I sum it up as they sound more the same than different when used within their capabilities. At least enough that you can't tell the difference every time.
I think that ASR was/is lumped into that same review category as you and the other "reviewers". But I don't think either of you was ever/are considered a shill. At least I don't.
I think the problem I have with most of the in-depth reviews is that I really don't believe any ones hearing is really as good as they claim it to be. I agree with GPH in the fact that your memory or how you perceive the sound on any given day has a greater effect than any burn-in or percived differences. Even what position the volume knob is at has a larger effect.
I would have to say either Southern Cali or the Big Island Hawaii. I have lived and visited just about everywhere in the country. I like Southern Cali because there is just some much going on there. Between the different cities, beaches, and mountains there is an endless list of activities to do.
As for Hawaii I just really like it. Laid back with lots of water activities. But depending on what part of the island you live on it can make Seattle look like the desert.
I know. Oh what to do?
It is pretty pricey and if it wasn't for my curiosity on how it might be better than the current one I wouldn't even consider it.
Anyone want one built?
I don't think I have anything exciting to bring in the way of drink, but I have more cigars than I know what to do with and can bring a nice selection. Legal and non-legal.
Also look forward to meeting everyone in the Head-Case crew.
I would start out by checking all the voltages from the regulators. I would then look into the relays and associated circuit for the mute. After that it's any ones guess. I would say there is a better chance of something physically failing than a solid state component failure.