| Author |
Thread: Archive through April 25, 2006 |
    
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1218
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Monday, March 27, 2006 - 08:55 pm: |
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Sem: Thanks for your comments, sir. When we lived in Colorado years ago I was bitten by a spider - but only had a quick trip to a doctor and some shots. Those spiders, it seems, can wreak havoc with people - never thought much about it.
But Franklin was in his late 70s, and not in the best of health. I guess it was his time to go. Sigh. So much for land mines, eh?
thanks again, Sem. . .
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
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Gold Member Username: Rick_b
Orlando,
FL
Post Number: 1335
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 - 06:37 am: |
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Sorry to hear about Franklin. Just think about him now and again, and smile. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1220
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 - 07:27 am: |
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Rick: Thanks - now - get with the program, sir, and start polishing up those CDs! (grin)
Hope all goes well with you and your search for CD-player happiness. You're out of my league budget-wise, so I have nothing to add to what others on the forum have said, except: "good luck!"
As you've read, I await the newest Harman-Kardon player, and will be anxious to read any and all reviews. At least it is in my price range - and with my obviously handicapped ears, may prove to be just fine for my setup.
Respectfully. . .LarryR
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Bronze Member Username: Jazzwannabe
Post Number: 18
Registered: Mar-06
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| Posted on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 09:12 am: |
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Jan - sorry for the late reply but here goes.
How does a group of players syncopate?
Normally, syncopation is left to the individual player. In a typical ensemble, e.g., trio or quartet, the pianist or guitarist or horn player will always syncopate his/her lines. There are no hard and fast rules on syncopation. What separates one musician from another is style. For example, George Shearing plays a sort of laid back, behind-the-beat syncopation. Erroll Garner combined triplets with dotted quarter and sixteenth notes. Ella Fitzgerald sung her lines between beats. So did Mel Tormé. It's not easy to explain in words. I suggest listening to any recording of a popular song by one of the aofrementioned artists and try to count in four's in regular meter (assuming the song is in 4/4 time). That's 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4, and snap your fingers on 2 and 4. Listen to how the melodic line floats and bobs along the meter.
Most of the playing that you will hear is informal and usually, the main melody or lead sheet is the only guide that the musicians have.
In other ensembles, the melodic and harmonic lines are written down in structured arrangements so that everyone’s in-sync with one another. These arrangements, often referred to as “charts,” contain syncopated notes. For example, take the opening chorus on Count Basie’s chart of April in Paris. Or Les Brown's chart on "Sentimental Journey."
Written arrangements are not confined to big ensembles. The “Shearing Sound” that George Shearing popularized during his "quintet" days consisted of having the piano, vibraphone and guitar all playing in unison --- all same notes --- supported by brushes and bass.
Is there an agreed upon format for playing with others?
Yes. The generally accepted format is: a) state the main theme or melody; b) take turns improvising on the melody. Then they do the usual “trade fours”, that is, they play four bars of improvised lines each. Then they re-state the theme.
I assume all improvised solos are up to the individual musician; Yes.
...but what about as the melody is laid out at the front and back of a piece of music?
Please see my notes above regarding lead sheet and charts.
As an added note of interest, bossa nova has a more complicated and more interesting form of syncopation. Again, it’s hard to explain in writing, but I recommend the recordings of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Joăo Gilberto, Gal Costa, to hear what I mean.
Don |
Bronze Member Username: Jazzwannabe
Post Number: 19
Registered: Mar-06
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| Posted on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 09:13 am: |
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On Monday night, we went to a “Tribute to Dave Brubeck” concert at The Old Mill Inn in Toronto http://www.oldmilltoronto.com/ featuring the John Johnson Quartet with John Johnson (alto sax), Gord Sheard (piano), Pat Kilbride (bass), and Mark Kelso (drums). Excellent performance.
There’s nothing like “live” acoustic music. There are no bass/treble levels to adjust; no delay settings to tweak. The imaging and soundstage are so natural.
Don
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Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1226
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 - 10:33 am: |
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Don: As usual - great posts, sir. Keep them coming, for all of us to learn/enjoy.
Wow - a "live" CD, eh? (grin) My kind of ultimate enjoyment, for sure. And I'll bet you didn't take any Pledge with you? Hmm. . . .
PS - are you cleaning your CDs? Yep - we can use all the backup we can get on this issue.
LR |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4054
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 01:37 am: |
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Jan,
"Though how much jingoism was involved in the answer is open for debate."
Huh? (Weak smiley with raised eyebrow).
"Back beat", I think, is just stressing the weak beats continuously.
1, 2, 3, 4, ......
In contrast, syncopation is transient anticipation, or delay (thanks, Don!) of the beat, which is nevertheless maintained. There is also "rubato" ("robbed time"), where it isn't.
BTW In Reggae the bass plays continuously only on the weak beats and there is no emphasis at all on the strong ones.
_, 2, _, 4, ...... |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4055
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 06:15 am: |
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"...this is in reference to Jan's quite excellent comments on CD-cleaning..." (Larry March 27, 2006 - 10:58 am).
Prompted by Larry's words, and being a less frequent visitor than I use to be, I have scanned the whole of the current, live thread, and cannot find the comments to which he refers.
I am left with the vague but uneasy feeling that it may be advantageous to polish CDs in time to the music.
Sorry for losing the plot, and perhaps making it all worse, but what is still on-topic?
Going back some more, Don wrote (March 14, 2006 - 10:43 am)
'As to making "playing chords respectable", I don't know what you meant by that. Almost every written classical music, whether it's by Bach or Debussy has chords and chord progressions, so playing them is/was inescapeable'.
Apologies for not responding before, Don. Before Monteverdi, roughly, written music was melodic lines. Where they were meant to represent different parts, to be sung or played together, they made up polyphony. As I understand it, Monteverdi, with Orfeo and the Vespers, wrote down chords, which previously had been the basis of popular music. So one could say that he made playing chords "respectable" (note quotes).
Earlier, and Jan seems to agree, quoting Bill Evans:
"It bugs me when people try to analyze jazz as an intellectual theorem. It's not. It's feeling."
Whose feeling? All music is feeling. If this is what distinguishes "jazz" then all we have is that "jazz" is what Bill Evans, or someone else, says it is. I can't see how that helps; deeply suspect.
My "Amen" is to Two Cents' The thought of music transcending cultures is an uplifting one. (March 20, 2006 - 08:19 pm).
I find that a decent HiFi makes all sorts of things interesting that I cannot otherwise get into.
Lord knows we need a bit more inclusivity in the world, these days. Audiophiles for peace and reconciliation. Hmmm....
If looks like Daniel Barenboim is going to attempt the "music saves" line with In the Beginning was Sound .
Pull quote from last lecture:
The Power of Music
We end in Jerusalem to explore power. Music has shown me that there is a fundamental difference between power and strength which could map a new journey for our politics.
A thread on this? Any takers? |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1237
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 08:57 am: |
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John A. - the only reason for polishing in time to music is for your own enjoyment - but Good Grief! do NOT try to shine those discs while listening to syncopated music, because you'll surely over-polish! (grin)
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1238
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 09:08 am: |
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John A. - I was referring to the many comments that Jan has made regarding disc-cleaning - first, when we discussed Pledge vs. Vivid, then Pledge vs. the Zaino, and these comments have come over many months' time, not just in the current thread.
Jan has spent a lot of time and energy in testing the various compounds - some of which I sent to him - and he has determined that the disc-cleaning DOES make a marked difference. Most recently, he has said that Pledge does a very good job, though he opines that, in his experience, the Zaino does a little better job.
Sounds like I'm trying to put words in his mouth, for which I apologize - but that's basically his take on the cleaning experiments, I think.
The interesting thing to me is that everybody who has tried the disc-cleaning - whether it be 2C with his Pledge, or Jan with his formulas, or my LA friend with his home-made glop, or me with my long string of various polishes - has heard improvement in sound on nearly every disc.
Please note everyone - do NOT use any product that contains wax. Pledge does not. Zaino does not. Apparently Mr. Sheen does contain some bad stuff, and My Rantz wisely eschewed the product, and has seen fit to order - at GREAT expense - some Zaino.
I hate to think what will happen to me if Rantz rants when the stuff doesn't live up to his expectations! Whew! (grin)
There in the Center of the Universe, John, I'm not sure what product might be best for you - if you choose any at all, that is. Just remember: no wax, and no silicone. Polymers are very good.
If I were you, I'd at least start with Jan's apparently quite good solution - Pledge Clean and Dust anti-static spray. No lemon scent, and no Pledge for Wood. And either microfibre towels or Kleenex Viva. Most paper towels will scratch.
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 2912
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 09:15 am: |
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Thanks Larry you just answered one of my questions without me even having to ask. Which Pledge product to buy. Hopefully I will remember while I'm at Fred Meyer today. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1239
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 09:36 am: |
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Art: please note that I have not tried this - but Jan has used it quite successfully. Also - be careful of which paper towel to use - only Kleenex Viva.
Better if you can find some microfibre towels - they are the best. Usually in car-polishing area of the stores. We get them at Sam's Club.
LR |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4056
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 04:02 pm: |
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Thanks, Larry. No time. Will be back. Nice of you to remember "centre of the universe" - just a little irony from many months ago. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1241
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Friday, March 31, 2006 - 10:52 pm: |
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TEST RESULTS -MICROFIBRE RULES! Yep - I just finished doing some A-B comparison polishing with a half-dozen CDs.
On three of them, I polished with Kleenex Viva. Got the Zaino off alright, but had a bit of a time getting that clear sheen that I seek.
Other three discs I used the Viva to put on the Zaino, but then buffed it off with one of Mer's microfibre towels from Sam's Club.
No contest - the microfibre did such a superb job that I'll not be using the Viva towels again - period!
Still use paper for application, though. With a very light pressure.
One point to repeat - if/when you use the microfibre towels - wash them often - and do NOT use fabric softener in the dryer.
Jan - I believe you use a microfibre towel, do you not? Is this a small one for use in cleaning eyeglasses, or something else? My only concern with Mer's towels is the size - not very large, but somewhat cumbersome on the Cds - they are 15 inches by 15 inches in size.
LR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 2918
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 12:42 am: |
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Got the Pledge and the microfiber towels today. I will be applying with the microfiber as well. I will give the treatment a try either this weekend or next. |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8081
Registered: May-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 12:42 am: |
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I use a pad which was supplied in a package of "Final". This was, to my knowledge, the first CD cleaner/treatment aimed at improving sound quality. It was sold back in the late 1980's. This pad came with the rubber disc which goes under the CD to be cleaned when the disc is placed playing side up in the jewel case. The pad has a velvet side for removing/buffing the clear Final product. It has a small handle to facilitate the cleaning and its size and shape make it impossible to not rub the disc in a side to side direction. This removes most of the Pledge or other treatment I would use. I generally finish up with a small microfiber cloth, about 8X10", and have noticed I can buff a better finish with it than any other cloth I've tried. If you work with an overhead light, the process is very similar to waxing your car. As you buff with the microfiber cloth, you will feel the surface becoming more slick and the prismatic effect of the light hitting the polycarbonate comes into "focus" as you get the final degree of finish. Since Pledge is a spray on product, I only have to use a small cosmetic sponge to spread the material before I begin buffing.
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Bronze Member Username: Asimo
Ramat-Gan
Israel
Post Number: 65
Registered: Apr-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 03:41 am: |
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John A
My NAD C541 CD player starts to show its age. It does not read some of the commercial CD's. I think that after four years of faithful and enjoyable service it is time to replace or upgrade it.
I looked carefully at the least of sub $1000 CD players and found only few candidates
NAD C542
Rega Apollo
Arcam DIVA CD73
A little more expensive but possible
Cyrus CD6
Exposure 2010
From the above list the most interesting CD player in my opinion is the Rega Apollo.
I read some reviews, your reports on Ecoustics.com and other opinions about the Apollo like:
http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/digital/messages/113988.html
Going into product information I found that Rega counts much on the internal CD player CPU for extra error corrections and memory. I just wonder why my PC can't have same Hi-end sound from my Toshiba DVD ROM. It has a strong CPU, virtually unlimited memory and can be connected to Hi-end sound card (I have SB Extigy).
Up to now I have a nice sound from PC but inferior to my NAD C541.
S.M
Waiting eagerly to have your report about the single drive speaker
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Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4061
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 05:30 am: |
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Asimo,
Thanks. I have asked similar questions about computer CD drives and storage. There is an in-built DAC and amplifier to consider. But generally, I do not know why there is a difference in sound between CD players.
If one has an amp or receiver with a digital input, and uses it, I cannot see why playing from an exact disc copy, stored on a magnetic hard drive, is any different from playing the original CD. This is just one reason why I cannot take this disc cleaning question very seriously, with all due respect to Larry and others who swear by it. "Turns out he cleans every single new CD at least three times before playing." This seems to be a behavioural disorder of some kind. Personally, and not to claim invulnerability, my own obsessive-compulsive tendencies focus on speaker positioning.
By the way, I can recommend the Apollo for "classical", my main interest. It has digital output, as both electrical co-ax and optical "Toshlink" (surely a little Rega joke?). My amp at present has only analogue input, so I cannot experiment. Anyway, I am more interested listening to music these days. |
Gold Member Username: Rick_b
Orlando,
FL
Post Number: 1337
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 07:45 am: |
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Kleenex Viva.........microfiber towels?
Sounds like the Barnes theory of rubbing your cones with only a terry cloth sock.......... |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4063
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 07:50 am: |
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In passing, has anyone else noticed the claim on behalf of Apple Computer that iTunes are not recorded music, but "data"?
Going back to the sort of recorded music (or data) that might suggest that SACD is waiting in the wings. And with reference to the point, made early on this thread, that the medium can get in the way....
Pentatone Classics:
PentaTone will release all its recordings on hybrid Super Audio CD (SA-CD). This is a CD with two layers. The first layer carries the traditional CD signal and the second layer the surround sound signal.....
The founders of PentaTone believe that 5-channel surround sound will gradually replace today’s stereo sound, because surround sound provides an extra dimension to the musical experience. Hearing is believing. Not only the artists and the audiophiles are convinced. Everybody who attends a demonstration confirms that the experience is more natural and superior compared to stereo sound.
Nothing there about benefits of SACD in 2-channel.
They have the extraordinary, young German violinist Julia Fischer on their books. There was an interview with her this morning on "CD Review", with some extracts. Nice stereo balance in the interview. Very detailed and pleasing sound in the extracts. Except the Bach solo violin B Minor Partita BWV1002. Somehow they had achieved a wide stereo separation between the the upper and lower registers of the instrument, giving the impression that Miss Fischer, or her violin, was part of a conjuring act, and had been sawn in half.
Gorgeous playing. But no mono button anywhere in my current system.
It is just possible it sounds better in 5-channel, but I doubt it; with engineering like that, they could just have decided on one channel per string, with one left over for breathing or something. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1242
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 09:13 am: |
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Jan - as usual, you have cut to the chase and have explained everything cleaning-wise in an orderly manner. Good one, sir - and I hope everybody reads your posting.
Art: holding breath until I hear the results of your experiment. . .wishing you "great sound."
Asimo - good to hear from you again - and I hope your player-search results in fine sound for you!
John A - sigh - I understand your reticence in entering the cleaning-polishing cycle. My LA friend may, indeed, have a screw or two loose - but he's in high demand as a recording engineer, his personal, uh, "traits" aside. (GRIN)
As he won't reveal his cleaning glop contents, I have no idea just what "three times" actually means. I suppose it may be a multi-part system?
In fact, I clean every disc I have essentially three times. Twice with the Z-14 and then once with the Z-6. Maybe he does similar acts? I'll ask him again, but don't hold your breath for an answer!
I am again surprised and delighted at the difference that the microfibre (or microfiBER) cloths make. I had only used them on occasion in the past - but now will make them permanent replacements for the Viva - which will go onto the kitchen paper-holder.
John - your comments re the split sound apparent in the violin playing - - hmm - - I remember that, years ago, I had a similar experience. Turned out my front speakers were out of phase. Might be sure that yours are spot-on in that regard? Just a thought.....
Rick: remember, I bought those cones on your recommendation - but they did nothing for me. However, I still religiously polish them (under the subwoofer) - WITH AN OLD SOCK. (grin?)
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Rick_b
Orlando,
FL
Post Number: 1339
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 10:29 am: |
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Wrong cones Larry.......... I keep referring back to an old obscure post that suggested you rub the cones of your speakers with a terry sock to "break them in". I still find that post very funny, on many different levels. Cheers! |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1243
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 01:28 pm: |
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Rick: story of my life - wrong cones! (grin) Yeah, I remember that all too well, as it was one of my forum-mates on another forum who said that putting pressure on the Polk speaker cones helped to break them in and make them smoother - and then (I forget where) somebody else chimed in with the "rub the woofers with terrycloth" - in either case, it sounds like a nut-case to me! rubbing the cones? Wellllll - I asked around and got the general answer that doing such would be a very good way to waste money and ruin the speakers! Hmm. . .
Meanwhile - I am finding even greater success with the CD-cleaning, now that I've given up on Viva in favor of the microfibre (ber?) cloths.
Jan - I located five old, old CDs that had never been cleaned with anything - and started experimenting. First pass with the Z-14/microfibre - I got some yellowish gunk off, and even when polished, the CDs had a "drag" to them. Hmm. . .polished with a second coat of Z-14, and now the surface was smoother, drag-free, and had a much more mirror-like finish. Finished off with a wisk of the Z-6, and the CDs looked like entirely different things. Comparing uncleaned with cleaned - rather amazing! Now - to sound-test them to see/hear any differences.
these CDs are from the early 80s - so I expect the sound to be horrible, anyway - but hope springs eternal. Will report. . .
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4066
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 01:43 pm: |
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"Turned out my front speakers were out of phase. "
Thanks, Larry. That was not it, though.
It was those darned recording engineers. Give 'em a new toy and they use Miss Fischer and BWV1002 to show off what they can do.... |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1245
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 02:03 pm: |
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John: Recording engineers - never trust them! (do you read this, friend Verne? GRIN)
New toys - yep - look at what Apple and others are doing with "our" sound! Talk about new toys! The way things are going they'll put symphonies in gobs of Silly Putty - or something equally insane. . .
Sigh.
LR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 2928
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 09:06 pm: |
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Funny thing happened this evening. I was putting up a new mirror in the dining area and I noticed that the plastic that the mirror had been wrapped in by the furniture store for delivery had left a film on the mirror. I thought that this might be a good opportunity to put the new Pledge to the test and so I attempted to clean off the film with the Pledge and guess what happened....it just kind of smeared the film around without removing it, bummer. So I went out into the garage and found the the Pro 409 (which I don't even think is available anymore) and put it to the mirror and it just wiped the film right off. Now what is an oft anxiety prone audio buff like myself to think of all of this. Damned if I know. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1246
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 10:17 pm: |
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Art: First, I think that Pledge is not meant for glass - and second, the plastic residue may have just interacted with the Pledge. the 409, being a MUCH srronger cleaner, obviously cleared things up.
Even the Zaino company makes two separate products for glass and plastic - and says they are not interchangeable. Not sure why. . .
I have said that I've not used the Pledge, so first-hand experience I must leave to Jan.
Please don't get freaked out - if Jan says the Pledge Clean and Dust anti-static formula works, I believe him. But he's using it on polycarbonate, not glass.
Please try the Pledge on a CD that you're not fanatical about - something you'd be OK with losing. And then be your own judge.
Let us know soonest - and thank you, sir. . .
Respectfully, . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 2938
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 10:40 pm: |
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Actually the Pledge claims to be for glass as well as other surfaces.
Unfortunately I clean up my collection often enough that I wouldn't be okay with losing any of it. But I'm not really worried I just wondered if the Pro 409 would work better. It is supposed to be a multi surface cleaner much like the Pledge. Don't worry I will give the Pledge a go. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1248
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 10:46 pm: |
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Art: I'd be worried that the 409 is too harsh for the CD surface. From my experience with 409, it can soften some plastic. I'd not recommend it, sir!
Only my very humble opinion. . .
LR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 2939
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Sunday, April 02, 2006 - 12:04 am: |
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Oh no I wasn't going to use the 409. Seems a bit too effective for my comfort. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1250
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 02, 2006 - 11:37 pm: |
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Jan V. - I know you're very busy, but just wondering if you've had a chance to compare the sound on the two Evans discs yet? I'll be interested in your comments, because this is a case where I hear differences that I can explain. Not so with many CDs.
Also - today had a chance to compare two of my guitar CDs - one released in 1985, the other a SACD re-release of an analog 4-channel recording. The differences were amazing - and brought home to me the possibilities that the liddle silver discs have to offer.
I know that many of the Dogs are getting, or already have, upscale CD players. I wonder if even they could make that 1985 CD sound "almost like vinyl," as so many people on various forums have claimed.
BTW - I have nothing but rave reviews for these microfibre (yes, that's the spelling on the package, which, in reading the fine print, comes from England) towels. They make the CDs shine like the apple I gave to Miss Knittle in fourth grade. Wanting to make a good impression on the "old lady" (I'm sure she was all of 21) I took a friend's advice and polished the poor apple with generous applications of car wax! Wowzer - whadda shine! (grin)
Didn't help me much, however - several days later I was sent to the cloak room again - for some infraction or other. . .sigh.
Respectfully. .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8125
Registered: May-04
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| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 02:58 pm: |
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Still listening, Larry. I would like to compare the CD you sent to the box set of Village Vanguard performances before I make any comments. Though I would say, from the double disc you sent, Shelley Manne and Bill Evans are an odd pairing. They seem to have little in common and appear to go into a piece of music from entirely different directions and end in very different locations. Having heard several other SM performances now, I have not placed him on my "to buy more of" list. I understand he did quite a bit of film work and in that context I can see his style of drumming being quite useful. However, on these two recordings he always sounds as if he is trying to get Evans to do something which Evans doesn't really want to do. Possibly this was a pairing that sounded like a good idea in 1962 and never truly came to fruition.
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Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1254
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 04:48 pm: |
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Jan: Right-oh on all points, sir. I have read several places where Manne "pushed" Evans out of his shell. After hearing Evans with other drummers, I agree with you that this pairing was not meant to be, long-haul.
Manne needs to get out and SWING - non too gently, either. I think he's at his best soaked in sweat and buzzing. . .
I await your appraisal, sir. . .
LR |
Silver Member Username: Two_cents
Post Number: 746
Registered: Feb-04
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| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 05:44 pm: |
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Manne can swing hard as heard on his live recordings at the Blackhawk and his own club, Shelly's Manne-Hole. He can also be a sympathetic sideman as heard on Sonny Rollins' "Way Out West" (highly recommended for the music and sound quality). His trio work with Andre Previn is also fine, including their classic recording of "My Fair Lady". Most of his work is solid if not spectacular, although there are a few real duds in his discography. I just felt a need to defend him because he was one of the first to introduce me to jazz, which has led to a wealth of great listening.
Larry, I'm surprised that you're drawn to Charles Lloyd. I didn't think he'd be your cup of tea. What I've heard of him (3 albums from the mid-60's), he sounds more like Coltrane than Desmond. If you like Desmond, you should check out early Jimmy Giuffre, especially the "Jimmy Giuffre 3". He's got a cool, smooth, swinging style that you might enjoy.
As far as the CD cleaning, I've only cleaned a few since I listen mainly to LPs these days. But I have to report that results vary depending on the disc. I heard the biggest difference on the first disc I tried and smaller improvements on others.
Heard from a friend about a cd scratch removal process involving butane and rubbing alcohol. Has anyone tried this? |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 486
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 05:50 pm: |
|
"Heard from a friend about a cd scratch removal process involving butane and rubbing alcohol. Has anyone tried this?"
2C, no, but I have heard some use Brasso.
|
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8136
Registered: May-04
|
| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 06:26 pm: |
|
I won't say I dislike Manne's style but I find a little can go along way. He spends too much time up on the cymbals which I guess was part of his signature. In a film or TV score, I think that works on many occasions. If you have an album which starts near the top and builds, maybe I'd hear something different. I suspect his style is more impressive in live performance than I give him credit for here. I have seen his style described as ultimately "musical". Possibly, but not when paired with Evans and most particularly not on the "Empathy" recording. Possibly this is an apt title as the album progresses from a position where Evans seems to be leaving most of the notes unplayed. As the album moves to the end, Evans is playing with a fair amount of swing and Manne's lively drumming technique seems far more appropriate to the mood of the final two selections than to the first few. I notice on the first link of a Google search, his time spent with Evans isn't included in the "performed with" section. The liner notes for "A Simple Matter of Conviction" indicate this is only the second, and last, time Manne recorded with Evans. Does anyone know any more about the history between these two performers?
http://www.drummerworld.com/drummers/Shelly_Manne.html
|
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1255
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Monday, April 03, 2006 - 08:54 pm: |
|
2C - yep - I've got "Way Out West," and have played it many times. good, solid, balanced CD - great sound, and you can tell the musicians really "got together" for the session. Fine CD. . .
Lloyd - well, maybe I overstated my acceptance - I find his style sorta lacking in substance - but then again, it varies from disc to disc. What can I say? I won't be buying a ton of his CDs - but like to dip into it a bit. . .
Jazz has, for me, certain limitations, depending on my mood at listen-time. I'm rather fickle that way, I'm afraid - and the older I get the more coherent I want my jazz to be. No fusion, thank you - and the likes of early Coltrane, Desmond and others please me on a grand scale.
I'm really getting more and more into the "trios" recordings, both jazz and classical. Seems to me to be a great balance.
LR |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2036
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Thursday, April 06, 2006 - 10:51 pm: |
|
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/artslife/story.html?id=95adbbbd-4c10-4dd 5-bda7-cc68fd7137fb
News From the Great White North. |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 519
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 09, 2006 - 03:12 am: |
|
Well since you guys have been spreading the good word about Bill Evans, I purchased my first CD of his this weekend.
Man, it sure got my toes a tappin'!
Mr Evans can certainly hold his own over the keys whether playing soft laid back jazz or ramping it up with some blues.
This particular album from ESC Records is called "Big Fun" and for sure he and the other musicians are having big fun recording these well engineered pieces.
Funny, he does some interesting things on this album, like backing guest artist Willie Nelson as he croons Steven Stills's "For What It's Worth" and on two other tracks he does the same for Les McCann whose voice seems well matured in a vat of bourbon and nicotine.
The other thing you all might find in this album that probably won't appeal to some of you is that Mr Evans gets into 'fusion jazz' a bit here - and does so very well imho. There is a guest pianist on this album called Clifford Carter who seems quite adept at his trade but doesn't seem to get out in front too much, but I guess that benefit belongs to the main artist and rightly so.
Anyway, I recommend this fine album produced and arranged by Bill Evans and with his band of talented friends I hope he comes back soon and does another. Hopefully it will be as good as if not better than this 2002 effort.
Bill Evans seems equally at home on soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones and you guys thought he was something special on a piano.
Did I getcha?
|
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1282
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 09, 2006 - 09:33 am: |
|
Rantz: So - what's in a name, anyway? (grin) Yeah, big fellah - you got me alright. Wondered how BE could come back after all these years. . .
http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=14599
And Have a Nice Day - er - Night! (double grin)
LR |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4102
Registered: Dec-03
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 09, 2006 - 04:25 pm: |
|
On "March 31, 2006 - 06:15 am", above, I was "the eternal skeptic" about Daniel Barenboim's Reith lectures.
Please listen, Old Dogs. He's got it. He understands. Improvisation. Hearing or listening. This week; London. Next week; Chicago. Who should listen; everyone.
Larry once asked "Who is Willard White?";- Tune in, even if just for the questions at the end.
In the Beginning was Sound.
|
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1305
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 09:44 pm: |
|
Gents: Lest we forget where we all are in the "grand scheme of things" - I send along a snippet off the Internet - for your thoughts. and just when I thought that I knew more than. . .oh, forget it! (grin)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Most audionuts are (unsurprisingly) male. Girlfriends not only tend to have better hearing, they also usually have a better sense of complex human activities. They understand that your beloved "system" is merely an over-complicated appliance, but are charmed by your passion for music, and the care you take. They understand that involvement produces satisfaction, and might even be jealous. Wives, however, are the adult stage of the life-form, and frequently have different plans for the living room.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Rantz - take note - and look carefully to see if those speakers are slowly moving? (grin) |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 542
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 10:08 pm: |
|
Larry - Mrs Rantz is much too smart than to move our speakers. With spikes on slate, the trails would be a dead give away. And besides,she hasn't got a clue about interior decorating (different plans for the living room) so she leaves well enough alone - or to me.
|
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1306
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 10:42 pm: |
|
MR - I'll buy the part about Ms. Rantz being "too smart," but doubt the part where you say: "hasn't got a clue about interior decorating." That, my friend, is ingrained in the female breast, er, brain - sorry. . .(GRIN) |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3017
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 10:43 pm: |
|
"Wives, however, are the adult stage of the life-form"
Working with all women as I do I'd say the nut who wrote that needs therapy. Sorry Larry, but left to their own devices woman are just like men. Work in an all female environment and you have to tolerate all the same things women always tolerated in all male environments. We are far more similar than we are different (though very pleasant differences have been noted). |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4114
Registered: Dec-03
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 01:04 am: |
|
Well said, Art. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1310
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 09:57 am: |
|
Art: Hmmmm - somehow, that's depressing! (grin)
What ever happened to those pedestals we put (some) women on back in the 50s?
LR |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3026
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 10:40 am: |
|
Ah...it ain't so bad...just recognizing our humanity first before our gender or race. |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8262
Registered: May-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 01:14 pm: |
|
"What ever happened to those pedestals we put (some) women on back in the 50s?"
They got tired of dusting them. Pledge, anyone?
|
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1312
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 01:16 pm: |
|
Good one. . . |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8264
Registered: May-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 01:29 pm: |
|
http://www.honda.co.uk/civic/
http://www.boardsmag.com/screeningroom/commercials/581
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2173
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 04:00 pm: |
|
Note to everyone...do not, repeat do not have the power knob of the T-amp in the 'on' position when installing batteries, particularly if you intend on letting one slip in backwards, if only for a moment.
When I gather the testicular fortitude, I will present the information in it's proper place.
Back to your thread then, pip pip!
Thats why I bought two, Jan. |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8265
Registered: May-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 14, 2006 - 11:20 pm: |
|
Gee, I never even thought of installing the batteries "backwards". Or, with the unit powered up. Oh, well, you really didn't need those zeneer diodes at the input. Oh, wait, yes you did.
|
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4121
Registered: Dec-03
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 15, 2006 - 05:41 am: |
|
Yes, you never know when a working input will come in handy.
Wrench back to topic, with no apology.
Mrs A and other family members arrived back from a week with our old 5.1 surround system; center speaker; subwoofer; the lot.
They do not listen to music much, but prefer watching movies. Mrs A comments that it is completely obvious that our two-channel system is much, much better. On it, "You can hear what people are saying". Even with the center speaker, you have to struggle, and you miss things.
"...Am I the only one who thinks music almost always sounds better when you listen just in stereo...?"
Perhaps this goes for movies, too?
At least if one is comparing 5.1 and 2.0 systems of comparable total cost?
Or is this the Quad ESL speaker experience? These are one purchase which Mrs A repeatedly and spontaneously congratulates me on, looks notwithstanding*.
I said, early on, that I was doubtful about the center channel. We certainly get far clearer, effortless, and more convincing dialogue when watching movies while listening in stereo.
A 5.1 set-up of comparable quality might be a truer comparison, but would be astronomically expensive.
Any views?
*The speakers', that is. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3037
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 15, 2006 - 09:48 am: |
|
Put simply...I agree with just about everything you said. I definitely think music sounds better in stereo. Action movies have a litle more life in surround but only if comparing systems of comparable quality. |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8270
Registered: May-04
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 15, 2006 - 10:55 am: |
|
You can still choose poorly even when buying only two speakers and amplification channels. Other than that, the economics of buying 2.0 vs. 5.1 (or more) seem obvious. And Pro Logic has never added anything to watching "Grand Hotel" in B&W.
Concerning dialogue a friend and I watched "Brokeback Mountain" the other night on the HT system. There are always occasional points where the dialogue can get muddied in "motivational" acting but this was the worst I, or my friend, could remember. Scenes between two actors (which make up the majority of the film) were often just muddled mumbles. We both felt we must have missed some of the directional pointers and plants in the plot line even though the story line is (too) simple. While the cinematography for the film is gorgeous, the sound recordist should be shot. I don't know if there was the same problem in the theaters, but, if so, I hope this doesn't become a trend in film as it did when Brando and Cassavettes made movies.
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2188
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 15, 2006 - 04:00 pm: |
|
I really prefer movies with any dialogue worth paying attention to in Stereo, 2.1.
The inflection is not scattered around, and the center channel just never seems to stay well balanced. A little loud,a little muted. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3047
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 10:25 am: |
|
Tis the morning for Messiah...which version will you be listening to?
I have four..Beecham, Harnoncourt, Pinnock, and Solti. This Easter it will be Beecham. |
Silver Member Username: Kano
BC
Canada
Post Number: 915
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 10:39 am: |
|
Jan, they have to leave room for the Special Edition in DTS, the Collector's Edition uncut version, and finally the HD-DVD/Blu-ray version.
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2195
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 04:43 pm: |
|
Uhh, the only Messiah I have is Handl, Art. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3051
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 05:12 pm: |
|
I believe that would be Handel. Do tell...is it the highlights from Handel's greatist hits album featuring Bob Smith conducting the Levelland (Texas) Philharmonic in a rousing performance using period bluegrass instruments....lol! |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2203
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 07:46 pm: |
|
I would just kill for an embarrased emoticon to insert here. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1317
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 09:46 pm: |
|
Ah, yes - George Frideric Handel: who wrote "Messiah" in just 24 days - deep in debt and depressed, the composer was often found in tears by his friends, because he was so overcome with the emotion of the composition.
First performed as a charity concert in Dublin, 1742, and since then embraced by much of the world for its simple beauty and complex idealism.
But really - Handel "bluegrass???" Save me!
Nuck: no need for a red-face - we've all been there. . .
LR
|
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3056
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 16, 2006 - 09:56 pm: |
|
Twas a joke my friends. I have finished the day listening to Balada, Sheng, Silver and Yashiro. All on Naxos. |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4127
Registered: Dec-03
|
| Posted on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 08:47 am: |
|
About eight years ago I was in Halle, in Germany, and took the opportunity to go to a concert there, in the Handel Birthplace Museum. A couple of weeks ago I went with the family to the Handel House Museum in Brook Street, Mayfair, London, UK, where he ended up, lived for many years, and indeed composed "Messiah". One room has his original manuscript score of Messiah, open on part of the Hallelujah chorus. Really nice; recommended.
Much later, a another distinguished musician lived right next door.
By the way, there several spellings. The original was "Georg Friedrich Händel", apparently. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1318
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 11:45 am: |
|
John: nice info - I'd love to be able to afford to go there. Sigh. But not this year - plus, Mer is afraid to fly overseas, given the potential terrorist stuff.
Art: got the joke - but felt I had to say something in return! You know how it is - mind in neutral, typing fingers in high gear. . . (grin) Then again, you might not know about that age-related syndrome! Hmm. . . |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4130
Registered: Dec-03
|
| Posted on Monday, April 17, 2006 - 06:02 pm: |
|
Prompted by Art, I played most of my favourite Messiah recording today - Parts II and III. The Sixteen Choir and Orchestra, Harry Christophers, Hyperion 2 CD set. Gorgeous. I noticed it was on sale in the Handel House, and is now reduced in price, being a late 80s recording. I have a number of others. They are all good, but if anyone wants a single recommendation, that's mine. It is also a live recording. |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 560
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Wednesday, April 19, 2006 - 10:56 pm: |
|
Just want to stress the value of extended warranties. When we got our LG Plasma panel we took out an extended warranty (1+4) for amost a few hundred dollars more. About 2 mths ago a bright vertical line appeared near the end of the screen, this happened about 8 mths out of the normal 12 mth warranty period. Then 2 more appeared (had to cover them with tape). Repair cost app $2850.00! The entire panel plus most electronics were replaced with a unit having an upgraded heat sink over the I/Cs. In the end, LG copped the part replacement anyway (lucky for the warranty company) - good one LG.
Phew!
Next our Sony digital camera went on the fritz and although we had an extended warranty (again) Sony had actually a recall in place for this model and others and are fixing it even though it is way outside of the normal warranty period. Good one Sony!
Phew again!
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2214
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 05:49 am: |
|
You are dancing between the raindrops, MR! |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 562
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 09:35 am: |
|
Got hit by a big fat one Nuck! The replacement panel was faulty now we have NO picture and yes, the parts are on back order again!
Good one LG 
|
Silver Member Username: Sem
New York
USA
Post Number: 577
Registered: Mar-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 12:09 pm: |
|
Sorry to hear about your LG problem Rantz. Silver lining - Looks like that'll leave more time for music. Not a complete loss. Best of luck with the repairs. |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2222
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 01:09 pm: |
|
MR, just imagine the music with images.
Better yet, a good time to listem with a fine drink and let your mind place it's own images.
It's all I can offer, but, hey! It's free. |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 563
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 01:30 pm: |
|
Sem - thanks, yes more time for music is fine by me. So, how do you like "Morph"?
Nuck - ta for the free advice. I guess it is a good time to list 'em, but what is it I'm to list?
|
Silver Member Username: Sem
New York
USA
Post Number: 578
Registered: Mar-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 01:44 pm: |
|
So, how do you like "Morph"?
Well, would you believe it sits, still wrapped in original plastic.
Note to self: you need to set aside some time to actually sit and listen to some of the music you've bought this year. |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 564
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 02:00 pm: |
|
" . . . still wrapped in original plastic."
Goodness - let that cat out Sem - it's worth it.
Oh well, that's it for the milk and bikkies. It's back to bed for me.
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2229
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 02:19 pm: |
|
Good morning MR.
You are cruel on the spelling, I shall pick it up a bit.
Ta. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3123
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 09:32 am: |
|
Today I'm off to Portland. I'll probably go to the audio shops in the Hawthorne District and then it's off to the Pearl for music shopping and dining at Henry's. Today's weather a beautiful sunny and 70 degrees. Now if only I'd slept last night. Too busy enjoyin the system. First the movie "Capote" and then one of my new R. Strauss discs. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1334
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 10:42 am: |
|
Art: Your take on the Capote movie? I never got to interview him - I guess never really cared. . .
(then, I never got to interview R. Strauss, either! GRIN) |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3129
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 11:16 am: |
|
PSH was brilliant as Capote. The movie's historical context was around Capote's writng of "In Cold Blood" and did an outstanding job of painting a very full picture of Truman. Watching it I felt that I understood that he was a deeply disturbed man of great intellect and on the surface ego. The world revolved around Truman and it seemed that he would say or do anything to get what he wanted. I thought it was an excellent film and PSH's performance was truly worthy of an Oscar. Bravo! BTW - I came away liking Truman...he was who he was.... |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2264
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 09:36 pm: |
|
Sem to self "smell the roses". |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1336
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Saturday, April 22, 2006 - 11:58 pm: |
|
Art: Thanks - I read the book, and later the reports about Capote and his activities to get the killers to open up to him. Rather gagging, but, as you say, he was who he was. . .
Note to Sem: The hardest part about getting new CDs is just getting off the d.....med plastic wrap! After that, it's downhill all the way! (grin) Smell has little to do with it, however. . .at least we hope so! |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3138
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 01:18 am: |
|
Very successful trip to Portland. Listened to a whole bunch of fantastic gear. From B&W 800S to the Apogee Centaures to Paradaigm S2's with Musical Fidelity A5 electronics it was quite a good time. Saw YBA's replacement for the Audio Refinement line now called YBA Design. Listened to a Theta Casablanca - Aerial Model 9 HT.
Visited Music Millienium and Everyday Music both store have extensive jazz and classical sections. I came away with a few new ones. Great day in the Rose City. |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1337
Registered: Oct-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 10:58 am: |
|
Art: So, you literally did stop to smell the roses? Or maybe they're not "out" yet? I remember driving around Portland many years ago - being charmed at every turn with the place. Sigh. I thought: "what a wonderful place to live, with all that water to sail my little sailboat!" Haven't been back since the late 70s, shame on me.
Sounds like your trip was rewarding - and let us know what you actually bought! (grin) |
Silver Member Username: Sem
New York
USA
Post Number: 579
Registered: Mar-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 11:36 am: |
|
Nuck, Rantz, and Larry,
Hehe, thanks. I know you're all right. And today may be the day, it's cold and rainy. A really dreary day here in upstate NY, perfect for listening to music. On the other hand I still have unopened vinyl, purchased in the mid seventies.....hmm.
.
.
.
.
To hell with hi-rez discs....we need 'scratch-n-sniff discs. Yeah...that's the ticket.
|
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3140
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 12:23 pm: |
|
New music =
Milt Hinton - "The Judge at His Best"
McCoy Tyner - "Infinity"
Holly Cole - "Temptation"
Alan Broadbent - "You and the Night and the Music"
No Roses Yet Larry but flowering trees, Rhodedendron's, Azalea's, Tulip's and various other lovely flora are in bloom everywhere. Today is another lovely 70 degree day.
Question to anyone. What would be the best and least expensive way to get my standmount speakers a couple of inches higher up? Tilting...or what and how? |
Silver Member Username: My_rantz
Australia
Post Number: 567
Registered: Nov-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 03:35 pm: |
|
" What would be the best and least expensive way to get my standmount speakers a couple of inches higher up? "
Crouch down a couple of inches, Art!
Been tranferring files, programs etc from old computer to new - many Mb's to go yet so my visits here might be short and sweet (of course) over the next few days.
|
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2288
Registered: Dec-04
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 05:55 pm: |
|
Is the music a bit over yer head, Art? hehe.
A series of hockey pucks, I think. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3142
Registered: Feb-05
|
| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 07:39 pm: |
|
Hmm....why not Nuck? That may work...it'll only get me an inch though. |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8313
Registered: May-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 08:10 pm: |
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What material is used on the top plate of your stands; MDF? |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2291
Registered: Dec-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 08:22 pm: |
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Ust Toronto Maple Leafs pucks, Art.
Yhe team ain't using them in the playoffs anyhow.
Have 2(their small). |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1338
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 08:42 pm: |
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All: And so I brung it home. An Arcam. CD93, in fact. From one of our Emporiums of Lost Hope and Fidelity. Heck, they said, it's discontinued anyway, so just rip your credit card thru the machine, and when/if you bring it back, we'll refund yer money.
So - I brung it home. Sigh. After all of your teasing and tweaking about how I should go for a dedicated CD player, I happened upon this one sitting to one side in the showroom - and asked to hear it. Well, I thought that, since I hadn't brought in any of my own discs, I'd get a good choice there. RONG! I settled for some Easy Listening music, then made the deal to bring the poor thang home.
No box - and it would have been on sale, I guess. But here I was, with a silver-plated machine I had no business having, let alone even thinking of BUYING.
Plugged it in. Let it warm up for a quarter hour, then put in some string quartet music. Hmm - I "think" it sounded better than the Yammie, but not sure. Bring in Ms. Golden Ears for a test drive.
Well, gang - after an hour of listening, Mer allowed as how she thought the lows were a bit cleaner, and the highs less strident - but other than that, she said she couldn't hear much difference. OK.
Back in the wrapping (had no box) and back to the Emporium of you-know-what. They erased my credit card slip, and I was out the door in a flash.
I suppose there may be better stand-alone players, and I guess that price may be no object to some - but this listening test told me one thing: Neither Mer nor I could find anything "outstanding" in the Arcam.
Sigh. No - - double sigh.
I'm getting a tad frustrated here. . . . .
Respectfully. . .LarryR |
Gold Member Username: Jan_b_vigne
Dallas,
TX
Post Number: 8314
Registered: May-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 08:55 pm: |
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http://www.videohifi.com/16_FLUIDS.htm |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3143
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 09:06 pm: |
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Top plate of the stands are steel Jan.
http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/productdetailprint.asp?sku=DMATLPRO20P
My stands are black and 24 inches tall other than those details what you see above is it. |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3144
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 09:11 pm: |
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That price seems to be for ome not a pair.
http://www.gcaudio.com/cgi-bin/store/showProduct.cgi?id=287
http://www.canadianhifi.com/products/detailed/310.htm
Just couldn't bear it ya'll thought I cheesed my speakers. |
Gold Member Username: Nuck
Post Number: 2292
Registered: Dec-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 09:14 pm: |
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Larry, if yu and your loveley partner do not hear a difference, or improvement, the exercise may be one of dickville.
It goes nowhere, it's worth Dick.
It is the music, man, that will lead you to your destination.
If you and Mer enjoy the music, the rest is just transportation.
Enjoy the music, fron whatever source, and enjoy the long, smooooothe trip.
James Taylor' Isn't it a loooovely ride(oh my my yes), sliding down and gliding down, try not to try too hard, it's just a lovely ride," |
Gold Member Username: Larry_r
Naples,
FL
Post Number: 1339
Registered: Oct-04
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| Posted on Sunday, April 23, 2006 - 11:20 pm: |
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Nuck: I think you're smoking that funny stuff again! (grin)
Enjoying the music and "enjoying" equipment that produces accurate sound may, or may not, be the same thing. In our case, the chase is after accuracy in reproduction - then we can enjoy the music.
So far - the fox escapes us. |
Gold Member Username: John_a
London
U.K.
Post Number: 4136
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Monday, April 24, 2006 - 12:48 am: |
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I wonder if SM is still reading?
She recommended the Mac mini computer. Thanks, SM!
I can recommend it as an audio source, too. As I've said from time to time, on this thread, I think discs are going to be played less, in real time, in the future. The industry does not have to panic; we still need to purchase our recorded music somehow. And we'll need to keep the discs as back-ups.
CD Players > Wow ... Interesting Article ... Explain Please ....
The "interesting article" is good, too. it contains arguments for audio superiority of playback from computer, in some circumstances. It's down to jitter, apparently. |
Gold Member Username: Rick_b
Orlando,
FL
Post Number: 1344
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Monday, April 24, 2006 - 09:11 pm: |
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Art,
Here is a suggestion for you to raise your speakers a few inches. Go to a lumber yard, and get a 2 inch thick piece, and cut to fit your top plate. You can stain or paint to match your stands. Blu-Tac the new top plates to the steel top plate. Finish off the stands with 2 sets of 3 Mapleshade brass isolation cones. You have now raised your speakers 3 inches, and have solved your electro vibration issues as well. I think you will like what you hear. Cheers! |
Gold Member Username: Artk
Albany,
Oregon
USA
Post Number: 3146
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Monday, April 24, 2006 - 10:34 pm: |
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Thanks Rick. Unfortunately I don't have a saw and the isolation cones are a bit expensive for me now. Looking to do it on the cheap with a good result. |
Gold Member Username: Rick_b
Orlando,
FL
Post Number: 1345
Registered: Dec-03
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| Posted on Tuesday, April 25, 2006 - 06:31 am: |
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OK, How about a few stone patio pavers? Your stands should rest nicely on those. Two per side will raise the stands 2-4 inches, depending on thickness. Should cost less than $10. |
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