The P.W.B. Internet Discussion Group can be accessed via:-
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PWB/
1st August 2006 From Paul Rowan.
Subject: Greetings to the Group.
Hi everybody,
this is my first post to the forum just to introduce myself as a new member, so please be gentle with me! Although I've just joined, I'm a long time P.W.B enthusiast. My name is Paul Rowan and I live in Northeast London, about a five minute bus- ride from Richard Graham, although we have never met.
I've been reading the posts to the forum for a while and hope I'll be able to contribute something positive to the discussions.
Regards, Paul.........
1st August 2006 From Bill Hunt.
Subject: RE: Greetings to the Group.
Hello Paul,
Welcome to the Group!... All are likely to benefit from shared experiences, so don't be backward in relating your own!... Bill.
1st August 2006 From PS Gary.
Subject: Welcome, Paul.
It's always encouraging to have a new member. The more the merrier in spreading the Gospel of Belt. Gary
2nd August 2006 From Ken.
Subject: "iPod" improvement pack .
Hello All.
I have been very impressed indeed with the MP3 improvement pack. It brings together a set of P.W.B. foils and cream derived from years of research at a very reasonable price. It is enough to treat three devices.
I treated my Creative Audio Zen Vision. The interesting thing is that I was already very pleased with this miniature music/photo library. The sound was good and the pictures too.
I simply wasn't prepared for what happens when you use the improvement pack.
1. The instrument separation increased.
2. The volume was louder at the same setting.
3. The lyrics were much more intelligible.
4. Johnny Cash on Orange Blossom Special was in the peak of his form. I could hear the slight squeak when he touched the bridge of his guitar without yet playing a note, then the notes themselves.
I think the most important overall impression is that the experience of listening was 10 times more enjoyable. This last point is hard to analyse or put into words.
These improvement packs could not have come along at a better time with the ever-increasing popularity of the little music libraries we take everywhere with us.
Kind regards Ken.
4th August 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: Hi-Fi News.
Tom,
I also saw the article in the 'new look' HFN. The lady in question is new to the magazine and I have no idea of her hi-fi pedigree. I don't know where the impetus for her experiment with P.W.B ideas came from, but we can only hope that she is unbiased in her findings.
P.W.B got a mention (page 62) in last months HFN, it's 50th Anniversary edition. It was in a jocular paragraph entitled 'Smelly socks', the substance of which was that Peter Belt was involved in an experiment with four rooms at the HFN Show. One of the rooms had been Belted and there was some sort of attempt to identify which room was the one that had been treated. Essentially, the experiment failed, as the findings were coloured by the fact that one of the rooms was found to be 'contaminated' by the presence of a pair of very smelly socks, which had been left in the bottom of the wardrobe by the previous occupant! All very funny in the scheme of things but the opening sentence of the paragraph seemed, to me, rather scathing. I quote.' All the really big lies are founded on a grain of truth….'
I don't know whether or not Peter or May recollect the incident. I haven't seen any mention of it on the forum.
On the subject of the forum, may I take the opportunity to welcome Paul. Come on in, the water is warm, the fish are inquisitive and friendly.
Regards to all, Brian
3rd August 2006 From Michael Barham.
Subject: first post...
Hello everyone,
This is my first posting to this group although, like Paul, I have been using P.W.B.'s foils, creams and devices for a number of years. I have been reading the messages posted to this forum for a long time and up until now didn't have anything specific to say. Now I have....
Have recently extended my house and so had massive disruption from builders. They have finally gone and we are slowly getting the house how we want it. So today I have been putting yellow Magnadiscs in all the door frames and have started putting green discs on ceilings, windows and mirrors. I haven't seen many posts about the Magnadiscs and my question is what have other P.W.B users found to be the most effective place for sticking them on mirrors? Does it have to be on the glass - where they are very obvious? Or could it be on the back of the mirror for example, or on the edge of the frame - where they would be less obvious?
Be very grateful for any advice.
Many thanks, Michael
4th August 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: "iPod" improvement pack.
Ken,
I, too, am impressed that P.W.B have come out with this pack. I will get one just to have the foils for use on places that I've missed. However, the Quantum Foil and Cream takes priority in up and coming purchases.
To date I have shied clear of the MP3 players, but may get one in the near future. I am glad to see that you have the Zen instead of the iPod. After doing a bit of reading up, that would be my choice, too.
Your mention of Johnny Cash reminded me that it's funny how one's tastes in music changes and broadens with age and experience. Johnny and Dino and Nat were all artistes that my parents liked. When I was younger, if it wasn't The Beatles, Stones or anything prog, it wasn't any good. Ah, the arrogance of youth!
I picked up a double CD of Johnny Cash in Fopp a while ago, for the princely sum of £3, having heard some of his more up-to date, Rick Rubin produced, stuff over at Big Rob's. There's some cracking stuff on it .( NB I do draw the line at The Carpenters, though!)
Oh, before I go, I need to mention that I have tried copying an original frozen and treated disc using a frozen and treated blank and then re-freezing and defrosting the copy. An A/B session showed that the copy was very good, but not quite as detailed as the original and very slightly lacking in control. Not a huge difference, but one nevertheless.
A question for those of you with cameras. My Canon EOS350D camera is foiled and creamed. I keep an 81B filter on my lenses, firstly to protect the front element from scratches ( it's cheaper to replace a scratched filter...) and secondly, it helps to slightly warm up the images. Has anyone tried using Morphic Liquid on their cameras? What I'm worried about is whether or not there may be any residue left, even after wiping. I'd be grateful for any comments.
Regards to all, Brian.
5th August 2006 From Bill Hunt.
Subject: Re: "iPod" improvement pack.
Hello Brian,
Whilst I evidently do not share your approach re photography (my favourite camera - I have 18 - is one of my three 1970s Konica Auto S2s) in that I not only still favour the old-fashioned 35mm film format, but vastly prefer the handling characteristics of traditional "range-finder" cameras), your query prompted the reaction that I personally would not put any avoidable coating on any surface directly affecting the image seen by the lens...
This leaves the observation that surely there is very large scope for applying Morphic cream or other treatments to just about every other area of your camera... As with the "photo in freezer" scenario, applications apparently have a large physical area where the effects of application are experienced, so with your camera the few inches that would be the largest space between the active camera components and treated areas should surely not present much of a problem?... As always, if others disagree I would welcome hearing their views...
Have happy times, enjoy good music, and take good photographs!...
Bill.
5th August 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Hi-Fi News.
Brian,
I will try to tell the story (to the best of my recollection) of the four room experiment in the next Newsletter. It was an interesting time in the history of audio. Nowadays, it seems that it is very much like a 'dog worrying at a bone' - the people involved in audio appear to have to mention Peter's name (cannot ignore him) but can only now mention him in terms of dismissing him or ridiculing him.
Yes, it will be interesting to see just how Janine Elliot approaches the subject of P.W.B. techniques and, more importantly, how Hi-Fi News handles what she might have to say if her reaction is positive. It took many months for Jimmy Hughes to get HIS article on Peter's freezing technique published in the Audiophile magazine back in 1993 !!
Regards, May
5th August 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: "iPod" improvement pack.
Hi Bill,
Thanks for your reply. I won't be doing anything to my filters. Better safe than sorry, I suppose.
I note what you say about cameras. I have owned 35mm cameras in the past but have usually sold/traded them in when upgrading and also when I crossed over to digital . I have seen quite a lot of range-finder images in the various mags and they are usually superb.
The digital versus film debate rolls ever on, but that's for another time and place. As an aside, I usually check out photo. net for examples and ideas. There's also The Luminous Landscape.
Happy listening and clicking, Brian
5th August 2006 From Kevin Kehoe.
Subject: Re: first post....
Michael,
It was Magnadiscs and Ring Ties that first alerted me to how important it is to treat the environment as well as the equipment producing the sound and vision. I have many of those Discs in use but, I have not had the courage to attach them in quite such a prominent position as the main mirrors about the house. I have so far managed to get away with attaching various Foils to the extreme corners of double glazed windows and even to the margin around the TV screen – ours is still the glass tube type – I would not attempt this kind of thing on the new plasma type screens or the PC flat screen monitor. Except for the bathroom mirror, where it was possible to attach a disc directly to the back (perfectly acceptable I Believe), I content myself with a treatment of Electret Cream as well as a tiny dab of Green Cream. I have also took on the responsibility of keeping all the mirrors and the TV screen clean, which I do with Morphic Liquid and P.W.B pen marked tissues followed by use of the Clip. I too would be interested to know if there is anything further that can be done regarding mirrors and glass in general.
The Green discs attached to the ceilings can be improved (and disguised) by attaching a White disc over the top and all hand held remote control units have Red discs attached as well as Black ones (The black ones should always be attached to a separate area and not in contact with any other device). I also have a Red disc attached to an unobtrusive area of all the hot water radiators.
When we moved to our present house almost six years ago, the sound compared to what it was in the previous house (with quite a lot of treatments) seemed thin and diluted with quite a loss of impact. It all came back to normality (and more so) over time as treatments such as those described were carried out.
Regards, Kevin Kehoe.
6th August 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Magnadiscs.
Michael,
I would suggest that you place the Green Magnadisc on the face of the mirror, or if that is not acceptable then on the rear of the mirror rather than on the frame.
Regards, May
7th August 2006 From James Takamatsu.
Subject: Foil application.
Hi All-
What do you find to be the most effective place to attach the Inside foil? I was planning on using it on my CD/DVD player's tray- but should I place the foil on the tray where the disc sits or underneath the tray? Also, in treating a photograph with Real foil, do the foil strips need to be on the image part of the photo or can it be on the blank spaces near the edge?
BTW, by far the best area I've tried the Safe Hole foil was on the inside of the main electrical circuit breaker box cover- great 3-dimensionality and spaciousness to the sound, and vivid, eye-popping images on video (which actually had to be toned-down by treating other surfaces with Cream Electret). The house's breaker box is located outside the home, at the farthest corner from my listening room.
Thanks, James Takamatsu
7th August 2006 From: John
Subject: Re: Foil application.
James,
I have placed the foil on the tray where the disc fits as I figured that then the spinning disc gets the benefit as well as the player -my sound is improved so.....
I tend not to get too hung up about absolute positioning of foils, IMO its more important that the foil is attached to an object thus treating it, rather than where on that object it is attached. The exception to this is of course when I am covering the compact disc or dvd logos on discs with foils.
John
31st August 2006 From Richard Graham
Subject: Hi-Fi News Column.
Well, much to my surprise, we have another reference to Peter's work in Janine Elliot's column. Janine seems to have a significantly lighter touch than many writers, and she clearly displays a knowledge and authority that would be hard to equal.
I think it might be helpful for as many of us as possible to send Hi-Fi News an e-mail, praising the changes, enthusing about Janine's column, and asking for more from her. Given that her witty style is undoubtedly aimed at bypassing censorship, we perhaps shouldn't just focus on the P.W.B references, but on her openness to the quirky aspects of the audio industry. Hi-Fi News must know that this is of interest to many readers.
Any mails from outside the United Kingdom would be especially welcome.
The nicest reference to Peter since the great days of Hi-Fi Answers under Keith Howard's editorship?
Richard
11th September 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Fuses.
For those of you with the new Newsletter, you will have read about my escapades with a soldering iron, and Green Cream. I have now had a chance to fully evaluate my super-light bulbs in more depth, and frankly, they're not bad. But fuses!!!
I destroy the glass ones every time with Smart Metal, but I will not give up. And so I am looking at some ceramic options e.g. Hi-Fi Tuning ones, in lovely silver and gold. Anyone have any experience of the smaller fuses and Smart Metal.
Richard
12th September 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Newsletter.
The last week or so has provided me with two very welcome events. One was the receipt of the Newsletter and the other was a supply of the Morphic Green Cream. Now, the conspiracy theorist in me suspects that Richard's article in the Newsletter may have had something to do with the supply of the Cream, or vice versa. Hmmm.
Nevertheless, trying out the cream in the suggested positions has led to great results. There has been greater presence in the vocal range and a deeper, tighter bottom end. Also, small finger cymbals in one of my test tracks took on a greater clarity. Everything seemed to flow so easily. I'm not sure about the soundstage yet , it will need some more listening
I had smeared a small amount on the TV screen and on the living room mirror and the picture on the TV is far better than before. I don't know if anyone in the UK has noticed, but the early morning BBC News picture is so pin-sharp and the colours are very well saturated. I don't know if they are mucking around with trailing HD broadcasts, as I do not have an HD ready TV. I have read somewhere that HD pictures can be transmitted and non-HD ready TVs just down-sample them.
The car did not escape my efforts, as I used some cream on the fascia and on the auto-changer, which lives under the passenger seat. In fact, the car system was the first area to be listened to, as I had no real time to listen to my system the night before. I am pleased to report that the sound was far better than before and took on a greater three-dimensionality. I was listening to Procol Harum 'An Anthology' and, when Gary Brooker sang ' All hands on deck, the Captain cried', you could almost smell the spray and hear the mutterings of the crew. 'Watch out for that seagull, it's right above you' Splatt!! 'Whoops, too late!'
I, for one, will be sending for the Portable Pack, not to treat a portable but to get my hands on more of that nice Green Cream. It will also enable me to try some new foils. If I can keep a steady hand, I should be able to get four bits out of each strip, one each for pre-amp, CD player and the two main speakers.
Regards to all, Brian
September 2006 From Paul Rowan.
Subject: RE: Fuses.
Hi Richard,
I've also found those little internal fuses a bugger to treat. For things like plug pins and wires, I use a 30 watt soldering iron; for small delicate fuses - a 15 watt iron. When I need to smart solder the small fuses I buy a couple of spares first, just in case.
I roughen the ends first with either sandpaper or emery paper or a small file. I then try to keep the hot iron on the fuse for as short a time as possible, maybe a second or two.
With plug pins I roughen them first as well.
If you get some spare fuses, you need to get the same type as well as power.
Some fuses are slow blow, others are long blow. Most electrical shops will have a supply of different types and voltages.
Best Wishes, Paul Rowan
13th September 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Hi-Fi News Column.
Thank you Arkie for providing a link to the Hi-Fi News article. As some of you will have seen when you link to it, unfortunately the article is white lettering on a black background - extremely difficult to read !!
I have therefore given below some relevant quotes from Janine's two articles.
In the August 2006 issue of Hi-Fi News, under her "Hi-Fi Confidential " column, Janine Elliot wrote :-
"Now, as I said from the start, I won't judge anything until I have tried it.
So, following the lead of Peter Belt from P.W.B (famous for unconventional and debatable methods of perceived sound improvement) who suggests that CDs and equipment benefit from being kept overnight in the freezer, I now plan to place my amplifier in a plastic bag in said freezer and, following their freezing/slow defrost procedure and coating it in their Cream-Electret, will see how it sounds. I'll tell you the results next month."
Then, in this month's (September 2006) issue, under her "Hi-Fi Confidential" column, Janine Elliot has written :-
"Last month I discussed Peter Belt's (P.W.B) freezing process. I tried it on a NAD phono-stage (couldn't fit my Krell inside the freezer compartment !) And found slightly more control and bass, though I need to do substantial tests before I'll believe it."
The Hi-Fi News e-mail address is :-
hi-finews@ipcmedia.com
Kind Regards, May
16th September 2006 From "cico_buff"
Subject: The ups and downs of labels and messages
Just when I think I can no longer be surprised by these Beltist experiments, it happens again.... I've recently been experimenting with, among many other things, equipment labels and impromptu 'morphic' messages. The labels themselves are fascinating to experiment with, because you have to completely abandon all rules of known logic, and feel your way in the dark (sort of like a trip to the fun house at the amusement park, except you get better sound by the time you get out of it). So far, I've deduced that "the universe" (as I like to think of it...) doesn't like Compact Disc logos. Okay, that one was obvious, we already know this from foiling CD's.
But it also doesn't like caution and warning labels (scary, scary stuff to our primitive minds...). That's also obvious, isn't it? With "safe holes" and all... Anyone care to guess at power specifications?
Usually, this can be eradicated (or crossed out or covered up) as well, to good benefit. What about model no.'s? I'm currently leaning towards not covering them up. Covering them up produced a tighter, brighter, thinner, more laid back sound, with good timbre, but nevertheless, not quite as "musical" to my taste as leaving it uncovered. And serial no.'s? Undecided! Brand names? Definitely don't like being covered or removed! There's other text that you find at the back of equipment, which to me is (currently) on a case by case (or line by line!) basis.
In the same vein as the labels, its always fascinating the first time you experiment with messages, and see how the power of words can change the listening experience. Once you get over the idea that your words can have a direct correlation to the reproduction of music, and that each message has its own particular sound (even the same message written slightly differently!), then the fun is to see which messages have the most powerful positive effect on the sound. One that I found worked better than the more common x-coordinates or "sound has priority", was "This (brand name) (machine; i.e... "player") produces excellent sound > O.K.". My ears told me reinforcing the brand is good. But I wanted to see if I could do better! So I came up with:
"THIS (brand name, model no.) PLAYER HAS INCREDIBLY GOOD SOUND! > O.K."
I thought the exclamation point and the phrase "incredibly good" would emphasize things just that much better (I later used 3 exclamation points in subsequent tries!!! <--). I also made sure the brand and model were larger and more emphasized than other words. Before I applied the label, I even imagined how the sound might improve. After I applied the label, the improvement was perhaps more than I imagined! Well, it was at least different than I imagined, but definitely a major improvement over version 1.0 of this morphic message.
I applied one to each tray of a 12-cd changer (which uses 2 cassettes), determining the best location was clearly just below the centre opening, on the south side of the underside of the tray. With each application, the sound improved, but after I'd done all 12 trays, I knew something had gone astray somewhere, because I had better sound before. Reversing my procedure, I determined 7 labels was just enough, because more was overkill.
Now knowing that x-coordinates work well on cables, I later applied my lengthy message to the centre of various bundles of wires within the CD player, to good effect (wrapping it around and having it join at the ends). But things only got -really- interesting when I moved the label up toward the input end of the bundle (which was going into the display unit on the front of the player, with the other end connected to the pcb). What really seemed to make the difference, was when I pointed the tail end of this label loop down toward the floor of the unit.
That changed everything! It created a very dark, rich, beguiling sound, that totally did away with the need to analyze things like bass, treble, depth, soundstaging, timbre... even musicality. You just knew it was 'right' by how natural it sounded, and free of Hi-Fi artifacts. Problem is, it halted all further experiments on the player. Yes, I continued fixing labels to many known "good areas", and whatnot, but after this last change, everything I did, even if it increased detail or resolution or musicality, was a return to the common "Hi-Fi sound". So I stopped work on the unit so as not to destroy the magic. Because I couldn't be sure if pointing the label downward was responsible for the positive change, I tried it again with another label and indeed, it was! Fascinating stuff...
cico_buff
18th September 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: Fuses.
Thanks Paul.
I had another go, and just kept destroying the fuses. I could order a 15 watt iron, but am very impressed with the results of my treated iron on other bulbs and fuses, and can't really justify treating another iron to such a level just now.
So, I thought I'd try one of those HiFi-Tuning Fuses just to see if it can be done. It could turn out to be a very expensive mistake, but then if it works....
I would also add that for those that only think of fuses in plugs or equipment, I think you will find others in switch boxes for lighting etc.. My treated 13 amp fuses are wonderful in these settings too.
I just keep think that there must be other applications for Smart Metal.
Richard
17th September 2006 From Kevin Kehoe.
Subject: Treatments to the home environment.
Dear All,
A few weeks ago, we decided to take up the carpet in the lounge and replace it with laminate flooring. The carpet was as new when we moved in and had been fitted by the previous owners. Although we did not care much for the colour, we put up with it until now. Last weekend, we stripped out the carpet and underlay and removed it to the local tip. I then removed the skirting boards and at the same time, took the opportunity to re locate some power sockets. In each socket cavity I placed an Inside Foil and a Silver Rainbow Foil and, at the same time, whilst the power was off, treated the grey outside insulated sheath of the twin and earth power cable with a tiny dab of Green Cream and Clipped. I then treated all the floorboards in the room to a dab of Cream Electret and a Clipping. Before putting down the levelling and insulating underlay, I treated each of those to a dab of Cream Electret and a Clipping. When It came to the laminate flooring itself, I used the Red 'X' Pen on the down facing surface of every laminate strip fitted. On to each I wrote 'x 26 'x and on many of the them I also added 'X = Present Time. I also added a dab of Cream Electret to each before Clipping. The skirting boards got the pen and cream treatment too – and a Clipping. One week later and with everything back in its proper place, we finally got the TV back on. And this is where the fun starts! I had fully expected to hear some sound changes if only because the floor would now be more sound 'reflective' and perhaps a more reverb enhanced sound would emerge. But not a bit of it. First off though, the picture was remarkable for it's extra colour saturation and sheer brilliance of light and darks – reflections off nearby objects was now much more noticeable on the faces of actors for instance. But the sound was a revelation. I am nearly always left groping for the correct term to describe sound lifts but, quite simply, clarity and perceived extra loudness would go some way to fit the bill. The background sound level seems to have pushed upward so that detail such as the clinking of glasses and general hubbub in soaps and plays takes on an extraordinary reality. But the best bit came when I played a CD on the hi-fi in the adjoining room! Quite simply, it is the best sound lift I have ever achieved 'off my own bat' as it were. It equates to the sort of thing I have heard in the past when I have received a new P.W.B product. Once again, it goes to show just how much the whole home environment affects our ability to perceive sound and vision. Not only that, I am very, very pleased with myself right now and off to play some more discs!
Regards to all, Kevin Kehoe.
18th September 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: Re: Fuses.
Richard ,
I had good results when I did all the radiators with Smart-Metalled magnets. If anyone has a garage ( I seem to remember you saying that you live in a flat), then treated magnets on any metal doors, and the runners, is of benefit. The same goes for Dexion or any other metal racking.
Would the car battery terminals take a treatment? (You'd probably have to take off and re-apply the gunk that is on most car battery terminals.) What about any reachable wiring in the car?
Regards, Brian
20th September 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: Fuses.
Thanks Brian,
I already have loads of them little magnets, and although I suspect I could now make better ones, the current ones are very good, especially with a dab of Green cream. You may also know that Smart Metal works just as well on the magnets of speakers, though I tend to open them up less these days to do such things.
As for the car, I just applied Foils to the battery and other parts e.g. the doors, though you can also apply magnets to the metal panels where they won't get dislodged and cause damage (i.e.. not near the engine).
A special silver fuse is coming....
Richard
20th September 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: Treatments to the home environment.
Kevin,
I am not surprised by this, and recently had a similar moment. I was putting some holiday stuff in the loft, and noticed the exposed cables for the lighting circuit, plus the labels and foils stuck on the water tank. I put a dab of Green Cream on each cable and on the labels and foils on the water tank, Clipped them all, and then re- Clipped as many wooden beams as I could. Result - well, the colours on the TV seemed like HD, such was the richness and subtle shading.
Richard
8th October 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Holiday experience.
Dear All,
Peter and I are back from a late summer holiday - and, on reading Kevin's recent posting, when he described how the TV picture had improved after his latest P.W.B treatments, I was reminded of something which happened during our holiday.
As I described a couple of years ago, when on holiday we rent a seaside apartment or house. These holiday rental properties usually have just the basic TV and video recorder/player and the house we rented this time was no exception. But, Peter can never go away on holiday without a few devices to 'treat' where we are going to live !! - even for a short time !!
This holiday one of our sons and his wife decided to join us for an extended weekend and, one evening, quite unexpectedly, his wife suddenly asked if we had noticed just how good the TV picture was from the old Samsung TV in the house. Our daughter in law pointed out to us that, in her opinion, the quality of the TV picture was as good as (or might even be better) than the much newer flat screen TV they had at home. Peter and I looked at each other and laughed. Our daughter in law had not realised that she was actually watching TV in a P.W.B 'treated' room !!!
So, even our own family can be taken by surprise.
May.
17th October 2006 From Michael.
Subject: Disappointing Upgrade Audition.
As regular readers will know, I have been getting my audio kicks from an extremely cheap ,heavily belted system. Do we become accustomed to our superior sound?, I think maybe we do-Anyway of late, I have been seriously considering a major Amp upgrade-Perhaps haunted by Richard Graham's comment about a treated, cheap system sounding great, but a treated, High end system sounding sublime. Anyway, to the gist of my post-Last Sat. I visited a Hi-Fi dealer ,armed with 3 of my fav. treated CD's to audition a Musical Fidelity A5 Amp-250 Watts per ch., rave reviews from Hi-Fi press, and happy owners. The A5 was hooked up to an A5 CD player, and voiced thru a pair of Focal JM lab speakers-All in all ,close to a UK 6,000 pound system.
Was I blown away?
Did I quickly take out my chequebook to buy said Amp?
No, No, I didn't, in fact I was completely UNDER whelmed by the sound.
Obviously, it did sound better than my el cheapo system, but by the smallest margin, certainly not the obviously brilliant sound I had expected, judging by the reviews I had read. I still intend to upgrade the Amp, perhaps something classy like a Primare I30, but I shall also be contacting May for a few items to bring the new amp up to my P.W.B inspired expectations.
Michael...
18th October 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: I have given up.
What have I given up, you may ask? Well, it's looking on the Forum and the Newsletters for the kind person who wrote suggesting the use of white 2.5mm twin and earth cable in lieu of Spiratube on wide bore pipes. I can't find it mentioned anywhere. Whoever you are, thank you very much.
Please don't get me wrong., if there was a proprietary P.W.B device I'd use it. However, the 12mm Spiratube doesn't go anywhere near the 22mm pipes going into and out of my Combi-boiler. I didn't have any spare electrical cable at home but I managed to blag some from a pal at work. I foiled, creamed and red-penned the cable and wrapped it round the pipes (about 18in gives you 5 or 6 turns). It was then left to 'bed in' overnight.
Next day and the system is fired up. Changes? You bet! You can see into the soundstage much more and, on a track from The Transatlantic Sessions, you had a real idea of what player was playing where. It appeared that the flat steel guitar was being played at an angle to the front of stage and not flat on, as heard before.
What was most evident was what I would call 'speed'. There was more attack on plucked guitar on the John Martyn 'Solid Air' track and on EC's 'I don't want to go to Chelsea' the drums fairly rattled along, lending the track much more urgency. In fact, I left that CD on right to the end.
The low bass notes on Massive Attack's 'Inertia creeps' were lower and tighter than before. They also stayed in place, rather than wafting out as they had done many moons ago, pre Belt. What I'm trying to say is that the concrete floor, and myself, still vibrates but there is more of a sense of precision.
What surprised me was 'Keep on Chooglin' a live track on the John Fogerty/CCR disc. It starts out with crowd noise and then, after a bit of guitar noodling, explodes into the music. What was noticeable from the start was that there was a real sense of the hall acoustic. If that sort of thing carries on I may have to listen to some Classical stuff!! (Seriously, though, any recommends on a good CD recording of Faure's Requiem? I've lost my Penguin Guide. No, I'm not standing on an ice floe looking for a small black and white bird…)
Great, I thought, I'll tackle that pipe in the garage that looks like a gas pipe ( it goes into the gas meter, there's a clue). I'd used up all the donated cable on three pipes, so had to try to get some more. At the local lighting shop the lady tells me that the EEC regulations have been changed and that you can't get white cable any more, it's got to be grey with markings on. (The thought of that running along on surface runs does not appeal!). Luckily, I spotted an odd bit of white cooker cable lying at the back of the counter and bought that. At home it was creamed, foiled, red- penned and frozen, then applied to the pipe. I left things to bed in overnight and next day, another listening session. I could sense a small improvement, but not as significant as before. Hmm. I think that water pipes respond much more to treatment than gas ones. Why? I don't know, but they do. It's probably still worth treating both, as they are both part of your environment.
Normally, I would give it all a bit more time but I've just received my order for the Portable Pack and some Quantum Foils and Cream and I am champing at the bit to get going again.
Regards to all, Brian
19th October 2006 From A. Martherus.
Subject: Re: I have given up.
That was me and you are welcome.
An extra advice: if you buy any cable, you should take a piece of sand- paper to "wipe" away all the printing on that cable.
Kind regards Arkie Martherus. The Netherlands
21st October 2006 From Kevin Kehoe.
Subject: Re: I have given up.
Brian,
I have a recording of the Faure and Durufle Requiems by the Choir of New College Oxford with Capricorn and David Burchel,organ Directed by Edward Higginbottom. CRD 3466.
I purchased it on recommendation many years back and was one of the discs I have used as a sort of control listen (as well as for pleasure) following Belt treatments. I now play it for pure pleasure on a regular basis – as I do all the other discs that I had originally intended to use to keep track of how the sound was improving. This particular disc has opened up over the years and revealed a wealth of sound detail that had previously seemed masked. Separation of the individual groups of male singers from the orchestra and the beautiful and delicate voice of the boy soloist Jerome Finnis in Pie Jesu is now far more easily discerned. As I am not that well informed on classical music, I do not have any idea how this recording stands in relation to the many currently available. I have now got so used to this particular recording that I could hardly imagine enjoying any other version.
Regards, Kevin Kehoe.
23rd October 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: YMMV.
Curious thing... I was treating my turntable today in 'Beltist ways', and really digging how far I had taken it, sound wise. Very musical, very captivating. I was apprehensive about continuing further, because good sound can be like a house of cards. I didn't want to ruin it with anything unproven or hard to reverse. So I took out the Cream Electret, and started applying it in small dose with my pinky finger to what I believed were safe places (aka "hot spots"); the pickup housing, the headshell & its screws, the back of the tonearm base, a part of the underside of the tonearm, and over the two labels I applied. I remembered to touch the cap to most of the parts I had creamed. After this, I rubbed my pinky on a bit of the plinth, such as on the silk screening, although there was probably nothing left at this point.
Put the record on, sound was worse. So not what I expected. I thought maybe this was a "more is better" thing, where it would all click in if I continued a bit further. With a tiny bit more cream, I rubbed it over other potential secondary hotspots; the label at the back, the power cord (where it goes into the turntable), a tiny bit on the outside connector housing at the end of the phono cables, rubbing off any possible residue on the silkscreening (i.e... 45/33 rpm).
Sound got worse still. Now I wasn't so captivated by it any longer (loss of musicality), and surface noise was a bit more prominent. Now I know the Cream Electret is a product that works and works well, at least it did on my speaker drivers. But this isn't the first time I've used it on cartridges and other tt parts without good results.
I'm not sure if it might be me applying it wrong or if I'm applying it to the wrong parts, or if it isn't that suitable for turntables for some reason (doubtful...). Any clues?
cico_buff.
23rd October 2006 From James Takamatsu.
Subject: Re: YMMV
Since receiving my P.W.B portable Improvement Pack I started treating some of my friends' systems- most notably iPod and car systems. For one car system the P.W.B treatments were just one level of improvement building upon another. With each successive application of foils and cream the system sounded better- cleaner, airier, more three dimensional. The last round of treatment incorporated rainbow foil inside the door jambs of the four doors- the result was bigger, bolder sound and an increase in dynamics.
In another car, however, the results were more "hit or miss". Some things improving and some getting worse. I believe, in general, the application of other P.W.B treatments (rather than just using cream Electret, try rainbow or morphic foils) to restore balance and improve on the good sound you had before. The sound of this car- after 3 rounds of treatments, is very open and unforced. The car's owner is quite pleased (although there is still room for improvement).
On a turntable (as a passive device, not as a source), I've tried freezing components of the turntable- platter, hinges, etc.- don't know if I would freeze a fragile phono cartridge though- foil and cream many other parts, smart metal on the ends of the plugs. I would try different P.W.B products instead of just one- as I E-mailed May Belt recently, I think standard rainbow foil is way underrated- fantastic on bar codes- and Safe Hole and Inside morphic foils are among my favorites.
Sincerely, James Takamatsu
23rd October 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: YMMV
Cico,
I've experienced 'set backs' a couple of times before and have found that placing a Silver Rainbow Foil in an untreated area worked. It may have something to do with the odd/even thing.
Most times , when I do a lot of Belting, I let things settle, usually until the next day. I reason (rightly or wrongly) that there are some things that are not immediate and that they take time to work through the system.
Some things are pretty immediate though. For instance I had a 'Wow' moment when I pinned back one corner of the living room curtains. I fairly raced round the house doing the other ones after that!
Another weird one is that the TV upstairs has benefited more from treatments done elsewhere than the one in the living room.
Regards, Brian
24th October 2006 From A Martherus
Subject: Re: YMMV
Cico, have you tried to "tap your telephone?".
Phone yourself and when the beeping starts, tap the microphone in the telephone horn with your Red 'X pen.
This "aligns" all P.W.B.-treatments.
A. Martherus.
24th October 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Re: YMMV
Brian,
When I used the cream in the past, on things like my tweeter, the area near the input jacks on a CD player or an empty CD case (!), it always worked to great effect, and the improvements were immediately noticeable. I understand that a SRF in an untreated area will improve things, but the question is, is it improving things as it normally would, or going far beyond because of the presence of the cream (even though the cream didn't work before the SRF). When something doesn't work or doesn't work well for me, I know its not due to the product itself, but to where I've applied it. This is how I learn about where the "hot spots" are on a given piece of equipment. But curiously, in this case, I was applying CE on at least some of the hot spots that worked for other treatments. So I was wondering if someone had used the cream successfully on a turntable, and if so, what locations worked well. The pickup seemed a natural place to start, but perhaps it isn't. And I can't say I've had much success with the lid, either.
I tried forming a cross on the inside centre with SRF, but didn't find a real improvement there.
I removed the CE with a wet rag, best I could, and although it restored some of the original good sound, it was never quite what I had originally achieved. (It didn't help that I further degraded the sound by playing around with the tightening of the screws on the tonearm mounting base... after I learned the thread shaft is made of plastic, and apparently, wasn't designed to have its screws removed). However, I soldiered on with other treatments and despite the setbacks, got the table to a very nice level of sound quality, beautiful and emotional, and quite acceptable to my ears. I sold it yesterday eve, and despite the presence of a budget pickup that was nearing 25 years old, the buyer was very surprised at how good it sounded.
Some things are pretty immediate though. For instance I had a 'Wow' moment when I pinned back one corner of the living room curtains. I fairly raced round the house doing the other ones after that!
Yeah, I also had that 'wow' moment pinning back a corner of the curtains (did you know the effect can be increased, the larger you make the corner?). Had another one when I removed the videotapes from the room.
cico_buff.
24th October 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Re: YMMV
"Cico, have you tried to "tap your telephone?. Phone yourself and when the beeping starts, tap the microphone in the > telephone horn with your Red 'X pen. This "aligns" all P.W.B.-treatments."
Interesting... that I didn't really know (although I seem to remember reading something about this telephone trick in the archives). I'll try it sometime, but as the turntable is already gone, I'll have to try it after other treatments.
I can't imagine how Peter would have discovered that.. Which reminds me... I may have discovered a new trick with the pen, while working on this tt yesterday. I used my red pen to mark one of the blades of the turntable's plug (at the end of the AC cord, 110v type) for correct polarity. Since this plug had two blades of equal size, it can be inserted either way into a standard NA electrical outlet, which means only one way yields correct polarity and proper sound.
So in order to identify the correct polarity, after listening to both ways, I marked what should be the "wide plug" on the outside of the plug blade with the word "WIDE" and an arrow ">" at the tip that is inserted into the outlet, using the red pen. To my surprise, the marking of the blade also made a terrific improvement to the sound. (I'm going to try it on other equipment to confirm it was the marking that improved the sound).
cico_buff.
25th October 2006 From: P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: New Article - MUSICWEB International.
Dear All
For your interest, there has just been published a surprise article on the Internet magazine MUSICWEB International.
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2006/Oct06/Brain_Cramp.htm
Kind Regards, May
25th October 2006 From Graham.
Subject: Re: Disappointing Upgrade Audition.
Michael,
Two comments regarding your experience at the Hi-Fi dealers.
1. In the past I have always taken the main parts of my system with me (Speakers, CD Player etc..)
2. Ask the dealer if you can borrow the equipment to listen in your home environment. I bought speakers and amps that way.
I think you will always be disappointed auditioning in an untreated (P.W.B) environment.
Graham
26th October 2006 From Michael.
Subject: Update on upgrade
Hello All, first off, what an encouraging article by Bill Kenny-on a funny note, on first glance at the article, I thought the author's name was Brian Cramp!!! - I must be doing too many 12 hour shifts saving for the new amp!
Thanks for the comments, Graham. I think I had it in the back of my mind that I was listening to a beltless sound and tried to adjust my perception of what the A5 amp would sound like based of what I had read about it. The sound I heard, while not at all offensive, just wasn't any where near as exciting as I expected. On a brighter note, I did get a Primare A30.1 100 watt int. amp for the weekend. As others here have done ,I decided against applying any belting to the loan unit, although I did use a belted and frozen power cord. The sound was quite incredible without belting-I had several Belt like revelations about familiar tunes-suddenly finding yourself inside the music and hearing ghost notes etc. that made more sense of the tune. Needless to say I have settled on a Primare I30( the newer model) and shall order one shortly. Interestingly, the Primare only has three feet.............
Michael.
30th October 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: By the pricking of my thumbs.
Something wicked this way comes?
Well, it's black.
After months of careful experimentation, something comes. More later...
Richard
30th October 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: More Red Pen Fun.
I mentioned the last time about using the red pen to write the word "WIDE" on the wide plug blade of a standard NA 110v/120v plug, plus drawing an arrow at the tip was something that I observed having improved the sound (but I did not write this with the intention of improving the sound). Further experiments showed me that it was the word "WIDE" that was doing it, and the arrow was not really helping (I was more inclined to believe it was the arrow, because I couldn't see how the word "wide" was anything special or particularly positive).
I knew it was probably the red ink more than anything, so instead of a word, I simply drew a squiggly stripe down the centre of the blade (across the hole at the tip to the end of the blade). That really wasn't bad, so I decided to try drawing the same red line down the centre of both plug blades, both sides of the blades, and even across the end where the two sides meet. I only did quick comparisons, but my quick comparison said this was superior to the word "WIDE".
So taking the experiment further, I decided to do other plugs as well, and to make it interesting, I started /upstairs/, on another level of the house! I first did the plug of the portable heater. Indeed, it changed the sound. Then I did the toaster, the microwave oven, and a whole mess of cables going to a computer system, all on the upper level; again they affected the sound of the stereo downstairs. I even did a plug that wasn't plugged in (but I never confirmed if that worked). Then I striped the rest of the plugs the stereo (but I did not do the round ground pin, although I imagine the stripe would work on round pins as well).
The effect was of course, accumulative, so it had a lot of potential to 'uplift' the sound of the stereo. But what was most intriguing to me was that for the first time, I observed this "odd/even rule" that was mentioned to me here recently. Twice I noticed when going back to listen to the effect of the striping that the sound got "better & worse at the same time". More specifically, while resolution might improve, timbre deteriorated to where the mids/highs sounded "zippy" and the sound wasn't natural and effortless. But every time I striped one more plug after hearing this type of sound, it would all click together. The natural timbre would return, with the sound becoming deliciously musical. I tried to keep track of how many I was doing to see how the rule applies, but lost track. I believe that its the odd number of treatments that favours the sound, and an even number that breaks the good sound.
This odd/even rule is fascinating to me, because after seeing that it really exists, I knew that it immediately trashes any number of theories about how this all works. Including the one my friend told me about "ionization". And I believe it also defies Richard's supposition about the brain dealing with too many things at once. Because it isn't a case where things start to get worse after a certain number of treatments, rather its worse/better/worse/better...
It doesn't necessarily negate the theory about the treatments minimizing energy patterns in the environment that have an adverse affect on our senses. Because since this is the quantum world we're talking about, it's a very mysterious world indeed that defies traditional logic (hence the reason most audiophiles think this stuff is hogwash, because they apply traditional means of logic to understand their world, and can't accept the logic behind the truth that there are phenomenon in the universe not yet understandable to us). I wish there were more discussion about the theory so I could hope to understand it better, if only to understand no more than the personal perceptions of others on the phenomenon. It's all good.
cico_buff.
31st October 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Fright Night.
I have read with interest many of the recent postings on attempts to treat the environment, and of the enormous benefits that resulted. Strangely, I have been working in a different direction. I've been thinking about a P.W.B 'Lifestyle' range. A 'fit and forget' approach was my desire, and so found myself quite obsessed with fuses.
Now, I will post more of my adventures with some exotic fuses at some point soon, but on discussing the issue with the powers that be in Leeds, whilst bearing not an inconsiderable amount of scorn for dabbling in the area of electrical equipment, I learnt of something new.
Many of you will know that I become almost psychotic with enthusiasm, earlier this year, about Morphic Green Cream. New Order may have sung in the early '80s 'Everything's Gone Green', but in our case it was true. I just wish it was edible.
But now we're into the black: I find out there is a Black Cream that can be applied to the body of a fuse. I, of course, beg for a sample. A tiny bag arrives, so small that my huge fingers are barely able to retrieve the trace of the new Black Cream. I apply a trace to the barrel of a fuse and sit back....
If there had been a supernatural reason for the improvement in sound, I would have gone for it. The improvement from one treated fuse was frightening, and trounced my efforts with special silver fuses and Smart Metal. The amount of cream applied to achieve this effect seemed unnatural, given the scale of the change. I was also informed that the cream worked well on the electrical insulation covering wires. More improvement, though the shock from the fuse remained.
Many of Peter's critics always think 'trick' rather than 'treat'. Even if a benefit is perceived, the assault on their vanity, on their pride in believing they know their science, cannot tolerate the 'treat'. It is converted into a 'trick'. It is ever tedious. But for the first time in a long while, I was really shaken.
And so my 'foiling-friends', on this night of nights, turn your back on the Green, and beg for some Black. Cream that is.
Richard.
1st November 2006 From Michael.
Hello All
I suspect Richard has been devilishly uninformative. As one who is (or was?) about to order a fresh vat of Morphic Green Cream, I now wonder if I should hold off until this new Black Cream is commercially available.
Is it a replacement for the Green?
Is it the same price as the Green?
Is it available now?
Answers please!!!
Michael...
3rd November 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Black or Green, that is the ?estion!.
Michael, please be assured that the Morphic Green Cream is not being replaced or superseded. The Morphic Green Cream is by far the most effective and most versatile all round Cream.
As many of our customers will already know, if ever any of our products are anticipated to be replaced or superseded, they would be told before or when ordering. We would never supply anything knowing it was due to be replaced or superseded !!
The new Special Black Cream has been specifically designed to 'treat' fuses and the outer insulation of interconnects and cables. At this moment, there are no other areas where it should be used. The Special Black Cream will be supplied in the same small 5 ml jar and at the same price as the Morphic Green Cream.
With your next order, we will supply you with a small sample of the new Special Black Cream.
Kind Regards, May
3rd November 2006 From Brian Hannen.
Subject: Re: Black or Green, that is the ?estion!.
May,
I'm going to be really cheeky here but...
I am just about to order some more SR Foil and another PA Pack( mostly to get some more of that very lovely Green Cream). Does the same offer apply to me?
Kind regards ( in a very grovelling style)
Brian
4th November 2006 From Kevin Kehoe.
Subject: Re: Black or Green that is the ?uestion!.
Dear All,
I have just had a practice Grovell and I think that I will be as good as Brian by the time I am ready to place my next order. I have even started to sharpen up my Pleading technique! How about that Mr Hannen!
........Thinks he can Grovell better than me does he? We'll see about that!
Regards to All......... and you, Brian.
Kevin Kehoe.
4th November 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Black or Green, that is the ?estion.
Of course the same offer applies. Brian, and Kevin, and ?? and ?? and ?? And ??
Although I rather like the idea of a bit of 'grovelling' from time to time.
With affection, May
8th November 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: More on the Black Cream, More on Fuses.
With the excitement of 'all hallows' over, and with the Houses of Parliament still intact, I thought some more description was necessary.
Although grovelling is a pastime I can indulge in, there are times when the parallel art of criticism takes over. Much as I depend upon their efficacy, I don't really like Foils. I prefer labels, ties, creams etc., mainly because they are less fiddley, and less likely to fall off. Saying this, I have yet to find an alternative to the use of Foils on CDs, and see their role as near essential. But I wanted some simpler items to give that longed-for lift to the sound and vision, and became, as you will know, preoccupied with fuses. The small 20mm ones were the challenge, and I wondered whether the silver ones from Hi-Fi Tuning might be easier to apply Smart Metal to. And indeed they were, but as I still managed to damage two 1.6A fuses, I thought about whether there might be another way.
I would say that the application of Purple Ink to the barrel ends, plus Electret and Green Cream, a little Red pen, and freezing, significantly enhanced any fuse, but there was a nagging feeling that more could be done. I tried a 13 amp silver fuse, which confirmed the superiority of silver compared with ordinary fuses (a sweeter sound) but really thought I should consult the oracle.
This is always a fraught business, because the principles by which Peter develops his ideas and products remains obscure (for good reasons) and so I am often asking for things that may be impossible. I mentioned fuses, and there was no immediate 'ah yes!', but then suddenly, out of the blue, Black Cream arrived.
I won't echo my astonishment at this product, but will just describe some further implications. I believe I now appreciate much more the effect of Black Cream on the electrical insulation on cables. As a tiny trace makes a huge difference, I opened up not just equipment, but also the odd wall electrical socket, and put the tiniest trace on the mains circuit cables. Just one trace seems to work on vast lengths. The implications are...
So much to my pleasure, this is a fairly easy product to apply to your headphones' cable, your kettle lead, your TV aerial etc..
I still have more to do, but so far, the sound has become really beautifully transparent. Period instruments have a bite, but also a sweet tunefulness that makes baroque music angelic and pungent and rhythmic.
It's just quite, quite marvellous. No trick.
Richard
8th November 2006 From Tom Marsden.
Subject: Black Cream.
Richard, after reading your very enthusiastic introduction of Black Cream I asked May for a sample. After applying it to a few interconnects I was convinced enough and ordered a jar which has now arrived. I fully endorse your findings for this extraordinary product which defies belief that the smallest smear on a fuse or cable insulation can have such a profound improvement in perceived sound quality. With the introduction of a new P.W.B product my thoughts always return to the same question. How can it possibly happen ? and since it does - what is going on in this world that P.W.B have opened up and what other discoveries are out there? My listening these days tends towards CDs of piano music. Listening last night to a Beethoven sonata that I had played only a few nights ago was a wonderful experience that had every note given an extra special significance. I'm sure everyone who tries the cream will be similarly impressed. The cream is expensive but value wise it is a bargain! Richard in your last posting you mentioned Hi-Fi Tuning silver fuses. I haven't come across these fuses and I'd be grateful if you give me their telephone number.
Regards to all, Tom.
8th November 2006 From Geoff Kait.
Subject: Re: Black Cream.
Q - Can someone please confirm/deny whether the new Black Cream is similar to, the same as, or different from the Black Cream that was supplied along with Red Cream to upgrade the Quantum Clip a while ago? The reason I ask is I still have a wee bit of the "Black Cream" intended for the clip and wonder if I can use that for fuses & cable insulation...
Thanks in Advance - Geoff Kait
9th November 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: Black Cream.
Hi Geoff,
I believe it is different from any previous Black Cream, and Peter has clarified that this new one must not be applied to the Tweezers or Clip. Perhaps May can add something?
Richard
9th November 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: Black Cream.
Hi Tom,
Yup, I ain't making it up. It really works.
As for the silver fuses, I have found Angelsound Audio the best source for the Hi-Fi Tuning fuses, though they can be found elsewhere.
I'd be interested in your views of them. Still, you would not be able to buy many of them for the price of a pot of Black Cream, which would go much further, and on much more. Expensive it might seem, until compared to other products.
Richard
10th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: On Plug Polarity (LONG)
It all started when I decided to "red stripe" all the plugs in my listening room (as I described in a previous message, "More Red Pen Fun"). I listened throughout the process, and it was all progressing as expected, as it did the first time I tried this. I listened again after finishing the job, and although some things had improved, the sound just wasn't right, so not satisfactory (it was more involving before the strip). This was despite me having made sure that the sound wasn't off because of the odd/even rule (you do this by treating one more object). Well I knew the striping thing worked, and from what I heard, I didn't feel this was contributing to the bad sound. So I tried to think of what else I might have done to change the sound negatively.
OK, take plug out, mark plug, put plug in... what else could have changed? How about the polarity, could that be it? I wasn't trying to be careful about putting the plugs back exactly as they came out.
However, living on the 120v system in North America means most new equipment has a wide ("polarized") plug blade, which rules out a polarity problem for most of the plugs in my sound equipment. But what about the other plugs? You know, I've always known that polarity is important in an audio system (audio equipment sounds "right" only when a non-polarized plug is plugged in the right way round). But since I marked ALL the plugs in the listening room, which includes plugs not belonging to audio equipment, does their polarity have an effect on the sound?
Yup, turns it out does! Testing plug after plug showed a consistent change in the characteristic of the sound perceived. The only problem was deciding which was "right". Perhaps the fake Beatle music from the "I Am Sam" soundtrack wasn't the best test record for this, but after I while, I determined that "right" was when the vocals had more of that "in the room" characteristic, even though (much) less subjective detail in the highs, and otherwise more "recessed" in general. And I knew that the polarity in the non-audio plugs was a "Belt effect", because I could sometimes tell that the polarity of the plug was correctly oriented, before even pressing Play on the CD changer. Eventually, each plug was turned (if necessary) to the position that yielded the proper sonic characteristic. But how to ensure it stays that way? That meant I had to mark the plug, and any marking I knew, would affect the sound.
I tried a line going across the middle of the (imaginary) "wide" blade (it made sense to mark the correct orientation by marking the blade that would go into the wide blade of an outlet or extension cord). But that didn't do good things for the sound, and neither did marking the wide blade with two stripes from the red pen. So then I removed the red stripe and put the word "OK" on the (wide) blade (initially, I did not use periods after the letters). Now THAT was a go! It improved the sound from the previous standard to my delighted satisfaction, as well as enabling me to mark the plug blade in a special manner. The marking of orientation on all other non-polarized plugs was done with the word "O.K." (with periods).
Now the only problem was, as my progressive listening showed, the marking of "O.K." on the blades also followed the odd/even rule. Which meant I had to have the right amount of non-polarized plugs in order for the sound to "gel" in the end (or mark one plug from outside the room). During this portion of the experiments, I thought I might be observing another phenomenon. Which is that the "odd/even rule" may not be dependent upon the treatment of objects themselves, but treatments themselves. Meaning that instead of the sound becoming correct only after each other object you treat, it seemed it also applied even if you were treating the same object many times over.
(This is what "appeared" may be happening, from my having switched between the words "O.K." and "GOOD" several times, on the same blade). But there may have been some other reason for the degradation of sound after I applied the word "OK" at one point, so I'm not making any new conclusions about the odd/even rule without at least further experimentation.
Now I had a listening room in which all plugs, belonging to all types of electrical items, had their polarity correctly oriented and the word "OK" on the (non-polarized) "wide" blades. Listening to the system after this project had been completed was an exciting experience. Mind you, the stereo was sounding great before this experiment. So the primary before & after difference was that listening to the stereo after the plug work, only the music mattered. There was no desire to fragment the music in terms of mids/bass/detail etc.. Instead, I found myself head banging to the MOR strains of Katie Melua ("Shy Boy"). After that, switching over to the next disc in the CD changer (Norah Jones, "Dont Know Why"), I got that tingling in the throat and head, that you get when you "feel" the musician's emotional message being transmitted in the music. The change was profound, but superficially, it appeared that detail and openness was better before the project. But when the change produces a deep involvement with even the "boring" tracks on a CD, you know its a good thing. So I have no doubt my little plug project took this system up another level. And it occurred to me of course, if the word "OK" was on all the plug blades, it would probably be far superior to the red stripe that is currently there. But if so, then that still leaves the problem of how to specially identify the correct non-polarized blades, without worsening the sound...
cico_buff
12th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: When O.K. is not O.K. (More on marking)
This is a continuation of my experiments marking (flat 110v type) AC (power) plug blades ("On Plug Polarity"). Which is to say the plugs of all electrical equipment in the household.
This time, it isn't about the polarity of the plug, but simply finding out what "morphic message" worked best on the blades. I knew it had to be short! I felt the original "red stripe" idea could be bettered. I first compared these 3 short & sweet messages: "'x 26 'x", "GOOD", "O.K.". "GOOD" was deemed second best, and "O.K.", if written thickly, sounded best (Peter is of course right about "O.K." needing to be emphasized, for best sound - when written more thinly, the sound was thinner). It may be that all messages sound better written thickly, but I haven't gotten around to this.
"O.K." was more than "O.K." soundwise, but I tried coming up with something even shorter and perhaps even better. So I used a kind of shorthand for "O.K.", the common checkmark. On the plus side, its a symbol so transcends language (almost like saying "OK" in every language). On the negative side, it was close to a right angle, so I didn't think it stood much chance of being "better than OK". But nevertheless, I drew a thick checkmark on the side of the blade, and the initial listening test was very promising for my little checkmark.
Another advantage of this symbol is its compactness, which meant I could fit up to 3 checkmarks on a single blade. Which is exactly what I tried next. Instead of adhering to the odd/even rule, each checkmark made the sound better than the last. Now there was no contest, the 3 thick checkmarks outperformed the sound of the single thick "O.K.". After applying 3 such checkmarks to all four plug blade sides, this really made a significant impact on the sound! (can't wait to hear what it does when all the plugs in the house are marked this way).
Since the checkmark seemed to outperform the O.K. on the plug blade, I decided to test if I should be using it with label messages. So I wrote a test message for my int. amp, which looked like:
SANSUI > O.K.
and compared it with:
SANSUI (Checkmark)
Well, I preferred the sound of the checkmark to the O.K. Checkmark sounded more natural, liquid, and captivating, with somewhat higher resolution (whereas OK sounded a bit thinner and brighter). I tried to write both "SANSUI"'s exactly the same size and thickness. But just in case this wasn't so, I did the same comparison, except using the word "HI-FI > O.K." vs. "HI-FI (Checkmark). Same results! So for me, the checkmark wins out over the "> O.K.", whether on message labels or directly on the plug. I also dug the idea that every grammar school teacher that was busy giving positive grades to a pupil was helping improve the sound of my stereo system.
Further fun experiments:
I happened to have an old issue of Hi-Fi Answers from '91 on the coffee table/test bench, that asked on the front cover, "Can socks affect the sound?" (a Beltism). I never tried this, so since I already had one sock off, I listened, then listened again with both socks on. Not being sure which was supposed to better, one sock off or two socks on, I found after a couple of repeated tests, the sound was definitely preferable with two socks on (then I checked the magazine and that was the preferred sock set-up). The same issue had a reference to making V signs in your listening room (another "Beltism"), and it was said to make the sound worse. I thought it doesn't get any sillier than this, so of course I had to test this theory out. I tried holding up a good, solid V-sign in the air. Then listened. At first, the sound seemed to be better. But when I tried the V-sign again, I could definitely see it was getting progressively worse (muddier).
Peter was right again!
cico_buff
14th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: "COMMUNICATION Is King": Exploring the new theory of evolution via morphic msgs.
As I have received word that the details of my recent experiments are of some interest to members, I'll finish the description of the messaging experiments I did recently.
None of this lot has to do with power plugs, these were label messages, but an extension of my previous experiments. As such, all the words end with a checkmark instead of an "O.K.", because I found that preferable. For simplicity's sake, when I initially started doing these tests, it was by sticking part of each label on the transformer. After I couldn't get a satisfactory result from anything, I was going to give up on all the messages I came up with, until I remembered that transformers are not ideal places to "Belt" for most of these types of treatments. More suited to message tags, in my experience, are the input ends of wires. Since I usually do tests using headphones, when I applied those same messages to the end of the headphone wire, there was a world of difference.
Now its not easy trying to compare a dozen different messages at once. So to save time & resources, I suggest using the method I did, which entails writing the message on a plain white (non adhesive) piece of paper. Then using an alligator clip, you clip the paper to the end of the headphone cable (or AC power cable of your amp or source equipment), just -before- the moulding for the jack. The clip itself will contribute to the sound, but all tags will be under clip, so the test is still fair (even though the labels will sound better without any clip). Keep in mind my example above, that if an appropriate place for a label isn't chosen, you may find as I did, none are suitable. I also like to put labels on top of "bad words" on equipment labels (such as warnings). Kind of kills two birds with one stone.
It should also be reiterated that the practice of tapping the cap of the pen on the message after its written, really does benefit (puts the resolution a bit higher). But if you're not always going to remember to do that during your tests, then its best not to do it at all, to ensure all tests have an equal platform, with the only variable being the word. As for writing the word, I find it should be done slowly, uniformly and legible. I'd suggest as small as you can make it while maintaining clarity, uniformity and legibility. Because I tested the same word in 2 different sizes once, and found unexpectedly, that the larger size wasn't better, but worse. (However, I always make the checkmark the end of the word a little larger than the text, and a little heavier).
In the end, any "winning label" should also be compared to the sound without a label, which in this case means leaving the clip in place, but not with a label in it. I find there's always a set of tradeoffs to be had; with new changes improving some things, while taking some things away. These days I try to be careful before leaving something in permanently, to be sure I'm not missing too much by doing so. I say this because all the labels I tried change the sound in many ways, improving on the original sound for certain, but in some ways not. So I feel any label chosen should be chosen on the basis of being good enough to do more good than bad.
Many of those I attempt to explain the P.W.B theory behind Beltism, even if they have heard and recognized its effects, tend not to believe the theory. Sometimes they give me their own hypotheses for why they might have heard what they think they heard. None are quite as convincing or well thought out as the P.W.B "new theory of evolution". So just for fun, to pretend I was testing this "new theory of evolution", I tried to come up with words related to the theory, that might help make the energy patterns friendlier to our senses. These words, mostly culled from these pages, were: RELAX, SANCTUARY, COMFORT, SENTINEL, FRIEND, REASSURANCE, COMMUNICATION.
Well, I may not have definitively proved anything tonight about the new theory of evolution, but I note that none of the above words were really "stinkers" (unlike "GIFT" or "WATER", for example). I used the track "Le Ballade", which is a piano track on the Sheffield Drum & Track test CD for many of the labels under test. (N.B. Although I generally don't like complicating things like this, you can combine labels which combines their sonic effect).
Didn't quite make the grade:
----------------------------------
RELAX (check): Slow (as opposed to a "fast" sound), but thick (body) and dark. Might be useful to balance out a fast, thin sound? Don't know...
WATER (check): Bright, sharp sound, lacking in musicality.
HOLY (check): Not exemplary. Tonally, halfway between thin and rich enough.
GIFT (check): Lacks body, smallish sound.
SANCTUARY (check): Body is almost "good" (but a bit on the thin side). But otherwise, good depth, resolution, separation & clarity.
COMFORT (check): Appeared to be close to SANCTUARY at first, but later listenings revealed it was sharper & faster, but a bit slow in general (as compared to some of the others). I would hesitate to completely rule out "COMFORT", because in previous trials with the word on a sticky label, it came second out of that (smaller) group. I'd say its not best but not bad.
More interesting lot:
------------------------
SENTINEL (check): Good, but not great, or special. Somewhat muted on the drum track. "RELAX" was better, re: tonal balance.
FRIEND (check): Perfect balance (tonally)! It seemed closest tonally to the original sound, than all the rest. Had body without sounding too slow. Carries the rhythm better than "REASSURANCE". Compared to "COMMUNICATION", it sounds more forward, more body and less definition.
REASSURANCE (check): Very good, very open, less well defined than "FRIEND", but more open & detailed. Veiled mids (midrange).
COMMUNICATION (check): "COMMUNICATION" is King! It had something really special as soon as I heard it (a full day before most of the others in this group). Up until "PURE", it had the best resolution, it is a forward sound with a great tonal balance. "PURE" may better it on most aspects but not all. Plus, it doesn't have that weird "PURE" mix (i.e... bass drum on Ron Tutt is in the center, where it seems it should be).
PURE (check): Waves of detail came at me as soon the song (Amuseum) started. I was disoriented, no longer sure it was the same recording! That's because, as I found out later, it presented the mix -very- differently than any of the other messages I tried. Things were not were I expected them to be, and I wasn't sure they were where they were supposed to be. What I was sure was the music had an effortless quality, tonally neutral, and a definition that easily surpassed everything else, including "COMMUNICATION". But it wasn't perfect. Although it wasn't particularly lacking in the bass, it didn't have the same richness or body some of the others had. As such, it could sound a bit hard, but not necessarily harsh. I'd say "PURE" is the hardest to describe, without hearing it.
My TOP favorite morphic message words of all those from this round are: FRIEND, COMMUNICATION and PURE (the two main contenders here are COMMUNICATION and PURE). I hope my experiences inspires others to seek out their own top morphic messages or "message words". And if you find good ones, don't forget to post them so I can try them out!
cico_buff
14th November 2006 From Kevin Kehoe.
Subject: Re: "COMMUNICATION Is King
Cico_buff,
I hope I will be one of many to post congratulations on your "COMMUNICATION Is King" message experiments. Immediately after reading your last posting, I felt I had to try some of your suggestions. As I have some Gold Message Foil to hand as well as a Red "X" Pen, I wrote a few messages with the word COMMUNICATION followed by the checkmark as you suggested. I attached those to the interconnects between the CD player and the amp (close to the plugs at the amp end of the cables). As I also have a small quantity of Morphic Green Cream available, I added the tiniest dab to the attached foils before tapping with the pen. By the way, all my interconnects and power leads have had previous Green Cream treatment and I use it on all foils except for those with dedicated creams. I must admit that I was expecting to perhaps have to work at trying to hear the difference by attaching and removing the message foils a few times – but no! The sound lift was immediately apparent and, may I say, by a great margin – a bigger, fatter sound but with even more clarity. It's the kind of result that makes me want to play more records rather than experiment further. I won't go into any more detail regarding what I played, except to say that the presence of the sound lift is apparent straight away - on every disc - regardless of how long ago it was last played. You just know it's better than the previous listen. When I have worked through a few CD's for pleasure, I will experiment further.
Regards, Kevin Kehoe.
15th November 2006 From Richard Graham
Subject: Re: Black Cream.
A brief update.
For some years now, I have advocated a policy of applying products to the outside of equipment only. This was to maintain the warranty, and much else could be achieved by treating the environment.
I have recently changed this view, as my experience of adding black cream to the insulation of internal cables has been quite extraordinary. The increase in both volume and detail just amazing.
The other aspect that strikes me is that with its very precise points of action or application, it really goes a very long way. I just wish I could compare some of my treated equipment now with the high end products that get such accolades.
But for me, 'Product of the Year.....'
Well it's black.
Richard
18th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Re: "COMMUNICATION Is King".
Sounds great! With such results from treating a single pair of interconnects, imagine what you can expect if you go on to treat all ICs in the Hi-Fi system, along with all power cables (including household power cords) and headphone cables. Just remember to keep in mind the odd/even rule may come into play, once you do more than one cable thusly. If it sounds "off" at one point, you should simply need to do one more cable to get it right again.
I haven't yet done too much experimenting with messages on foils. For the purposes of testing (as opposed to just enjoying music....), I felt I want to see what the messages sound like on plain paper first, without adding the sound of the foils into the mix. Not that plain white paper doesn't add its own sound. I say that because I observed that plain white paper definitely sounds better than white adhesive labels. But non-adhesive paper isn't a viable option in most cases, and once you start adding glues or tape to it, sound gets worse (very possibly worse than the adhesive paper...).
As for applying the message tags to wires (just before the plug at the input end), there are basically 3 ways to do this: sticking it length wise on the surface of the cable, placing it around the cable to form a closed loop (so that the two ends of the tag meet each other, and the tag is long enough to have a "tail" extending beyond the cable), or wrapping it completely around the cable and over itself, with no extending "tail". Of those 3, I've found the second option, placing it around the cable and forming a closed loop with a tail, to be the best. And, as described in greater detail in a previous message, the tail should face downward, (where possible).
Having an extending tail of course requires the tag (i.e... foil) be cut long enough to accept the message and go around the wire with enough extra to create a "tail". In the case of interconnects, I found that the tags should go on both leads individually, rather than wrapping it around both channels at once.
cico_buff
18th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Photographs As Devices.
I took a sudden notion to become curious about what would happen if I took the photographs in my freezer and used it on or inside my equipment. Actually, they're photocopies of photographs. One ZIPLOC bag contained a B&W inkjet copy of a digital photo of myself taken about 8 months ago, the other ZIPLOC bag contained three B&W photocopies of an old photograph of myself and my brother, taken when we were about 2 years old (Why 3 copies instead of 1? Each photocopy sounded different, and I couldn't make up my mind as to which was best, so at the time I must have figured it was better to use all 3!). I placed both ZIPLOC bags inside my amplifier, under the lid, in no particularly special way. Knowing that photographs in the freezer have an effect on the sound, I wasn't surprised to find that the sound had definitely changed, from my simply having moved the ZIPLOC bags from next to the amp to inside the amp.
But I can't say I was really impressed by the change. The first thing I noticed was that my nice timbal definition was destroyed by what I'd have to describe as an unnatural "polished sound" (where sonic colours sound too much alike). Yes, I also noticed the increase in overall resolution, detail, soundstaging etc.. And I observed that the music moved more effortlessly, making it seem like it passes more quickly ("more engaging on some level" you could say). The reason change would seem to be at once bad and good is the usual one: it was improving some things, degrading others. So I much preferred my old sound, even after I took the photographs out from inside the amp.
Next I tried taking the photographs out of the ZIPLOC bags, and I applied them to the inside top cover of the amp with a small dab o Blue-Tak (adhesive putty) in the centre of the photocopy; one of my new me on the left, and only one of my old me on the right. Now it was... WOW! I was taken aback by not only the degree of change, but the quality of the change. This time there was no complaints about what happened to the timbre or complaints about any part of the sound whatsoever. It was one of those rare times when I can't seem to perceive any degradation whatsoever, with all changes positive. Quality-wise, not only did it better any single thing that I had experimented with recently, as well as anything I had done to the amp in question, but it was one of the most effective single Beltisms I can remember experiencing.
I've fooled around with many things that are part of Beltist phenomena, but there are so many that I've not yet done much work with photographs (other than listening to a few). So about all I know right now, besides what I just wrote, is that different photographs are likely to have a different sound, (and I read a theory where analogue might be better than digital ones), photocopies may sound different than the original analogue pics, and different photocopies can also influence the sound in different ways. Heck, different ZIPLOC bags may sound different, for all I know! For certain, whatever you use to adhere the photo has a sound, so if using tape (or whatever), I'd use the least possible (I'm guessing that small quantities of blue-tak may be preferable to bits of tape).
Next experiment... excited about the prospects of where photographs can take the sound, I didn't have any more frozen photos, so decided to see if non-frozen ones would have an effect. To this end, printed out a photo I had on my computer of my ex-girlfriend (of 15+ years), posing with a fake chimpanzee dressed up in a bandleader's outfit like Michael Jackson. Next, I printed out another digital photo of 2 of my cats. I taped the photo of my friend on top of the top cover of the amp, with minimal tape.... It worked! Not as great a perceived improvement as the two frozen photos of myself, but it was an improvement very much in that vein. I started listening to the Y2K version of George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord", and all thoughts of picking apart the sound gave way to simply connecting with the music. I found that like everything, location of the picture had an effect on the sound (and as with the labels, the better sound seemed to come from placing the picture at the edge of the top cover of the amp that is furthest away from the front, and directly in the centre).
After removing the GF picture, I replaced it with the picture of the kitties. Not nearly as good, but still very nice, and better than no picture (if placed right). Trying both pics on the top cover at the same time resulted in worse sound overall, not better. So what's on the picture is key to getting quality sound. Presumably, a picture of Hitler in drag is not going to improve your sound, but a picture of your loved ones likely will (love=reassurance=safety). Keeping with the reassurance theme, I did a Google image search for the word, and found a pic of a mother hugging her child on a beach. Which I then applied to the top cover of my amp. I'm sure it still improved things, but it was nothing special, not as good as the pic of my friend. But the interesting part was that the pic allowed me to shrink the 8x10 to 1/9th size, making a contact print of 9 smaller images. As I found with messages, the smaller images sounded better!
cico_buff
20th November, 2006 From A Martherus.
Subject: Re: Photographs As Devices.
Cico_buff, did you really remove the pictures out of the freezer?
This alone seems to me the reason why it sounded worse in the first place.
Now you've found a "good" place (on the amp), you should compare it to a system with the picture inside the freezer again.
This picture in freezer phenomena intrigues me nonetheless. I have the feeling that it isn't worked out yet to the full. We should take pictures of our complete Hi-Fi system, the listening room, the CD-collection, the electricity box, our family members, even car and bicycles, the whole house, and put them into our freezer?
Can we also do the same with pictures of 'adverse' things like cell phones, computers, the camera itself?
What would happen if we put a picture of the earth and stuck it into the freezer?
Shame that we don't have a picture of our planet from about 4,300,000,000 years ago...
Arkie the Netherlands
20th November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Re: Photographs As Devices
"Cico_buff, did you really remove the pictures out of the freezer? This alone seems to me the reason why it sounded worse in the first place."
Perhaps I didn't mention this, but I listened to the amp just - before- inserting the ziploc'ed pictures of me inside the amp (I had to, in order to determine the nature of the changes, if any). So the reason it sounded worse had nothing to do with the fact that the pictures were no longer in the freezer. The reason it sounded worse was because one, they weren't being applied to anything, just sitting on the componentry in the amp, two, the ziploc bags. I'm sure ziploc bags don't sound very good (which gives me an idea that the next time I put the photocopy pictures back in the freezer, I should try freezing them without the bags and see if that improves things even more).
Now you've found a "good" place (on the amp), you should compare to a system with the picture inside the freezer again.
Well I've already done experiments that show pictures in the freezer improve the sound. I was more interested in trying something new, to learn more about the Belt phenomenon. My picture on the amp experiment will work whether or not there is a picture(s) in the freezer. And even though I just tried it on the amp, I predict it will work almost anywhere most other Belt devices will work (obviously you can't shrink it to the size of a foil, but so long as a part of the pic is taped to the area of the object, it should work about as well).
This picture in freezer phenomena intrigues me nonetheless. I have the feeling that it isn't worked out yet to the full.
I feel the same way of course, which is why I sat down to experiment a bit further with pictures. Except by my recent observations, it isn't simply a "picture in the freezer" phenomenon, it's a "picture" phenomenon. Because as my experiments have shown me (and I'm sure its been mentioned before), the "power" is in the picture itself. Freezing them is good, but they have properties even unfrozen. Whether they are better in the freezer or on amps, etc.. is not, to me, an interesting question. Because you can apply them both in and out of the freezer. One of the things I haven't worked out yet about this very intriguing phenomenon, is which kind of pictures have a positive effect, and which have a mediocre or perceptibly negative effect. Obviously, loved ones is a good place to start. And you touch upon a few more here....
We should take pictures of our complete HI Hi-Fi system, the listening room, the CD-collection, the electricity box, our family members, even car and bicycles, the whole house, and put them into our freezer? Can we also do the same with pictures of 'adverse' things like cell phones, computers, the camera itself? What would happen if we put a picture of the earth and stuck it into the freezer? Shame that we don't have a picture of our planet from about 4,300,000,000 years ago...
Those are as good places to start as any. All will at least tell you something about the nature of the phenomenon. I plan to do further experiments myself with different photos to try to learn more about it. One thing I've always been curious of is... what happens if you stick a picture of yourself in someone - else's- freezer? Do they get the "Belt effect" from that? And is it stronger for them if its a picture of themselves?
cico_buff.
21st November 2006 From Chris Porada.
Subject: RE: Photographs As Devices.
Hi Cico_buff
I'm intrigued by your experiments with the photos and would like to try some myself. Do you think the photo has to actually be "inside" the components, or would affixing them to the outside case of the component in the style of other Belt foils do the same? I've prepared some tiny photos of myself and family reducing them to about the size of foils in Photoshop and am eager to try them out, but am feeling a bit lazy to unplug all the components and get out my hex wrench set to pull all the covers off. Have you tried any comparisons to see if the outside of the case works the same?
Thanks for any help/suggestions
Chris Porada.
21st November 2006 From cico_buff.
Subject: Re: Photographs As Devices .
You may not have read all my messages on this subject Chris. I mentioned that I got better results from applying the photos to the outside of my equipment than on the inside (but that has nothing to do with inside being better than outside). If you wish to experiment with photograph as devices, you can try them wherever any other Belt device (i.e... foils) is effective.
If you want to work on your equipment, say the top cover, I suggest starting by placing one pic in the centre of rear edge of the machine. If you want to experiment to see how location changes the sound, you can try the same pic in centre of each edge, or the dead centre of the cover. Other areas you might wish to try are the input jacks on the rear, near the power cable, near openings, etc..
I created a small web page of my recent experiments with pictures on a CD burner, to demonstrate the effect. Anyone who wishes to hear this can download small music samples and listen for themselves to see if they can determine differences.
http://www.geocities.com/cico_buff/index.html
cico_buff.
25th November 2006 From Michael.
Subject: The other side of the coin.
Hello All,
I have posted at length previously, about my adventures with extensively treating el cheapo Hi-Fi gear - with excellent results, considering the cost of the gear. With the good fortune of unlimited overtime, and a willingness to do It, I can now see both sides of the sound quality coin.
Firstly, a few comments about my lovely new Primare I30 100W Amp. It sounded great straight out of the box, with only a treated power cord, Beltwise - obviously the intelligent design contributes a great deal to the overall sound, but I also ponder on the following : My I30 is the 1st one sold by the only Primare dealer here in Adelaide, so there is a possibility that I have the only one in this city. The amp has only three feet, two at the front, one at the back. Neither the amp or the box it came in have any Barcodes, none, nil, zilch. Just one small sticker on the box, with the model name and serial number. Now two weeks later, with app. 100 hours on the clock, and several microscopic smudges of Green Cream on outer casing, knobs and speaker terminals, my lounge room is filled with music I describe as ,loud,
thick honey-just completely absorbing, as I listen with closed eyes, I keep getting images of these bands performing on the stage of the local hot club, it's almost disappointing to open my eyes and see that I'm actually still at home!
Update : Have just undressed the amp, to smudge Special Black Cream on internal fuses (6) and wiring- same as before just BIGGER, WIDER, Rounder, Smoother, Closer ,Quiet bits Quieter, All in all, I would estimate an 83% improvement in Overall Betterness!!!
Michael...
25th November 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: The other side of the coin.
Michael,
Your last sentence is going to go into my dictionary of P.W.B. phrases !!
"All in all, I would estimate an 83% improvement in Overall Betterness !!"
I love it - whether there is such a word as Betterness or not, there is NOW.
Kind Regards, May
PS. For over 20 years now we have been trying to get people to understand that there is a vast amount of information, already from their equipment, which they are not (have not been) resolving correctly. It is nice to have it confirmed.
2nd December 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: latest Hi-Fi News.
Dear All,
Well, Michael, you will no doubt be delighted to know that Hi-Fi News has published your reply to Janine Elliot's previous mention regarding using Peter's freezing/slow defrost technique.
For the people who are not able to get Hi-Fi News, Michael (Parin) had replied that he had P.W.B treated and then frozen his new integrated amplifier with considerable success. Describing the sound now as MAGICAL ! - as having greater separation and soundstage depth. Janine has also replied to Michael saying that, in her opinion, some people are too embarrassed to admit that Belt's ideas do actually work for them. She adds that, one day, she might get up the guts to freeze her Krell amp !!!
Nice one Michael.
Regards, May
5th December 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: latest Hi-Fi News.
May,
As you know, I was very impressed by this letter and its response, and that it was published. All credit to Michael, but I also really liked Janine's response, which had such a light touch that the killer punch was barely detectable. In short, she accuses those who acknowledge that they can hear a difference with P.W.B devices of childlike cowardice. But then haven't we always known this? Time and again we are confronted by those who refuse to accept what their senses tell them, trembling under the shelter of their 'science'. It is not science but fear that informs such responses. Loss of income, loss of reputation, loss of work might all be real issues.; but are we not men? (Stay calm May!).
Sadly, I lack the skill that enable Janine to make her point so gracefully, and if there is any hope for 2007, she will be given more scope to say the unspeakable.
So, everyone to their keyboards, and off with those letter and responses.
Richard
5th December 2006 From James Takamatsu.
Subject: P.W.B card and gift.
Hi Everyone-
Received a wonderful surprise in the mail yesterday- the new P.W.B Christmas card and a sample of the new black cream. I purchased a flat panel LCD TV in one of those Day-after Thanksgiving sales here. I had attached silver and a few other foils left over from the portable pack and applied electret and green creams shortly after installing the set: I'm quite pleased with the picture quality of such a inexpensive TV.
But a tiny amount of black cream applied to the cable between the DVD and TV gave the picture a surprising depth to the video- not flat like most LCDs but more CRT/Plasma-like liquidity but with greater detail and sharpness. And placing the P.W.B card on the DVD player's cover made the picture even more three-dimensional!
Thanks for the gifts!
Best wishes, James Takamatsu
6th December 2006 From A Martherus.
Subject: Re: P.W.B card and gift.
I also noticed an improvement in color, contrast and image depth, after placing the card on our tv. The effect was however STRONGER after I concentrated a few seconds on the three silvery, six cornered images on the card (one by one). My explanation is that this action "loads" the geometries into my subconsciousness, or that the figures "resonate" with, or are linked to, hidden powers inside our beings.
If I am the only one, it will be a nice placebo effect however :) but I'm inviting everyone to do the same.
Many thanks for your gifts!
A Martherus.
6th December 2006 From Richard Graham.
Subject: Re: P.W.B card and gift.
I am impressed that you look so closely at the card, as I am usually too excited to ascertain the effect to notice what's on it. When I did look more closely, I must confess that I just wondered if the figures represented the workers at P.W.B Central. After all, the place is as mysterious as a chocolate factory, and rather less fattening.
Richard.
December 2006 From Graham Mountford.
Subject: Xmas Card & Black Cream.
I placed the card on top of my Sky HD box and creamed as many cables (power and interconnects as I could.
The picture on the TV became much more vivid and colourful with the HD channels becoming wonderfully 3D.
The crunch came when I put on my CD of Also Sprach Zarathustra. The dynamics of the piece were quite staggering and I sat there with a stupid grin on my face.
Thank you May for the wonderful surprise, I will be ordering soon!!
Graham
8th December 2006 From Michael.
Subject: Card, dates and power cords.
Hello All, thanks May, Chrissy card arrived a couple of days ago. Before I forget, was the edition of Hi-Fi News, the December issue? We do get it here in Adelaide, but if it's the Dec. issue, probably wont be available till mid February.
Have placed the card, closed, on top of the TV - haven't noticed any difference, but at the moment I am in the middle of making a full set of custom length plaited power cords - so far 3 of 4 standard (but treated) cords have been banished to the spare room, and my listening room is strewn with new wire, plugs, heat shrink ,etc. - so I'm inclined to think that the card is replacing the beneficial effects of the missing cords, leaving me with the same delightful sound I have been enjoying for the last few weeks. I have installed IEC (Appliance Plug) adaptors on the set top box and TV- and have decided to cover plaited cable with white heat shrink-the reason being that 99% of other power cords are black-I will treat & freeze whole set of cords when finished and will listen carefully when replacing them after defrosting- the back of my stereo rack now looks cool and very neat-no part of any cord is closer than 3" to any other cord.
I will post the results asap
Michael...
8th December 2006 From Graham Mountford.
Subject: Magnets.
The only magnets I am able to obtain locally are only about 1.5 mm thick and am unsure as to what they are made of. It wouldn't matter with regards to soldering smart metal as with my DIY capabilities that just won't happen. However, would there be a value in using them with the various creams (particularly black cream) and sticking them on radiators etc.. Any advice on the would be appreciated.
Best Wishes to everyone.
Graham
8th December 2006 From John Traynor.
Subject: Re: Magnets
Go to http://www.emagnets.co.uk/ you'll find what you need!
John.
10th December 2006 From Geoff Kait.
Subject: Re: Re: Photographs As Devices.
Is it fair to bring up an old article in the P.W.B Newsletter involving Photos in the freezer? This one involved photos in a freezer 20 miles away.
The link the appropriate P.W.B Newsletter is:
http://www.belt.demon.co.uk/newsletter/vol0503/vol0503.html
Geoff
22nd December 2006 From James Takamatsu.
Subject: treating inside speakers.
Hi everyone-
Just wondering if anyone had recommendations on treating inside of speakers. I am receiving back a beloved pair of Shahinian Obelisks after 23 years of separation, and was trying to decide to use Inside or Safe Hole foils within the cabinets. I usually treat the insides with standard Rainbow foil on the speaker baskets, Smart Metal on the magnets and crossover solder points, and recently Green Cream on the crossover parts and wire insulation.
Any help would be much appreciated!
James Takamatsu
22nd December 2006 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Treating inside speakers.
James,
All the treatments you have suggested are excellent treatments for speakers.
Certainly attaching strips of Inside Foil anywhere inside the speaker cabinet is very beneficial.
Do not forget the decorative speaker fronts - usually made from foam or polyester material. Attach a strip of Inside Foil to the inner (hidden) surface or, better still, attach a CCU pin to the rear of the fabric. Also if you intend to still retain any internal damping material - usually folded foam or BAF wadding, then the best way of treating this material is to attach a CCU pin to it. The CCU pin is a specially treated safety pin designed for attaching to Curtains, Carpets and Upholstery.
Regards, May
2nd January 2007 From A Martherus.
Subject: Re: treating inside speakers.
I can imagine that you could browse trough 1500 of posts here... but let me try to help you: - take a photograph the filter, and put this into your freezer - quarter round dowels (creamed, frozen, etc..) of about 2 inches long, to be put in every 90-degree corner; as my memory serves well, this speaker has not much right angles. - try to get rid of the BAF, I did with mine; you can always put it back in.
Good luck, and best wishes to everyone
Arkie Martherus
4th January 2007 From Graham Mountford.
Subject: Cats Whiskers.
Last Saturday I decided to do some more treatments having purchased the Black Cream and an Intermediate Kit. I had already creamed most of the cables and interconnects with the sample that May kindly sent with the Xmas card.
The next step was the cables inside the light switches (defused of course) and the insides of my Hafler XL600 amplifier, Audiolab T tuner and Meridian 206B CD player (all 3 of which are over 14 years old) which included cables and fuses.
Before the CD player was reassembled my wife's niece and husband John turned up from Cambridge 100 miles away. John is a high flier and has all the latest gadgetry including surround sound etc.., he looked distinctly unimpressed with what I was doing inside Meridian and I an idiot trying to explain.
Eventually I sat him down to listen to the Annie Lennox CD 'Diva' which I knew he owned. The first words he uttered were "That is stunning, I have never heard a sound stage like that", swiftly followed by "When I close my eyes she is there in the room". This was followed by showing BBC HD Planet Earth at which point he shouted for his wife to come and listen and watch. To say I was like a cat with all the cream is an understatement.
Part of the other treatments I have done at the same time was of course the small square labels that were supplied with the cream. These were stuck to the outside of the equipment including power supplies and to the front of the speakers behind the baffles. Future treatments will include the cables inside all power sockets and then the white appliances.
Happy New Year to everyone (I know mine will be musically God willing!)
Graham.
5th January 2007 From P.W.B. Electronics.
Subject: Re: Cats Whiskers.
And a Happy New Year to you Graham and to everyone else.
What a delightful 'posting' Graham to start 2007 with !!
I particularly like your reference to your equipment being over 14 years old and still improving your sound. Peter and I have said, all the time, that ALL equipment (irrespective of it's age or cost) has always been capable of 'handling' a wealth of information - far more information than people have ever realise