| |
Herbie's Audio Lab has
auditioned more than 300 different ball materials for use
with Iso-Cups and fine-tweaked the Iso-Cup formulation to
synergize optimally with the very best materials. Each
material renders unique sonic qualities, affecting
frequency response linearity and dynamics. Most materials
affect a characteristic "twinge" or other
coloration to the music. A rare few lack any particular
coloration, though each affects dynamic impact in its own
unique way. We have found that nothing works better,
overall, than a lampblack/soda-lime glass ball, which is
our default Iso-Cup ball recommendation. Every audio
system is different, however, each with its own array of
interdependent variables. From one system to another, a
particular Iso-Cup/ball combination or another might
achieve an even more preferable result. The following
materials each achieve full-range frequency response and
are particularly effective. Differences between one kind
of sphere and another are quite subtle, falling within a
range of personal preference and system synergies. Sonic
differences are equivalent to differences encountered
with "tube rolling" among different
brands/types of vacuum tubes. Each of the following
balls, however, performs very well with virtually any
audio or audio/video system:
...
|
| |
 |
Brass Gyro: Each
antique brass hemisphere pivots independently on a
3/16" titanium ball at the center which is
surrounded by soft, open-cell silicone foam, allowing
uninhibited dynamics and immaculate 3-D imaging. Gives a
strong, "masculine" dynamic to the music while
revealing delicate detail; big soundstage. $22.29.ea.
|
| |
 |
Gabon Ebony: African
ebony subtly enhances upper frequency timbre with
ethereal sustain and "bloom." Though bass is
not particularly powerful, extension is very deep.
Lower-mids tend to be well-defined and separated.
Upper-mids are smooth with plenty of "air" and
three-dimensionality. Gabon ebony is perfect for music
lovers who enjoy a somewhat laid-back, light and natural
presentation. Peen-hardened 1" ball only, $7.49.ea.
|
| |
 |
Picasso Jasper: This
gemstone is perfect for audio systems that are a little
too bright and harsh. Delivers smooth yet articulate
highs, dynamic midrange, rock-solid bottom. 1" ball
only, $4.49.ea.
|
| |
 |
Deep Moss
Quartz: This gemstone is extremely
faithful to tonal character. Although not super-fast, it
has adequate microdynamic speed to present all the
musical energy and nuance of a live performance. With a
powerful and well-rounded bottom end, it's ideal for any
system not overly bright but perhaps a bit
"thin" at the bottom. 1" ball only, $4.49.ea.
|
| |
 |
Picture Jasper: By
delivering a well-defined and uncluttered mid/lower
midrange, this gemstone tends to open up, lighten up, and
improve systems that are a bit "dark" or
sullen. Deeply extended, linear bass. Beautiful
tone/timbre. 1" ball only, $4.49.ea.
|
| |
 |
Mexican Agate: This
conglomerate gemstone extends and slightly enhances bass
deep in the subwoof region, particularly with systems
driving 3-way loudspeakers. Maintains faithful linearity
and speed from mid-bottom to the highest frequencies;
with well-controlled timbre; big, spacious soundstage.
1" ball only, $4.95.ea.
|
