Testimonials
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Please
note that the feedback found on these two pages is in no
particular order.
Below is a short list of some of the feedback we have received
from our customers regarding our products, services and company.
_________________________________________________________
Antique
Sound Lab Reference modified MG OTL 32DT preamp
After having
burned in my Baker-modded ASL preamp for 360 hours offline,
I decided that enough was enough and that my saintly
patience had come to an end. I therefore took the bull by
the horns and hooked up the unit into my system. I was NOT
expecting the extraordinary and astounding things I heard. A
true wake-up call for the ears!
Full report after 400 hours....
Frank
_________________________________________________________
Reference Jolida 801 amplifier and Musica Bella SP/AV-1
loudspeakers
Hi Bill,
Just
dropping an e-mail to say thanks for the 801 ref. mod
you did for me last June and the Bella sp/av-1's. I came
up to Endicott with my cd's, you let me move the couch,
you switched out speakers (the Adagio's were stunning
however above my $$ range), I moved them around a
little, then I loaded cd's and listened. Have been to
many a store and was never able to at least try and
duplicate my living room (which is small). You answered
all my technical questions, with technical answers. At
the end of the morning what put a smile on my face and
made my body sway is what I bought. Thanks for the
attention and the experience. When I get time to bring
my jd100 up for v-caps can I listen to some vinyl? LOL
I listen
to my system for 3-5 hours at least two days a week and
for shorter periods the rest of the week (listened to 3
Lucinda Williams cd's in a row yesterday). The bella's?
I do not tire of them. I keep wanting more, and at
moderate volume levels they provide (rarely do I go
above 10 o'clock on the dial which is less than a third
of the total). My wife does not complain, even a little,
about this system. She sings.
Good
musicians are trying to make something special happen
between them, whether it be those back up singers coming
in just right, two musicians feeding off one another or
the nuances of the solo artist,you should here that
little something that emotion. I find myself tuning
into a background sax, organ, vocals or the drummer and
listening to what their doing to accent the lead. To
borrow a phrase to describe not only the speakers but
the system "They have an expansive, very natural,
harmonious sound, and at the same time, they present
great musical detail (but without being etched or
aggressive)". That describes the system.
I also
use the system for movies. My dvd player converts to
stereo for the 801 and the sound is expansive. Bass is
tight and low. Sit anywhere on the couch and its all
good.
Finally
upgraded the power cord from the stock. Made a
tremendous difference in the overall dynamic.
Thanks
again Mike
_________________________________________________________
Thorens
TD-2030 Blue Acrylic, Custom Ming-Da 3008 mono blocs.
Bill -
Got everything up and going with the Thorens table.
I recently found a MFSL original master vinyl recording of
the collaboration LP between Nat King Cole and George
Shearing. I'd been keeping it for today. I'd listened to
the Red Book CD for quite a while. It's one of my favorites,
and thru my Marantz SA-14v2 CD/SACD player, it always
sounded really good, so I was really looking forward to the
chance to compare the two.
Well, there's no comparison. This table, the Arum Beta S
cartridge, and the MoFi technology, resulted in the most
remarkable sound I've ever experienced at home. It's
actually like a different set of takes, the difference is so
profound. And this with a rather modest phono preamp.
Further, I know you hate 'em, (and I don't blame you) but
you've got these Ming-Da monoblocs sounding absolutely
#@$%$% incredible. As they've continued to run in, the idle
noise is down to practically nothing, and their ability to
control the 9" woofers in these Silverline Boleros has
really tightened up. I really cannot thank you enough for
all that you've done on my behalf. They're really a joy
now.
Well, just wanted to let you know how great that table
sounds. I know the performance won't be quite as impressive
with more common LPs, but nonetheless, I'm really, really
pleased.
Hope you and yours are well, have a great weekend, and as
always....
Very best regards
_________________________________________________________
Reference
Jolida 801 / SP Technology Continuum / Sonoran Cable w/
Micro Bearing Fill
7/17/06
Bill, It was wonderful to make the "Pilgrimage" to
Response Audio. Your accommodation after all the anxiety
and trepidation the past couple of weeks brought you
could have closed another man down. Kudos to you and
during my ride home and reflecting on the time,
conversations and topics. You know I really had a great
engaging evening quite unexpected and a moment in time
were I can embellish with the foundation of truth about
you, your business and talk about how extra, extra cool
your were to me as a perfect stranger, but we had that
magic and common thread of music to build our beginning
business relationship. I look forward to being able call
you a friend in the truest sense. I thought you were
terrific in your complete emersion and passion for your
craft and I respect that more than you could really
understand. Mainly because I am a real prick when
someone is in a position of authority and power over me
and begins to come off causal and confident. Hell you
are the most down to earth and well balance guy I have
met in the past year. Musicians can be a real
narcissistic bunch and I don't think of, nor do I call
people friends lightly. I know that the audiophile
crowd is just as opinionated as the musician crowd.
My
philosophy, as if you didn't hear enough of those last
night. LOL
I call my
friends brothers and would jump in front of a moving car
without hesitation. I am a visceral, aggressive
personality if I am cornered of if someone I care about
is in danger. Pretty heavy admission, but I don't mean
it literally. It is my analogy of how I treat and feel
I should be treated, but I don't expect to be brought
into that circle until I have earned respect and have
crossed the line in believing that the person that is my
friend will do the same for me.
I ramble
for two reasons tonight it is f&#k'n late, and I mean it
from the great first impression I was able to experience
in your place of business "the making of a friendship".
Man it feels more like a clubhouse, or a welcoming
sanctuary to the poor souls wandering the street looking
for the "Salvation Army of Music" ahahahaha. Couldn't
resist some more levity. The stuff got home in mint
condition. I plan to hook it up over the next weekend
for trials, then store it till the studio is dust free
and controlled to give them their place of honor. I used
Their, for a reason. You stuff is real. Peace and
warmest regards Chuck.
P.S. I
went to Barnes and Noble and purchased the two (Dan
Fleugel Project) CD's.
Chuc
8/04/06
follow-up
Bill I would
consider it a very humbling request. Please feel free to
quote or paraphrase anything that I have said or e-mailed to
you. I am an open book and as such I am not constrained by
angst or anxiety of what people may or may not think of my
points of views or remarks. You know when we were hanging
out it was a good fit. Sometimes you just know you could be
real good friends if we were geographically closer. I
can't tell you how much I enjoyed to the tenth degree the
hospitality you showed and kindness you demonstrated by
meeting me on my crazy time schedule. Hell you even gave me
a Pepsi. Man that was one of the best I had had in a
while, after 3 plus hours in the car and not eating and
drinking much that day. Whew, that hit the spot. It was
just Cool, Cool, Cool to walk into your shop, only through
e-mails, web site browsing and I don't know how to describe
it but I felt comfortable and not the least bit worried that
I was putting myself at tremendous financial risk not having
a significant previously developed relationship. It was the
music Karma. I am very lucky to let music kind of direct
me at all facets and I am pulled in directions every year
that if you had told me what I was going to participate in,
I would say your nuts! LOL. Bill Words really can't
describe my gratitude and my outright luck finding you and
your incredible skill and commitment to music in your own
way. Music makes us brothers and music is always going to
open doors to pleasant places and great people. You know
working with the public, every 6 or so months you come
across a banana, but it seems that more and more people are
believing in you and your product line and philosophies. I
do. So you have my permission to use me as a reference and
a customer, quote me etc... That is the least I can
accommodate you with. Allot of work on my part to say
that. Yeah right! You do the work. I just feel like the
luckiest guy in the world with my new system. I am going
to be out of town for the next week with the family. Going
to Cape May, NJ for a beachy/peachy time. You have my
cell phone if you every need to call and the line is always
open. Peace bratha and I will touch base with you when I
get back in a week to 10 days. Otherwise bang out an e-mail
at your leisure and I will respond. Sometimes I am the
biggest knuckle head because I have so many Irons in the
proverbial fire. My bad, but my credo is " I will sleep
when I am dead" So that's that. Enjoy the last month of
the Summer. Too, too fast. Again I hope all is finally
cleaned up and you are back on track after the flood. I
keep good thoughts for you and your family always. I
honestly mean it. Chuc
_________________________________________________________
Reference
Dared VP-845 / Ultimate Usher X-718
Well, it has
been four weeks since I took delivery of the Ultimate Dared
845 modified amp that you did for me. The V-caps are
breaking in more and more, so it seems like a good time to
give you feedback about the modified amp, and it's fit with
the Ultimate Usher 718's that I bought from you earlier.
Keep in mind that my previous major system was either a pair
of Magnepan 1.6 QR's or Reference 3A MM de Capos, driven by
Cary 805C's, so I was spoiled. The Dared felt like a good
risk to take for my smaller system, and with your mod and
the Super TNT 845B's, it is amazing. The spaciousness and
listenability of this amp/speaker combo is beyond anything
I could have hoped for or expected. Bass is most
respectable, and I don't find myself longing for my Sunfire
sub. Vocals just seem to float on the soundstage and are
locked in focus. The layering of the instruments and voices
is much more 3-D and well placed compared to prior to the
mod. The highs are NEVER harsh or rolled-off, two things I
was prepared for with tubes or the 845 tube itself.
Your work on both the amp and speakers shows complete care
and careful placement of wiring and parts. The amp looks
more like an F1 racing engine than the mass of wires that
was inside the Dared when I took ownership. When I first
called you to see if you would do the mod, you told me
"Careful work and top quality parts, combined with a decent
amp or speakers will most always beat the high priced
competition hands down." You proved that with this amp,
that I so enjoy, and these speakers that perform way out of
their price and class. It tickles me to know that the
V-caps aren't even completely broken in yet, and I am still
happier with this system than I have been in years. Driving
this amp and speakers with a tubed ModWright modified
Philips SA1000 has shown me that careful investment in
sonically sound equipment, combined with professional,
top-notch modifications is the way to go.
Thank you Bill for all your time, care and craftsmanship.
You have been, and continue to be, a joy to work with and
someone to whom I will return and refer in the future!
Thomas P.
_________________________________________________________
Reference ASL
Tulip / Follow-up
Hi Bill,
Thought I would give you some follow-up after about 200
hours of use on your modded Tulip. At present, with Sophia
meshplate 45 tubes, I've never had a better amp in my home.
It is truly amazing and sounding wonderful. I also can't
recommend those tubes more highly. I thought that the amp
didn't do well with the 1940's Sylvania 45's. Well it isn't
the amp. The Sophia tubes really make it perform. Thanks
again for a wonderful product and happy new year,
Marvin Amstey
_________________________________________________________
Reference
Ming-Da MC7 tube preamp
This is a
handsome unit which, in stock form, can be had new or
lightly used for as little as $500. The build quality is
very good, the wiring is point-to-point and the volume pot
is from Alps.
I bought a lightly used MC-7R for my bedroom system, but
first gave it a listen through my main system with an Audio
Note DAC 4.1x Signature upstream and both Blue Circle BC-8
and AtmaSphere M60 monoblocks downstream to actively biamped
custom loudspeakers. In such a highly resolving system the
stock Ming Da showed both its strengths and limitations. The
midrange was glorious. The soundstage was wide and
reasonably deep, with that "air" enveloping instruments and
performers that I've only experienced with quality tubed
systems. Alas, the bass was mushy, the highs rolled off and
microdetail retrieval was poor compared to a $3000+ Musical
Design SP-3 SS preamp (outboard 1.2 Farad psu, all Black
Gate caps and tantalum resistors, yada yada) it replaced.
I visited the Response Audio website after reading a 'Gon
classified ad for Ming Da mods and found that Bill Baker
offered a "Signature Mod" package for my preamp model and
its near twin, the MC-3R. Being a cautious sort, I phoned
him for more info and found him to be down to earth, patient
and knowledgeable. Off my MC-7R went!
The Signature modded preamp barely resembled the stock unit
(musically, that is). The midrange magic remained, but the
bass was now quite articulate, allowing the powerhouse BC-8
monoblocks to really strut their stuff. Treble extension was
much improved, complementing the OTL amps' transparency.
Micro-detail retrieval was much better, though not quite up
to my SS pre. Overall, though, I actually preferred the
modded Ming Da in my main system. There's nothing like the
realism of tubes done right. And this for less than $300
over the cost of the stock unit!
Shortly thereafter, Bill announced his "Reference Mods"
featuring the new VH Audio "V-Caps". (Teflon units in the
signal path with the new V-Cap Oil impregnated output
capacitors). I called him and learned that the new mods
raised the preamps sonically to a level competitive with the
world's best. A pretty bold assertion, but I'd come to trust
Bill's ear and work - so off again the MC-7R went!
I've now had the opportunity to hear the "Reference Moddded"
MC-7R in my home for about 75 hours. In short, it doesn't
just merit the designation of "extraordinary value for its
price" (for me, under $2000 total including cost of the
stock unit). Rather, it truly lives up to the advance claim
of "as good as it gets"! It is quiet, with micro-detail
retrieval capable of realistically extracting the ambience
of every venue on live CD recordings (I love live music...)I
own - be it jazz, rock, chorale. The "air" around singers
and instruments is uncanny. The holography of great tube
gear is there in a big way. Highs soar gracefully. On
well-recorded CDs the attack and decay of cymbal crashes and
the like are nothing short of lifelike.
I've also put the "Reference Modded" MC-7R into my bedroom
system (Tube Technology Fulcrum CDT > NorthStar DAC192 >
Ming Da MC-7R > Ming Da MC805-A monoblocks > Zalytron
Phenomenal 3 loudspeakers) with the same result. This system
cannot produce the dynamics and scale of the actively
biamped floorstanders (Raven R3.1 ribbons/dual 12 inch PHL
4530s) in my main rig, but has that "SET thing" going in a
big way with those 805 output tubes. Yet the midrange
realism, "air" and holographic soundstage of SETs came
through even more beautifully with the "Reference Modded"
MC-7R in the signal path. So much so that I snapped up a
demo MC-7R from Bill for future "Reference Mods" and use in
this system as well.
My SS preamp (great as it is)? Well, make me an offer...
I really can't find the words to describe the deliciously
"you are there" experience that the "Reference Modded" Ming
Da MC-7R has brought to both of my systems in a far from
subtle way. It is such a blessing AND relief to have found a
preamp to keep for life.
Please note that I use NOS 12AU7 and 12AX7 tubes in the
MC-7R, of the $15-$50 per variety - nothing terribly exotic
in my stash. The stock Chinese rectifier needs no
substitution, with rugged and inexpensive NOS military
replacements available from "DIY Hi Fi" on the web.
Music used during review:
A Love Supreme - John Coltrane
O Christmas Tree (A Bluegrass Collection) - various
A Childe is Born - The Bell' Arte Singers
Inside - Dave Van Ronk
Shaking the Tree - Peter Gabriel
Lotus - Santana
My Goals Beyond - Mahavishnu Orchestra
Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers (self-titled on Impulse)
Bad Brains (self-titled on Rohr)
I, Eye, Aye - Rahsaan Roland Kirk
Have Moicy - Michael Hurley, Unholy Modal Rounder, Jeffrey
Frederick and the Clamtones
Blackheart Man - Bunny Wailer
Original Rockers - Augustus Pablo
Absent Lovers- King Crimson
Squeezing Out Sparks/Live Sparks - Graham Parker and the
Rumour
Win This Record - El Rayo X
More Guitar and Faithless - Richard Thompson Band
John B.
Comment:
John, very glad to hear you are enjoying the modified MC7.
Part of the magic you are hearing is the combination of the
V-Cap Teflon & Oil impregnated capacitors working in harmony
to provide the sonic flaor you desired. Thank you for the
kind words and have a great holiday season and happy,
healthy new year!
Bill Baker
_________________________________________________________
Reference
V-Cap ASL Tulip
Hi Bill,
Just a bit of feedback: there is now about 150 hours on the
amp. It has
astounded a number of my musician friends from the Eastman
School - and
of course, me. I've been through a number of tube sets and
have learned that RCA 2A3's (double filaments) sound better
than Sylvania 45's. There is a bit more bass control.
Actually it is the bass response that is most amazing given
3.2 watts. Even with 90 db Thiels, the amp performs better
than any I have had. If anybody asks, however, the Decware
HDT speakers (96 db) with a single Fostex driver are better
than any I have had. More importantly, my wife believes
these are the best speakers that we have ever owned. You
folks run a good show down there, and I'm pleased that I
found you. You can certainly add my name to any list of
endorsers.
Have a great holiday and happy new year,
Marvin
_________________________________________________________
Bill, I
got the Ming-Da MC 34-B today.
I really
want to leave a positive testimonial for you; you have
been one of the best people I have ever done business
with, period, and hope we do more in the future. Your
responsiveness (no pun intended) and integrity are
exceptional; you definitely should be commended. I
would never hesitate to strongly recommend you to
anyone.
_________________________________________________________
Ultimate
Usher X-718
Bill:
Now that I've had some quality time to listen to the
Ultimate Usher 718's
I purchased from you, I can give you some clear feedback. So
far I have
listened to them with 12 and 25 wpc SET's, and an 80 wpc
hybrid. The last
2 way monitors I owned were the Reference 3a MM De Capos.
In comparison, the Ushers give more detail, better
transients and cleaner vocals. These speakers have a
wonderful sense of wholeness or continuity, providing very
specific imaging and layers of depth. I have found them to
be the kind of speakers that unlock aspects of my favorite
LP's and discs that I truly had not heard before. The bass
on the Ushers is incredible, both in depth and focus. No
mush or boom here, just tight bass that makes listening to
Earl Klugh or Bella Fleck a pure joy. It is obvious that
the crossover mods, reference grade resistors and premium
wiring wring every
pleasant bit of sound out of what start out as very good
speakers. I can truly say that my concerns about subwoofers
was unfounded given the amount of bass that these Ultimate
718's produce.
As another customer has stated, I would be remiss if I
also didn't comment on the extreme quality of communication
and friendliness that you have shown to me. It is rare to
find someone with a commitment to the quality of his
products who exhibits that same commitment to his customer.
You have been a true gem to work with. Thanks, Bill!
Thomas Portney, Augusta, Georgia
_________________________________________________________
Reference
Modified ASL Tulip
"I recently
purchased an ASL Tulip amp from a private owner that had
been modified by Response Audio and Bill Baker. Considering
that I knew nothing about the amp or Response Audio's
service, I was taking a big chance to purchase the amp
unseen and unheard. After receiving the amp, I was very
pleased to see that the amp appeared as new and sounded
great. Because it had low hours (about 75) I was curious
about burn-in with the new caps and resistors and contacted
Bill. He was extremely forthcoming and willing to discuss
his work. It is fair to say that he is intimately familiar
with the amps he modifies. I am impressed that he can
recommend what sounds best for a given amp due to this
familiarity. Looks like a great service. I only wish I had
known about it sooner. I can imagine how 22 watts of tweaked
SET power would perform on my speakers."
Ralph Gordon
(owner ASL Tulip with Response Audio upgrade)
________________________________________________
Usher Audio
Subwoofer / Custom cabling
09.10.04: At
long-last, my dream system is complete; the arrival of my
Usher SW-102 and Bill's gorgeous custom length Usher speaker
wires and custom made 20 ft. interconnects finishes off the
aforementioned stereo system passionately built by Bill. The
Usher sub is a thing of beauty. Its statement of presence
and musicality is beyond reproach. Due to what I perceive as
"exquisite control", the SW-102 does *not* take a center
stage position in the listening field as many powered subs
do. Rather it serves as a fine compliment to an already
solid full-range performer in the Ultimate Usher X-718's.
Listening to a wide range of music yesterday, from Marilyn
Manson to Sting, Pink Floyd, Venus Hum, Mozart, and the
oh-so-critical Toccata and Fugue in G Minor by J.S. Bach,
the SW-102 served to reinforce the excellent full-range
tonality and presentation of the X718's, not overpower them
or out stage them.
A word about wires from the ultimate skeptic/cynic. My
patients with the US Postal system was rewarded with the
receipt of a pair of Response Audio custom length, custom
terminated Usher speaker cables. Out of necessity, I was
using a middle grade pair of Monster cables from my amps to
my X-718's. When I swapped them for the Usher cables,
several things immediately happened; the sound image grew in
height, the midrange came forward, and the breadth of the
stage grew perceptibly. Aside from the fact that the
aesthetics of these cables are quite pleasing to the
techno-geek eye, they make an appreciable difference in
delivery and staging. Once again, I bow in adoration to the
magicians in Endicott, N.Y. I am a dyed-in-the-wool
2-channel guy, and I am very happy to have yet another
magnificent example of RA's work in my media room! Leaving
the house to go to work keeps getting harder and harder....
:)
Clint Kapp - CA
________________________________________________
Reference
Musica Bella RAM-40M & Ultimate Usher X-718
8-03-04: Taking
the term happy-camper to new sonic levels of auditory bliss,
I set up my fully modified Response Audio system. Bill Baker
built specifically for me, a pair of Reference Musica Bella
RAM40 watt mono-bloc amps and a pair of custom Ultimate
Usher X-718's. I could list at least 20 adjectives to
describe the staging, depth, transparency and width of this
meticulously crafted system, and still not completely
describe the awe I experience when I sit and listen to my
music.
Beyond the system itself, I would be regretful had I not
included my experiences in my dealings with Bill. In this
day and age of Internet invisibility and anonymity, Bill
Baker makes himself easily accessible for questions and
answers. My experiences with Response Audio have been
timely, courteous and highly professional. It was difficult
for me to buy a system, sight-unseen (sound unheard), from a
manufacturer 3200 miles from home and mail in a check for
many thousands of dollars. Yet, in speaking with Bill
regarding what I had wished to accomplish, my reservations
quickly became certainties, and my trust has not been
challenged; my appreciation for Bill Baker has elevated
beyond my expectations.
I proudly make myself available as a personal reference for
any one who is in need of a satisfied customer to speak
with.
Sincerely,
Clint Kapp
San Diego, CA
________________________________________________________
Custom
Signature ASL Orchid
7-26-04: Bill,
I just want to tell you that your deluxe, fully-upgraded ASL
Orchid is just too great for words! Yep, that's my Orchid
pictured on your website - the first you've made. I've had
it for several months now, and its component parts have
broken in rather nicely. Instead of waxing poetic over this
bad boy, I'll just say it's worth every penny - and then
some. It now has the same detail, speed, and holographic
presentation as my Decware 84C-S, but it's way more lush and
has way more power and bass. Maybe it's the big and beefy
transformers. No hum or extraneous noises at all from
this amplifier - it's dead quiet between tracks. Explosive
macro dynamics and delicate micro dynamics at the same
time. And I haven't even put in my Telefunken 12AX7's
scavenged from my low-hour Fisher 500C (I'll do that after
my new speakers have had their 200+ hours of breaking in
time). By the way - don't bother hooking your cable box or
TV to this system. This amplifier is so accurate and
great-sounding with a good and clean signal that you will
simply not put up with the tinny, harsh, and
mechanical-sounding signal from the TV or cable box. If the
signal source is clean and lush, this amplifier will give
you a clean and lush sound. I did not expect this
integrated amp to be a microscope for an audiophile; it was
a very pleasant surprise.
Folks,
Bill is absolutely right about using speakers of 95dB+
sensitivity. With the right one, your system will just sing
(and shout if you like obnoxiously loud music). I heartily
recommend the Decware HDT single-driver speakers (got them
last week) as a suitable mate for the amplifier. At 96 dB
sensitivity, 8 Ohms impedance, and no cross-over to mess
things up, my system as a whole is now fast, powerful, and
has lease-breaking volume and bass. Collective Soul (and
even a classical music CD every now and then) never sounded
better. I was very surprised that with the volume control
at the 12:00 position, the system was so annoyingly loud
that even I had to turn it down to 9:00. My Rogers dB 101's
sounded fine with the Orchids, but the Decwares just blew
them out of the water in terms of bass and volume. The
imaging and sound staging is 95% there, but the speakers
will sound better over time. And both the amps (about 20
hours) and speakers (2 hours) are still just breaking in.
Considering the way I listen (I work very long hours), I
expect them to start to gel in another year or so. Cheers!
____________________________________________________________
Reference
Jolida RA502A
Your Reference Series
502A exceeds all of my expectations.
With over two hundred and
fifty hours of run time, this amp has really opened up.
This is one amazing sounding amp,
the soundstage and detail are incredible and
sound is true to life and accurate. I can listen to all
kinds of music for hours and enjoy every minute.
The Clarity Labs Foxfire interconnects are a definite
must own, my impression is that they are perfect with
this amp. I am very pleased with this product and your
service.
____________________________________________________________
Reference
Jolida RA801-REF
Bill, I
wanted to say thanks for all your helpful hints and
guidance in leading me into the world of tube gear. I've
been an audiophile for quite awhile but always with
solid state gear. Luckily for me, I happened upon you as
a recommendation made by Chris VenHaus ( he's super also
) . He told me to "come in out of the dark and try
tubes" . I've always been tweaking trying to improve
things. My journey has seen me using resonating dots,
vibration control stuff, diffusion panels. bass traps
and on and on. I guess i just could not get the sound I
was looking for. After I described my gear to Bill he
recommended the JoLida 801 as my speakers were a
difficult load . I originally ordered a stock model but
then started reading up on the plusses of improved
capacitors and internal hardware. When Bill had the unit
ready to ship, I
After
playing this new unit with all my original gear I was
stunned. The mids (especially voice ) grabbed me in the
gut. Sometimes, when I play Miles Davis( the bitches
brew ) I'm stunned with how awe inspiring the
instruments are. If you are thinking about tubes I'd
start talking to Bill and let him lead u out of the
wilderness.
____________________________________________________________
Reference
Jolida RA-801-REF
Also, we
absolutely must thank Bill Baker of Response Audio for
building the incredible sounding Jolida 801's that were
used. I guess its about time I shut up about tube amps
'cause I didn't know what I was talking about in the past.
Those babies were incredible! They didn't have the mushy low
end or edgy highs I've heard from tube amps in the past.
Although I will make one point in my own defense. I've
always said that there was no reason that tubes COULDN'T
sound as good as S-S, just that few manufacturers ever make
them. Well...Bill's one that DOES! That thing was one of the
best amps I've ever heard - PERIOD. Bill had to build the
thing in time for the show and he came through with time to
spare. Thanks Bill - you da' man!
____________________________________________________________
Signature
Ming-Da MC7-R preamp mods
Bill, your
Signature mods have elevated an already fine product to one
that is hard to beat at any cost. You were absolutely
correct about the benefits of the Sonicaps and Cardas
wiring! Microdynamics and low level detail in my music have
really been brought out. Bass is now tight, with quite
realistic timbre. The very appealing midrange of the stock
preamp is fully preserved.
You have a real winner here with unbelievable bang for the
buck!
John - Utah
_________________________________________________________
I have talked to
Bill Baker maybe 6 times now. He has always been generous
with his time and his guidance, even before I ever bought
anything from him. It took me from last February until now
to finally be able buy my Music Hall MMF CD-25! It's too
long a story for this space, the reasons were my own with
money & what to upgrade first, or should I say second. I've
talked with other knowledgeable people in Home Audio from
Mike Allen at Jolida (I still owe him for time spent in
auditioning Jolida tube amps in his showroom) to some great
people at Audio Circle. I almost forgot all the brick and
mortar audio dealers. Of all of those people, Bill Baker is
Unique in the advice he offers, in his manner of leading you
to what you want/need. He is the most ethical, kind,
generous, knowledgeable, honest & helpful person I have ever
bought anything from in my entire life. Last February I was
leery of buying audio equipment on-line. Thanks to Bill that
has all changed and I'm on my way to building/re-building a
great little home audio system. Tubes rule and so does Bill
Baker! Bill, thank you for being such a great man and a
great teacher.
Marty
____________________________________________________________
Special Edition Jolida 302B
Bill,
I waited
until I had some hours on my unit before sending you
my impressions as I wanted to be sure to give the
new caps some time to settle in. I also intend to
post a review on Audio Asylum when I can pull myself
away from the music long enough to compose one!!!!
Let me
say up front, that I was very pleased with the
sonics of the stock Jolida JD 302B, but being a
sometime "tweaker" myself, I also know that to keep
pricing down, Jolida (as well as other manufacturers
building to a "price point") has to make compromises
on some passive part selection in the construction.
This is not a criticism - in fact, I find it very
commendable that Jolida has chosen to make such high
quality sound affordable to those of us who have a
deep love of music, but not necessarily the deep
pockets that some of the "high end" tube gear has as
a requirement for ownership. At any rate, I knew
that: A) the basic circuit design was a good one -
the sound of the stock unit was extremely three
dimensional and "refined". Probably the least
fatiguing (non-triode)amp I've ever owned (and I've
owned a few over the years....). B) As good as it
sounded, I knew that some well chosen upgrades could
significantly enhance detail resolution and
transparency.
Your SE
modifications to my JD 302B have exceeded my
expectations both in sonic results and in the
pleasant and positive nature of my dealings with
you. I'm glad I made the appointments to come up to
the shop and meet you - it really is a nice drive
from CT!! Maybe I'll take a ride up on the bike
sometime this summer........!
So....
the audible improvements as I hear them - first
what DIDN'T change - I DIDN'T lose any of the
refinement of the originals presentation!!! In
fact, the presentation is smoother with an even
creamier, more 3-D midrange than stock! The
midrange on up is what I've always loved most about
the EL34s - and I feel I am getting even more
palpability now. On well recorded CDs and LPs the SE
can put a vocalist or instrument right in the room
with me - something I had only experienced with
triodes prior to this.
The amp
also seems subjectively "faster" to me than it had
as a stock unit. There seems to be a bit more "snap"
to a struck snare drum for example. It's as though
leading edge transients have sharpened a bit; but
without adding even a trace of harshness to the
sound. This also ties in with a definite increase
in low level detail and the delineation of images
across and through the very well defined - broad and
deep - soundstage.
The best
word I can think of to describe the resulting sound
of the amp with the SE mods is - "organic". That is
to say more organic than
the original. The mods did not really change the
character of the amp - it
took what were already the strengths of it's
sound and elevated them to the next level.
I
honestly did not feel that I could have afforded
this quality of sound before I had you modify my
unit. I am experiencing in my own system, in my own
home, sound that I had only experienced before while
daydreaming in high-end audio boutiques listening to
systems that go for more than my customized
Harley-Davidson would sell for. Since I am currently
listening to the Jolida with ACI Sapphire IIIs(on
24" stands) and a Velodyne CT-120 sub, I really
can't comment on bass performance, but the subwoofer
outputs you added sure come in handy and work great!
There is no noticeable effect on the main outputs
that I can detect in my system.
In
closing - your Jolida SE mods get a big thumbs up
from me!!! The biggest problem I'm having now is
getting out of my listening chair!!!! The SE 302B
seems to be a GREAT match with my upsampled Njoe
Tjoeb 4000 CD player. It's like I got a new music
collection to listen to! Even poorly recorded
recorded CDs are more listenable - they still are
revealed as poorly recorded - but somehow more easy
to listen to. Currently Yo-Yo Ma(Obrigado Brazil)
is in my living room....... Can't be rude - I have
to go listen to his performance........!!! Say hi!
to Leanne from me and Peta!!!! You haven't heard the
last of me yet!!!
______________
In
writing to you about how pleased I was with my unit,
I overlooked saying THANK YOU!!!! I appreciate
your help and advice as well as friendly and
accommodating attitude. I may yet have questions for
you, so you will be hearing from me again I'm sure.
Also, when the time comes and funds allow further
system upgrades/additions, you will get my business.
As I pick away at building my preamp, I find myself
thinking longingly of one of those new Ming-Da
preamps...... maybe when funds
allow.................
COMMENT:
HI Jeff,
Thank you for the kind words. I am very happy to hear you
are happy with the amp and working with myself. Please be
aware that if you swing in this summer on the Harley, you
may end up needing to call for a ride back unless I have
mine by then and we can lock the doors and go for a cruise.
Please do keep in touch with any further questions, comments
or concerns you may have. It's always a pleasure.
On a final note, I did receive my new bypass caps and will
send you some the first of the week
_____________________________________
Jolida SE502
Custom Basic Edition
Well it has been over 3 months with my Basic Edition 502. It
has exceeded all my expectations.
I have called and bugged Bill a number of times with all the
modifications that I have done at work. Bill has always been
very helpful and takes the time to talk to me about the amp.
I have been tube rolling and took out the selector, balance
pot with new rca jacks and wires on the input.
Last week I also changed all 6 of the electrolytic caps with
low ESR versions and the sound has improved dramatically.
Thanks again Bill for the amp and all the help.
_____________________________________________________
Jolida SE302
Special Edition modification
There is no
reason for me to have taken this long to place feedback for
Bill and Response Audio, other than the fact that I've been
so wrapped up in other things and therefore behind on my
computer time. I've had my modded Jolida 302B since just
after Christmas, and I've put in maybe 15 hours of
worthwhile listening on it. I had added one of the RAM PC3
power cords and the Clarity "Emberglow" series interconnects
with the order, which was the icing on a very nicely
modified cake (the Special Edition mods with 2 Bybee
purifiers in the B+ voltage, silver wire for two of the
inputs, subwoofer output and removal of the balance
control). Bill was excellent and very helpful when it came
to decisions on what to do to the amp, and the results were
wonderful. The only thing I had to change were the stock
feet on the amp, which I would recommend Response Audio do
as part of their mods package. The stock feet are crap. I
had some issues with shipping, but Bill worked with me with!
out any hassles. I felt comfortable with Bill and his
company from the get-go, and am very pleased with the
goods. I would do business with Response Audio again.
Thanks Bill!
Joel Hile
getnutty@earthlink.net
Comment: Thanks
for the kind words Joel and very glad to hear you are
enjoying your amplifier. Considering you are not the first
to mention (recommend) replacing the feet on these units, I
will start offering something with the forthcoming Special
Edition units.
______________________________________
Usher Audio Rack
Greetings, Bill!
I only just got the rack unpacked and assembled. I am very
impressed with the quality of manufacture and would not
hesitate to recommend it. Continued success!!
______________________________________
Custom Built Jolida
Special Edition 502 (x2)
My brother and I
each purchased a Jolida SE502A from Response Audio with the
following modifications to the SE package: removal of the
selector switch along with all but one set of RCA inputs in
back and dual volume controls added. Electro-Harmonix 12AX7
and 12AT7 input/splitter tubes and SED KT88 output tubes
added. One amp is configured for triode mode, the other in
pentode (ultralinear). The triode amp also has 2 Quantum
Purifiers added to the B+ power supply.
Both amps arrived well packaged and in mint condition. We
have listened to them for about 2 months now. The pentode
version excels in imaging, expansive 3D sound staging and
details, details, details. The triode version, used with a
suitably efficient loudspeaker, goes one step
beyond the pentode version in being "sweet" yet retaining
the finer details of the music. The low end is also
improved. Listening to Miles Davis "Sketches of Spain" SACD
on the Pioneer Elite DV-59AVi with Acoustat speakers will
literally put you in the recording session. We would also
like to thank Bill for following up on phone calls &
e-mails, he made extra effort to exceed our customer service
expectations. We certainly recommend these Jolida 502A SE
amps from Response Audio.
Terry & Tom
_______________________________________
Jolida Special
Edition SE502
I ordered the
Special Edition modified 502B with silver wiring and
received the unit two days before Christmas. This unit had
been modified also as a power amp with the balance and
source control removed. I am currently using an Arcam A65+
as the preamp which seems to be a nice match. Out of the box
It had a good full bodied sound with good bass extension,
fine midrange, and detailed treble. It was from the start
harmonically involving and detailed. I should state that I
have two after market power cords, A Shunyata Diamondback
and an Interlink House Stealth HAC. I started with the HAC
and after about twenty hours switched to the Diamondback.
BIG mistake! The bass lost definition and became "flubby"
and the high end simply lost all detail. Great midrange but
nothing else. Then a fine change came as I noticed while
listening to Graceland by Paul Simon. On the track Under
African Skies with Linda Rondstadt singing harmony realized
that Rondstadt's voice was quite clear and a totally
separate entity from Simon's lead both to the side and
behind Simon. Horns ,woodwinds and strings are all great and
the percussion on Fanfare for the Common Man show a lot of
dynamic headroom. I'm anxious to see what the rest of the
break in period has to offer.
_______________________________________________
Bill,
I just wanted to email you that this unit, Usher Digital/DTS
Processor, works perfectly. The sound is wonderful, and it
truly looks far more expensive than it is. I am using my
Roksan Kandy MkIII 3 channel amp for the F/C/R, and the
internal amps for the SR/SL. Let me tell you that the 50
watt power is plenty, and it sounds very dynamic.
It is very easy to use and set, and the basic-ness of it is
what makes it so attractive. Those people looking for tons
of sound field options and extended surround capabilities
won't be interested, but I never felt the need for any of
those things. 5.1 setup is more than enough for my 13 x 25
foot room. If someone needs all that stuff, they need a
Yamaha receiver and take a hit on overall musical
presentation for CD's
Ted
________________________________________
Jolida SE302
Modification
Bill,
I know it has taken some time for me to post this feedback
but I wanted to let you know that I love the modifications
you made to my JoLida amp. It sounds wonderful and the
'static' problem I was having before I sent it in is a thing
of the past. Also, the new wooden faceplate makes the unit
look fabulous. A huge improvement over the factory plate.
It was a pleasure to deal with you and I look forward to
future modifications you can do. Many thanks!!
Alan Golski
golski@comcast.net
______________________________________
RAM Signature
CD25
Bill,
A quick word. I said I'd get back after enough time to see
if I still loved and respected the RAM-25 CDP the next
morning. I do, and how! I had a friend over this weekend
who runs a professional recording studio. He just kept
saying "$1200, really?" And "tubes!" I think he likes it,
he wanted the website. Thanks again for the opportunity to
really hear my redbook CD collection at its best. As you
might figure, I'd recommend this unit to anyone.
Steve Lutes
Drlutes@aol.com
______________________________________________
Hi Bill,
Just a quick note of thanks for my Music Hall CD-25. It
was on my doorstep in 2 days!
Great dealing with you!!
Al D'Addario MA
_______________________________________________________
RAM
301 Signature Amplifier
Hi Bill,
I have to admit, the RAM 301 has exceeded my
expectations. It replaced a Blue circle preamp and a pair
of 80 watt Quicksilver MonoBlocs, and I have to say that I
really don't feel that I'm missing out on much, if
anything. In fact, the 301 seems to have an even more
"organic" presentation, due perhaps to its integrated
nature. It has plenty of drive for my Meadowlark
Shearwaters, like you said. I was even surprised by its
transparency, as it has shown my CD player (Rotel 1070) to
be a weak spot in my system, as a source of grain and
stridency (something that was not as obvious in my previous
set-up). What astounds me most, however, is the fact that
such sound can issue forth from a component of such
diminutive physical proportions--it seems hardly larger than
a cigar box! Thanks again for a great deal and a truly
wonderful product.
John
_______________________________________________
My name is Erica
and I am Bill's Daughter. I am 16 years old and have been
around my dad when he has been working and dealing with
customers. He is a very dedicated worker and only wants the
best for his customers. He says that when I get old enough
to understand the value of GOOD music ..haha.. that he
will give me the honor of owning my very own system...Made
by him! I know that any produce that he hands out, you will
enjoy!!
Erica Baker
Comment: Okay, I
get the hint. Remember, Christmas is just around the
corner. As far as the music thing goes, listen to what you
like but keep an open mind. Just keep it down.
_____________________________________________________
RAM Signature
CD25
After much
trials and tribulations, I finally have the RAM CD up and
running in my system. Without a doubt, this is one of the
best sounding CD players I've owned and I've owned a few
(Heart CD6000, Upgraded Carver 490T, and Ah Tjoeb). For the
money, I don't think it can be beat. So warm but yet so
detailed and clear. It really does approach the level of
high end vinyl. My thanks to you and Dan Wright for coming
through on some previous issues. You guys made right.
THANKS.
Mario Reyes
Comment:
Hi Mario,
Thanks for the feedback. Obviously, I apologize for the
"issue" and do appreciate your patience and understanding.
As you know from working with me in the past, I always stand
behind my products. Unfortunately, this issue was in the
stock unit and we did not run it long enough prior to the
modification.
Thanks again and as always, happy listening.
___________________________________________________________
Complete Custom
designed/built system
Bill,
I could not go another day without writing to thank you for
the truly gratifying adventure on which you have led me to
create THE AUDIO SYSTEM. As you know, I am extremely
selective when it comes to audio components and not easily
sold on even the "high-end" brands. That's why I was
actually shocked when I began using the equipment you
suggested. The Lexicon processor to which you introduced me
is an excellent processor truly deserving the "high-end"
description it bears. The Jolida 1703 amplifier brings both
clarity and warmth and in conjunction with the sensitivity
and accuracy of the Lexicon, I am able to find tune my
system to creath the sound experience I have long dreamed
of.
If that were not enough, my system expanded uniquely with
the four hand-made, Italian rosewood speakers (main and
rear) that you custom-designed and built for me. I was much
more than impressed with the Dynaudio components you
incorporated into the units. I was equally delighted when I
added the Dynaudio center speaker. It was the custom-built
subwoofer, however, that gave amazing depth and perfectly
rounded out the entire set.
Due to my love of a "warm" sound you accurately recommended
the Music Hall turntable for my vinyl appreciation. I was
once again overwhelmed with both the warmth and clarity this
component delivered.
The finishing touch, however, has certainly been the Clarity
Wire interconnects and speaker cables that you urged me to
try. It was truly an education to distinctly hear the
difference that a well-made wire makes. Also astonishing
was acquiring these impeccable wires without the "high-end"
price tag.
Bill, you truly are an audio guru. I thank you for helping
create (even surpass) the audio system of my dreams. Unlike
other outfits I have engaged with, your customer service is
as custom-designed as the components you make. What has
been most gratifying is watching our business relationship
evolve into a sincere and warm friendship. I give the
credit to your instinctive ability to "hear" my preferences
and the time you take to share the love of sound. I know I
have found my home for quality, cutting-edge components and
service. I look forward to moving into the next dimension
of sound with you as my guide.
As ALWAYS the best to you, my brother
Bill Taylor
____________________________________________________________
RAM Signature
CD25
Bill,
The RAM-25 Signature arrived yesterday and I have about 15
hours on it already. You were certainly right about it
sounding great out-of-the-box, and it certainly beats my old
Sony CA7ES hands down.
You know the other components (Roksan Kandy MKIII, Dynaudio
70's, Paradigm 12" active sub) and the difference realized
by adding the RAM 25 is just stunning. I especially notice
the improvement in female voices, flutes, and cymbals/other
metal percussion--no more smearing or ssssss's at the end of
phrases. Bass extension and tightness are much improved,
and the whole system lacks any hint of aggressiveness or
overly bright treble without any appreciable (e.g., audible)
diminution of upper end frequencies.
I'll keep you posted as I run the unit in a bit more and see
what happens. This CDP certainly is a more enjoyable listen
and a better value (IMO) than the other units ($900-$2400)I
auditioned before throwing the dice on the RAM-25. Good
work!
Steven Lutes
drlutes@aol.com
Comment: Steven, your feedback is greatly appreciated. I am
glad to hear this player is integrating into your system
well. Please do keep in touch as you have more hours on the
unit.
__________________________________________________________
RAM Signature
CD25
Bill, I want to
let you know how much I am enjoying the RAM Signature CD25
(Modified Music Hall) CD Player.
It is much better than I expected. It is warm and dynamic
and sounds fantastic with my Jolida 1501 and Vandersteen
2ces. The vocals sound very smooth and the bass is tight.
the highs are not shrill like my Sony 555es SACD player. It
is also much better sounding than my Ah! Toeb. I think the
tubes are making the difference. I am looking forward to
buying some of your other products. thanks Again.
Jim Leiber
Comment: HI Jim, I am glad to hear you are enjoying the
RAM CD25 Signature player. Please feel free to keep in touch
with any further comments or questions. Thank you for the
feedback!
Bill
____________________________________________________________
Below is an
email I received today. It has been posted here via
permission from the sender with my reply as he received it.
I've read numerous
excellent comments on your customer service Re: Jolida
products. As a result I was led to seek out your web site
as a first step towards making the jump to tubes. However,
upon arriving I am getting the feeling your company is in
the process of changing direction, from heavy on the
customer service Re: "Stock" Jolida to more focus on your
"In house" products & mods. which I'm not interested in @
this time. In short: is the man I read about in all those
glowing reviews still alive and well or has he moved on to
bigger and better things???
Comment: (email reply)
Greetings Jerry,
I must admit this is the most interesting email I have
received in quite some time. I can assure you that I am very
much alive and still dedicated to customer service and
providing those ready to experiment with tube life with the
answers to their questions. I still spend many hours every
evening speaking with people on the phone just as I have
always done and will continue to do.
The reason for so many exclusive products (which you may
have noticed are mostly based on Jolida) was due to our
dedication to Jolida and the appreciation of what these
products have to offer in stock form. It has now come to the
point where customer inquiries is what led us to involvement
in some of the exclusive products, namely Jolida mods and
the Special Edition venture you now find available from
myself. Basically the question was "I am very satisfied with
my Jolida, now where can I go from here?". This led to the
upgrading which I must admit, I truly enjoy sitting back and
working on the products that brought me here to begin with.
The reputation you mention throughout the Internet has
taken myself quite some time to develop, I am in no way
wanting to do anything to jeopardize it now.
I have no intention of trailing away from customer
service, rather broadening the horizons. Customer service
will ALWAYS come as first priority.
Sincerely,
Bill Baker
_________________________________________________
RAM Signature
CD25
Bill, just
wanted to leave you feedback on my latest dealing with you.
Once again (numerous now) you've assisted me immensely. When
I mentioned about getting back into vinyl, you mentioned one
of your used pieces on sale. I purchased it and I couldn't
be happier for the money spent. You're always a joy to speak
with, either via email or the phone. I appreciate your
feedback regarding my soon to be modded Jolida 302B. I can't
wait until the RAM CD comes to me, I'm sure it will be a
winner and I'll leave more feedback for you.
PS - I still think we should start an AA club (Audiophiles
Anonymous);-) Take care.
Comment: Always
glad to receive feedback Mario. Keep it coming and I may
have to start a dedicated feedback page just for you. Happy
to hear you are enjoying all your new products and
ventures. Vinyl is usually a last step for source, be
careful as it is very addicting.
Bill Baker
______________________________________________________________
Jolida SE502
Growing
curiosity about tube sound led me to stumble upon the
Response Audio website, and it has changed my music
listening life completely around. I was cautious about
spending thousands on a first foray, so the Jolida
integrated tube amp line seemed like the ticket. And when I
saw that a slightly used,
modified 502B amp and a virtually new JD100 CD player
could be had for under $2000, I took the plunge.
All the standard-touted benefits of tube sound have proven
true. I have found detail and nuance in my old CDs that I
never knew was there, and everything seems warmer, more
three-dimensional and just more musical. My 20 year old
Polk Monitor 10s have never sounded so good. It's also true
that once you've heard tubes, you don't want to go back to
solid state; so much for my multichannel/sacd/home theater
setup in the other room (which still remains a fun
novelty). Next up is to pull out all my old vinyl from the
basement....
Many thanks again to Bill for walking me through set-up and
break-in, including patient and prompt responses to my
evening and weekend e-mails.
Peter Harrar
pharrar@optonline.net
Comment: Glad to
hear you are enjoying your new modified 502B and tube sound
in general. I'm sure you will be extremely surprised with
the sound of vinyl through tubes. Keep in touch with ANY
further questions you may have.
Bill Baker
________________________________________________________________
Jolida SE302
Modifications
Bill, just
wanted to drop a line and let you know how much I am
enjoying the mods on my Jolida 302B. Probably have about 100
hrs of burn-in now and system just sounds superior in every
regard. Main reason for the upgrades was to match the
performance available from my Quad L22's. Before the mods,
the amp seemed to labor, especially at low volume...now so
much more authority and presence.
Thanks Bill for the quick turnaround and wonderful
communications.
Mark Gilbert
Comment: Thank you for
the feedback regarding the modifications on your 502B. I am
glad to hear it has brought to you a new level of listening
pleasure.
Bill Baker
_________________________________________________________________
Over the years I
have owned dozens of high quality audio components. Always
mixing and matching to find the "right" sound. I have known
Bill Baker for over 20 years and we have enjoyed the journey
seeking sonic perfection. Long before RESPONSE AUDIO was in
existence Bill was purchasing and trading every known
component this side of the hemisphere. Bill has unequalled
knowledge in regards to speaker building as well as
equipment performance characteristics. He will go above and
beyond to ensure you find exactly the sound you are looking
for at a good price.
The greatest thing he has taught me is its not about the
piece of equipment- its about the music and the smile it
leaves on your face. If you are in search of great service
and musical reproduction knowledge you will not be
disappointed with Bill and RESPONSE AUDIO.
After all it is about the music- Right Bill!!!
Blaine Edwards
Comment: Well
Blaine, I had a feeling that once you were exposed to other
options you would see things differently. After
all.......It's all about the music.
Bill
__________________________________________________________________
I caught the
upgrade bug and was curious about the whole "tube thing".
Much of my research had been done over the net, and there
really wasn't anywhere I could audition any tube gear
locally. After hearing so many positive reviews about JoLida
I was intrigued, especially in regard to the hybrid amps,
which seemed to feature the best of both worlds. Looking
over www.Audioreview.com , I noticed that there were many who
purchased from Response Audio; the commentary was glowing,
if not gushing, about the service and products received.
Knowing I was still taking a chance purchasing gear which I
hadn't seen, let alone heard, I bit the bullet and placed
the order with response. This was after a series of messages
sent to Bill Baker, who promptly addressed my questions and
concerns. I even got a message back from him within 30
minutes ON A SUNDAY! Where else can you get that? Anyway, I
ended up going with the JoLida 1501, and I couldn't be
happier. The sound is smooth and spacious, and the unit
itself is well-built and looks darned impressive. Bill even
installed upgraded tubes! Needless to say, I am very happy
with my purchase and the service I received. DO NOT HESITATE
to conduct a transaction with Bill; people who are genuinely
focused on customer satisfaction and quality are a rarity
these days!
Matt Maloney
ttamyenolam@yahoo.com
_____________________________________________________________________
RAM 501
Signature Amplifier
Bill,
This is preliminary feedback on the RAM 501, which I just
received today, and also a comprehensive review of my
experience with Response Audio.
Most pressing is that I adequately represent my thanks.
Thanks for the effort to acquire and impart the knowledge of
high fidelity. Thanks for taking the time to understand and
respect my musical preferences. Thanks for your initiative
and confidence which resulted in the RAM products. And
thanks for facilitating the return of my musical
captivation.
Out of the box, the amp just plumb struck me with its
honesty. Although my source is an old Denon CD player, I had
recently purchased Paradigm Reference Studio 60 v.2s. Even
with the amp far from being broken in, the the RAM rendered
the essence of the music. No veils, no compromises. It is an
absolutely stunning upgrade from my Denon DRA-825RA
receiver. Most importantly, it was exactly what you had
described, and what I had highly anticipated.
After listening for hours now, I'm being inundated with
sonic information which hid undetected in these old and
neglected CDs. The true contents have been bared for the
first time. I protested with Zappa, hoped with Bob Marley,
partied with Zeppelin, spaced out with the Beatles, loved
with Sarah Vaughan and kissed Al Dimeola's freekin' axe! And
it's only going to get better! Now, I can prattle on about
bass response and technical hussei and such, but if that
mattered to a discernible extent I should have wound up
owning a Krell or a Musical Fidelity which I had demoed. But
my ears and brain are the judges, and those amps, amongst
others, didn't stimulate the waves like this RAM does.
That's all that matters.
I have always been in pursuit finding the best value in
items-du-jour because, frankly, I'm an over-analytical type,
and I don't have a lot of cash to fling around. It took me
three months to research and buy a vacuum, and six months to
purchase a tractor. You've probably never heard of either
one of them, but they're great. Well, this amp quest was the
same type of intense study program, and I wound up with
Response Audio and the RAM 501. And once again, I chose
wisely. And, obeying my desire for a new CD player, I now
have one less choice to make. Thank you Bill!
Marc Migliore
bleeb@msn.com
_________________________________________________________________
Just before
Christmas I bought several components and cables for family
and friends who deserved better sounding audio systems.
Buying equipment for other people is not cheap - especially
when one can selfishly spend the money on one's self!
Bill Baker was enormously helpful in putting together
systems that simply play music brilliantly at astonishing
prices. Add to this equation the fact that Bill epitomizes
customer service and is incredibly responsive to inquiries
and you come to realize you cannot go wrong.
I like lots of different stuff - some of which Bill does not
sell. However, when I am in the market for equipment where
Bill offers an option I am interested in, I will always go
to Bill first. At least where I live, you simply do not get
Bill's service!
Damon C. Ladson
dladson@harriswiltshire.com
PS: ask him about automobiles, but do not attribute it to me
(no he isn't selling any!).
____________________________________________________________________
Clarity Labs
Reference Cables
Bill,
I've been slowly switching my interconnects over to the
Clarity line from the Transparent Audio's, first based on
your recommendations and then based on what I heard after I
installed them!
With each interconnect that was swapped out I could hear
subtle changes in the sound, a little fuller, a little
clearer, especially with the Foxfires. Now Transparent Audio
makes very fine interconnects and speaker cables so I have
to say that hearing the improvement no matter how subtle it
was says a lot for the Clarity cables, but with the last
change I made I was not quite prepared for what I heard.
I had Transparent Audio MusicLink Plus speaker cables hooked
up between my Jolida Monoblocks and the speakers, TA
Musiclink interconnects between the Jolida 3000B preamp and
the Jolida Monoblocks. Not being happy with the sound I was
getting from the preamp you suggested I try a Foxfire or
Harvest between the pre and the monoblocks and also upgrade
the tubes in the pre to Svetlana's.
After playing around with the cables and the tubes I found I
was getting closer but not exactly were I wanted to be with
the sound so I asked you to build me a custom speaker cable
based on the Foxfire design. Knowing that I would need 100
hours to burn in the cables I was not expecting to hear such
a significant change in the sound, especially this soon. I
purchased a pair of the new Ram PC-3 power cables for the
monoblocks, a pair of 7' Foxfire cables to go between the
preamp and the monoblocks, and a 2' Foxfire custom speaker
cable set. With 12 hours of burn in time the sound is
incredible. Thiel speakers are very exact and revealing,
this new combination on wires has unveiled a layer of sound
that was previously hidden. More information seems to be
delivered to the ear, the depth and width of the music has
expanded. It's great. This new speaker cable is an absolute
winner.
Tell Mike Allen from Jolida if he wants to make the 3000b
preamp sound like a $2500.00 unit, all he has to do is pair
it up with this cable set and some Svetlana tubes and he'll
have a real winner. I was going to unload the 3000b in favor
of a better sounding unit until now.
Thanks for the help with figuring out how to get this
equipment to sound excellent and pass on my thanks to Tom at
Clarity as well for building the cable. Awesome sound .....
Sincerely,
Joe
________________________________________________________________
Bill, once
again you've gone up and above my expectations for a vendor.
First with the 102B, now with the upgrade to the 302B and
RAM power chord. Both excellent products. The RAM power
chord adds a nice silent backdrop and adds punch across the
entire frequency range. Its most noticeable in the bass
frequencies (which demands more power). Sure there's more
expensive and exotic chords out there, but for the money,
I'm very satisfied. The 302 is a work of art. Jolida, for
the money, can't be beat. Beautiful highs and midrange and
nice bottom end that's not extreme but just right. All this
and Bill's excellent support....I'll continue to purchase
products from Response Audio.
Mario Reyes
__________________________________________________________________
Clarity Labs Foxfire
Bill-
I have used the Foxfire for at least 100 hours and will keep
it. It is a very good good component cable, and well worth
the price. In my system, it easily battered the budget
(Homemade Silver and a DIY cable using silver-plated copper)
cables I had been using. Best quality, I think, is the
balance across all frequencies, although on some recordings
I do feel that the bass is rolled off a bit (could be
recording, of course). Good to very good detail from
mid-bass up, nice image focus. The soundstage opened up a
bit, but of course, this probably has much more to do with
the recording and the phono pre-amp. The sound is very
"refined" (little or no electronic tizz or haze) and true to
timbre (brass instruments especially) and has opened up some
since I first used the cables. All in all, very good value
for $189 and a satisfying cable regardless of price. It has
me thinking about new speaker cables -- now, if you could
design a great speaker cable that could be used in lengths
greater than 10 feet and is well-matched with the
Foxfire......
Thanks again
for a fine product at a reasonable price.
__________________________________________________________________________
Clarity Labs
Reference Cables
Bill,
In my quest to put together a two channel stereo, I have
talked to many people. My budget was modest, but my goals
high. You consistently provided me with great products that
met my budget, such as the Clarity IC's and speaker wire. My
system is not quite finished, so I am not commenting on the
sound quality yet. I will comment on the Quality of Response
Audio, first class! It isn't often that I get the
opportunity to deal with someone as helpful, knowledgeable,
and friendly as Bill Baker. Keep up the good work!
__________________________________________________________________________
Dealing with
Bill at Response Audio has been the most pleasurable audio
experience that I have EVER had. Great products, no pressure
to buy, knowledgeable, fair pricing, timely shipment, etc...
___________________________________________________________________________
Jolida 102B
Its
been a PLEASURE dealing with you (Bill and I think there was
one other?). All my calls/emails have been answered
professionally and politely. I love my Jolida 102B amp.
You're right, EL84's are glorious sounding tubes. You're
right on another note; this amp does NOT need tone controls.
The full frequency response is delivered from this little
gem of an amp. Thanks, I am a TOTALLY SATISFIED customer.
I've only played it for 10 hrs, it's just starting to break
in.
Mario Reyes
___________________________________________________________________________
Response Audio
Custom speaker design
Bill,
As you know, I have used your Model 1 speakers for testing
all my wire designs with great success. However, since
running your Model 2's, I believe we are ready for a change.
Although the model 1's do fill our listening area quite
well, the 2's I find more suited to this area. Bass response
with the 2's are every bit as good as the 1's along with the
mid-range. The highs I find are just a bit more pronounced
and offer the detail needed to test my wire capabilities.
Please know that you will not be getting these back any time
soon unless you improve on an already great design.
Thanks,
Tom Grot
Clarity Labs
_________________________________________________________________
Clarity Labs
Emberglow Interconnect
I just wanted to
say how much of a difference I believe the Emberglow ICs and
Speaker Cables have made to my system. The music is clearer
and the bass is more pronounced and more true than ever
before.
Ron DuBois
_________________________________________________________________
Jolida 102B
I purchased my
Jolida 102B amplifier from Bill at Response Audio. Bill was
just great to deal with. The amp. sounded great right out of
the box, but now its "WONDERFUL" and here is why .I have 4
Tesla jjEL84 drivers now. Preamps are: 1 Sovtek 12AX7lps 2
Phillips 12AT7WC's. This tube change really made this amp
"REALLY ROCK" Also I set the bias to factory specs. I could
not ask for more from this jewel of an amplifier. Thanks
Bill
Bruce in Wisconsin
