As someone who owns a Budgie I'm super happy with (and vocally so), I'm trying to think of a reason why I wouldn't want this. Old mono records, 78s, and so on and so on that I can tweak to my heart's delight, and the fussy amp I have where the analog never sounds quite right... This is a great choice for someone who just wants to be able to adjust their stuff to be listenable. I'd bet there's probably some pop and tick functionality that could be plugged in there too. That said, it wouldn't replace my Budgie for the main setup, but what I have isn't limited to stereo microgroove records that I'm ok playing with an AT-150...
Seems like a solid idea, but I don't think I want any dsp in my turntable circuit. Kind of defeats the point right?
Kind of, maybe. For instance, I'm all for the SugarCube from Sweet Vinyl to remove pops and crackle which does convert the signal but image having those two in a chain. The signal would be converted from analog to digital, then modified, then converted back to analog, passed onto the SC-1 or 2, then converted to digital, modified, then converted to analog again. lol!
Should throw in a digital EQ too. Then put it through an AVR and choose anything but True Stereo. That'd be 4 A/D and then D/A cycles. Wonder how it'd sound after going through all that.
I have a budgie too, and it’s ain't going anywhere anytime soon (it sounds way to good). I'll admit though, I’m def curious to see/hear this thing in action (although for over $500cdn I likely won't be trying it right now). I can‘t say I personally love the idea of having a analog based rig and throwing a dsp into the mix. But I do like the MC options for sure
DSP used for the RIAA equilization circuit may have some sonic advantages over passive circuitry. i would be more concerned about what appears to be a very light power supply and analog delivery section.
I certainly look forward to some reviews. It appears that this is some sort of preamp for multiple sources, but there is only one set of RCA inputs? So many different options is fun, but I just—successfully—cut out DSP and tone controls from my analog chain. I am wary of placing anything back into that chain.
True Dat. I have no skin in this game, but if the actual designer brings out a new product and discontinues his well-loved prior phono pre's, I think it's safe to say he thinks the new one sounds better.
there is a "tube" setting on the box which (I assume) adds some second order harmonic "distortion" that could sound just like tubes- as referenced in this new article about a "blender" device. not sure how the Parks device sounds but it could be somewhat revolutionary. Katz's Corner Episode 25: Adventures in Distortion
The sheer amount, and ease of adjustments looks amazing. But I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around having DSP in the analog side of the system, even though I embrace it on the digital side of my system. It will be interesting to read buyer's impressions. It would be sweet not to have to mess with loading plugs or micro switches that are almost always hard to get at.
Nice, I missed that. Doesn't that cost about $200 on its own? Also, I just got a lovely personal email from Shannon saying he is waiting on some packing materials and will ship the Puffin on the 14th.
My VTL phonostage is one of my favorite bit of equipment but I have to remove more than ten screws to open the case to change the loading and gain. For a guy that likes to changes carts, its super annoying.