Ampreviews Team
Audiophile #229
Joshua Slone’s journey into the world of high-fidelity audio is a testament to his total commitment to getting the best possible sound. His setup is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and technical prowess that shows a deep appreciation for the fine points of sound. Every component in his system delivers an immersive listening experience that blows your mind.
The Heart of the System: Focal Chora 816 Mains
The heart of Joshua’s audio system is the Focal Chora 816 floor-standing speakers. They’re well-known for their clarity and dynamic range, and they deliver a sound that’s both rich and detailed. They make music come alive with a sense of realism that’s captivating. Whether it’s the subtle strumming of an acoustic guitar or the powerful crescendo of a symphony, these speakers make sure you hear every note with breathtaking precision.
Bass with Authority: Rel HT/1205 Mk II Subwoofer
Complementing the Focal Chora 816s is the Rel HT/1205 Mk II subwoofer. Known for its deep, authoritative bass, the HT/1205 Mk II adds a powerful low-end presence to Joshua’s system, enhancing the overall impact of the music. The subwoofer’s fast and controlled bass response perfectly integrates with the mains, creating a seamless soundstage that envelops the listener. It’s the kind of bass that you not only hear but feel, adding an extra layer of depth to the music.
Digital Precision: Matrix Audio mini-I Pro 3 Streamer/DAC
Joshua Slone’s audio system is proof that he’s committed to getting the best possible sound. His setup is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and technical prowess that shows a deep appreciation for the fine points of sound. Every component in his system delivers an immersive listening experience that will blow your mind.
Analog Warmth: 2017 Schiit Saga Preamp with Shughuang CV-181 Treasure Tube
Joshua’s system isn’t just about precision; it’s also about the warmth and richness that only analog components can provide. The 2017 Schiit Saga preamp, fitted with a Shughuang CV-181 Treasure tube, adds a touch of warmth to the sound, giving the music a more natural and organic feel. This preamp is the bridge between Joshua’s digital source and his power amp, ensuring that the signal remains uncolored yet full of character.
Power with Finesse: Classe Sigma Amp 2 Power Amplifier
Driving Joshua’s speakers is the Classe Sigma Amp 2, a power amplifier that combines finesse with sheer power. Known for its ability to drive even the most demanding speakers with ease, the Sigma Amp 2 ensures that the Focal Chora 816s perform at their best, regardless of the genre of music being played. The amp’s clean, powerful output allows the speakers to reproduce the music with remarkable accuracy, from the quietest whispers to the loudest crescendos.
Pure Power: Shunyata Venom PS10 Power Condition
To ensure that every component in his system receives the cleanest power possible, Joshua uses the Shunyata Venom PS10 power conditioner. This device filters out noise and ensures a stable power supply, allowing the rest of the system to perform at its peak. The result is a lower noise floor, improved dynamics, and a more immersive listening experience.
Connection and Clarity: Pine Tree Audio Speaker Cables and Various Interconnects
Joshua’s choice of cables and interconnects is a testament to his attention to detail. The Pine Tree Audio speaker cables and various interconnects used in his system ensure that the signal remains pure and unaltered from source to speaker. These carefully selected cables help maintain the integrity of the sound, allowing every detail to shine through.
Acoustic Perfection: GIK Acoustics Room Treatment
No audiophile system is complete without proper room treatment, and Joshua’s setup is no exception. With GIK Acoustics treatments strategically placed in his listening room, Joshua has managed to tame reflections and control the acoustics of the space, creating an environment where his system can truly shine. The result is a soundstage that is wide, deep, and immersive, transporting the listener into the heart of the music.
The Brain of the Operation: Roon Core on 2012 Mac Mini
At the center of Joshua’s digital music experience is his Roon Core, running on a 2012 Mac Mini. This setup allows him to effortlessly manage his music library and stream high-resolution audio to his Matrix Audio mini-I Pro 3. With Roon’s powerful software, Joshua can easily access his entire music collection, discover new tracks, and enjoy a seamless, user-friendly experience.
Conclusion: A Testament to Passion and Precision
Joshua Slone’s audio system is more than just a collection of high-end components; it’s a reflection of his dedication to achieving the ultimate listening experience. Every piece of equipment has been chosen with care, ensuring that the system as a whole delivers a sound that is both accurate and emotionally engaging. For Joshua, music isn’t just something to be heard—it’s something to be felt, experienced, and cherished. His setup is a beautiful testament to the art of high-fidelity audio.
“Have any questions for Simone? Feel free to ask in the comment section below! And don’t forget to leave a reaction—if you love Ronald’s setup, make sure to give it an upvote!”
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