The attenuation module is simply a pair of resistors mounted in a DIP socket. There is no op amp. They attenuate the input by adding resistance when you choose the low attenuation setting. They are bypassed when you choose the high setting. I would assume that if you set the Ember to the low...

I'd agree, but my experience with 6SN7s is somewhat limited to 5 or so tubes I've had a chance to try.  The VT-231s were supposedly the best mil-spec tested 6SN7GT tubes of each run.  I was pleased to get mine from an estate sale listing on eBay for $20.  It looked NOS in the original box from...

Yes, I have that CV181 and use it in my Ember occasionally.  I like my Sylvania VT-231 better, but my CV181 is as good as some other 6SN7s that I've tried.

You can certainly run the 6SN7 on your V1 Ember without the supercharger but it will only get 500ma instead of the ideal 600ma that the 6SN7 is designed for.  Adding the supercharger module is recommended and only takes a few minutes to de-solder one part and solder the superhcarger in its place...

Here you go:   http://www.satopartsusa.com/prod_detail/default.cfm?sku=P2K4M5&title=K-52-KE-1%20Metal%20Knob

I think that the Speedball upgrade does more to improve the Crack than most any change of tubes.  I hear more resolution, clarity, and detail, without becoming at all sibilant.   You don't need the Speedball to run the 6SN7.   I perceive most tubes as changing the sound in a relatively...

You don't need to change anything on the Crack to use the 6SN7.  Just use the same adapter as the Ember.  I run my Crack (with Speedball) with a 6SN7 all the time now.

The Supercharger is only an add on with the older version I Ember. The new Mkii has the supercharger built-in. Adding the supercharger to the original version involves desoldering one part with four leads and soldering the four leads of the Supercharger in its place. If you have decent soldering...

In the MKI version of the Ember there are 2 resistors at R26 that determine the low input gain when you switch the jumpers (JP2) from high to low.  In the MKII these fixed resistors have been replaced by DIP socket into which you can plug the "attenuation module".  The module looks like just...

Probably not but check with Jeremy to be sure.  The integrated Supercharger is built right into the circuit board.  The retrofit has to stand over some small capacitors and needs an extra 1/4" or so.  I'd assume that the v 2.0 is the same height as the original Ember w/o the taller standoffs...

That knob fits fine on my Ember with the Supercharger installed.  The Supercharger requires slightly longer standoffs which helps.  You also need to make sure not to install the knob too far back on the shaft or it will scrape the lower chassis.  Otherwise it's a 30 second retrofit.    

Spring is Here - Charlie Haden & Kenny Barron   Yano - Milt Jackson & Monty Alexander   Waltz for Debby - Bill Evans

Two weeks after I built my Ember I retired my Lyr and sold it soon after.  The Ember is quieter, powers all my headphones just as well, and offers more tube rolling possibilities.  My Mad Dogs, Alessandro MS1, HD600s and Fidelio X1 all sound great with the Ember.

The Ember would be easier since it uses a PC board and simply involves carefully inserting the components in their proper place and orientation, along with good soldering technique.  The Crack uses point to point wiring where you cut, strip and fit the wires and components as per the...

Correction!!  Pre-order ends Sunday, February 15.  Sorry about that.  Jeremy's initial email sated "Sunday, February 20" and I assumed he meant the 22nd.

Just a heads up for all owners of Garage 1217 amps.  Jeremy is offering aluminum chassis plates for all models on a limited time basis.  3 mm black anodized aluminum with laser etched logos and lettering.  He'll even etch your existing serial number if you provide it when you order.  This is...

Thanks for the update, Doc.  I'm looking forward to receiving mine.

It will be another couple of weeks before the new kits start shipping so there really isn't much to say at this point.  Once the kits go out and folks start assembling them you should start to hear more.

At this price I'm tempted to jump on this in spite of the no spare parts issue.  Maybe they are clearing out in preparation for the L2.

Fidelio L1 on Amazon $119.99   http://www.amazon.com/Philips-L1-28-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B006RUIWC0/

Doc has been very specific that this project is NOT to compete with the likes of the HD600 and DT880, but to provide an inexpensive closed back alternative that is carefully tailored to run off the Crack.  He specifically says "Not saying it will stomp HD600s, but so far I'm pretty happy with...

Quote: Realize that this is his OTHER apartment in the same building - just for writing. He lives on another floor and commutes via elevator. He also owns vacation homes in France and England.  That space can afford to be uncluttered.  It gives him plenty of room for his $10,000+ Apex...

Today's NY Times has a real estate feature on one of Lee Childs' (the author of the very popular Reacher series of action novels and recent film starring Tom Cruise) NYC apartments.  It's his work pad and gets the typical NYT treatment.   Of more interest are slides 5 & 7 of the slide show...

Quote: +1

+1 on the refurbs. I was lucky to pick one up and you'd never know it wasn't brand new. Great deal. Snap it up.