Got one of these specialty wood bases from Doc last year, but just got around to applying Tried & True Varnish Oil (linseed oil & pine resin). I did four coats, buffing in between each. Pictures really don't do it justice, as the chatoyance is truly mesmerizing when you look from different angles.
There is a little nick on the top-right corner of the wood base that really darkened when I applied the varnish oil. I did try to expand or lift the ding with some hot water before applying any oil. If anyone has any tips to make that look better, I'm all ears. But even with that flaw, all the strengths and magic of this amp gives me a wabi-sabi appreciation for it.
This is still my favorite amp. It brings out the best of my vintage AKG collection (K140, K180, K240 Sextett, K240 DF, K340, & K501). The spaciousness and midrange presence of the AKGs along with the smooth and powerful sound from the Crackatwoa is pure sonic bliss for me. I did get the Sennheiser HD 800 S last year when Definitive Audio in Seattle had a 50% off closing sale, so the Crackatwoa can give me a good balance between vintage tone and modern technicality, depending on my mood. Hope all of you are basking in the tube sounds as well, or are planning some great builds to get there. Happy listening!
- Lowell
