|
|
|
This unit started out life as an SFP-1 Signature Edition Phono Stage. I am the second owner. According to Chris Johnson (former President of Sonic Frontiers International) and now head of the Parts ConneXion, the unit is ca. 1993. Serial # E93AA06. It has the Gold Signature designated faceplate.
I have had $700+ worth of upgrades and modifications done by Chris and his techs (former SFI technical and design staff) at the Parts ConneXion. The most significant include:
-highest grade TFT RELCAP capacitors (total of 4 @ $180; at my personal choice above the standard offered mod package)
-2.0uf 425V DynamiCaps (2)
-full compliment of upgraded Riken resistors (10 total)
-Re-wired with BL-AG Interconnect wire (custom made by DH Labs for the Parts Cx)
-WBT 0210-CU Nextgen type RCA input/output jacks
-NOS CV4024 (12AT7) Mullard tubes (matched pair)
-NOS 6H23P-EB/6922 Reflektor brand tubes (matched pair)
-stock feet upgraded with 1" EAR isolation feet (a noticeable improvement over the hard stock feet)
-extensive placement of Sound Coat damping material throughout chassis
I will include the parts/mod invoice to buyer (and can provide a pic of same upon request).
Please Note that because I have always only used MM carts on my analog rig, this unit is set-up and modified specifically for same, so if you use MC carts this is NOT suited for that. FYI: this unit was originally built to such standards that it was designed with separate circuits for MM/MC; it was cost prohibitive for me to also have the MC circuit I never use retrofitted/upgraded, so I only had the MM circuit done. If you wish to use this for MC, it will require additonal work to reinstall that circuitry.
Chris upgraded critical circuit parts only where needed as per determined by present-day availability of better components: where the existing Signature Edition was outfitted with high-grade components (such as some polypropylene and foil type MIT Multicap capacitors) that could not be improved upon, the unit was left status quo. This unit also features a massive Solen power supply cap and transformer power supply in its own section shielded from the main circuit board.
This unit exhibits extremely minimal wear relative to its' age, with no dents, dings, or the like. The most notable issue is an extremely light area of "scuffing", perhaps more aptly described as a slight discoloration (like a minor smudging), on the right end of the extended aluminum faceplate. It is only visible in certain lighting and at a specific angle (you have to work to see it) and so much so that it is even difficult to capture with the digital camera; I can provide extensive pics upon request that show the great condition of this unit. I believe the pics show how insignificant it is, certainly nothing that is in any way a major detriment to the aesthetical enjoyment of this unit. It was there when I bought the unit, and it has never bothered or distracted me, and I'm pretty neurotic about the cosmetics of audio gear. Please check my Audiogon feedback under username "Soberdude"; my intent is to be upfront. As such I would (under) rate the unit 8/10 to be safe, but it really is in exceptionally fine shape. Also remember with this unique unit, it's what's on the inside that counts, and if the rating was based solely on that, this would be a 10+!
The Parts Connexion services also involved a full check-up and bench-testing, and this unit was given a clean bill of health by Chris and his techs, it exceeds original unit specs with the upgades and mods, and in his words it is now "a killer unit!" that outperforms Sonic Frontiers' subsequent and ultimate statement product, the Phono 1SE Preamplifier, which was Class A rated and also highly regarded (9/10 rating) by 10 Audio. Please refer to their review at: http://www.10audio.com/sf_phono1se.htm. I can also refer html links to an archived SFI page of the SFP-1 and to the Parts Connexion mod services page. I also have extensvie pics available for interested parties that I couldn't figure out how to upload here on Audio Asylum with the ad.
Reason for selling? Right now, I have more work and life obligations than audio time and not much time to listen to my stereo system, and I am almost embarrassed to say that I would estimate listening to this unit for maybe only 50 or so total hours since mods. This unit is exceptionally quiet, dynamic, and is so neutral that I now understand how "getting out of the way of the music" is realized. I have no doubt that it would take 2-3 times the $$$ to try and get a better quality phono stage. Original box, packaging, owners manual (pdf copy), some extra literature, and as mentioned, the Parts Connexion modification/parts invoice included.
I feel that my asking price is fair considering the one-of-a-kind nature of this unit, recent non-modified units listing for $700-800 on their own, and that I include fully insured shipping in the continental US--I will also throw in an aftermarket Signal Cable Power cable as well! So please, no low-ballers. Again I invite all interested parties to check my feedback over at Audiogon (username "Soberdude"), where I have been a member since 2000 and all my transactions have been positive. I live in NC and would be open to arrangements for local pick-up/delivery and am also planning upcoming driving trips to New York. Thanks.
Info link addresses:
http://www.anthemav.com/OldSitev1/pages/sfp1.html
http://www.partsconnexion.com/modservice.php
http://www.10audio.com/sf_phono1se.htm
|
|
|
|
|
|
