What a Difference a Year Makes – How A Mighty System got Mightier

Posted by Tan

I visited Mr. Soo’s system about a year ago—you can read about that visit here. Recently, I paid him another visit, after knowing that the system had undergone a major transformation. The changes were not limited to equipment; the room’s acoustic treatment also went through a major rework.

The front end is now driven by a Taiko Audio server, while amplification from CH Precision has been fully upgraded to flagship models. The setup includes the L10 preamplifier in mono configuration with separate power supplies, resulting in a stereo preamp housed in four chassis (two preamp units and two external power supplies). The power amplifier is the two-chassis M10, a stereo amp with external power supplies. The trusty Magico M6 speakers and the 2 JL Audio subwoofers remain in place.

CH Precision L10 preamplifier in mono configuration with separate power supply for each each channel

CH Precision M10 power amplifier with separate power supply

Taiko Audio and TotalDac digitial frontend

Equally significant was the overhaul of the room acoustics. The ceiling and walls are now fully treated with diffusers and absorbers, and Mr. Soo told me rockwool has also been added to the cavity between the ceiling and roof.

Diffusers and absorbers on the ceiling

The impact of these treatments was immediately noticeable. The acoustic environment had improved significantly—I found that having a conversation in the room was easy and natural, among the best I’ve ever experienced. We could speak at normal volume without straining to hear, and every syllable was clear, free from smearing or disturbance.

Performance-wise, the system had advanced a few notches. Dynamics were more expressive, giving the sound a muscular, impactful character. At the same time, the refinement I admired during my last visit was not only preserved but enhanced—the sweetness and smoothness in the highs were a particular highlight. Overall clarity and background quietness were exceptional, no doubt aided by the successful acoustic treatments.

Mr. Soo’s approach to bass management with the Magico M6 and JL Audio subwoofers (as described in my previous report, where he used an active crossover to send bass to the subs and mids/highs to the main speakers) continued to deliver excellent results. There was no hint of bass boom; instead, the low frequencies were supple and seamlessly integrated with the mains. It was impossible to tell where the Magico ended and the JL Audio took over, very well done indeed.

As for what comes next, I’m not sure how Mr. Soo will push his system further. But our hobby is about pushing the boundaries, so, who know, my next visit may reveal yet another big leap forward!