cAsE sEnSiTiVe
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Mar 24, 2008
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The Xs 300 was the main component of comparison as it showed where the SR1a bottleneck was/is. I've done this with the TC as well.
What is good about the HSA-1b or just so-so...
It's an overpriced amp in a novel space in Head-Fi.
The HSA is a little more lush/warm which helps mitigate core strengths of the SR1a. Vocals aren't quite as strident or forced-feeling, however, at the cost of ultimate resolution.
A lot of people whom found some warmth/engagement lacking, will find a nice bridge here.
In direct contrast, the Pass INT-150 is a little sweeter both in the midrange and upper-treble and plays pretty well balanced. The SR1a has limp-dick bass no matter what BS is spewed about how so articulate and resolute bass textures are. The TC out of the XS 300 is an absolute few levels above. The Jot R actually is a little dark-horse -- despite the sensor-gimping and quality control issue Schiit seemed to suffer hurrying units out, it's not such a bad alternative. You will trade a bit of technicality for a more dynamically engaging experience. It's not the elegant presentation of other amps.
We are pursuing the uberamp in desperation to elevate the SR1a bass. This is not an easy project nor cheap and I actually don't think it's going to work. But it's necessary to exhaust every option. I feel the SR1a is a stones throw away from being the unequivocal headphone king -- just if we defeat physics first.
You might have an easier route with a new interface box outside commercial offerings.
I still think the SR1a basically crushes the field save for that 1%. So similar to a recent discussion in the Susvara thread, don't over-agonize the decision. Or do.
Excellent post, thank you for your thoughts. I'm sorry for apparently skimming over the XS 300's in your sig. Not sure how I missed those. Those most certainly would tell the tale.
Regarding the Raal amp, I don't mind a hint of warmth, but not at the expense of muddying the waters elsewhere, especially in the lower mids. I certainly don't want to toss away or even lessen some of the things that the sr1a does right, by adding some plumpness. My preferences lean towards having it laid bare, warts and all. Sure I'd like a more authoritative bottom octave than what I am hearing, but only if the cost of admission isn't a less resolute midrange.
I recently sold my pair of VTL MB450 III's....I wish I still had them to try the Raal's on. The only tube amp I have left is a VTL IT85 in my bedroom rig, and I think that would run short of steam run through that wall of resistance that is the interface box. I think you might be onto something regarding a more elegant outfitted interface. I suppose I'll probably spring for a Jot....mostly because the price of admission is negligible. Plus, without another option, I can't surmise how much of a weak link the "box" is. It sounds like my findings will likely match up with yours.
Old man physics is a tough nut to crack, for sure.
Again, thank you for your post. Just what I was looking for.