Roadshow
Printed From: Graham Slee Hifi System Components
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Forum Name: NEWS
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URL: https://www.hifisystemcomponents.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=2199
Printed Date: 26 Mar 2026 at 10:06pm
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Topic: Roadshow
Posted By: ICL1P
Subject: Roadshow
Date Posted: 04 Mar 2014 at 10:34pm
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I would love to attend the roadshow on 29th May. Aylesbury is quite convenient for me, but I would feel awfully guilty if I took a place, meaning someone else couldn't book, and then found work commitments prevent me from attending. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Replies:
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 7:03am
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I see you've talked yourself out of it Ifor? We will be running ads in the mags for the 2 months leading up to May 29th. (April and May issues) Hopefully at least 100 - 120 people will not be thinking of it that way...? ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 7:27am
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I haven't talked myself out of it, but I really don't want to let you down by booking a place that may not be used. I'll work out what time slot is likely to be best for me. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 8:57am
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There are two rooms. The Olivier suite will be doing a 'rolling demo' every 1 hr 40 min (lasting 1.5 hr approx). It can take 30 people but most standing - and there is no 'lock-in' so people can leave the room if it was 'too much'. The Christie suite next door will have the headphone amps, and can take 10 people sat, and a few more standing, but I'd expect a flow in and out - I don't think anybody would want to stay in there all day. Outside there is a reception area, and further on there's the hotel bar/seating area for a 'cuppa', so if it attracts too many people they'll overflow into these areas. If I find thousands of people want to come I'll have to see if the hotel can spare a banquetting suite... However, going on the big hi-fi shows, they're lucky to attract more than a couple of thousand, and that's for several exhibitors. Now if everybody thinks "I'd better not go because I may be denying somebody a place" then there'll be plenty of room for everybody...  ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:00am
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I'll book my place this evening or tomorrow! ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:42am
I should probably book myself a place so that I can hear Proprius and LS3/5A under best conditions. Maybe I should postpone the sale of my Proprius until after the event, just in case...  ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 10:22am
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Best conditions??? Shows have a reputation for being awkward with 'the sound'. At Heathrow many years ago an RP3 would only perform if sat on the floor! The kit is switched off in transit, and in my particular case, will remaine switched off for nearly a week before the set-up the night of the 28th. All the equipment will have been run-in here, but it will only have had 12 hours burn-in on the day... However, we will do out level best to please! ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: BackinBlack
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 12:27pm
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An opportunity too good to miss. Good sound with (hopefully) like minded people. Booked. ------------- Just listen, if it sounds good to you, enjoy it. |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 7:10pm
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Count me in, too . Will be good to meet the GSP folks behind the kit, and the forum members who can get there.  ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 7:39pm
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Booked (I hope, my browser behaved a bit oddly) for the 3:30 to 5:00 slot. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 7:53pm
Maybe all the GSPAudio forum regulars would like to book a slot together, for the same time??  ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: BackinBlack
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 8:51pm
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I'm in for the 10.30-12.00 slot. Perhaps Forum members should meet in one of the Public areas to avoid monopolising the demo rooms. ------------- Just listen, if it sounds good to you, enjoy it. |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 8:55pm
 ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
BackinBlack wrote:Posted By: BackinBlack
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 8:58pm
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I thought just for once I'd try and avoid the obvious! Don't want people to get the wrong idea. The Bar it is then? Just looked at the Hotel - the Bar and Lounge is the Public area. ------------- Just listen, if it sounds good to you, enjoy it. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:10pm
How about all of the bars in the vicinity?  ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:21pm
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Please see the terms & conditions... ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:25pm
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No doubt it contains a clause along the lines of: "The drunk and disorderly will get a free ride in a police car"?? If nobody turns up, Graham will probably be joining us in the bar haha. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 9:28pm
Please try again - not received. If received you get an automatic email response, and I receive your form. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 10:48pm
Thanks: sorted. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 11:20pm
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I've now added a thank you page to the end of the bookings sequence. Thanks for your patience Ifor. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 11:22pm
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I think I have missed something here - I have been overseas with work
for several weeks & have no idea what this is about but am intrigued. What is everyone talking about on 29th May in Aylesbury please? (Apologies if I am being dim, there may be forum threads I have not had the time to read) ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 05 Mar 2014 at 11:36pm
http://www.gspaudio.co.uk/roadshow/ - http://www.gspaudio.co.uk/roadshow/ ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 06 Mar 2014 at 11:07am
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Now I understand - I have been only accessing forum pages, not the full GSP site on my phone whilst o/seas. I will look when I'm back and see if I can attend. I'm a Londoner living in the North but regularly visit a nearby office so may be able to co ordinate this ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 09 Mar 2014 at 10:35am
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I have applied for the morning session so it will be good to meet a few of you there. (I need to leave mid afternoon to a music festival campsite) ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 12 Mar 2014 at 7:40pm
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Does the hotel have somewhere to lock up bicycles securely?? Because I think I'm going to need mine... Train services won't get me into Aylesbury station until gone 10am and I want to get to the venue as soon as I can, to make the most of the trip. Is it a ridiculous idea for me to cycle from Oxford to Aylesbury...? About 22 miles. Not too bad, I guess. I'm reluctant to go to London just in case of train delays, missed connections or cancellations. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 12 Mar 2014 at 10:59pm
You're just being chatty aren't you? I think the hotel will best answer your question. As for cycling from Oxford to Aylesbury; I wouldn't, but you're a lot younger than me. If you were going to the latest session I could pick you up at Oxford station. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 12:18am
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Ifor, seeing as the 'young' word is being used, I've been wanting to ask this cheeky question for a while... who the heck is that a photo of? ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 7:35am
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Graham, it's me when I was student in Bristol in 1978. I had good hair in those days. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: oldagetraveller
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 12:42pm
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I thought it was Leo Sayer! ------------- Peter P T- LPT/RB300/G1042, Pink Triangle Tarantella/Nima/Ortofon 2M Black, SL1210II, Naim CD5, NAC112, NAP150, Flatcap2, Proac SC1, GS SoloUL,GS Accession , Senn HD250 & HD540. |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 1:13pm
I think Ifor is younger than he claims (2013 album).... ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 11:27pm
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I'm not as pretty as I was, but I'm obviously going to have to find a more up to date photo. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: BAK
Date Posted: 13 Mar 2014 at 11:40pm
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One could go to the show with one of these! I would enjoy the GSP Road Show as much as driving a DB5!  picture from www.hemmings.comarticle starts with: "The Aston-Martin DB5 used by Bond in GoldenEye. Photos courtesy London Film Museum. After almost three years, the Bond in Motion exhibit at England's Beaulieu National Motor Museum has come to a close, but that doesn't mean that Bond fans have seen the last of the collection of 007 vehicles: Later this month, the exhibit will move to the London Film Museum. Initially organized to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the James Bond film franchise inspired by the Ian Fleming novels." ------------- Bruce AT-14SA, Pickering XV-15, Hana EL, Technics SL-1600MK2, Lautus, Majestic DAC, Technics SH-8055 spectrum analyzer, Eminence Beta8A custom cabs; Proprius & Reflex M or C, Enjoy Life your way! |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 14 Mar 2014 at 7:05am
But we wouldn't know it was you! If it helps, I could use one of my old photos as my avatar? I was never able to achieve the 'big hair', although one of the 'old gang' managed to achieve the 70's "afro". What with Oxford Bags and platform soles, I think we, from that generation, would all look strange today... but back then, if you didn't look like that you stuck out like a sore thumb. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 15 Mar 2014 at 10:55pm
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Pass received in today's post. Thank you! ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: BackinBlack
Date Posted: 17 Mar 2014 at 1:36pm
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Got my pass today. Many Thanks. ------------- Just listen, if it sounds good to you, enjoy it. |
Posted By: msphil
Date Posted: 17 Mar 2014 at 9:33pm
Wish I could join you guys at the roadshow. Unfortunately my physical condition won't allow. Sounds like fun!  ------------- 'You are, through your soul not your body, a human being.' |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 17 Mar 2014 at 9:52pm
Don't worry - we'll always bring it to you in person ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: msphil
Date Posted: 17 Mar 2014 at 10:54pm
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Don't worry - we'll always bring it to you in person [/QUOTE] Thanks Graham for that kind thought. It's much appreciated!  ------------- 'You are, through your soul not your body, a human being.' |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 26 Mar 2014 at 10:02am
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Aylesbury pass received. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: CageyH
Date Posted: 26 Mar 2014 at 12:25pm
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Will there be one in Toulouse? ------------- Kevin European loan coordinator, based near Toulouse, France. Funkified SL1200 Mk.II, BB3, Firebottle Kin , ADI-2 DAC FS, Modulus 686, PD-S703, Solo UL, Triangle Antal EZ |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 6:32pm
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OK, out of 1,632 members, who lives in the South East of England? C'mon hands up! Surely there are more than 8 ????????????????????????????????????????? ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 6:44pm
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It's probably the non-members that are more important than the members for this. Has the advertising to them started yet? I might still bring SWMBO if there is space; I'll be in touch. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 8:35pm
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The ads were booked about a month ago and the earliest editions come out mid-April to May 1st - that's how much in-advance things have to be done. To catch April editions that come out in March would have required booking in early January. I have taken out full page ads in News and Choice, and a half page ad in Plus - they did me some really good eye-catching artwork. I did a newsletter to around 900 people on my 'keep in touch' list around two weeks ago (unfortunately I can't target newsletters). I've tweeted it, facebook advertised it (got some more likes...), and linked-in advertised it. Looking for around 130 visitors/members: I'm sure some will probably not turn up for one reason or another, but around 100 on the day will make it all worth the effort. A few years ago one of the big shows only attracted less than 2,000 visitors so I'm aware it's going to be a big job to get 130 to book for a one brand show on a week day. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: CageyH
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 8:40pm
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I would be interested if I lived a tad closer. It would be interesting to see (hear) some of your other products, and experience them first hand. ------------- Kevin European loan coordinator, based near Toulouse, France. Funkified SL1200 Mk.II, BB3, Firebottle Kin , ADI-2 DAC FS, Modulus 686, PD-S703, Solo UL, Triangle Antal EZ |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 8:41pm
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Maybe I should start mentioning the Graham Slee Roadshow on head-fi GSP topics, just to make sure people know?? ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Fatmangolf
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 8:48pm
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Good thinking Ash. Listening is believing with GSP. Like many hi-fi people I enjoy the pleasure friends get from hearing their favourite records come to life. This road show should turn some more people onto hi-fi. ------------- Jon Open mind and ears whilst owning GSP Genera, Accession M, Accession MC, Elevator EXP, Solo ULDE, Proprius amps, Cusat50 cables, Lautus digital cable, Spatia cables and links, and a Majestic DAC. |
Posted By: BAK
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 9:05pm
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Is local FM radio advertizing possible? during oldies or classical programing? ------------- Bruce AT-14SA, Pickering XV-15, Hana EL, Technics SL-1600MK2, Lautus, Majestic DAC, Technics SH-8055 spectrum analyzer, Eminence Beta8A custom cabs; Proprius & Reflex M or C, Enjoy Life your way! |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 9:34pm
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I've just started a thread on Art of Sound. I know there are quite a few GSP users hanging out over there . . . ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: BAK
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 10:36pm
Any posts on Vinyl Engine ? ------------- Bruce AT-14SA, Pickering XV-15, Hana EL, Technics SL-1600MK2, Lautus, Majestic DAC, Technics SH-8055 spectrum analyzer, Eminence Beta8A custom cabs; Proprius & Reflex M or C, Enjoy Life your way! |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 29 Mar 2014 at 11:36pm
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http://www.whathifi.com/forum/hi-fi/anyone-live-near-aylesbury#new ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 30 Mar 2014 at 7:29am
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Thanks for sharing the news further afield. I've emailed our 8 dealers who are closest to the venue to see if they will help spread the word. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ServerBaboon
Date Posted: 03 Apr 2014 at 2:04pm
Have you spoken to the Diverse Vinyl guys? If you have firm numbers and its enough for them they will turn up with a van full of Vinyl (to sell). they will mention it in their news letter and perhaps their website. Although if you don't have the room then it's a non starter. ------------- Steve ------------- Various bits of GSP Kit ..well two so far, unless you count the cables that is. |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 03 Apr 2014 at 4:20pm
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Great idea Steve! Though my bank manager wouldn't approve . . .  (Do online banks have virtual managers?) ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Bi-wire
Date Posted: 04 Apr 2014 at 10:08am
I'd hope to sneak out before she notices ... or have I got hold of the wrong end of the stick  ------------- Peter Satisfied user of: Revelation M, PSU1-Enigma, Solo SRGII and lots of CuSat50 |
Posted By: Bi-wire
Date Posted: 04 Apr 2014 at 10:24am
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I've now booked. I think this event is as much about meeting Graham and other forum members as seeing/listening to Graham's kit, so I'm looking forward to doing that too. ------------- Peter Satisfied user of: Revelation M, PSU1-Enigma, Solo SRGII and lots of CuSat50 |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 06 Apr 2014 at 2:27am
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With the turntables prepared (see: http://audio-forum.gspaudio.co.uk/technics-sl1200-sl1210-who-uses-one-or-two_topic26_post25320.html#25320 - http://audio-forum.gspaudio.co.uk/technics-sl1200-sl1210-who-uses-one-or-two_topic26_post25320.html#25320 ) the 'top' table will look a bit like a disco, but I promise not to bring the oil wheel and mirror ball... The Technics arms are now very precise and using the HFS 75 test record the anti-skate (bias) is coming out very accurately. I'm thinking of using low output cartridges on one deck and I have a Denon DL-103 MC which I bought, and a Grado Sonata 1 MI which Grado in NY sent me to try out. The Denon prefers 100 Ohms loading, but the Grado wants 47k so I can see me using 47k input versions of the Reflex C and Fanfare teamed-up with 'tg style' load plugs. On the other Technics I'm thinking of the Ortofon Black and the Audio Technica AT150ANV (which Mr Fremer liked in his cartridge tests - it should go well with the Era Gold V). I am negotiating with LP Gear in the States for the AT 150ANV. Having spoken to Tim at Divine Audio, he reckons his Analogue Works turntable will beat my Technics SL12xx II's using an Ortofon Red. I am hoping he will bring one along. I'm also going to be using Tim's Tom 31 speaker stands which I bought to raise the Stirling LS3/5A V2 speakers. Speaker wiring will be Spatia. I've been checking topics about what owner's prefer to listen to so I can demo using music which is familiar. On vinyl I don't have much classical, but will try and pick a few pieces I think most will know. I have only around 30-40 minutes per demo to devote to vinyl so I need to choose carefully. More info as it becomes clear (to me...) ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 06 Apr 2014 at 10:07am
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'Scuse me for asking a dumb question: wouldn't an Elevator give you the loading you need for both carts? That way you'd be demoing an off-the-shelf product. I assume you'll have a Reflex M on hand for the AT .... (Or of course use with the EGV) ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 06 Apr 2014 at 12:19pm
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Not a dumb question as I will have an EXP and Era Gold V/or Reflex M... The problem I have is the number of permutations: the number of tracks/excerpts to play using different cartridges with different phono stages and with different loads provided either by loading plugs on MC phono stages or via the EXP on moving magnet sensitivity phono stages, not to mention the moving magnet cartridges. The idea is to take the listener on a non-confusing tour with vinyl sources and will require careful planning and even then may not result in satisfying all the "what ifs"... ...and I have approximately 30 - 40 minutes to do it in every 1 hour 40 minutes. Doing a broadcast quality disco would be much easier... ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 06 Apr 2014 at 1:56pm
I hope he does. It's a lovely looking TT and I would like to here it. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Fatmangolf
Date Posted: 07 Apr 2014 at 6:26pm
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One of my most illuminating experiences in hi-fi was spending a few hours in Graham's workshop. Aside from his, John and Leo's warm company, I received a master class in how hi-fi works at its best. I travelled across Yorkshire for this experience and it was worth it. Graham Slee knows how to design great hi-fi, and he loves his music which also shows. I learned a lot about how to listen to and enjoy music whilst trying out loads of options. I came home enthused and inspired to make some setup changes in my system. These definitely got my feet tapping to more music in my listening room. Going to the roadshow is more than a chance to hear or test Graham's hi-fi. You'll learn how and why it works, and I think you'll come away with tips to improve your listening every day. It is worth travelling. It is worth a day off work. Please come to the Roadshow. ------------- Jon Open mind and ears whilst owning GSP Genera, Accession M, Accession MC, Elevator EXP, Solo ULDE, Proprius amps, Cusat50 cables, Lautus digital cable, Spatia cables and links, and a Majestic DAC. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 07 Apr 2014 at 6:45pm
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Those who bother to go are going to be pleasantly surprised... I'm definitely in. Worth the travel and accommodation expenses I will have. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 14 Apr 2014 at 7:40pm
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I returned from several weeks away this
weekend to attend a dealer Hi Fi show in my home town. There were some poor
sounding demonstrations and a couple that were excellent. I already have my
pass for the Aylesbury show and look forward to hearing the equipment Graham
will be demonstrating, confident that it will equal or better what I have just
listened to. A few observations from yesterday: Almost all these people appeared to be salesmen rather than music lovers and several had no apparent appreciation of how badly their system sounded. Many were streaming digital files via a laptop. I will not mention manufacturer names where I am critical of the product As always, the room has a big impact. B&W were demoing large 800 series floorstanders in a substantial upstairs space with suspended floor and a very high ceiling. Unfortunately, everything they played (FLAC) sounded rather dull and uninspiring. When I was there, the 4 rows of seats rarely had more than 2 or 3 people staying for more than a single track. I am sure these fine speakers deserved much more than this Across the corridor, Kudos were in a
smaller room with a modest sized pair of 2-way floorstanders, using a vinyl
front end. This had lovely pace and rhythm, a good tonal balance and was extremely
listenable. I suspect it was a combination of well chosen analogue recordings
and a system in sympathy with the listening environment. All seats were almost
always occupied and people chose to stay for several tracks. The presenter was
clearly ‘into’ music rather than just playing reference material as a hi-fi
demo. I didn't know this brand beforehand but they sounded very good indeed Another speaker manufacturer had some wireless stand mounts that others seemed impressed with, sounding punchy and lively. To me they appeared to exaggerate the digital nature of the streamed source material. Three of us also walked into and straight out of a very well known ‘name’ room with a sound like fingernails across a board. It’s a range that is popular with many people but even through large floorstanders, was much too bright and unnatural to me I had a brief look and listen to the Rega RP10 but not enough to draw a conclusion, especially as the room and speaker combo was laid back and too wooly for my tastes. A relief for my wife & bank balance though Four different Stax headphones and amps were available and I had a good listen in readiness for an overseas demo I have arranged of the various Audeze models in a few months time (to be used at home with my Solo ULDE, also a forthcoming LCD2 demo by Bob in Aylesbury). The representative was very hands off and allowed the customers to listen at ease, which was nice I spent the longest time listening to the manufacturer of my former interconnects and speaker cable: The presenter certainly liked to talk and I
witnessed a fair bit of auto suggestion with lengthy descriptions of how and
why each cable would sound better than the last. This was followed by a
post-demo prompt of “…huge improvement wasn’t that?” - one punter responding
‘massive’ and another ‘well I certainly heard it’ among a sea of nodding heads.
Clever stuff The room was packed although I left before it all got too much. Each snippet of the same track was played for around 20-30 seconds and he changed the music after every 2 tracks. Much of the spiel was about mobile phones, wi-fi, broadband, bluetooth, laptops, tablets, air-con etc imparting high frequency corruption and the need for foil wrapping, outer braid, Teflon coating and non-metal phono plug outers to avoid picking this up. He also suggested that all of us probably used older cables which pre-date the proliferation of air borne signals (maybe Graham and John C imagined their radio broadcast days?) so it was time to consider an upgrade. My friend was concerned enough to say ‘I had no idea about all this so I can now see I need to replace all my cabling’. I calmed him down from his near-state of panic and offered a home demo of the same cables (I no longer use) vs Lautus so he can listen properly I need an audition over several days to be sure of changes to a system before I am confident enough to pass judgement, not a few seconds and I am not even sure if the presenter was playing around with volume (one person asked that out loud). Having said all this, he was very convincing and slick in the way he built the message up to an almost ‘must have’ conclusion: a) create a problem to be solved b) describe product specs in great technical detail c) explain how the sound will improve so everyone can expect it d) very briefly demo 2 cables e) enthuse about the improvement for cable 2 f) prompt and gain listener agreement g) change to different material and repeat with another two cables Some of these interconnects used to be my
favourites, only now bettered by GSPs’ more musical sounding alternatives. Being
familiar with two of those used in the demo, to me Lautus is much more natural
sounding. Johns’ clever use of ferrites must also have something to do with it Finally, I heard some extremely good demonstration material in various rooms, including the following which I already own so I will bring FLACs to the GSP roadshow in case they are of use Ben Harper - Only Love (from ‘Every Kingdom’) Van Morrision – I forgot That Love Existed (from ‘Poetic Champions Compose’) Elvis Presley – Fever (from ‘Elvis is Back’ 50th Anniversary Edition) London Grammar - Hey Now (from ‘If You Wait’) Ali Farka Toure with Ry Cooder – Al Du, Gomni , Sega & Banga (from ‘Talking Timbuktu’) As soon as I returned home I played all of the above and remain smug & happy with my own system which is both an ongoing source of surprise (!) and a relief I am sure that Aylesbury will be much more
about the music and a chance for us all to show our appreciation to Graham and
John. I know I will ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Fatmangolf
Date Posted: 14 Apr 2014 at 9:25pm
|
You're right - the main demo is the exact opposite of my experience in Graham's workshop. Fine music choices IMO. ------------- Jon Open mind and ears whilst owning GSP Genera, Accession M, Accession MC, Elevator EXP, Solo ULDE, Proprius amps, Cusat50 cables, Lautus digital cable, Spatia cables and links, and a Majestic DAC. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 4:02am
OK, so the outer doesn't pick it up, and being non-metal, the interference gets straight to the contacts unprotected by the non-metal... then he goes on about modern radio interference... talks about foil shielding but doesn't shield the plugs... quite normal for hi-fi The more I think about what I'm going to do at the road show, the more I think it should simply be about having fun and listening to music rather than me talking about what things do. OK, I'll announce what I'm using to play it, but that's about it. Maybe I'll swap a lead around and do my party piece... Andrew, please can you put the FLACs on mem-stick and post them to me? I think that by the time I move onto digital sources it ought to be a 'juke box medley'... how time flies when you're having fun, and it's only one and a half hours per demo - with only a 10 minute break inbetween them I'll need another holiday ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: BackinBlack
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 7:20am
|
[QUOTE=Drewan77] Almost all these people appeared to be salesmen rather than music lovers and several had no apparent appreciation of how badly their system sounded. Many were streaming digital files via a laptop. I will not mention manufacturer names where I am critical of the product I spent the longest time listening to the manufacturer of my former interconnects and speaker cable: The presenter certainly liked to talk and I
witnessed a fair bit of auto suggestion with lengthy descriptions of how and
why each cable would sound better than the last. This was followed by a
post-demo prompt of “…huge improvement wasn’t that?” - one punter responding
‘massive’ and another ‘well I certainly heard it’ among a sea of nodding heads.
Clever stuff The room was packed although I left before it all got too much. Each snippet of the same track was played for around 20-30 seconds and he changed the music after every 2 tracks. Much of the spiel was about mobile phones, wi-fi, broadband, bluetooth, laptops, tablets, air-con etc imparting high frequency corruption and the need for foil wrapping, outer braid, Teflon coating and non-metal phono plug outers to avoid picking this up. He also suggested that all of us probably used older cables which pre-date the proliferation of air borne signals (maybe Graham and John C imagined their radio broadcast days?) so it was time to consider an upgrade. My friend was concerned enough to say ‘I had no idea about all this so I can now see I need to replace all my cabling’. I calmed him down from his near-state of panic and offered a home demo of the same cables (I no longer use) vs Lautus so he can listen properly I need an audition over several days to be sure of changes to a system before I am confident enough to pass judgement, not a few seconds and I am not even sure if the presenter was playing around with volume (one person asked that out loud). Having said all this, he was very convincing and slick in the way he built the message up to an almost ‘must have’ conclusion: a) create a problem to be solved b) describe product specs in great technical detail c) explain how the sound will improve so everyone can expect it d) very briefly demo 2 cables e) enthuse about the improvement for cable 2 f) prompt and gain listener agreement g) change to different material and repeat with another two cables [/QUOTE ]I'm sure I have suffered the same demonstration at the Whittlebury Show. Some of the audience nodding sagely and others with a wry smile, that like you and me, left after a couple of comparisons. Good choice of Music. I look forward to hearing some of it at Grahams Roadshow. ------------- Just listen, if it sounds good to you, enjoy it. |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 9:37am
[ . . and there's quite a queue forming for listening to the LCD-2s!] ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 10:32am
Will do Graham, it's a 2Gb stick I was given at a show & you can have it I have also put a selection of other Demo FLACs in another folder, Hi Res Vangelis Blade Runner Soundtrack & a couple of MP3s just for you !  If you want to set up bass response, play Nortec Collectiove - Ciruela Electrica or Chris Jones - Long After You're Gone. These are both very demanding but fabulous when the system/room are in harmony ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 12:29pm
|
I am really hoping the admin workload here will b*gg*r off so I can get on with sorting out the order of the demo. I'm sure that all 'the powers that be' could get along fine if they just cut the red tape, but having said that, we'd need all the people of the planet to behave... ...all things exist for a reason ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 2:53pm
Ah, ok, following Andrew's lead, here are the FLAC files I'm taking to demo headphones with (all, with the exception of some classical pieces are complete albums). Hopefully people can find something they like among this lot:  ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 3:09pm
|
Great Bob! So I can count on you to be in charge of the headphone demo (all apart from your 1.5 hour listening session in the other room). You're a rock! ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 3:09pm
|
Anyone who can't find something they like on Bobs' list had better check if they still have a pulse (from a quick look, I have 21 of those albums, non classical) ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 3:21pm
As long as someone doesn't want to play the whole lot . . . (over 65 hours at a rough guess, but just as jobs fill the time you have available, so flac files fill the 32Gb memory stick )------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 3:23pm
 ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 8:38pm
|
I don't think it much use playing the same tracks over and over again to demo the differences between one product and another - it would be boring and what if somebody couldn't immediately spot any difference? I'd be had up as somebody who was selling the same product at different price points in different packaging and that's far from the truth. Therefore I have decided for simplicity to play a few tracks on each phono stage swapping between cartridges as I go along. I may do the following: Ortofon Black then AT150ANV via the Gram Amp 2 SE - 2 tracks AT150ANV then Ortofon Black via the Era Gold V - 2 tracks Ortofon Black then AT150ANV via the Reflex M - 2 tracks That's about 20 minutes on MM cartridges. I'm not sure yet what I'm doing on MC/low output MI... I'm auditioning the Sonata 1 again next. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 9:26pm
|
Yes Graham, don't bother with amp comparisons; let the people decide what they want to believe. I shall be bringing my music collection as WAVs or FLACs on my Samsung Galaxy S3. Many different styles and genres. This may be of some use to you on the day. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 9:30pm
I'd be grareful if you could spend some time with Bob on the headphone demos, and perhaps I can bring your headphones with me? ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 11:03pm
|
Yes, that's fine. Bring your two loan headphones with you on the day for me to collect. I will use my music resources to show others just how incredible your equipment is. The HD540 Reference II will do your headphone amplifers the justice they deserve. If I manage to snag an AKG K1000 on ebay before the roadshow, I could even bring that along too although your Proprius monoblocks will all be being used for speaker demonstration?? ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 Apr 2014 at 11:19pm
I think the crew here will kill me if I ask for yet another pair  PS: best liaise with Bob by PM on the headphone demo... ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 16 Apr 2014 at 9:19am
------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 16 Apr 2014 at 9:52am
|
PM'd ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 16 Apr 2014 at 1:05pm
Posted this lunchtime ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 27 Apr 2014 at 12:13pm
|
21 days to go until Aylesbury booking form has to be taken down! Book your place now if you have not already. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 9:25am
|
So how many will attend this colossal event? Well, if you count me, John and Ryan in... 42 ("The Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything") OK, perhaps I could have made it on a 'non-working day'. But will we actually reach that number on the day? Not if Royal Mail are anything to do with it! They lost 11 - yes 11 show passes. Although it says on the reply email, 'please contact me if you don't receive your passes within two weeks of booking', nobody did! I decided to check and sent everyone a personal email... 12 people replied 3 said they hadn't received passes, so how do I know Royal Mail lost 11? Well I don't exactly know, but I have my suspicions... The bubble envelopes will just pass a 5mm slot which is the maximum thickness for a first class stamp - if you were to drag them through, but I reckon Royal Mail just took one look at them and thought they were thicker and decided to card people instead of delivering them. Anyway, I'm resending all 11 regardless, using large first class stamps. But my big question is why after 2 full page ads in Choice and News, plus 2 half page ads in Plus and World, over 2,500 newsletters (OK they weren't targeted), endless tweets which were re-tweeted by Choice and News, web advertising on Facebook, Google plus and Linked-In, the web presence here and on the home page, plus links from every page on the site... ...why only 42? ...why only 9 owner's club members? (at least three of which are from way outside the area served by the venue - so in effect it's only 6) In fact in real terms there are less than 30 who are interested - spouses and helpers make the numbers up. As regards those who could come and aren't, is it indifference, lack of interest, lack of enthusiasm, dispassion, lethargy? To say I'm dissapointed after investing nearly £10K in this is an understatement. However, the show will go on! ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 9:52am
Graham, I don't remember receiving an email, but maybe you didn't send one, because I had probably already posted that I had received it. ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: ICL1P
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 9:52am
|
How many are coming from the press? ------------- Ifor ===== Reflex M & ACCESSION M, CuSat50, Majestic DAC, a Proprius pair. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 9:59am
|
Only 42?! 9 are club members... Well I guess that echoes my prediction of about 10 supporters. Crazy world this is... You do realise that this is real high-fidelity served on a plate?? I must live about 150 miles away from the venue (in my little box) but I'm still going even though I'll have to spend £150+ to be there. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 10:08am
Just me. I am the press coverage. I shall remind the BBC to prepare my helicopter.  ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: oldagetraveller
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 10:27am
|
This is not meant to be harsh/critical/negative in any way. Could it be there are only a limited number of members attending because a lot of others, including me, have all the GSP products they need/intend to purchase for now and more than happy with them? I have Solo, Reflex M, Elevator, Spatia. Also where possible in my system, Cusat cable. I have a SL1210 so can listen to that through GSP gear too. I have no interest whatsoever in digital audio except c.d. reproduction and a MP3 player so Majestic and/or Bitzi would be of no use personally. So to travel x miles to hear what I have at home is, for me, pointless. ------------- Peter P T- LPT/RB300/G1042, Pink Triangle Tarantella/Nima/Ortofon 2M Black, SL1210II, Naim CD5, NAC112, NAP150, Flatcap2, Proac SC1, GS SoloUL,GS Accession , Senn HD250 & HD540. |
Posted By: morris_minor
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 10:30am
|
Numbers are very disappointing! There definitely needs to be other shows to utilise the display materials and other up-front costs that are not venue-specific. With some reporting in the magazines of Aylesbury hopefully future Roadshows would get a wider response. As nice as a "forum meet" is, and the chance for us to have a chat with Graham, the bottom line is sales. There's only so much preaching to the already-converted can do . . . ------------- Bob Majestic DAC/pre-amp Accession MC/Enigma, Accession MM, Reflex M, Elevator EXP, Era Gold V Solo ULDE, Novo, Lautus USB and digital, Libran balanced, CuSat50 2 x Proprius + Spatia/Spatia Links |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 11:10am
|
I for one do not want to be labelled as a preacher so I am going to have to limit my enthusiasm at the roadshow otherwise others are not going to take me seriously at all. I'm only enthusiastic about Graham Slee products because I'm enthusiastic about music, not the other way around. I hope that my Sennheiser headphone sub-topic reassures others of that reality. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 11:41am
Correct  ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 15 May 2014 at 12:23pm
Completely re-writing this reply... I have sent out invites to all the editors. Update regarding unreceived passes: The Royal Mail decided I was robbing their new shareholders because some bags were over 5mm meaning I should have used large first class stamps on all mailings, not just those containing more than one pass. I have since re sent all the single passes, so some may end up with two... Never mind. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Bi-wire
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 9:29am
|
I received my pass as expected. I saw Graham's email; but thought I only needed to respond to it if I had not received a pass Notwithstanding, the numbers are very disappointing. I'm genuinely surprised ... ------------- Peter Satisfied user of: Revelation M, PSU1-Enigma, Solo SRGII and lots of CuSat50 |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 2:08pm
Re-quote...
Hi Fi World! ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |
Posted By: Drewan77
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 2:27pm
|
I have received my second pass in the post today thanks Graham. Hardly surprising I suppose, as my star sign is Gemini Equally significantly, I collected my Majestic from John this morning - anti social weekend anticipated  ------------- Older than I once was, younger than I'll be ............................. Andrew |
Posted By: Bi-wire
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 4:15pm
Good stuff. So, some coverage of the event in a future issue I hope. Maybe that will get the ball rolling for further events ... ------------- Peter Satisfied user of: Revelation M, PSU1-Enigma, Solo SRGII and lots of CuSat50 |
Posted By: msphil
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 6:05pm
|
It's fantastic that someone from the hi-fi press is coming to the Roadshow! It makes all the effort Graham and John have put in a little more worthwhile. Barring disasters, I fully intend to be there myself, even though this will entail a three-hour journey there and back! I still haven't received my passes yet. Do you think the post office have a secret vendetta against Graham? Or perhaps they are secret music lovers who intend to descend upon Aylesbury with all our stolen passes! I'm really looking forward to being there and meeting everyone. I will bring my Grado PS 1000 headphones so that there is a greater range to compare. ------------- 'You are, through your soul not your body, a human being.' |
Posted By: Ash
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 6:49pm
|
Ah, you're coming to Aylesbury, Phil?! It'll be great to have you there. ------------- We do not see things as they are. We see things as we are. |
Posted By: msphil
Date Posted: 16 May 2014 at 7:12pm
|
I can't let you guys have all the fun! If I can do it I'm sure some of the others can as well! ------------- 'You are, through your soul not your body, a human being.' |
Posted By: Graham Slee
Date Posted: 17 May 2014 at 9:46pm
|
I used Mail Lite waterproof bubble envelopes which would pass through a 5mm Royal Mail slot test (just) and stuck on first class self adhesive stamps. Some were actually delivered - some were not. The stamp had miraculously 'fallen off' the one I sent to Brad Francis (Hi-Fi World) who had to pay Royal Mail £1.75 to get his pass out of their tight hands. If anybody here is a Royal Mail shareholder you'll be comforted to know they are doing their level-best to make stacks of money for you! (here a penny - there a penny) Brad who his himself disabled was pleased to know we are putting on a disabled-friendly event, and that he won't be the only one on wheels. ------------- That none should be able to park up and enjoy the view without a smartphone and the knowledge in how to use apps |