Big thanks to the good Dr (X that is) for opening his home (AMAZINGLY neat for a bachelor pad may I say:D) and allowing the likes of me to experience what the 21st century has to offer. Onya mate!
I was quite surprised that the BIG REDS were not as imposing as I expected, totalling about a metre high only, but with a sublime black 2 pack style finish. A neat touch is the non rigid grille that leaves a clean face when removed- no locator pins or holes.
Initially I took in the contender, a Rotel RP2500 and got it all level and comfy on a small hardwood table and, at the Docs' suggestion, plopped on Dire Straits- Brothers in Arms. He was suitably impressed and, as he has a MF recording of the same ripped to hard drive we were able to do a very basic AB comparo. The MF certainly had the edge in overall volume and was definitely a VERY good recording, but our little vinyl terrier took the fight right up there, giving what was unanimously agreed to be a "warmer" and less "crisp" sound overall. Even though the DEQX unit was digitising the analogue signal before doing all of its' "stuff". I found it very interesting (though not surprising) that there was such a noticable difference- but neither of us found one better than the other, just different, which is what I expected. Soon after Alan arrived on the scene to warm welcomes. From there it was a mishmash of jazz, metal, trance, punk, bluesy rock, new agey stuff and a little classical. The volume was cranked and the Legends provided all of it with aplomb.
I found their sound to be bright but in no way harsh, extremely detailed and with taut, strong bass- very much a great all rounder. We also briefly sampled the delights of blueray and the Doc showed me and explained well all of the ins and outs of the DEQX system, which in a word is remarkable. Way beyond my ability to understand!
After a handful of ales, 4 and a half hours of music and general banter it was time to pack up and move off into the sunset, with plans for another event once the Bear Cave is complete!
Thanks again Doc for the invite- a really great, informative and fun arvo!
PS- forgot the camera so a couple of dodgy phone pics is all I have in the way of proof:nana
