp outs was the bonus clincher. My HE-5LE's are looking forward to March 1 for the proper horsepower. Much thanks to you and the team for creating this project.

Quote: I was in Hong Kong a month ago at Mingo and true most models are on demo. Pleased to find the Beyer T1 and DT48 but they were boxed and not willing to demo them.They wouldn't even take the DT48 out of the box! Time to move on.