Installed Lars's New Clock In My Marantz DV7600

[dantwomey]

Here's a few pics of my installation of the Lars Clausen's new Audio Reference Clock in my Marantz DV7600. Briefly, I had to remove the main audio board and install the clock in the front right (as you face the machine) corner of the frame. There was tons of room. A review and a few more details in the near furture.

Regards,
Dan

[KP11520]

Hi Dan,

Looks good! Was it an easy install? What is the power source, some require their own? Why did you choose this one over some of the others discussed here? This one is about $175, did that come into consideration with your decision? Have you done other Mods to this unit?

And MOST important....

How does it sound???

Take vacation days off from work and lock yourself in a room. Then tell us!

I can't wait until my turn!

Regards//Keith

[dantwomey]

Originally posted by KP11520
Hi Dan,


How does it sound???

Take vacation days off from work and lock yourself in a room. Then tell us!

I can't wait until my turn!

Regards//Keith

Was it an easy install?

Yes, I have the service manual and Lars gave me instructions on exactly what to do.

What is the power source, some require their own?

The power source was taken from the SMPS board within this unit. Once again, with the service manual in hand it was easy to find the required 12v feed.

Why did you choose this one over some of the others discussed here? This one is about $175, did that come into consideration with your decision?

Yes, this clock is very expensive and that fact will be part of my eventual review. Cost aside, Lars builds world class products both in design and build quality. Because I only had one shot at this upgrade I didn't want to use any components I had any doubts at all about so I ignored cost and chose the best I could find.

Have you done other Mods to this unit?

Yes. You can find other posts here about my power supply mods.

I am extremely happy with the sound but it is still 'burning in' so I have to wait for awhile to give a review.



Regards,
Dan

[KP11520]

Way to go... aye!

Leave it running with a CD on repeat all weekend! Don't listen and after 100 hours then listen. It has a much better impact on your satisfaction level. It's like kids, you don't really notice them growing and next thing you know they are in college. Now see them only once a year and you won't believe the change since the last time.

Can't wait to hear the final verdict!

I'm with you.. do it once and do it right. They have a saying when working with wood, etc. Measure twice, cut once! Cost doesn't enter the equation. I fear that last statement might get a little out of control and get me in trouble. Ahhh...so what. This is about satisfaction and nothing satisfies me more than making something better (especially a lot better) than it was and when I can hear a difference that is sweet and musical, Nirvana.

I'll review your other post on the PS.

I look forward to the next report!

Regards//Keith

[xfartz]

I'm very interested to your review....I got this machine too and according to me it's a machine with great improvement opportunities.

Anyone has the service manual?

[KP11520]

So Dan,
Have you had time to burn that baby in and get a good listen? Better Clocks have a big impact (most of the time) on sound quality, so this is valuble information. Please let us know if it was "worth it". Thanks!

Regards//Keith

[dantwomey]

Briefly, There was a positive difference but since this clock is expensive it's going to come down to a more complicated cost versus performance issue. I definitely have tighter and more articulate bass and cleaner better defined highs. Since I added ALWSR regulators just prior to the clock I'm reluctant to add a detailed review soley attributed to the clock.

Regards,
Dan

[KP11520]

Hey Dan,
I'm sure you already know some electronics and mods take as long as 300 hours of use before getting to the final result. Let's hope it just keeps getting better the entire 300 hours and you say it was worth it!

Does your unit have a quality IEC inlet with quality internal wiring to the Power Block? Also, the power cord that you plug into that IEC inlet (assuming the quality wiring and IEC inlet are there) can have a nice impact without costing too much (after some research on high value manufacturers).

Regards//Keith

[dantwomey]

Originally posted by KP11520
Hey Dan,
I'm sure you already know some electronics and mods take as long as 300 hours of use before getting to the final result. Let's hope it just keeps getting better the entire 300 hours and you say it was worth it!

Does your unit have a quality IEC inlet with quality internal wiring to the Power Block? Also, the power cord that you plug into that IEC inlet (assuming the quality wiring and IEC inlet are there) can have a nice impact without costing too much (after some research on high value manufacturers).

Regards//Keith

They are some forum members that are very knowledgeable about SMPS and have eluded to some great improvements in the SMPS in the DV7600. Unfortunately they haven't taken the topic any further. So here we sit..................




Regards,
Dan

[KP11520]

I, and probably many many others, share your frustration. The one liners really kill me. Alluding to something greater and no follow up or elaboration... not even a word. I am sure so many of the Silent Majority just withdraw after this happens to them. It's just humiliating sometimes and I think (sometimes) this may be the intention. I hope I am wrong about this but if not, somehow we have to stop this outcome and find a way for everyone to be satisfied. Good luck to us all!

You probably know all this, but if not, try this site: http://www.smps.us/

Regards//Keith